Casella Christmas
Approached by an avenue of iconic Cypress trees, the house, garden and pool are the stuff of dreams, in a setting that is exquisite, even by Umbrian standards
Casella, a farmhouse that dates back over 400 years, has Christmas written all over it. Exquisitely renovated, it is perfectly in step with its beautiful setting, where vine-covered hills, meadows and woodland ripple out from the river valley. As if this wasn’t romantic enough, the approach to Casella is along an avenue of Cypress trees that hugs the upwards curve of a hill, shouting ‘Italia’ to approaching guests.
The whole set-up is picture-book pretty, entirely private and yet not far from the cosmopolitan buzz of Perugia, making it the perfect house for a multi-generational Christmas or New Year celebration.
Accommodating ten in five en-suite bedrooms, there is space and comfort in abundance. Here, the property’s original features are the unflashy stars of the show. A soft colour palette reflects the landscape, as does the careful edit of natural materials including different woods, cotto tiles and Carrara marble. You’ll find beds big enough for stocking opening, a dining table that is perfect for a dinner party, fancy or otherwise, and a woodburning stove to snooze in front of. Or head to the upstairs telly room to flop in front of a Christmas film.
There’s plenty of space for guests to find themselves a quiet corner and a kitchen that’s a delight to cook in although you could always hand over to a private chef for a special dinner or for your entire holiday. There’s even a covered outdoor dining and sitting area with a chimneyed fireplace: wrap up warm and enjoy a Boxing Day lunch looking out at the wooded hills reaching to the Appenines.
Casella is just five minutes away from Antognolla, one of Italy’s most celebrated golf courses, and Perugia, with its art galleries, shops and restaurants can be reached in less than half an hour. Head here to admire some of the world’s most treasured Renaissance art, to tick off your Christmas present list or just to enjoy the centro storico of this university town. Afterwards, Casella will welcome you home like an old friend.