The rolling hillsides of Umbria are home to dozens of country estates, where ancient castles and traditional borgos or villages command spectacular views over the Italian countryside. But few boast the striking blend of rustic charm and imposing grandeur of Castello di Antognolla, a 12th-century castle built atop an ancient crypt, once part of a 10th-century Benedictine monastery. Set on 540 picturesque hectares, the estate will emerge from a major transformation by Australian architectural firm Woods Bagot as Six Senses Antognolla in 2023, becoming the company’s second Italian property following the opening of Six Senses Rome next year.
Tokyo-based Design Studio Spin will transform the interiors of the 71 rooms and suites – set within the castle and original borgo buildings – into modern havens and fuse Umbrian traditions with contemporary comforts in the 79 exclusive branded residences; unique one- to six-bedroom units spanning private apartments, villas and farmhouses.
With Six Senses’ trademark focus on wellness and sustainability, the resort will include an extensive Six Senses Spa with wellness programming targeting areas such as sleep health, nutrition, movement and self-discovery, as well as an 18-hole Robert Trent Jones Jr. golf course that winds over the challenging terrain and a cookery school and organic farm showcasing the best of the region’s culinary bounty.
When guests are not hiking or cycling through the surrounding forests or honing their riding skills in the equestrian centre, the Experience Pavilion will provide a stage for masterclasses, craft workshops and wine and food tastings, while younger guests can enjoy a full calendar of activities as part of the Grow With Six Senses programme.