Castello di Reschio—wild Umbrian countryside meets effortless Italian style
A thousand-year-old castle meticulously restored and stylishly reimagined into a dazzling hotel. Share
If these walls could talk… they’d probably tell thrilling tales of the 13th-century owner Marques del Monte, or about the Archbishop of Todi, whose coat of arms from 1610 still hangs above the entrance. Or perhaps about Count and Countess Antonio Bolza who arrived in 1984 and planted the seed for the idea of transforming and regenerating the 1,500-hectare estate. Or even the most recent residents, Benedikt and Nencia Bolza, who lived here until recently with their five children, racing around the ruins having a very jolly time (even if the ceilings did occasionally collapse).
The Castello, dating back to 1050, is a historical gem brimming with interest and intrigue. Now, after years of careful restoration, it has been transformed into a singularly unique hotel filled with wit, whimsy and effortless style.
The rooms and suites contained within these ancient castle walls are imbued with personality and panache, thanks to the organic approach to contemporary design coupled with a discerning nod to the intriguing characters who once called this home.
Castello di Reschio is a very private estate and nature reserve of some 3,700 acres on the borders of Umbria and Tuscany. Scattered widely apart amongst the olive groves, vineyards and extensive Mediterranean oak and chestnut woods are 50 farmhouses, of which almost half have been restored to date creating exquisite private homes designed to the highest international standards.
Integral to Reschio is a unique combination of world-class service and a high level of privacy and security.
The Courtyard
Within the walls of the castle are two interlinked courtyards – one now encased in glass and starting a new life as the Palm Court. The other is a wonderful grassy lawn circled by impressive mature umbrella pines and cypresses. It is blessed with perfect acoustics and the home to concerts, recitals and pop-up events.
At the Palm Court, the wrought-iron columns and glass ceiling create an exotic fin-de-siècle space, with an air of Agatha Christie mystery (but without the murder). On arriving at the Castello, it is a perfect first port of call. A place to take in an invigorating negroni, while also absorbing the majesty of the castle’s walls from within. Avail yourself of the afternoon tea trolley too. Or pluck a book from the library and sit back with another icy glass of something delicious.
The grand piano is tuned and ready for those that play jazz or classical arias, while portraits of the Conte di Reschio and the Contessa have pride of place to observe the activities of their guests in the heart of the castle. When the sun sets, the warming glow from within entices you into the magic.
Palm Court Bar
A cool respite from the summer heat or a blazing fire in the winter chill; the Palm Court Bar is a place to relax while luggage is whisked to your Castello suite.
It is the hub of the hotel, somewhere to linger over an espresso and plan daily excursions or to sip a cocktail and gossip.
The Library
The perfect place to steal away and read a book, or even write one while sitting at the jewellery makers’ table. The castle cat, forever stalks the book shelves.
The gamekeeper found and identified that this wild cat (who had its met demise in a road accident) was an extremely rare specimen, he is registered by the authorities as a national treasure.
The Old Kitchen
The castle’s former kitchen is now a relaxing place to meet friends for a preprandial drink or even to have a light supper in one of the window seats gazing out at the stunning views.
The original hearth is still the focal point, especially when an autumn fire is blazing.
The Swimming Pool
The outdoor pool is a thing of natural beauty. Settled in the landscape surrounded by mature trees and fragrant gardens, inviting a casual dip.
It feels like wild swimming, as you skim over the ripples to the undulating views beyond with paintbrush cypresses, glimmering olive groves and ancient vineyards. The old Torrino has had a renaissance and its attentive staff cater for your every whim.
An ancient estate, a millennium-old castle, a forward-thinking family – and the singular aim of protecting and restoring an extraordinary corner of unspoilt Umbria. This is Reschio.
For more information, visit www.reschio.com
