For utter peace and relaxation surrounded by spectacular Umbrian countryside, head this way. Saragano is a teeny, 1000-year-old medieval village set on a hilltop overlooking lush green olive groves and vineyards. It’s fabulously secluded here, yet just 40 minutes south of Perugia, the capital city of Umbria.
This isn’t your usual hotel set-up. 15 oh-so-chic rooms and apartments are spread around the pretty village square, setting a tone of privacy and independence. Yet typical hotel greats – a top-rated restaurant; a photogenic pool; a tranquil spa – are on offer too. That, and a level of service that’s highly praised across the board. It’s the best of both here. Design-wise, expect a pleasing blend of old and new - think wood-beamed ceilings, sleek muted tones, terracotta floor tiles and trendy, contemporary furniture. And the far-reaching views from the Suite terraces are something special.
Spend lazy days by the pool, indulge in a treatment or two, or potter down the hill to the local vineyard for some splendid wine tasting. And there are plenty of exploring opportunities within a short drive if the mood takes you. This is authentic Umbrian living with a big dose of comfort and spoiling hospitality, and we can’t wait to visit.
Highs
- Beautifully designed, enormous suites in a gorgeous 1000-year-old cobbled hamlet setting
- Vast, lush countryside views from the terraces
- The chic pool, shaded by olive trees, with loungers aplenty from which to sip your Umbrian wine
- Word has it the service from friendly staff is superb
- The food served in the restaurant is divine - fresh, homegrown and beautifully presented
Lows
- There is little else in the village so a car is essential to reach other nearby towns; you'll have to drive 15 minutes if you want to eat out
- The rooms & suites (as opposed to apartments) lack kitchens, and the hotel bar is often closed, so you're limited to your rather pricey minibar
- Uneven, cobbled paths and steps make things challenging for those with limited mobility
- Church bells chime early, so if you like a lie-in, pack earplugs!
Best time to go
In July and August Umbria can be scorching and busy, but you're away from the crowds in this quaint ancient village. May and June are pleasantly warm and quieter. Or visit in the autumn for perfect cycling and hiking conditions.
Our top tips
Be sure to leave some space in your suitcase for transporting wine home! Umbrian tipples are half the price of better-known Tuscan wines, but arguably just as good. Buy directly from the vineyards for the best prices.
Our guests' ratings...
Based on 4 independent reviews from i-escape guests
The location of this hotel is wonderful with amazing panoramic views and miles from anywhere in the heart of Umbria. I was travelling with my sister - and Paul, the manager, upgraded us from a bedroom to an apartment with two bedrooms, two bathrooms. A real treat and we really appreciated it. The beds were extremely comfortable, the kitchen opened onto a little terrace with the above mentioned lovely view. Paul was extremely welcoming and generous. We were there on a Thursday and Paul hosted a barbecue for all guests that evening. We had a great time meeting and talking with the other guests, all at the same long table and it was an excellent evening. Our only regret was not being able to sample the normal menu which looks absolutely delicious and gets rave reviews. Unfortunately we could only stay one night. We will just have to return!
The room was nicely decorated but pillows were not great.
The restaurant was EXCELLENT. Fantastic food, cooked really well and the waiting staff were great. However the in-room coffee facilities were limited (basic Nescafé, no milk) and a very expensive mini bar (6.5€ for a packet of nuts). I'd expect better from a 5 star especially as the restaurant has limited opening hours and there is nothing else in the village.
Housekeeping was poor: one day they left dirty cups and glasses, the next they took them and didn’t replace them.
Overall value was reasonable but not great.
It’s the most beautiful place, so well run and thoughtful. However the pool is not heated which was very frustrating when we had selected it specifically for this reason. But staff couldn’t have been more accommodating or apologetic about this. Apart from that, we absolutely loved it! And I hope one day we will get to go back and try out that pool…
Amazing place - absolutely beautiful location, views to die for of surrounding countryside. Wonderful breakfast & a great way of doing a selection by ticking what you want the night before, rather than a huge buffet with lots of waste. Dinners were delicious in the on-site restaurant. Great mushroom foraging with Delfina, the chef, who then cooked our finds in both a delicious salad & pasta dish. Swimming pool & facilities were well maintained with such fantastic views it didn’t matter that I didn’t have a view from my room, which was really comfortable with every convenience thought of. Great service from everyone, nothing was too much trouble. .
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