This beautiful 1,200-year-old Italian castle sits above vineyards that gently spill down a hillside in rural Piedmont. It was recently restored with the help of Parma architect Lamberto Cusani, and has opened its doors to the public, offering visitors a chance to spend the night in one of six luxury apartments within its grounds.
Set in 260 hectares of private woodland gardens, vineyards and parkland that guests are invited to explore, it has many really unique features. We love the striking elongated rectangular pool that runs along the base of the castle walls, under a suspended garden – the perfect spot for elegant dinners. But better still, the castle has its own boxwood labyrinth that dates back to the 1930s. And that’s not something every luxury boutique hotel in Italy can boast!
The apartments themselves are located in the hunting lodge, ateliers and the medieval bourg houses. Most rooms are a modern spin on the historical setting, with contemporary four-poster beds and fun features like chequerboard floors. The smallest room is located above the restaurant in what was a vinegar warehouse.
The apartments vary in size from a little studio to a junior suite, two large suites and two apartments. The smaller studio and suites sleep two (with one bathroom and kitchenette), while the apartments can accommodate up to four guests in two bedrooms, with two bathrooms and their own kitchens.
Among the many other features of this property are its wine shop, tasting room and restaurant, where guests can match the wines of the estate with locally-selected food. Tours of the vineyard and cellars, cooking classes and even truffle-hunting excursions are also offered. The castle also hosts events throughout the year.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
Included in the price are housekeeping, wifi, TV, private parking, free bike rental, private gardens and pool, guided tours of the castle cellars, wine tastings, and suggested itineraries for exploring the Piedmont region. The Farm Restaurant inside the property is available for lunch and dinner (with reservations).
AROUND
The region surrounding the castle was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in June 2014. The vineyard landscapes of Langhe-Roero and Monferrato cover five distinct wine-growing areas with outstanding landscapes and the ancient Castle of Cavour (which now houses an ethnological museum as well as the Michelin Star restaurant, Marc Lanteri Al Castello). Needless to say the region is great for exploring vineyards and tasting wines.
LOCATION
Gabiano, Italy. Nearest airport: Torino Caselle (73 miles), Milan Malpensa (79 miles).
BEST TIME TO VISIT
May, June, September, October, November (truffle season).
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