Villa Spaccasassi

Nestled in the green heart of Umbria, close to Lake Trasimeno, you will find this seemingly typical farm. But look closely and you will notice that it is anything but typical – it has been lovingly restored by its architect owner to reflect traditional local building techniques, alongside some carefully considered antique and modern interior touches, blending 21^st century style with the traditional Umbrian old stone buildings.

This large property consists of several buildings, including a main farmhouse and a converted hayloft. It sleeps up to twelve people over its six bedrooms, in the two buildings. The main house offers an open plan living area with plenty of seating and a place to dine, opening out on to the terrace which overlooks the lake. Step out on to the other side of the house and you will be under a covered pergola where you can enjoy al fresco dining.

The kitchen is spacious and well equipped, but if you want to use the services of a local cook, just ask the owners and that can be arranged. The farm’s old henhouse has been converted into an outside kitchen so that you can cook and eat under a wisteria-covered pergola as the sun sets over the lake. It also has its own bread oven.

Outside you will also find your own private pool, set in an old olive grove. While you are gently doing your laps, you will be able to see the ruins of Castel di Zocco and the largest of three islands in the lake. After a fun splash and swim, you can rinse off under the outdoor shower or in the changing room with full bathroom. The garden is completely fenced in and has a 900m path for walking, running and even cycling. Or you could even challenge someone to a game of table tennis in a shaded spot, with full views of the lake.

If you can drag yourself away from the property, Perugia is just a 20-minutes’ drive away, where you will find plenty of medieval architecture, a Gothic cathedral displaying Renaissance paintings and frescoes, and a host of excellent restaurants. The area is also great for biking and hiking, plus there are golf courses and tennis courts nearby too.