About
Villa San Rocco is a private home and the perfect venue for a variety of cultural, business and leisure activities. The main premises consist of a 17th Century Baroque villa, with an adjoining late-medieval wing dating from 1323. Behind the main gates is a gravel courtyard, with adequate room for several cars; an olive grove, which overlooks the villa from the hillside; and, at the rear, an original formal garden. The Baroque style of the principal accommodation is of architectural interest, being a rare survivor in the region. In addition, the property includes a Baroque chapel, which is situated opposite the main gates.
The villa utilises the latest technology for insulation and heating, IT and entertainment systems. Currently, the house is in the process of being completely rewired and re-plumbed, which will ensure all the ease of modern living without the drawbacks usually associated with an old building’s ‘charms’.
The atmosphere at Villa San Rocco is one of traditional hospitality in a home environment. There is a finely appointed dining room, drawing room and library, along with several areas where guests can find a quiet spot to relax. Bedrooms have their own bathrooms, the majority being ensuite, and are furnished with sympathetic antique furniture and decorated in style, with many unique features. A spacious altana, or ‘covered terrace’, commands spectacular views over the village and the Lima valley below, with the snowcapped Apennine mountains and the setting sun beyond. Downstairs, the cavernous grand salone lends itself to any number of activities, from concerts and conferences, to film presentations, yoga practice and banquets.
Villa San Rocco is NOT a hotel. The atmosphere is one of a classic villa: the elegant, out-of-town retreat of an old Italian family. There is no reception, no room numbers; no ‘corporate identity’. Guests will feel rather they are staying in the luxurious domicile of wealthy Italian relatives. (Said relatives may be in evidence – though are unlikely to be either Italian or, indeed, wealthy.)
The villa offers a number of services:
- Residential Bookings
- Villa San Rocco sleeps up to twenty-four family and friends between seven double and five twin-bed rooms. It will be available to rent as a whole/two lots on a weekly basis or, depending on demand, can provide individual rooms as required. The unique layout of the house means that two groups can share the house without mutual interference.
- Courses
- The house lends itself to courses for groups of up to twenty-four, with the potential for more by special arrangement. (Further local accommodation is available). The impressive grand salone acts as a superb gathering point, lecture hall and workshop space. Courses in painting, cooking, Italian history and culture, writing, yoga, meditation, music and other disciplines will take place. Businesses from both the surrounding area and abroad may use the villa for seminars, conferences and team-building events. Classic car enthusiasts may base themselves at San Rocco to take in some of Italy's most stunning scenery (Modena is a two-hour drive through the mountains) or, for those who prefer their own steam, the surrounding hills are a haven for hikers and cyclists, off-road or on.
- Cultural Centre
- The grand salone is the ideal space to host social and cultural events. Dinners, concerts, art exhibitions and demonstrations can all be accommodated. A home cinema system will be installed for use by guests. The Baroque chapel is a particularly fine feature. Fully consecrated, it may be used for blessings, small weddings, special services or simply for private prayer and meditation.
Staff or self-catering?
Villa San Rocco is the fabric: how you tailor it is up to you. If you wish to be completely self-sufficient and independent, there is a fully equipped Tuscan-style kitchen (including a working fireplace for those steaks) and full laundry facilities. Should you desire, cleaners are available to take care of the rooms and linen. Meals can also be arranged, prepared by local cooks. Whether you require a simple breakfast and an evening plate of pasta, or a full-on Tuscan feast, all can be provided. Whatever fits you best.
Villa San Rocco opens in Spring 2009. Prices start from 75 Euros per person per night, including breakfast. To contact us, click here.