Long term lets (over 1 month) Short-breaks (4 days or less) Corporate bookings
Changeover day:
Flexible
Access:
Car advised Nearest amenities: 3 km
Notes:
Sorry - no pets allowed Suitable for children No smoking at this property Self-catering
Home description
Spoleto is just 10 minutes away from this very pretty part of a 16C Convent that has been sensitively restored, converted into 2 elegant apartments and has retained many of its original features. The private entrance, by way of its original and impressive iron gates, leads to the heart of the Convent where the library and the prayer rooms used to be – hence its 8 huge arched windows through which the nuns would contemplate the stunningly natural beauty all around.
When we first saw it and entered, there was absolutely no question in our minds that we had to have it…and, we’ve seen many an old building, having owned and restored our own house within the walls of the nearby hill-top 10C San Mamilianese fortress some 20 years ago.
La Passionata, a large, open-plan apartment of about 110 sq.mts, is both sensuous and splendid. This spacious apartment, with its beamed and domed ceilings, has 1 double bedroom on the ground floor with a casement window overlooking extraordinarily pretty gardens and 1 twin bedroom in a loft space with a sloping ceiling and sky-light (the twin beds can be made up as a double on request), a fully equipped kitchen/breakfast room built into the rocks, a large, awesome L-shaped, open-plan dining/sitting room with its own 16C fresco as a centre-piece - the artist, Lo Spagna, also has work in the duomo in Spoleto and in the Vatican, a double sofa-bed, a huge 16C stone fireplace - brilliant for a winter holiday - 1 bath/shower room and a terrace above that of La Romantica (see its details next to this advert).
The main “wow” factor are the 6 huge arched windows on two sides of the dining/sitting room that overlook the spectacular countryside, the gardens and that evoke a feeling of intimacy with the natural beauty surrounding you.
We welcome anyone who loves the Italian way of life and who prefers to holiday in a truly Italian community. We are aware that there are many "holiday villages" springing up in Umbria - albeit splendid surroundings such as castles and monasteries converted into many apartments with a shared pool - but in these surroundings, your neighbours will consist of only other holiday-makers. Apart from the one other apartment next to you consisting also of holiday-makers like yourself, the environment I am offering you is authentically Italian. Indeed, this is the first time your Italian neighbours have experienced "tourism" as such ! They will be fascinated by you and will want to talk to you so try brushing up on the odd Italian word eg "Piacere" meaning "Pleased to meet you" when you shake their hands. We provide information sheets that include their names as well as directions to the local recommended eateries.
Dining area/16C Fresco/6 large arched windows/fantastic views
Sitting area/huge stone fireplace/Sky Sat TV/DVD
Breakfast room/Fully fitted kitchen
Spiral up to loft twin bedroom with large sky-light and sloping ceiling
To see more photos please visit http://www.holidaylettings.co.uk/2350
The Umbria region
The Umbria region of Italy has been called "The Green Heart of Italy", due to its central location and equal distance from Rome and Florence. The area is less discovered than its eastern neighbor, Tuscany, but just as magnificent. Umbria is a beautiful, unspoiled, countryside area of rolling, forested hills, vast grassy meadows covered with flowers, large olive grove plantations, and several lakes and valleys. The landscape is dotted with many picturesque medieval villages, and the people of the area are known for their distinctive cuisine, friendliness and hospitality. Like so much of Italy, food, wine, and entertainment are the core of Umbria's charm. A vacation here is a feast of the senses. So, bring your camera, leave your diet at home, and explore this tranquil treasure.
The town of Perugia is the capital of Umbria and one of the best preserved medieval towns in Italy. A walk down the main street, Piazza Il Novembre, gives visitors incredible views of the town's medieval and Renaissance structures, like the centrepiece of town, the Duomo. The town overlooks the Tiber River, and a sunset dinner overlooking the valley will provide life long Italian memories! Take some time to visit The National Gallery of Umbria, which contains paintings from the 13th to the 18th century by masters such as Piero della Francesca, Benozzo Gozzoli, Beato Angelico, Pinturicchio, Perugino and others.
