A refreshingly different property, located in Slovenian wine country, this duplex was built from the ruins of a 19th-century farmhouse and shed. It has a contemporary but edgy feel, with lots of lovely bonuses, including a heated outdoor pool and a sauna. A real find among villas for rent in Slovenia.

This villa actually consists of two houses, one a traditional 19th-century stone farmhouse typical of the Vipava Valley, and the other a contemporary unit. The property was recently given a makeover by architects Vodusek and Dolecek, and the overall effect is striking. The color scheme is earthy, and traces of the original stonework peek through the plastered walls, creating a modern and elegant space, with an almost industrial grittiness to it. 

The first building has wooden beams and clay walls, and has been decorated with a combination of modern furniture and antique wooden pieces. We love the steel spiral staircase, the freestanding fireplace, the stunning multi-bulb lighting feature, and the huge window in the living area that floods the house with light. 

Across the courtyard is the second house, a modern, open-plan building that replaces the dilapidated shed that used to live there. It has a fiber cement shell and glass facade, with some of the original brickwork left, to create a link between the two buildings. It has bright, clean lines and a playful color scheme, as well as great views of the Karst Plateau. 

The courtyard itself has a gnarled old olive tree, a heated pool and a dining table on a wooden terrace. It's a great location for morning coffee, surrounded by songbirds and stunning views of the rolling hills. Alternatively, forgo the caffeine in favor of a refreshing plunge in the pool followed by a steam in the sauna. Later in the day, prepare dinner on the outside grill, with a glass of wine from the cellar, and soak up the ambience of this historical home.

AROUND

The villa is surrounded by high Lars plateaux and the Vipava Hills. It's a great region for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, parachuting and sport fishing. The region is well known for its orchards and vineyards. Hit the Vipava wine road, and try local wines like Zelen and Pinela, as well as local delicacies like prosciullo and 'Nanoski sir' cheese at nearby farms. 

The villa is nestled among castles and little towns. The owners recommend sampling the region's rich gastronomic heritage with some gourmet excess at the late-Renaissance Zemono Castle.

LOCATION

Brabik, Slovenia. Nearest airports: Trieste, Italy (40 km); Ljubljana (70 km); Venice, Italy (150 km) 

BEST TIME TO VISIT: Spring to autumn

Photographs: Nina Kurnik