By Catia Giorni
We are in Montone, one of the most charming villages in Umbria, a place where time seems to flow at a different pace. The ancient medieval walls enclose quiet alleys, unexpected views, and that soft light that has made this part of the Umbrian countryside famous all over the world. Walking through its narrow streets is already an experience in itself: an invitation to slow down and leave everyday noise behind. And just a few steps from the historic center, you come across a place that seems to naturally extend this feeling of peace and elegance: Hotel Fortebraccio.
A place that impresses from the very first glance, thanks to its privileged location and harmony with the surrounding landscape. From here, you can easily reach the heart of the village on foot, while the hotel also serves as an ideal starting point to explore some of the most beautiful cities in Umbria, such as Assisi and Perugia, and in Tuscany, such as Arezzo and Siena. As soon as we cross the threshold, we are welcomed by the smile of Valeria Testi, the hotel manager, who guides us through a constantly evolving reality.
Valley Life: Valeria, let’s start with the latest updates: recently you’ve undertaken a major renovation, beginning with the rooms.
Valeria Testi: Exactly. The property has been completely renovated, starting with the rooms, where we replaced the carpeting, all the lighting fixtures, and began updating the furnishings with custom-made wooden furniture. We also renovated the common areas, starting from the outdoor entrance, with the aim of making guests feel at home, featuring two lounges and two fireplaces that are always lit as soon as the sun begins to set.
In addition, we fully renovated the bar area, the breakfast room, the meeting room, and the gym. We focused on details throughout the entire property to ensure that guest well-being is always our main priority. A well-being that begins right from the morning: I’d like to remind you that we offer our guests rich breakfasts, with homemade cakes and locally sourced products.
Valley Life: Even before arriving, we took a look at the hotel’s website and were impressed by the variety of experiences offered to guests: not just simple stays, but real journeys to discover the territory. From guided tours with tastings to visits to cities like Gubbio, Assisi, and Florence. How important is it for you to guide guests in discovering the area?
Valeria Testi: Since we are not in a globally famous city like Rome, Florence, or Venice, we decided to offer more than just a quick stay, but the opportunity to truly discover this part of Umbria, which always holds enchanting surprises.
We have worked to make the territory the true protagonist of the stay by designing both short trips for those who want to explore central Italy while enjoying the peace and tranquility that only our area can offer—such as Assisi, Rome, Florence, Siena, Cortona—as well as experiences for those who want to get hands-on with Umbrian traditions through ceramic workshops, truffle hunting, cooking classes, e-bike tours, and more.
We take care of everything, from transfers to experiences such as walking tours in city centers, golf cart tours, museum visits, lunches, and dinners. Guests only need to worry about setting off after breakfast!
Valley Life: For more adventurous guests, you also offer hot air balloon tours: certainly a unique way to change perspective…
Valeria Testi: More unique than rare! It’s not every day that you get to fly in a hot air balloon in Umbria and admire our beauty from a completely different point of view. Our guests are always thrilled when they return to the hotel, talking about it with the same genuine enthusiasm children have when they discover something new!
Valley Life: The hotel also boasts a carefully designed spa and a panoramic swimming pool for the warmer season. What kind of experience do you aim to offer your guests in these spaces?
Valeria Testi: Our hotel is not just about adventure, as it might seem—the wellness aspect is central to the guest experience. Our spa and outdoor pool are designed as true places to disconnect, switch off, and enjoy time for oneself—something that daily life often takes away from us. All complemented by wellness treatments that meet every expectation.
Valley Life: For sports lovers, you also provide a fully equipped gym. How important is it today to offer a complete experience from every perspective?
Valeria Testi: Today more than ever, physical well-being has become a common practice. We redesigned the fitness space for those who want to detox and not give up exercise, even while on vacation or traveling for work.
Valley Life: A stay at Hotel Fortebraccio is enriched by synergies with other local businesses that best express quality and tradition. Among these is the collaboration with the restaurant “Antica Osteria,” in the heart of Montone.
Valeria Testi: “Antica Osteria” is our beating heart for an unforgettable gastronomic experience, where product quality is essential. Beyond the charming location—both the village square and the surrounding panorama—the experience brings to the table zero-kilometer, seasonal products. For this reason, the menu changes frequently, depending on what the territory offers.
Valley Life: And to end the day, guests can also enjoy the intimate and romantic atmosphere of Cantina Infernaccio, perhaps with an aperitif at sunset…
Valeria Testi: A good glass of wine is always welcome! Our wine bar, open from May to October, is the perfect place for a delightful aperitif break, discovering mainly Umbrian wines while enjoying the embrace that only these hills can offer.
Here are also two preview announcements: Hotel Fortebraccio and Antica Osteria are the creators and organizers of the Montone Blues Festival, which will hold its first edition on June 26–27–28 in Montone. Expect three days of great music: I can already tell you that there will be two bands from the United States and from last year’s Umbria Jazz stage! Follow https://www.montonebluesfestival.com/it to stay updated.
The second is that the hotel is expanding with the management of a Luxury Villa, Villa Destino, also located in Montone, which can host up to 12 people and features a panoramic pool, hot tub, BBQ area, and much more. Villa guests will have access to all hotel services. The synergy between the hotel and the villa makes us a unique wedding destination in the area.
We can therefore offer different types of stays for those seeking more privacy and a home-like feeling.
https://villadestinoitaly.com/
At Hotel Fortebraccio, spaces, services, and details are designed to truly put people at the center. It’s not just about hospitality, but about interpreting each stay as a personalized experience, perfectly tailored to guests’ desires. A place where time slows down, the gaze stretches over the landscape, and every moment finds its own dimension.
Hotel Fortebraccio – Via dei Magistrati 14, 06014 – Montone (PG), Italy
tel: +39 075 9306400 / www.hotelfortebraccio.com / info@hotelfortebraccio.com