The hill town of Orvieto is known for three things: wine, ceramics, and its famous Cathedral. The broad marble pillars of this magnificent church are carved with biblical scenes that tell the story of creation. The Duomo has some fascinating frescoes by Signorelli, and sits next to a famous gelato shop. Local stores carry varieties of the town's famous Orvieto Classico white wines, and ceramics that built the town's reputation.
Todi, located about 20 miles south of Perugia, also sits atop a hill overlooking the Tiber River. The town is centred around the Piazza del Popolo, one of the most beautiful squares in Italy. One of the most popular sites is the Temple of S. Fortunato, with 14th century frescos and a crypt which preserves the remains of the poet Jacopone da Todi, the town's namesake.
The town of Spoleto once thwarted the great Hannibal as he journeyed south. Today, Spoleto is a brilliant reflection back to medieval times and has some of the most incredible scenery to prove it. Some of the town's impressive sites include a 1st century AD Roman Theatre, the 4th century Christian Church of San Salvatore (one of the world's oldest surviving churches), and the Rocca Albornoziana - one of the most magnificent of Italy's castles. Each June, the town welcomes the world to the Festival of Two Worlds dance and theatre festival, a two-week long celebration of the performing arts.
The town of Assisi gained fame as the birthplace of St. Francis, a simple friar who around the year 1200 challenged the Church to adopt a more simple lifestyle. Today the town is known as the City of Peace, and is rich in medieval architecture and religious artwork. Perched on the slope of mount Subasio, Assisi's main attraction is the Basilica of St. Francis, one of the artistic and religious highlights in all of Europe. From top to bottom, the church is frescoed by the famous artists of the day. The view of the surrounding area from outside the Basilica encompasses the richest valley in all of Umbria.
Other hill towns in Umbria are less visited than the more populated centres, but offer opportunities for an experience in Italy at its most natural. Panicale, Paciano, and Gioiella are all quaint little towns that are deeply rooted in their agricultural heritage. Olives, grapes, cheese, dates, wine, and other similar products are the heart and soul of these small hamlets. They offer visitors a look at Italy through native eyes. Of course, being in Umbria, they are filled with their own gorgeous views, and the food in their little out-of-the-way restaurants and bistros shouldn't be missed.
A trip in Umbria is a trip back in time. Medieval mists stretch across Roman landscapes. The Renaissance mingles with the Middle Ages. Vintners work vineyards owned by family members for 500 years. Farmers drizzle bread with freshly pressed olive oil. Women kneel in churches filled with artwork by famous artists. Children kick soccer balls down cobblestone streets. An Umbria vacation is a delight for the senses. Take your time and enjoy the show.
Spoleto / Bazzano-di-Spoleto area
Bazzano-di-Spoleto is in the middle of Italy - just slightly to the left ie our nearest ocean is the Adreatic. It’s between the Apenines and Sibbiline mountain range.
By car and driving normally, it takes 5 mins to Spoleto, 90 mins to Rome, 20 mins to Asissi, 45 mins to Montefalco and Bevagna, 60 mins to Perugia, 2 hours to the Adriatic, 2 hrs 30 mins to Florence, 3 hrs 30 mins to Naples, the Amalfi coast and Pompei. Castellucia, the famous Gran Piano (with fantastic natural flower displays across this giganic plain around about Easter) is just over 1 hour. Enroute is Norcia, which is worth a visit and where most of our white truffle is to be found (our area is abundant with black truffle all the year round - consequently, it's cheap to dine out on truffle, one of my favourite dishes, at around 10 euros for a bowl of ciriole al tartufo !).
So, all around us are small towns eg Todi, Trevi, Spello, Orvieto, Narni, Bevagnia and Montefalco that are all beautiful and fascinating. Benigni, for instance, often stays nearby and, indeed, lived in Coliscipoli (about an hour away) while working on the films, Life is Beautiful and Pinnochio, both of which were filmed locally.
This is also the St Francis area and there are numerous monasteries round about, where he has stayed - although you'd have to research as to where they are since I've only visited 2 or 3 on foot via mountain roads and I was led there by friends but, while I could only tell you how to get to 1 of them in Greccio, I know that others are reachable by car. Actually, there is a map at Greccio that shows how to get to 5 or 6 others by car or on foot. And, in all of the numerous churches, to be found in every tiny hill-top village as well as every town and city, there are frescos, most of which have been restored.
