Tenuta di Murlo

A Serene Escape to Umbrian Luxury: A Comprehensive Review of Tenuta di Murlo (Michelin Key Selected)

Tenuta di Murlo, a Michelin Key Selected property nestled in the breathtaking Umbrian hills near Perugia, offers an exceptional "slow travel" experience characterized by unparalleled tranquility, luxurious comfort, and impeccable service. This expansive private estate, with its meticulously restored medieval farmhouses and villas, consistently garners high praise from guests seeking an authentic and indulgent Italian escape.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for Tenuta di Murlo is overwhelmingly positive, with guests consistently describing it as a truly wonderful and unforgettable destination. The sentiment revolves around themes of profound relaxation, stunning natural beauty, and a high-end, thoughtful approach to hospitality. It is considered a five-star experience, a "heaven" for those looking to disconnect and immerse themselves in the Italian countryside.

2. Key Highlights

Guests are particularly enamored with the estate's private pools and the stunning, uninterrupted views of the Umbrian landscape from their accommodations. The thoughtful restoration of medieval farmhouses, towers, and rural outposts into chic, luxurious villas is a significant draw, blending rustic charm with sophisticated design. The extensive range of top-shelf services and amenities is also a highlight, including private chef services, cooking lessons, wine tastings, in-villa spa treatments, and the adjacent 18-hole Antognolla golf course. The personalized and attentive nature of the staff consistently receives accolades.

3. Room Quality

The accommodations at Tenuta di Murlo, which include nine luxury villas and three deluxe rooms, are described as elegantly furnished and offering superior levels of comfort. Villas and suites marry original stone walls and rustic architectural details with sophisticated classic interiors. Guest feedback highlights plush sofas, cool sitting rooms, thick masonry walls for temperature regulation, huge master bedrooms, and fabulous gardens. The level of luxury and home comfort is consistently high across the properties, featuring marble bathrooms, super soft beds, and excellent air conditioning, vital during hotter months. Many villas boast their own private pools and outdoor jacuzzis, contributing to a sense of exclusive retreat.

4. Dining Experience

The estate's restaurant, Il Caldaro, is housed in a beautifully restored medieval farmhouse and offers a serious farm-to-table experience. It is praised for serving a mix of good local dishes, with ingredients often sourced from the estate's own farm. Guests can enjoy dining outdoors under the stars on homemade pasta. For those preferring to dine in their villa, the estate offers private chef services or catered dinners. Daily breakfast can be delivered directly to the villa in insulated containers, or guests can enjoy a buffet at Il Caldaro. The estate also provides cooking classes, where guests can learn to transform local produce into delicious Umbrian dishes, and wine tastings with expert sommeliers. One minor point noted by a guest was a desire for more vegan options at the restaurant.

5. Service & Staff

The service and staff at Tenuta di Murlo are consistently lauded for their attentiveness, professionalism, and genuine Italian hospitality. Guests describe the staff as friendly, attentive, and never over the top, making the entire experience easy and thoughtful. A dedicated concierge team is readily available to assist with any request, from planning activities and services to arranging private chefs, in-villa massages, or transportation. Daily maid service is also provided.

6. Location & Accessibility

Tenuta di Murlo is a secluded and privately owned estate nestled deep in the rolling Umbrian countryside, approximately 20 kilometers north of Perugia. This location offers "limitless unbroken views" and a "nature lover's heaven" with thousands of hectares of forested hills. While tranquil and "away from it all," guests emphasize that a hiring a car is essential due to the villas being set on scenic overlooks accessible only by well-maintained but steep and twisting rural roads. Perugia San Francesco d'Assisi airport is conveniently located only 20-25 minutes away. The estate's position also makes it an ideal base for exploring cultural gems of central Italy, including Todi, Assisi, Cortona, Florence, and Rome, as well as charming local hill villages.

7. Value & Pricing

As a luxury resort and Michelin Key Selected property, Tenuta di Murlo is positioned at the higher end of the market. While specific pricing is often available on request, partners and booking sites indicate it falls into a premium price guide (e.g., £££££). However, many guests consider the experience to be well worth the cost, citing the high level of comfort, privacy, and extensive services as justifying the expense. Some booking channels also offer VIP benefits such as complimentary room upgrades, daily breakfast, and dining or spa credits, potentially enhancing the value. Promotions, such as winter savings, may also be available.

8. Common Complaints

The most frequently mentioned "lack" rather than a complaint is the absence of a dedicated, full-service estate spa. While in-villa spa services, yoga, and guided meditation are offered, a centralized spa facility is not yet present, though it is reportedly in the works. As noted earlier, one guest expressed a desire for more vegan options at the Il Caldaro restaurant. Finally, while the secluded location is a major draw, the necessity of a car for getting around the sprawling estate and to nearby attractions could be a minor inconvenience for some travelers.

Sources

1. thehotelguru.com
2. wanderlog.com
3. oliverstravels.com
4. theluxevoyager.com
5. steppestravel.com
6. avenueproperty.com
7. trip.com
8. theweek.com
9. michelin.com
10. murlo.com