Ours was a large family get-together (3 generations, 13 people) for 2 weeks in July 2018, easily fitting within the 7 bedrooms available at this extensive property. The accommodation was excellent, with large air-conditioned bedrooms and living spaces, all extremely well-equipped and comfortable. There are 2 modern kitchens with plenty of utensils, crockery and cutlery, and a very large high-level terrace accessible from 2 of the bedrooms, and by stairs from the gardens. The panorama from there across the valley was to die for, especially at sunset, which became a regular event for us all to watch.
On arrival in Deruta, we were met by Franca, who led us to the property, located in the hills above the town. Throughout the stay, Franca and her daughter Beatrice (who both speak excellent English) were extremely friendly and helpful, and always available for any questions or assistance with booking trips, restaurants etc. A visit to their ceramics factory and shop is a must – especially for the children, who painted their own cups and plates which were given to them at the end of the holiday.
I must mention the meal prepared for us by Beatrice and Franca (by arrangement). Beatrice is a professionally trained chef, and we sampled probably the best local food we experienced during the holiday, with a large range of dishes to choose from. The meal was for 17 people, including visitors and children, who all enjoyed the al-fresco dining.
The enormous swimming pool, with steps and diving board, was the centre of our relaxing days spent at the villa. There were plenty of loungers, umbrellas for those who needed shade, and a pool room with fridge, shower and toilet. Chairs and tables meant that meals could be taken close to the pool or in the adjacent grounds. We made full use of both the large barbecue and the pizza oven.
Places to visit / things to do within easy drives: The old town at Deruta, with restaurants and bars around a central plaza; Perugia, with its spectacular architecture; Assisi, a medieval town and basilica perched on the side of a mountain; Lake Trasimento; a tour and wine tasting at the Lungarotti Winery, Torgiano.
All in all, this was a holiday of a lifetime, in a villa and setting which matched the occasion, and fantastic hosts and facilitators in Franca and Beatrice Sberna, who we have to thank for making our stay so pleasant and fulfilling.