Most of the places further than 1 hour by car can be quicker to get to by train and it can be a lot less hassly eg taking a car into Rome or Naples would not be everyone's first preference and our local train station provides an excellent and regular service to almost everywhere you'd wish to go.
The Convent and its surrounding area is perfect for those who wish to experience "real" Italy rather than the touristy picture post-card version, to see how the indiginous Italian lives, to savour the atmosphere of a bygone era in an unspoilt and beautiful part of the world while, at the same time, having the world’s major Italian tourist cultural attractions and shops on your doorstep.
Just a few minutes outside of Spoleto city centre, Bazzano is a wholly Italian enclave and heaves with a history reflected in many of its wondrous old buildings, its awesome church and its grand palace nestling amidst the olive groves. Bazzano is famous locally for its walking territory. Albeit untouched by tourism, it's a little more sophisticated than its neighbouring villages, particularly regarding its small country roads that meander up and down the surrounding hills and join the upper part of Bazzano with its lower part. Strolling back down to the Convent with the stunning panoramic views changing at every twist and bend in the road and enjoying a glass of cold Orvieto at the end of your walk can best be described as a dream-like experience.
It's also only a stones throw from Assisi, Trevi, Bevagna and Montefalco - all places you must visit ! Not to be missed is a drive across the Sibbiline mountain range or through the Apennines to the sea-side on the Adriatic coast (about 2 hours), or to Norcia and the Gran Piano (about 1½ hours) – it’s a drive through heaven!!
Another huge advantage that Bazzano-di-Spoleto has over the other tiny villages in Umbria is its local bus that goes between Bazzano and Spoleto 4-5 times a day from between 7.30 am and 8.00pm, and, stops just a few minutes away from the Convent. It operates everyday except Sunday and terminates at the bus-station in Spoleto, up the road from the train station. From here, you can get to anywhere in Italy. The Italian train-service is fantastic and so cheap. But, be prepared to figure out the time-tables - can be confusing ! However, please note that the bus doesn't operate on Sundays and runs only 5 times a day.
There are also 2 very economically priced restaurants, Due Querce and La Trattoria L'Antica Posta, that are within walking distance from the Convent – between 1 and 2 miles - a wonderful walk or bike-ride on quiet, beautiful country roads that weave through olive groves and poppy fields. Here you can often spot the occasional celebrity enjoying an evening away from the bright lights and the intrusive lenses of the paparazzi……and the prices are the same as any other country trattoria, their owners valuing their less wealthy local customers just as much.
However, one of our biggest boasts is that some years ago the press excitedly reported that Prince Charles had bought a holiday home in this area in order to be close to his beloved Spoleto, quoted as being “his favourite place in the world”. Fortunately for him, his address is our local secret.
As well as the prestigious Spoleto festival featured in the Bigitte Bardot film based on her young life as a star, there are many other big festas, ranging from the less prestigious, but still spectacular, festival at Todi (Spoleto’s unofficial rival), the specialist Flower festivals at San Gemini and Spello, the Water festival at Piediluco (all within 1 – 2 hours), Ferentillo’s historic Pageant, involving 400 volunteers and showing life in Ferentillo over the last 1000 years…..as well as hundreds of more modest festas where you can dance, eat and drink all night and it will cost you practically nothing. Italians know how to love life to the full! Further information on any of these festas can be got off the internet or from the tourist offices in Spoleto, Terni and Assisi when you get here.
About an hour away is the Piediluco lake which was famously painted by that great impressionist, Turner. Here, also, there are many bars and restaurants. Indeed, for the serious swimmer, there is an Olympic sized pool next to Piediluco lake. On the lake itself, there are all the usual boating facilities (though speed-boats are not allowed) and sun-bathing areas. There are also three other pools nearby, one in Spoleto itself, a 50 metre pool in Pissignano and a 50 metre pool in Scheggino - another village you must visit!
