Villa Buonanotte Barbanera

Umbria

Part of an old church has been converted into an oasis of luxury, beauty and style

The ancient hill town of Spello is firmly off the tourist trail, instead it bustles with locals. Tucked away down a cobbled street is Villa Buonanotte Barbanera , a 14th century villa owned by Andrea Falkner. She converted part of an old church into an oasis of luxury, beauty and style. Initially Andrea and her husband lived here themselves for many wonderful years, but when they eventually moved to another location in Spello they couldn't quite let go of this unique property. It was a place that should be enjoyed by many, and this is how this hospitality adventure started with Buonanotte Barbanera and now consists of a total of 5 different properties all in Spello.

The Space

Follow the picturesque alley to the entrance of the house, open the door and take in the view over the green landscape.The house is located at the outer rim of the town, and the sense of privacy is tangible. In the perfectly kept garden, a compact swimming pool is surrounded by loungers and several shaded areas, and you can enjoy your meals under the arched patio.The atmosphere is warm, scenic and comfortable, and the rooms share the same impeccable charm.

Living & Dining area: The history of the house welcomes you under the ancient arches and stonework in the spacious open-plan living and dining room. The living area is cosy and comfortable with its large cane sofa, bright Moroccan rug and a multi-channel television hidden in an old wall cupboard. The dining table with raw silk-covered chairs seats up to ten people.

The Kitchen: A real home-away-from-home requires a well-equipped kitchen, and this is not your basic holiday sink-and-fridge. Everything is supplied, from aprons to a selection of table linens to fine Riedel wine-glasses and a mighty La Cornue cooker. The light and airy style is reminiscent of Sweden and Provence.

Master Bedroom: Situated at patio level and overlooking the garden, the large master bedroom with king-size bed feels like a private apartment. Shutters can be closed at night for those who like to sleep late but there is nothing like waking up to a gentle morning breeze. The suite is soothing and restful with a marble-lined bathroom, a walk-in closet, a space to hang clothes, and a selection of books and magazines.

Bedroom - 1st Floor: Set above the master bedroom with the same dazzling country views, this bedroom has been designed in a less traditional style using the textiles and warm colours of Morocco and India matched with cool limed oak floors and white walls. Ensuite bathroom with a large power-shower and plenty of useful storage cupboards.

Garden Bedroom: This charming bedroom is a romantic secluded retreat accessible directly from the garden. It is decorated simply and comfortably: a lovely bed from a family home and Designers Guild fabrics in red and green, alongside artworks picked in Marrakesh. The room features a fully fitted shower room. Stepping out of bed and into the garden is a real treat.

* Third bedroom accessible only via the garden. Queen-size bed, air conditioning and adjoining bathroom with shower. French doors opening onto the garden and its magnificent views.

Studio: From the living room, a broad stone staircase leads to a large mezzanine space with oak floors and vaulted walls and ceiling. One wall retains an original church fresco. The studio was conceived as a place to listen to music or just to relax and read. With a full-size sofa bed and its own bathroom at the foot of the stairs, it can easily be used as a 4th bedroom.

Garden: The outdoor seating and dining area, its large table and comfortable chairs, are set under ancient vaulted arches. A low retaining wall provides unobstructed views of the countryside beyond, stunning at sunset. The pool is set back and to the side of the villa, where lush green lawns, cool underfoot, provide plenty of room for sunbathing or entertaining. Roses, olive trees and cypress trees make the garden a quiet contemplative oasis

Extra services

Private cook in your Villa, Wine tastings, Truffle hunt, Cooking classes in a nearby farmhouse, Babysitter, Extra maid service and more…

Location :

Once outside, a three-minute walk brings you to the central square of Spello, one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Umbria, famous for its cuisine, fine wines and olive oil. Spello is officially classified as one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. As well as the village itself and the Roman and medieval monuments, there are many important artworks, o.a. a fresco by Pinturicchio in the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore which is the most important sight in the village. However, much of the pleasure of staying in Spello is simply wandering through the narrow streets of old town, taking in the atmosphere

Plinius Loves…

Living like a local: It's such a unique experience to live in this historic village and feel like a local. In the morning pop down to the bakery a few doors down, have a coffee standing at the bar and feel like you are part of the community.

Flexibility: Since the house is part of a larger estate you can have accommodation from 6 - 20 people. Therefor the house can be ideal for large families or groups of friends by renting it in combination with Casa Giardino (accessible through the garden – privacy guaranteed), La Casetta (just 20 meters away), Apartment Limone (just 20 meters away) and Apartment Il Cortile (just 30 meters away) for up to 20 guests.

Fresco: Where else do you get to sleep next to a 14th century Fresco?

Interior design: Ancient and modern are perfectly combined in this inspiring house. As a frequent traveler Andrea has a great appreciation for quality accommodation and understands the importance of details. Having brought back from her travels all over the world an eclectic mix of unique objects, textiles and furniture which give the house character and the all-important sense of home.

Prices & availability

Total amount

Policies in short
A deposit of 30% of the reservation sum is requested upon reservation. The remainder must be paid no later than 6 weeks before the start of your stay. When booking within the 6-week period, the total reservation sum must be paid immediately. In case of cancellation more than 6 weeks before the start of the stay, 50% of the deposit will be returned. In case of cancellation within the period of 6 weeks no refund will take place. We therefore recommend a cancellation insurance.