Le Mandrie di San Paolo Assisi - Umbria

In the beautiful countryside that is the historic and spiritual heart of Umbria there is a tastefully renovated farmhouse - Mandrie di San Paolo. The Benedictine monks built a farmhouse here in the 11th century. Over the years the building became a shelter for shepherds and their flocks - or "mandrie" - and later accommodated prisoners of war. The structures were abandoned and fell into ruin until they were rescued in 2000. Finally completed in 2008, the renovation of Mandrie di San Paolo has created charming apartments within the original façade. Entering through an impressive iron gateway, guests find, at the end of a sweeping drive, a traditional medieval building, framed with ancient olive trees, and a spectacular panorama of the Umbra valley. This tranquil spot, surrounded by a hundred acres of woods and olive groves, is in easy reach of magical towns such as Assisi, Spello, Gubbio and Perugia with all their treasures.

Mandrie di San Paolo's rooms are simply decorated and furnished, with traditional beamed ceilings, stone walls and ceramic floors. There is a studio flat and a double room and 10 apartments, two of which have disabled access. Apartments have bedroom, open plan kitchen and living room and bathroom. All have telephone, internet connection and television.

Guests are treated to a sumptuous breakfast of fresh homemade cakes and bread. In the restaurant, by the fire in winter, or on the terrace in summer, diners are served delectable local specialties made with seasonal produce. Tastings of regional fine food, such as truffle, oil, ham, and salami, are arranged. The estate makes and sells its own honey, cheese and highly acclaimed olive oil. Mandrie di San Paolo, with its stunning views, the delicious cuisine and deft blend of old and new is the perfect place for a wedding reception, banquet, celebration, meeting or conference.

The estate is an active organic farm, working in an eco sustainable way. The sunny location and the 400-600meter altitude combine to help produce some of the finest organic extra virgin olive oil. Guests are welcome to join in and help with the olive harvest, at the end of October.

For music lovers there are the Mandrie di San Paolo concerts - Stefano Baroni and Simon Gubbiotti have helped to create the Olive Oil Jazz Club which stages concerts featuring not only international jazz musicians but also ethnic, swing and folk performers.