For those who prefer to explore places only accessible on horse-back, there are riding stables close by and day-long pony treks can be arranged across the mountains at special rates. Treks also take place on full-moon nights. At Marmore Falls, the largest in Europe – about an hour away, there is white-water rafting. And, rock-climbing and hang-gliding is on offer in the hills. There is even a bowling alley about 5 minutes drive from Bazzano. For the less actively inclined, also just up the road, is a trout farm/restaurant. Here traditional wooden fishing rods are provided so that you can fish for your own trout to either take home or have cooked for you at the restaurant. And, there are cinemas in Spoleto, open air and indoors.
About 1½ hours away is the relatively undiscovered plain of Rieti. In this area are to be found the original worship places, in tiny monasteries dotted around, of St Francis who lived in this area when he first left his privileged existence in Rome to spread a less conventional Roman Catholicism in the rural areas of Umbria, before settling in Asissi. Some of his “churches” in this area are to be found outdoors, a simple assembly of wooden benches and an alter beneath the trees.
And, last but not least is 10C San Mamiliano, the oldest inhabited village in Umbria, where we lived until recently. This tiny, walled fortress, with its fifteen or so Italian inhabitants, whose history embraces a time when the Pope used to stay here (San Mamiliano marks part of the boundary of the Vatican state), is perched just below the snow line, often above the clouds, on a hill that faces the Apeninnes and that overlooks Ferentillo in the valley below. If you do visit San Mamiliano, mention that you are guests of Norma and Laurie.......who knows, you may be invited in for a grappa !
The Convent in Bazzano is also off the beaten track, relatively undiscovered and, therefore, it is unusual to see other tourists here. Yet, you have easy access to all the main attractions…..Todi, Perugia and Rome, about an hour away, places like Assisi, Montefalco, Trevi and Bevagnia just up the road and Spoleto next door. In all these places you are spoilt for choice regarding the local wines and olive oils - the Montefalco wine and the Trevi olive oil definitely worth sampling.
Local shops and many trattorias are all within minutes to half an hour by car or bus. Eating out in the summer months is highly recommended. It would be difficult to pay more than 15 - 20 euros for a 3 course meal with as much wine as you can drink in the local eateries. Of course, the more “flash” places in Spoleto and the more touristy places can cost a little more. However, all pizzerias tend to cost much, much less. Eating al fresco on a warm evening with the sun setting behind mountains silhouetted against a pink-streaked, azure blue sky takes some beating.
In the surrounding woods and olive groves, there is a diversity of wild-life: foxes, black squirrels, wild boar, porcupine etc. and many different species of birds, including nightingales. Occasionally, especially at night or of an early misty morning, these animals can be spotted on the roads leading to Bazzano.
In summing up, I’d say that La Passionata is to be most appreciated by those who love wandering in woods and mountains, soaking up the spectacular scenery that looks up to the mountains and across a great plain, steeped in history, dotted with olive groves, vineyards and monasteries and fringed by hills meandering towards Asissi.
How to get there
-Fly to Rome or Ancona then take the train to Spoleto on the Ancona line. Or you can fly to Perugia.
-Cheap flights with Ryan Air.
-Car hire available from Avis either from the airport and we will send you directions or, alternatively, if you take the train to Spoleto, then, providing you book through their local Spoleto office, Avis will deliver a car to Spoleto station for you if you request it. Their number is ((0039)348 265 4005 – someone there speaks English). And, an interesting website that I’ve seen with apparently good deals is www.euro-cars.com
-If you decide to do without a car, then please arrange with my husband to pick you up at Spoleto station at a time to suit you both. His number is (0039) 349 739 3501.
Nearest Travel Links
Airport:
Rome or Ancona or Perugia (20 km): 70 km
Railway:
Spoleto: 5 km
Activities near Spoleto
Sports: Tennis in town Watersports Waterpark Horse Riding Fishing
Great for: Walking holidays Rural / countryside retreats City breaks Cycling holidays
Facilities
Luxuries:
Log fire, DVD player
General:
Central heating, TV, Video player, CD player, Telephone, Satellite TV
Sofabeds (2), Single beds (2), Double beds (1), Dining seating for 6, Lounge seating for 10, Sleeps maximum of 4
Other:
Linen and towels provided. Highchair available.
