Graceful Estate

UMBRIA, ITALY | TENUTA DI MURLO

Alfresco meals are unmatched at Villa Penna thanks to its perch that overlooks the best views of the estate.

Villa San Savino, which dates back to the 14th century, was once a church and still features the original kitchen and stone walls.

Sunset swims offer a front-row seat to the estate’s spectacular vistas.

Secluded within the valley of Murlo, Villa Molinella’s charming interior offers an ideal getaway for up to two guests.

At Molinella, what was once a water mill has been converted to an underground jacuzzi accessed through a glass door in the living room.

Summer escapes to coastal Italy top the list of many looking for a place to retreat, though it’s a secluded countryside estate in Umbria, Italy, that embodies the ultimate air of luxury. Stressors fade away as winding roads guide you toward your final destination of Tenuta di Murlo—a family-run estate spanning 18,000 acres of rolling hills and flourishing valleys. Just a 20-minute drive from the Perugia airport or a scenic two-hour train ride from Rome or Florence and you’ve arrived in a place fairytales could be inspired by.

Owned by Alessio and Carlotta Carabba Tettamanti and in Alessio’s family for centuries, the estate consists of over 80 buildings that were abandoned after World War II—from churches to castles, farmhouses, and other rustic structures. The family has spent nearly two decades restoring and renovating some of these into villas that respect their history, yet live well for present day. Nine villas and three hotel rooms exude the natural charm of the landscape, where lush grounds, private infinity pools, sweeping gardens, and collected interiors—carefully curated by Carlotta—beckon visitors to unwind.

Tucked into the sprawling hills, each villa feels as though it’s worlds away. Villa Molinella, a restored water mill with an alluring private underground jacuzzi, is a romantic getaway for two, while the eight-guest Villa Penna sits hilltop as the estate’s crown jewel. Villa Castiglione Ugolino, an ancient castle and adjoining church, dates back to the 11th century and now houses up to 20 visitors for dreamy holidays, parties, and wedding receptions.

Adding to the appeal of the villas, culinary luxuries are in abundance at the estate. Traditional Umbrian dishes interpreted in a modern way dot the menu at Il Caldaro restaurant, where guests can dine in the garden under flowing oak trees or enjoy the warm glow of the interior space that was once an old farmhouse. Or eat at home, where private-chef experiences and meal deliveries from each villa’s personal house manager take alfresco dining to new heights.

And if you’re able to abandon your poolside post, there are many worlds to discover at Tenuta di Murlo. Trust in skilled guides and trained dogs as you forage for truffles throughout the dense forests before bringing your finds back to Il Caldaro to immediately enjoy. A cooking class spills the secrets to crafting perfect pasta, where you can indulge in your creations with found truffles, local tomatoes, and fresh cheeses made with goat milk from the property’s herd.

After lunch, practice your swing at nearby Antognolla Golf, where cliff-lined fairways and undulating greens earn the course its recognition as one of the best in Italy. And with on-site activities from beekeeping and honey tasting, to horseback riding, hiking and biking excursions, spa treatments, picnics, and more, there is no shortage of fun to be had.

The formula of Tenuta di Murlo is a unique one, combining passionate and personable owners, friendly staff, and unmatched experiences with an unexplainable air of ease—all in a picture-perfect setting. The only acceptable question comes at the end of your holiday: “When can I return?”

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