Chiesa del Carmine

Highlights

• Delightful rural retreat spread over two separate buildings in a protected valley with private swimming pool.
• Stunningly styled interiors with exposed walls, wooden beams and plush furnishings all set off with a beautiful lighting scheme.
• Chiesa del Carmine has its own organic vegetable garden, and guests are encouraged to pick whatever produce they like.
• Although advertised as a self-catered holiday, the English speaking on-site managers are happy to arrange for a catering service to any guests who request it.

You should know

• A car is recommended for access. Although the small village of La Bruna is only a kilometre away, it has limited services; many of the attractions of the nearby area are only reachable by car.
• Only one double bedroom on the ground floor has disabled access and bathroom facilities.

A remote church and farmhouse set atop a valley in the magnificent Umbrian countryside; Chiesa del Carmine is the ultimate retreat for those seeking to experience a secluded break, while they immerse themselves in the grand history of the locality.

The result of an extraordinary renewal project, the bones of this 11th century church have been carefully restored to their prior glory, while the interior has been transformed to create a stylish modern space. Nowhere is this more apparent than the church’s nave which is now the main daytime living space. It has been renovated to the exact proportions of the original building – including a recently discovered small crypt – and has been done so using locally sourced materials. The result has an authentic yet contemporary feel; the large floor to ceiling glass window provides an airy, spacious sense to the room as well as amazing views of the valley below.

Similar care has been lavished on the 18th century farmhouse. Here the bedrooms are spread out over two floors, able to sleep 14. There is living area and small kitchen in the farmhouse however the main kitchen and dining room are in the church building and contain all the necessary amenities for a night of fine dining in. The real delight here is the two shaded dining areas on the stone terraces outside the property. With the valley stretching out below, you can appreciate the beautiful landscaped gardens lush with young olive trees, umbrella pines, lavender and rosemary to name but a few.

The olive groves and vineyards in the valley are once again being farmed using sustainable organic techniques. The valley contains a number of brilliant walks, allowing you to meander through the farms, and enjoy the striking Umbrian countryside. Should you not feel like walking to get a vantage point on the nearby Monte Tezio, you can just gaze it from afar, relaxing by the brand new swimming pool.

For excursions, nearby is the university city of Perugia. The ancient centre of town is full of monuments to its Etruscan, Roman and medieval past, speaking of its fascinating history. For those looking for something a little less chilled Lake Trasimeno will appeal, with sailing, wind-surfing and water-skiing all popular here.

Features

Essential