Outdoors:
Balcony / Terrace, Shared garden, BBQ, Bicycles available
Access:
Parking space
Further details indoors: La Passionata is beautifully furnished and very comfortable while not compromising on style. Many of the original features have been retained.....visible rocks into the rooms showing that the Convent was carved out of the rockface itself...as well as ancient beamed ceilings. The majestic stone fireplace is great in winter providing crackling log fires that will warm your skin and unravel your dreams within its flames.
Also, there is SKY Satellite TV installed into La Passionata. This includes BBC Prime that represents the pick of the best of all the BBC programmes from documentaries to award winnning sit-coms, game shows and drama including costume drama and crime series - different programmes all day, everyday. In addition to all the English speaking fim channels on SKY, there is also BBC World TV, Sky News, Fox News, CNN.....to note just a few of the extra programmes and many, many radio stations - as well as all the documentary channels such as National Geographic. This is a more expensive package then usual to install and pay for each year, but we think that these days, our globe-trotting guests are coming to expect all the things they take for granted while at home, even when they find themselves in a mediaeval setting .....and, why not indeed ! Whatever is possible and can enable our guests to feel totally comfortable and to want for absolutely nothing, then we are trying our best to provide it.
There is 1 Sat TV, 1 DVD, 1 VCR and a stereo CD/radio together with a large selection of videos - easily enough to keep one viewing for months! And, of course, an equally large selection of books and relaxing CDs for those who prefer to bask under trees, drink wine, chill out to the hypnotic sound of the cicados and the nightinglales, whilst gazing at an azzure blue sky.... Or, in winter, after a relaxing stroll in the warm winter sun-shine, to return to the welcoming fire with a good book and a glass of mulled wine.
This apartment can sleep a maximum of 4 adults or 4 adults and 2 children – z-beds available. But, with just the 1 bathroom, fewer rather than more is better. Please note that the loft bedroom is ideal for teenagers - it has a low ceiling and a fairly narrow spiral. It is not suitable for very tall or bigger adults - though many a tall adult has been happy to sleep up there ! However, for adults who would prefer not to sleep in the loft (it is a light and airy space), we have "privatised" the area where the sofa-bed is, so that this area can be regarded as a second bedroom, if required - the sofabed is one of those that glides shut so isn't a nuisance to keep putting away. The chaise-longue can also be used as a single bed in the privatised area of the living/dining room. Please request a high chair and/or cot - available at no extra charge.
Further details outdoors: Bicycles are available, free of charge, to be shared amongst the guests. Around the Convent is excellent bike-riding country, particularly the 3 mile ride to the next village, Eggi, that has an excellent grocery store or to a supermarket. It's also a 4 mile cycle ride to the city centre of Spoleto along country roads. The last bit, though, is slightly elevated so don't say you haven't been warned! Immediately to the back of the Convent, starts the ascent up the mountains and is better to explore on foot or by car.
A large and ancient pergola provides shade; and, either by day or by night you can enjoy life alfresco. There are plenty of sun-spots for those who like to tan.
There is plenty of garden furtniture on both the private terraces attached to each apartment as well as in the garden.
The pergola and the garden is lit, providing a romantic setting for those who like moonlight as much as sunlight.
There are about 60 steps, not steep and with a hand-rail, leading to the apartment. So, it is probably not very suitable for anyone with severe walking difficulties. Though, once you are inside the apartment, everything is on the flat.
Neither apartment intrudes on the privacy of the other in any way. And, each apartment has its own terrace with garden furniture for added privacy. However, while the terrace of La Romantica looks onto the gardens and has a partial view of the hills, the terrace of La Passionata is higher and looks onto the foothills of the mountains at the back of the Convent and the ruins of an ancient castle in the distance; in general, it has a far more expansive view.
The garden, that is equipped with full lighting for dining in the evening, is exclusively for the guests and is easily big enough to accommodate everyone and retain privacy. Here, there are sun-beds, a shower, garden furniture and a large, ancient pergola that guests can eat beneath in the shade. Tuscan pines, chestnut and fruit trees provide shade for those who enjoy sitting outside but wish to minimise their exposure to the sun. There are also areas to sunbathe.
