The Place
This eco-friendly boutique hotel was originally a 15th century palazzo overlooking the hills of Montelparo. After being converted into a hotel in 1986 before closing a few years later, it was rediscovered in 2008 by Madeline and Tim Jones. They spent the next four years restoring the building and introducing solar power, locally sourced materials and rainwater collection where possible. There are limited parking spaces, but a piazza 50 m away offers additional parking.
The hub of this boutique hotel is the sitting room, with its original cotto tiled flooring and log fire, decorated in shades of green and furnished with an eclectic mix of furniture. The original vaulted ceiling in the restaurant is especially atmospheric when candlelit, and there is a traditional wood-burning pizza oven. From the restaurant, a small staircase leads to the wine cellar where you can personally select wines to go with your dinner. Afternoon tea is served, with sandwiches, freshly baked scones and a variety of pastries. This is delightful when taken on the terrace of the Art Deco style Empire bar.
Bedrooms and suites have traditional furniture, modern comforts and terrific countryside views. This is a place where the owners make friends with the guests.