Santa Maria degli Ancillotti

My wife and I stayed 5 nights in mid-October. We had a wonderful experience. Let me try to count the ways: (1) our suite was large, quiet, well furnished, and newly renovated with a beautiful bathroom and rain shower; (2) the location is convenient for touring Assisi and other hill towns, or for walking in the countryside from the Villa; (3) the food was excellent, and Alessio arranged dinners at small, delightful restaurants on the two nights we did not eat at the Villa; (4) the price of the suite was very reasonable; and last but most important is the genuine warmth of Alessio, the owner. He and his wife and sister stand out even among Italians in their friendliness and hospitality. The Dutch couple at the table next to ours told us they had been coming to the Villa for many years. We understand why and hope to do the same.

I simply can’t say enough good things about our stay at Santa Maria degli Ancillotti. Beautifully situated among hundreds of olive trees with long-range Mountain views, the place is peaceful and quiet. When you are ready to wander, you are a half hour or less from fantastic mountain-top ancient towns like Assisi, Spello, Montefalco and many other Umbrian treasures. Allessio, the proprietor, is a born host in the finest tradition. He greeted us warmly upon our arrival, and suggested we enjoy the dinner that his family prepares nightly as an additional service for guests. (5 courses, 40 euros). We had already made dinner reservations nearby, but decided to accept Allessio’s suggestion and cancelled our restaurant reservations. Oh my goodness. Certainly among the best meals we enjoyed in all our two weeks in Italy! (And we are foodies who always sought out the highest rated places!) After the first meal, we decided we would eat ALL our dinners at Santa Maria degli Ancillotti there while in Umbria. Two other couples were there while we stayed, and we quickly learned that they had been there many times, and that more than 50 percent of Alessio’s guests were repeat guests. Some come for weeks on end. We had a marvelous time in Italy visiting several great areas, and my only regret from our entire Italy trip was that we didn’t schedule MORE time in in Umbria staying at Santa Maria degli Ancillotti!

The only thing that is negative about this accommodation is that you have to actually leave at the end of your stay. Alessio and family are the most lovely and warm people. The sense of home Becomes apparent immediately. Many guests have returned repeatedly which is telling. The food and wine is astonishing and made with great skill and pride. Alessio is very sweet and sincere and is helpful in giving recommendations for visiting the beautiful Umbrian region. If you go To Italy this hotel represents the best of the country.