Palazzo Seneca
Norcia, ItalyIt’s located in the little town of Norcia, the Italian capital of black truffle, surrounded by the stunning beauty of the Sibylline Mountain National Park and only a couple of hours’ drive from Rome and Florence.
With centuries of history locked within its walls, the estate has been treated to a meticulous restoration that’s preserved its historical charm, as seen in the grand vaulted rooms, the imposing fireplaces and the gorgeous terracotta flooring. What’s more, each corner of the hotel is designed to showcase the history and artisanal traditions of the region, with beautiful furnishings crafted by Umbrian masters.
The ancient cellars of Palazzo Seneca are home to an intimate wellness sanctuary complete with a Turkish bath, a sauna and a stone hot tub. Also on offer are rejuvenating massages, exclusive treatments and bespoke programmes by expert therapists. There’s a relaxing room serving teas and infusions made with herbs from the Sibylline Mountain National Park, too.
You can go truffle hunting with a local or visit a cheesemaker and enjoy a picnic in the forest. At the same time, hiking and e-biking excursions will take you through the natural treasures of Monti Sibillini National Park and Valnerina. For the independent tourers, there are complimentary bikes at disposal to freely explore the surroundings.
The restaurant is a sleek, airy space with crisp white-clothed tables, comfy leather armchairs and large windows overlooking the garden. Dinners are particularly memorable, as the venue is all lit up with glimmering candles. At the same time, the delightful outdoor terrace is the perfect spot for dining with a view in the summer months.
Local produce features highly also at breakfast, which includes anything from artisanal honey and season jams to Norcia’s famous cured meats and cheeses. It is served either in the hotel’s lounge space or in Vespasia’s charming garden.
Palazzo Seneca has 24 rooms decked out in an earthy palette accented with natural materials.
Each features its unique character, designed to visually capture guests at first sight with a great mix of antique pieces and artisanal furnishings created by Umbrian craftsmen. Think intricately carved wooden headboards, wrought iron canopies, desks with leather-lined tops by master tanners from Le Marche, and even the very same chairs used for cardinal meetings at the Vatican.
Flooring materials range from terracotta to parquet, while bathrooms boast elegant black or ecru marble and are equipped with powerful rain-showers or bathtubs. You can choose from a selection of beautiful hideouts overlooking the rooftops of Norcia, spacious, classy rooms, grand junior suites and exquisite suites sporting large wooden beds with beautifully carved spiral columns. If you’re looking for a real treat, then book room 210, a Junior Suite with a massive shower with a view and a private terrace with awe-inspiring sights over the national park.
Much thought has gone into all the amenities offered, which include high-quality Simmons spring and memory foam mattresses and a selection of pillow types to guarantee maximum comfort, as well as beautiful Italian linen sheets, coffee machines, well-stocked minibars, and a variety of natural toiletries topping the bathrooms’ shelves.
Norcia is a fantastic destination for globetrotter gastronomes, who will be won over by the excellent local gastronomy. Vespasia, the Michelin-starred restaurant of Palazzo Seneca, skillfully presents the immense gastronomic richness of the land.
Palazzo Seneca is the perfect base to explore the region and connect with the local culture through a number of exciting activities that will unveil all the magic of Umbria and its people.
The Bianconi family has been a reference point in the hospitality and catering sector since 1850. Their values and art of hospitality have been handed down from generation to generation and today Palazzo Seneca perfectly embodies their philosophy, offering guests an authentically Umbrian experience.
Via Cesare Battisti, 12, Norcia, 06046, Italy