Built on the remains of a 12th-century monastery by Count Augusto Corinaldi in the late 19th century, this luxury boutique hotel in Italy has a storied past. Its sublime location and magnificent 200 acres were initially granted to an order of Augustine monks by Pope Eugene 3rd. Secluded and tranquil, it remained a monastic sanctuary for hundreds of years. 

Corinaldi bought and restored the property, capping its ancient foundations with a grand castle complex, and establishing one of the largest wineries in the Veneto region from the rich soil. The castle became the headquarters of King Vittorio Emanuale during WW1 and has since been restored to showcase its enchanting old world elegance and continued world renowned vintages. Now a luxurious retreat of 10 individual apartments, each has been preserved with the original centuries-old features and handcrafted materials, finishes and historic detail. 

Sample the impressive range of vintages created from age-old artisinal traditions, mellow out in the natural thermal baths, and soak in the atmospheric beauty of this historic estate.

In the heart of the Colli Euganei Natural Park south of Padua, this luxury "agriturismo" in Italy is a grand beauty that spans hundreds of years of storied history. Covering over 200 acres of woodlands, olive groves, world class vineyards, and natural hot springs, the vast estate has passed through the hands of monks, counts and Kings.  

Dating back to the Middle Ages, it has been reimagined as an historic inn, with a main castle complex comprised of a stately villa, towering turrets, and refurbished outbuildings and barns among park-like grounds. 

Divided into 10 individual apartments of understated elegance, each is tastefully refurbished with period antiques and historic authenticity and detail. Organized around internal courtyards and gardens, most of the apartments provide private terraces with garden views and al fresco dining areas. Each room reveals the ornate history of the building with lovely frescoes and wood timbers, hand carved stone and wood, and beautifully preserved detail.

The spacious granaries, are now occasionally used for parties and events, and the massive network of cellars provide the wines for the seasonal wine bar that serves traditional cuisine and small plates along with the best vintages. There's also a 16th-century room at your free disposal for barbecues and dining.

The indoor pool was adapted from the 19th-century greenhouse and overlooks stunning views of the garden and centuries-old parkland. The external thermal hot tubs are open 24/7.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

Enjoy complimentary fruit from the orchards. Wifi in each apartment, housekeeping with extra cleaning on request (€60), laundry facilities (€8), free bikes available for guests use.

AROUND

The castle is located within the Euganean Hills Natural Park, in a protected area of beautiful and peaceful landscapes for wandering among nature. In addition to the thermal lake on the property, there are several Thermal spas in the area to take in the world famous mud therapy. For art lovers, the Castle of Monselice and the medieval village of Arquà Petrarca offer classic arts and cultural stops.

Padua is a 30-minute drive north and no visit would be complete without a viewing of Giotto's Renaissance masterpiece Cappella degli Scrovegni and Titian's St Anthony in the Scoletta del Santo. Home to Italy's second oldest university established in the 13th century, the town has a youthful energy among the medieval, old town center along with a stylish, cafe society that orbits around Italy's largest square, Prato della Valle.

A UNESCO World Heritage site, nearby Verona's dramatic, romantic (Romeo and Juliet anyone?) and artistic heritage is a hallmark of thousands of years of history and it shows. Set along the Adige river, the city's Roman amphitheater is famous for its Opera performances and is close to the San Zeno district, a beautiful and ancient area with its stunning Roman Basilica.

The area is perfectly placed as a base to discover the northern most regions of Italy including Garda Lake at ninety minutes north west and Venice is just an hour north east.

LOCATION

Monselice, Italy. Nearest Airport:  Venice Marco Polo (60 km.); Treviso (75 km.); Bologna (105 km.)

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Year round