In the picturesque landscape of Italy's Le Marche region, between the shimmering Adriatic and the majestic Sibillini mountains, lies the luxurious haven of Filodivino Winery and Spa. Owners Alberto and Alida Gandolfi discovered this sunny, open valley, conceived a passion project recovering its ancient vines back into wine production, and in the process converted the former farmhouse and surrounding 17 acres into an upmarket boutique getaway, with 7 elegant rooms and suites. Built with sustainable materials and exquisitely furnished with handcrafted, reclaimed furniture as well as custom-made pieces, the ambiance here is one of relaxation and calmness, where rustic charm meets understated glamour.
Tradition is apparent in the design, from the bleached woods, exposed brickwork, organic cotton and flax linens to the locally-sourced produce served up at the in-house Veranda restaurant, which has spectacular views over the rolling fields. Modern touches include a gorgeous outdoor infinity pool and sun terrace (to make the most of that valley view), a fully-equipped spa with a swathe of treatments including a wave pool and sauna, and the striking modern winery that provides the list for the restaurant and a glass of something chilled for when the sun slips below the horizon. It’s also a great base from which to explore the surrounding Le Marche region, with its historic towns, cobblestone villages and golden beaches, and perfect for hikers and cyclists who want to get back to nature. Relax, unwind, pamper, explore – la vita doesn’t get more dolce.
Filodivino Wine Resort & Spa
San Marcello, Umbria & Le Marche, Italy
Highs
- Fantastic location – remote enough to be a haven and surrounded by easily accessible countryside, yet close to historic towns, around half-an-hour from the beach
- Learn all about Italian viticulture and the local terroir in the stunning, architect-designed, barrel-vaulted winery;
- The spa has everything – sauna, reaction tank, Turkish bath, Kneipp path, whirlpool, as well as a gym. There is also a range of beauty treatments and massages
- An intimate retreat with just seven elegant rooms and suites in the former farmhouse, all with views and outside areas, and the suites have living rooms and kitchenettes
- Perfect for couples looking for a romantic and pampering gourmet retreat; you're cocooned in a beautiful valley enriched with vines and encircled by hills
Lows
- A car is advisable, particularly for longer stays
- It’s at the higher end of the price bracket for this area of Italy
- No dinner service on Tuesday nights (but light meals can be served in-room); the Special Nights tasting package in the winery is only offered Thursday and Saturday evenings (no dinner service in the restaurant on those nights)
- The owners have dogs, so to guarantee a peaceful stay for all guests do not accept other pets
Best time to go
July and August tend to be the hottest months – and they are hot – although being slightly inland at higher elevations means temperatures aren’t quite as suffocating as by the beach. Spring is often considered to be the prettiest time to visit, with the region waking from its winter slumber, although the changing colours of autumn are recommended for those who like their hiking and biking trips. Filodivino is closed mid-November to mid-April.
Our top tips
The Frasassi Caves (40km away) is one of Europe’s largest and most spectacular cave systems – 190 million years old and 1.5km long. It’s easily accessible for all ages and boasts incredible limestone sculptures. The highlight is the 200m high Ancona Abyss full of stalactites that look like pipe organs. Do bring some warm clothing – it gets chilly even in summer. And note that English tours are only available in May and June (although English audio headsets are offered).