On one side of the Convent is a small farmyard with ducks, geese and roosters. On the other side live an Italian family. Just up the lane is Bazzano's ancient church. So, at any one time, you may hear roosters crowing, Italians chattering and bells ringing - a cacophony of Mediterranean sounds. Other times - silence ! You should never forget that you're at the heart of Umbrian life in the Convent - this is no make-believe stage-set, an Italian look-alike experience. What you are about to experience is as real as it can get !
It is possible to park outside the Convent but there may not always be space because the hamlet is so tiny. However, a minutes walk up the lane, there is plenty of parking in front of Bazzano’s main church.
Further details
The Booking Information is sent automatically in response to an enquiry.
Lettings of at least 3 weeks attract a discount - the longer the letting, the bigger the discount ! See Booking Info.
We provide all utilties gas c/h, unlimited hot water etc plus towels, linen (beach towels, if requested) etc plus a Welcome Pack…wine, bread, butter, milk, tea, coffee, sugar, all the condiments, fruit, pasta, olive oil etc….enough for our guests not to have to worry about food shopping before settling in ! All for free.
Beware of owners who charge extra in winter for heating costs - it could well turn out to be more then you're paying in rental costs - gas and electricity charges are exorbitant in Italy.
With us, there are no additional charges !
Days booked in addition to a week are costed at the weekly pro-rata rate.
Flexible arrival/departure days,
You can book for a minimum of 3 days at a daily rate that is 20 euros a day in addition to the weekly pro-rata rate. 1 and 2 day bookings are 30 euros a day in addition to the weekly pro-rata rate.
I am sorry but we don't allow pets.
For your extra convenience, a mobile phone will be available for a refundable deposit of 100 euros ie the guest gives back the phone at the end of their stay in return for their deposit.....this does away with the fact that when our guests bring their mobile phones with them, every time they make a local phone-call, they get charged at international rates as the phone "roves" its way round the universe. On the mobile phones that we'll be providing, there will be a pay-as-you-go card that tells you exactly what you start with and exactly how much each call costs - all costed at local rates - the guest simply pays for whatever they use on the card. Very simple and cost-effective !
If you arrange to hire a car locally in Spoleto, then many of our guests use AVIS and, PROVIDING YOU BOOK THROUGH THEIR LOCAL SPOLETO OFFICE, AVIS will meet you at Spoleto station with the car or send a cab for you FREE OF CHARGE.
Conditions
I'm sorry that I cannot allow pets.
Rental rates
Rental prices originally quoted in: Euros €
Convert to:
Period
From
To
Weekly
Nightly rate
Minimum stay
Weekday
Weekend
1 Jun 08
1 Nov 08
690£ 556
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2 Nights
1 Nov 08
1 Dec 08
590£ 476
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0-
2 Nights
1 Dec 08
1 Apr 09
550£ 444
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2 Nights
1 Apr 09
1 May 09
650£ 524
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2 Nights
1 May 09
1 Nov 09
710£ 573
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2 Nights
41
NB: Prices may be subject to change at the owner's discretion. The weekly rate includes up to 4 persons. Exra persons are 50 euros extra for up to 1st week and then 50 euros/week thereafter.
Please see more details and lots more photos on my personal website, which also shows details and photos of 30 + other apartments in and around central Spoleto - you will automatically receive access to this website in response to an enquiry.
An extra tarif is charged over the Christmas period - see Booking Information for details that also contains info re attracting discounts and the cancellation conditions. It is automatically sent to you on receipt of an enquiry.
The rate includes up to 4 persons - extra persons are 50 euros/week each.
Discounts available for bookings of 3 weeks or more or for booking more than 1 apartment simultaneously.
Beware of owners who ask you to pay for heating separately. Often you'll end up paying as much as you're paying in rent .
Bookings that include Christmas Day or New Years Day should not have Christmas Day as their arrival day.
Availability notes
To see availability please visit http://www.holidaylettings.co.uk/2350
Click to view availability for this property.
Please enquire about availability and I will get back to you immediately or as soon as I can. At the same time, I will send you Booking Information that contains details of how to attract a discount etc and my website address, which contains more photos and information of many other apartments in and around central Spoleto and Umbria.
Contact owner
To contact this owner please visit: http://www.holidaylettings.co.uk/2350
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