Il Casale del Duca is set deep in the hilly countryside of the Marche region, just ten minutes away from the ancient town of Urbino, one of Unesco World Heritage Sites in recognition of its illustrious Renaissance past. Defensive walls still surround its historic centre, with the Ducal Palace and many other architectural gems, some of which date back to medieval times, preserved intact. The beautiful capital of the Marche, Pesaro, a seaport on the renowned Adriatic coast, is also within easy reach, being approximately 30 minutes away by car.
Il Casale del Duca is a fine large stone building with sloping roof extending over two floors. All around is the pastoral landscape typical of the Marche’s hinterland: meadows, trees and hills that stretch as far as the eye can see. Built in the 16th century, the house has been restored with conservation in mind, and its owners Laura and Luca have created the most exquisite, comfortable rooms with beautiful cotto tiles on the floors, handsome antiques and lamps, exposed stone and beams. Guests cannot but relax and enjoy these spacious interiors, as well as the tranquil vastness outside; and to delight the taste buds a delicious continental breakfast is prepared every morning using fresh local ingredients.
There are five bright large rooms at Il Casale del Duca. They have white or ochre walls, and include a dainty sitting room with fireplace; one of them also benefits from its own entrance. Their decor and details are of the finest quality, chosen carefully to blend with the rustic historic character of the place: wall niches with wood trim, exposed stone, cotto floor tiles*, comfortable reading chairs, antique and shabby chic furniture, rich curtains and furnishings are only a few of the attributes that make these rooms so perfectly elegant.