Castello di Reschio
Umbria | Italy

Castello di Reschio: Umbria’s Regenerative Castle Estate

A Regenerative Legacy in Umbria’s Timeless Hills

Perched on the emerald border of Umbria and Tuscany, where ancient olive groves sway and wildflowers paint the hills, Castello di Reschio unfurls across 1,500 hectares of pristine wilderness. At its heart stands a 10th-century castle, meticulously restored into a dazzling hotel, surrounded by seven exquisitely revived farmhouses. This regenerative estate, nurtured by the Bolza family, is a harmonious blend of organic farming, architectural artistry, and soulful hospitality. From truffle hunts with Lagotto dogs to candlelit dinners in ancient dovecotes, Reschio invites guests to step into a living tapestry where nature and heritage weave unforgettable stories.

A Thousand-Year Odyssey

Reschio’s story begins in 1050, when its castle, Castello di Reschio, rose as a sentinel over the Umbrian hills. For centuries, it was a stage for intrigue and romance, its walls echoing with the lives of counts and contessas. By the late 20th century, the estate had fallen into disrepair, its farmhouses crumbling and its land untended. In the 1990s, Count Antonio Bolza and his family embarked on a transformative journey, acquiring the estate and dedicating decades to its revival. Led by Count Benedikt Bolza and his wife, Donna Nencia, the family’s Architectural & Design Studio restored the castle and farmhouses with a reverence for history, using local materials and artisanal craftsmanship. Since opening as a hotel in 2021, Reschio has become a beacon of regenerative luxury, preserving its wild soul while offering a sanctuary for modern travelers.

A Regenerative Heartbeat

Reschio’s commitment to regeneration pulses through its land and practices. The estate’s organic gardens and orchards yield vibrant vegetables, fruits, and herbs, while centuries-old olive trees produce lush extra-virgin oil. Vineyards give rise to robust red and rosé wines, and two million bees, humming across wildflower meadows, craft golden honey. Free-range chickens supply fresh eggs, and aromatic wild herbs infuse Reschio’s signature gin and amaro. These products, born from biodynamic principles, nourish guests at the estate’s restaurants and are sold at its shop, embodying a zero-kilometer ethos.

Sustainability shapes every facet of Reschio. The estate’s wilderness, home to wild boars, deer, foxes, and wolves, is fiercely protected, with guests invited to join gamekeepers on nature walks to witness its biodiversity. Water is managed through efficient systems, and restoration projects, like the 14th-century San Michele Arcangelo church, prioritize eco-conscious materials. The Bolza family’s holistic approach ensures that every harvest, from truffles to grapes, respects the land’s natural rhythms, creating a thriving ecosystem that feels alive with purpose.

A Mosaic of Elegant Sanctuaries

Reschio offers two distinct ways to experience its magic: the castle’s hotel and its seven rental farmhouses. The hotel, housed in the millennium-old Castello, features 36 rooms and suites, each a masterpiece of organic design. Vaulted ceilings, original stonework, and arched windows frame panoramic views of the Umbrian hills, while bespoke furnishings from B.B. for Reschio, handcrafted beds, marble washstands, and artisanal lighting add warmth. Grand suites with decadent bathtubs evoke silver-screen glamour, while corner suites with twin beds suit families or friends. Just outside, six suites in the former Vestry, some with private gardens, offer secluded charm.

The farmhouses, scattered across Reschio’s hills, are restored relics of Umbrian history, each with 4 to 6 bedrooms, private gardens, and infinity pools. From the 11th-century Arrighi watchtower to the courtyard-centric Barco, these homes blend rustic stone and wood with modern comforts like custom furniture and curated art. Housemaids prepare breakfasts with fresh Reschio eggs, and private chefs can craft meals from the estate’s bounty, creating a sanctuary for families or groups seeking privacy.

Communal spaces elevate the experience. The Palm Court Bar, with its soaring cast-iron columns and grand piano, is a vibrant hub for espresso or cocktails. The outdoor pool by the Torrino, framed by cypress and pines, offers breathtaking views, while the Bathhouse, with its spa treatments, provides serene escape. Hidden colombaie (dovecotes) in the castle’s towers host intimate dinners, lit by candles and roaring fires, weaving a sense of timeless romance.

A Culinary Journey Through the Seasons

Reschio’s dining is a love letter to Umbria’s terroir, served across two restaurants. Ristorante Al Castello, set in the castle’s heart, offers refined seasonal fare, think truffle-laced pasta or roasted game from the estate’s grounds, paired with estate wines. Ristorante Alle Scuderie, near the stables, delivers relaxed dishes like wood-fired pizzas and garden-fresh salads, enjoyed on shady terraces. Both draw from Reschio’s organic gardens and local producers, with chefs foraging wild delicacies to elevate every plate. Guests rave about the food’s quality, comparing it favorably to Michelin-starred experiences, with breakfast buffets featuring local cheeses, honey, and freshly baked pastries.

Special dining experiences abound. Join truffle hunts with Lagotto dogs, followed by feasts of the day’s finds, or savor olive oil and wine tastings that trace the estate’s flavors. The Tabaccaia, a restored tobacco factory, hosts cooking classes where guests harvest ingredients and learn Italian classics, while outdoor cinema nights at the Teatro Equestre pair Italian films with pizza and estate rosé. Every meal is a celebration of Reschio’s land and its stories.

Experiences That Stir the Soul

Reschio is a playground for the senses, offering activities that blend nature, culture, and creativity. Explore the estate’s trails on foot or bike, spotting wildlife with a gamekeeper, or visit the stables to admire purebred Spanish horses trained in dressage. Art lovers can tour the Tabaccaia’s exhibitions, featuring works by artists like Nic Fiddian Green, or join painting workshops guided by master artists. Medieval archery classes, stargazing with astronomers, or embroidery sessions connect guests to ancient crafts, while the castle’s courtyard hosts operas and jazz concerts, its acoustics amplifying the magic.

For adventure, venture to nearby Assisi, Cortona, or Siena, or hike to Reschio’s lake for a swim. The concierge team tailors every experience, from private poolside tents with butler service to bespoke celebrations in the castle’s chapel or Palm Court. Guest reviews praise the staff’s warmth, with names like Eleonora and Flor singled out for making stays unforgettable. While some critiques note high costs or booking challenges, the estate’s commitment to excellence shines through, earning it a reputation as a “spectacular” retreat.

A Vision for Eternal Harmony

The Bolza family’s dream is to preserve Reschio’s wilderness and heritage while inspiring a regenerative future. Their organic approach to farming, design, and hospitality creates a model of sustainable luxury, where every guest becomes a steward of the land. By fostering local artisans, hosting cultural events, and nurturing their choir and staff community, Reschio builds a legacy that transcends tourism. Their goal is to ensure the estate’s 1,500 hectares remain a thriving haven for generations, a place where nature and human creativity flourish in synergy.