Castello di Reschio: A Timeless Umbrian Retreat

Nestled in the rolling hills of Umbria, Castello di Reschio offers a serene escape that blends history, luxury, and natural beauty. This grand estate, with its centuries-old stone buildings and misty cypress trees, invites romantics and adventurers alike to experience Italy’s timeless charm. Whether you seek relaxation or exploration, Reschio’s 1,500-hectare landscape, dotted with nine meticulously restored farmhouses, promises an enchanting stay.

The Experience

The estate’s farmhouses, transformed into bespoke accommodations, feature vintage furniture and original stonework, creating an atmosphere of rustic elegance. At Alle Scuderie restaurant, guests savour locally inspired dishes crafted from homemade produce, including honey, olive oil, pasta, and wine. For those eager to stay active, private swimming pools, state-of-the-art tennis courts, and equestrian facilities await. The pool, set within lush gardens, boasts ample seating and a perfect temperature, making it a highlight of the estate.

The spa, an underground oasis, offers an intimate experience with bookable sessions for saunas, steam rooms, and Roman baths. Guests describe the 45-minute spa treatments as world-class, a perfect complement to the tranquil setting.

Cultural Preservation

Reschio’s mission centers on reviving derelict farmhouses and a historic castle into bespoke homes and a thoughtfully renovated hotel. Architect Benedikt Bolza leads this vision, working from the Tabaccaia, a 1940s tobacco warehouse turned creative studio. Local artisans craft custom designs here, from marble washstands to intricate stucco work. The Bolza family, passionate collectors, sources unique furniture and art from auctions and flea markets, which are restored and displayed at the Reschio Dealership. The Tabaccaia also hosts art exhibitions like Nic Fiddian-Green’s striking equine sculptures.

The Challenges

Despite its allure, Reschio faces challenges as a newly opened property. The service, while well-intentioned, occasionally falters due to the staff’s youth and inexperience. Guests report minor frustrations, such as miscommunications over requests or delays in room readiness. For example, a request for a lemon resulted in a drink of squeezed lemons, and a call for maintenance went unresolved after multiple assurances.

The rooms, though beautifully designed, have drawbacks. Many find them excessively dark, with limited natural light, and the air conditioning struggles to cool effectively in the 36°C Umbrian heat. Grand Suites include an additional space that feels underutilized, and views are often obscured unless seated directly by the windows. Families traveling with infants may feel overlooked, as the hotel offers little for young children.

The Highlights

Reschio shines in its facilities and setting. The reception and bar, seamlessly blended, create a welcoming atmosphere, enhanced by a piano played professionally each evening. The equestrian facilities, among the finest in any hotel, attract horse enthusiasts. The Umbrian countryside, with its iconic fields and hills, feels quintessentially Italian, evoking cinematic imagery.

Food and Dining

The cuisine at Reschio emphasizes quality, with locally sourced ingredients. However, portion sizes disappoint some guests, and dining options feel limited. Breakfast includes a small buffet and five à la carte choices, while room service offers only three items. The pool menu lacks variety, and lunch is restricted to one restaurant. Despite these constraints, the food surpasses expectations set by other luxury hotels, with dishes arriving quickly and tasting fresh.

Final Thoughts

Castello di Reschio holds immense potential as a unique Italian retreat, distinct from competitors like Castiglioni del Bosco. Its stunning setting, exceptional spa, pool, and equestrian facilities make it a compelling destination. However, as a new hotel, it grapples with service inconsistencies and room design flaws that detract from the luxury experience. Pricing sets high expectations, which the current offerings don’t fully meet, particularly for base rooms with limited views.

For those considering a visit, the Tower Suite or private houses may offer better value. Waiting until the staff gain more experience could enhance the experience. Reschio is a property with a bright future, but patience will reward those who visit once it fully finds its footing.