The Bagnara Estate:
The buildings stand within the Bagnara Estate, an agriturismo farm including 1.500 acres/590 hectares of irrigated plains growing tobacco (since 1930) and sugar beet. A main principle of the farm is the low use of chemicals, which have been replaced with natural fertilisers. The animals are fed with natural forage and feed produced by the farm itself. There are woods of chestnut and oak, and pastures, where hare, roe deer and Chianina cattle (famous for T-bone steaks) are raised. The animals have been carefully selected, bred and raised since 1960. The farm itself is crossed by the Tiber & dotted with small lakes, brooks ,medieval castles, & many paths with stop areas.
The estate is a nature reserve, where hunting is forbidden. This makes it a haven for many wild animals, including foxes, pheasant, porcupines, partridge, squirrels, wild boars & hares. You can enjoy strolling through the woods, picking the fruit and wild flowers, & observing the animals in a protected, natural habitat.
The Tower & San Quirico Parish Curch:
'The Tower' is on the top of the hill; it dates back to the 11th century. In the past it was used as a watch-tower, and looks over the enchanting Tiber Valley and its woods. Surrounded by a large terraced garden with barbecue area & children's playground, it has been entirely refurbished, according to the dictates of the Department of Cultural Heritage, using old materials and building techniques.It has a car park and exterior lighting. There is a 35 sqm room also, which the guests can use as a reading room; it features a large dining table and can be used for parties/lunches/dinners should the whole farmhouse be rented by one large group of people. All guests share a fully equipped laundry. 'San Quirico Abbey ' is on the hill lower than the Tower, at 100 m distance ; it dates back to the 11th century and comprises a church, bell tower, sacristy & parish house. In late 1800 Pope Leo XIII used to spend his holiday there. It features a Relais de Charme with restaurant & botanic gardens.
The Pool & Castello della Pieve :
Between the Tower and the Abbey, there is a large private swimming pool (about 120 square metres), in the shape of a fan and with a fountain and large wooden shelter. It feature sea salt water instead of chlorine. Thanks to its position, it is sunny from dawn to dusk and looks over the enchanting valley, with Mount Subasio and Assisi below. The guests have the use of chairs, tables, deckchairs, bath-towels, hot and cold showers and, on request, swimming and hydro-gymnastic lessons. The swimming pool is open from mid-May to mid-October.
Near the farmhouse, you will find Castello della Pieve. This church and fortress was the hiding place of famous mercenary leader Alberico da Barbiano, who in 1409 died there.
The estate contains 5 medeival castles and 28 further country houses of historical and architectural value.
Other Activities:
Cooking classes, Wine & Olive Oil Tasting classes, Floral composition Classes, Berry picking, Cultural Tours of Umbria
