You’ve been gritting your teeth during the whole flight in anticipation of Rome’s tourist-packed streets, traffic noise, and the loud chatter outside your window all night. You’ve done all the main sights some 30-odd years ago, once with a backpack, once alone and then once with your longtime partner. For romance sake, you’ve agreed to come again. You’re downright shocked when you’re dropped off outside of the city. Here, the air is rather crisp, unpolluted and the only noise comes from the rustling of leaves.
You’re warmly welcomed at the Castello della Castelluccia. Dating all the way back to the 10th century, this enchanted corner of Rome has aged beautifully with its 16th-century works of art, antique furniture and the 12th-century tower barely showing any wrinkles. Each of the 23 rooms is entirely unique, some with 18th-century four-poster beds, marble bathrooms, and majestic fireplaces, all named after the aristocratic families who have owned the castle. The Roman countryside is at your window and should you wish to venture into the city, a train station shuttle drops you off several times a day at the nearest metro station, about 4 miles away. Here you are free to languidly enjoy the best of Italy at your leisure, including the onsite restaurant which serves local dishes with an Umbrian influence. Be sure to ask for a reservation– the Locanda della Castelluccia, which serves its patrons in a medieval style room, is highly rated and often full. Nearby you’ll also find a golf course while the castle has its own Turkish bath, spa, and pool.