Back to Beginnings: Tenuta Di Murlo
In the heart of Umbria, Tenuta di Murlo has been in Carlotta and Alessio's family for over 350 years, and is one of the largest privately-owned family estates in central Italy. Stretching across thousands of acres of untouched countryside, the estate is home to rivers, lakes, rolling hills, and vast woodlands, and represents a rare legacy that Carlotta and Alessio are passionate about protecting and sharing with guests.
"It's a very unique thing that we want to protect and still develop so others can enjoy what we have been gifted"
For centuries, Murlo was a medieval farming estate, centred around its castle and surrounded by 90 farmhouses. Until the 1950s, families lived in these houses, cultivating small plots of land in exchange for a share of the produce. But soon after the Second World War, farming in the hilly terrain became difficult, and as the occupants gathered around the first TV brought to the estate, they understood that working elsewhere would be more beneficial for them. Therefore, the countryside was gradually abandoned. By the time Carlotta first arrived in 1995, the Murlo castle stood amid a landscape of beautiful but crumbling ruins.
“Of course, when you don't maintain houses, there are leaks, the roof is not properly maintained, and it starts collapsing. So that's why, in 1995, when we first arrived at Murlo, we found so many wounds”
The couple began restoring the estate with one renovated farmhouse, which proved an instant success. Since then, they have brought nine villas back to life, using original beams, tiles, and stone to preserve the historic charm. Today, the houses look almost exactly as they did centuries ago, but with discreet modern comforts and private pools.
“And so, this is a project that we are still developing. And the special thing about Murlo, is that it is a very authentic estate”
One of the estate’s crown jewels is Villa Molinella, a former 13th-century water mill set deep in the valley. Its unique underground jacuzzi was built in the old mill vault where the stream once flowed. This blend of heritage and wellness has inspired Murlo’s projects, so guests can step from their bedroom to their spa in perfect privacy.
The newest addition to Murlo is La Fattoria, which has quickly become the estate’s beating heart. It is a place for guests to gather for cooking classes, truffle hunting, and evening aperitivo. A panoramic terrace offers unforgettable views over the valley, where deer and wild boar roam. By candlelight, the terrace transforms into magical private dining spots for celebrations, or simply an unforgettable night under the Umbrian stars.
“This new centre makes it even more special for our guests. It's very spectacular”
This is just one of many reasons why Tenuta di Murlo defies expectations of a villa stay. Alongside its full concierge service, the estate offers a shop, farm, vineyard, restaurant, orangerie, and more, giving guests the freedom to be as social or as secluded as they wish. Some choose to dine at Il Caldaro every evening, enjoying lively conversation and regional flavours. Others prefer the quiet luxury of a home-cooked meal, served in the privacy of their villa after a long day hiking through the Umbrian hills.
Tenuta di Murlo is a deep immersion into history, nature, and the warmth of family heritage. Every stone, beam, and pathway tells a story, and every guest becomes part of it.
If this has inspired you to know more about a stay at Tenuta Di Murlo for your clients, please get in touch at emily@sarahfalconer.co.uk. We’d be delighted to help.