La Lucciola Casa

A Refined Wellness Retreat in Le Marche

Conceived as a wellness sanctuary and coastal residence within easy reach of Italy’s sparkling Adriatic Coast, this architect-designed trio of wisteria clad, old stone buildings stands atop a photogenic hillside in Italy’s Le Marche region. Once the holiday home of the Malatesta de Rimini family, the 15th-century country estate has been reinvented by Michele Gambato as an escape-minded cocoon for up to 14 guests.

Softly coastal in styling, with a bleached backdrop and sea-glass-colored, minimal furnishings, the Main House’s six bedrooms open into a crisp, spacious, starkly modern living and dining area with a fully-equipped kitchen and an additional table for dining alfresco under the vine-covered, panoramic pergola.

The smaller Second Home’s three intimate bedrooms offer soft linen canopies and subtle, unfussy décor, each suite benefitting from its own private entrance. Elevating the stay, the property’s third residence is a dedicated spa and wellness retreat adjacent to the swimming pool, with wide sliding doors, sun beds, loungers and umbrellas, and a shower under a shade tree.

Around

Often described as one of Italy’s best kept secrets, the Le Marche region offers spectacular mountain scenery, unspoiled beaches and the best in traditional Italian culture where picturesque villages are full of beautifully preserved ancient architectural and cultural treasures. Just outside of the foothills of the Apennine and just inland from the Adriatic coast, you'll find some of the best and largest beaches in Italy including Conero Park. 

The property occupies the crest of a hill, surrounded by blankets of green woods and neatly cultivated fields. The town of Pergola, designated one of Italy’s Most Beautiful Villages, is seven kilometers away and highly regarded for its pottery production and easy access to the Apennine mountains. The historical towns of Urbino (UNESCO designated), Gubbio and Fabriano mean you’re never short on sightseeing adventures, and the smaller villages of Corinaldo and Mondolfo are a short drive away, too, and worth a visit.

The region’s gastronomy is a major draw, and coveted truffle markets in Acqualagna and nearby Pergola are not to be missed. Vineyards are tucked into the rolling hills near the property, and the region is home to two Michelin-starred restaurants, Uiassi and Madonnina del Pescatore.

Outdoorsy types will want to delve into the Frassassi and Furlo Caves nearby or trek up Monte San Bartolo or the peaks of the Sibillini Mountains, and the Conero coastline is surprisingly close by, with its beaches and crystal-clear Adriatic waters.

Location

Le Marche, Italy. Nearest airport: Ancona (45km); Florence (135km)

Best time to visit

April to October