Jet-set to Umbria, Italy to revel in the relaxation of the beautiful Tenuta di Murlo.

Castiglione Ugolino at Tenuto di Murlo is a restored 11th-century castle and church that can accommodate up to 20 guests.

As summer travelers descend upon Italy’s coastline and its most famous cities—from Rome to Venice to Milan—the countryside of one of Europe’s most treasured countries beckons. Enter Umbria, a central Italy region bordering Tuscany and dazzles with medieval towns, lush forests filled with coveted truffles, and exquisite cuisine highlighted by wine and chocolate. Touch down at Amerigo Vespucci Airport in Florence and find heaven less than two hours away at Tenuta di Murlo (murlo.com), an 18,000-acre private country estate where rolling hills give way to restored villas that date back to the 11th century. Turn the page to discover the magic of Umbria and this family-owned paradise.

Guests can enjoy chef-led dining experiences at their private villa

THE HISTORY

Tenuta di Murlo, also known as The Murlo Estate, is the passion project of Alessio and Carlotta Carabba Tettamanti. Since the 16th century, Alessio’s family has owned the verdant property, where 80 structures—from farmhouses to churches to mills—have been thoughtfully restored for the better part of the last two decades. Today, the couple invites guests to choose from nine luxury villas or three new deluxe rooms for their stay.

Owner Carlotta Carabba Tettamanti has lovingly curated each villa’s furnishings.

THE ACCOMMODATIONS

Villas range in size from the romantic Villa Molinella, suitable for just two guests, to the sprawling Castiglione Ugolino, a breathtaking castle and adjoining frescoed church that dates back to the 11th century and houses up to 20. Villa Molinella is the newest of the property’s offerings, a restored 13th century mill tucked along a rolling river that offers a beautiful outdoor pool, hot tub and sauna—plus an underground jacuzzi hidden below the living room. Carlotta has thoughtfully outfitted each villa with furnishings and decor sourced from her travels throughout Europe, and guests can enjoy chef-led dining experiences within the privacy of their accommodations. Olive groves, blooming gardens, a vineyard and a farm—home to goats, hens, rabbits, ducks and bees—add to the natural charm of the landscape.

Villa Penna offers some of the property’s best views

THE ACTIVITIES

While visitors can easily wile away the days by their private pools—most are infinity-edge with sky-high views of the meandering valleys below—the estate also invites guests to immerse themselves in the local culture. Trained dogs and their esteemed guides lead guests through the densely populated forests to forage black and white truffles, or you can try your hand at making pasta from scratch, followed by a leisurely lunch at the on-site Il Caldaro restaurant to indulge in your creation. Perugia and Assisi are also just a short car ride away, where the Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, the medieval Priori Palace and charming shops and restaurants—brimming with Perugian chocolate and Italy’s famous pizzas and wines—ensure an off-site adventure to remember.

Take a dip at San Savino, which dates back to the 14th century

THE TAKEAWAY

Whether reconnecting with family or your significant other, Tenuta di Murlo provides a countryside Italian escape unlike any other. Shrouded in privacy and rich with history, the estate’s luxurious villas are only matched by the service and passion of its thoughtful owners. Your idyllic getaway awaits.