CASTELLO DI RESCHIO, UMBRIA, ITALY

It doesn’t get more authentic and immersive than a 1 000-year-old castle in the Umbrian hills. Under the guardianship of three generations of the Bolza family, Reschio Estate, which spans 1 500 hectares in the Italian countryside, recently opened its doors in its latest iteration as a 36-room hotel. Now in the hands of Count Benedikt Bolza, an architect, the Hotel Castello di Reschio has been meticulously restored and reimagined, with all interior design, landscaping and even the creation of bespoke furniture, lighting and accessories taking place under his watchful eye. Every detail was designed to champion Italian craftsmanship and heritage – think fine Italian linens, handcrafted furniture, traditional stucco work and stone-carved fireplaces. The iconic scenery, a farm-to-fork ethos (produce, olives and wine grapes are all grown on the estate) that plays out in various dining options, and a cypresslined swimming pool all serve to celebrate the gorgeous natural setting. And showcasing the centuries of history and culture embedded in the estate are the Bathhouse (a spa housed in the vaulted wine cellar, inspired by ancient Roman baths) and a plethora of activities, such as hiking, cycling, clay-pigeon shooting, truffle hunting and cooking lessons. Also home to an equestrian centre – and some of Italy’s most skilled dressage horses – Reschio offers riding lessons, wild hacks and evening performances. reschio.com