Dating back to 1050 (yes, ten fifty), over 1,000 years old, this family owned castle has seen countless owners, many wars (actual wars, not family feuds…) and more stories than could possibly be captured here. Reschio, a 3,700 acre estate on the Tuscan-Umbrian border has been thoughtfully, and lovingly restored and repurposed as one of the most magical stays in the Italian countryside. There are 36 rooms, 7 private houses,  and at least 200 staff to attend to your needs. The Bolza family has owned the estate since the early 90s but only opened the hotel a few years ago.

A destination amongst destinations, Reschio offers a truly unique experience unlike any other. If you’re traveling with family, let us know as there are particular room types you’ll want to book to ensure everyone has a great time. All 36 rooms are inside the castle, and located on the ground floor and 2nd floor (that’s first and second floors in American levels), overlooking the tranquil garden courtyard and far reaching views of the Reschio hills. The rooms are more or less dictated by the castle’s original layout, there are tall, skinny ones that rise all the way to the ramparts and low-ceilinged ones that extend sideways; there are still others that curve or zigzag; there is one that contains an old olive press so lovely that it has simply been left in place and become, as it were, part of the furniture. Almost every fixture and stick of furniture has been designed by Benedikt Bolza himself and constructed in his on-site workshop, which operates under the brand-name BB.

Completely farm-to-table (including actual tables on the farm). The two restaurants are Castello, located within the castle, and Alle Scuderie, located within an enchanting renovated stables down the hill from the castle. Dishes are seasonal, ever-changing, organic delights—mostly Umbrian classics. Bar Central, part of Alle Scuderie can be dropped in on throughout the day; an espresso in the late morning or Negroni in the evening. By the pool, guests can also order lunch options including Panini, plus a sumptuous gelati.

One of the biggest appeals is the equestrian facility, with over 60 horses and plenty of land for guests to go horseback riding. The estate also produces honey and wine, and offers flower courses with arrangements picked from the garden. There is a private cinema and you can even rent a lake for a special picnic, they’ll set you up with a rustic cabin overlooking the water,  and a private chef. June is firefly season, and the hotel lays out blankets for guests to admire in all their beauty.

There are tennis courts for a casual hit, as well as lessons that can be booked. There’s even cooking lessons that include foraging within the hotel grounds for ingredients and expert guidance on creating delicious Italian dishes, the Reschio way. Inevitably (season permitting), you’ll find yourself by the outdoor pool with some of the best poolside views we’ve seen—guests can order drinks right from their sun lounges. For some R&R, the hotel offers deep restoration in the form of the underground bathhouse, centered on an ethereal subterranean pool, The Bathhouse is located beneath the castle in what was once the wine cellars, offering a nurturing, restorative retreat. Worn stone steps lead down to a tranquil sanctuary of therapeutic interconnecting spaces, offering holistic, nurturing treatments to soothe the body and soul.

Most of the activities on offer (are or can readily be made) child-friendly. Cots are free and additional beds can be added to the suites at a cost of £150. Childcare is available with 48 hours’ notice. Larger families might consider taking over one of the restored farmhouses on the estate that are available for rent, all of which are perfectly private, with pools and plenty of space, as well as access to the hotel’s facilities.

*pricing is subject to change—contact us for updated rates for your dates