Serafina

One of the best investments you can make for your state of mind is a vacation. But if you unpack your bags in one of these four special domiciles in north-west Italy, you are also investing in the state of the traditional way of life in Piedmont. the houses are part of the cultural association Serafina Quota, founded by Austrian couple Yvonne and Jörg Amann, which is committed to the idea of combining an exceptional vacation experience with local purchasing and sustainability. The rustic-minimalist stone houses, situated between vineyards or in old town alleyways, have been carefully and lovingly renovated by local craftsmen using local materials, preserving as much of the original material as possible. And for all those who spend a few days here: they are invited to immerse themselves in the traditions of the region, and should plan some time for visits to small boutiques and craft shops. Where can you find the most delicious ice cream with roasted regional hazelnuts? Where is the bakery that turns home-grown grain into crispy bread? Which trattoria not only serves unforgettable tajarin with ragù, a regional specialty, but does so in the ambience of days gone by? All these discoveries are shared in the form of personal tips on the website and in the guestbook. The hosts are passionate about sharing the region and its people with their guests. They have known the area for decades and are full of ideas on how to make the most of your days amidst the rolling hills. Anyone who buys fresh truffles at the market or wine directly from the winegrower not only takes home culinary specialties, but also memories of encounters with people who are rooted in this region.

WHAT WE LIKE MOST:

• That each of the four vacation homes tells a story. They are called Bocciarda, Castello, Casale and Ciabot. They are as different as their names, each has a different location, each is unique
• Hosts Yvonne and Jörg Amann build and design many things themselves, focusing on authentic renovation while still offering modern comfort
• Reduction to the essentials. The rooms were designed with natural materials and muted colors, found objects such as old roof beams or historic wooden shutters were converted into furnishings.
• We love the unusual details in every accommodation. For example, one of the bedrooms at Casa Castello is located directly above one of the historic city gates of Dogliani.
• The floors are made of terracotta tiles, terrazzo or polished concrete.
• Enjoy the wine where it comes from. Pinot Nero, Barbera and Riesling are cultivated on the organically farmed slopes around the Bocciarda ¬ and the chances are pretty good that a welcome drop of the hotel's own label "Do What You Love" is already waiting for guests in the house.
• Piedmont borders Switzerland, France and, to the south, the green coast of Liguria, the Italian Riviera. It is a region full of contrasts: from the high mountains of the Gran Paradiso National Park to the rolling hills of the Langhe in the province of Cuneo.
• Guests automatically become members of the cultural association for one year. By simply being there, they contribute to the preservation of cultural landscapes. Doing something meaningful can feel wonderful!
• Yvonne and Jörg are very well connected in the region and can easily beat any travel guide with their recommendations for excursions, activities, and restaurants.
• The kitchens are well equipped so that the delicious, fresh produce from the surrounding weekly markets can be wonderfully prepared.

GOOD TO KNOW:

• The houses can accommodate up to ten people, three are in the countryside, one in a small town; plus an apartment by the sea
• Casa Castello is located on the edge of the old town of Dogliani. Despite the quiet location, it is only a short walk to restaurants, bars and stores. The house has a garden with pool, a beautiful courtyard shared with the neighbors, a fireplace, a gallery with balcony and panoramic views, and a wood-fired pizza oven.
• The Bocciarda, a former agricultural property consisting of a main house and an outbuilding, is surrounded by vineyards, woods, and meadows. Highlights include the two fireplaces, a summer kitchen, a pizza oven, a sauna, a mini-library, and a large pool
• The Ciabot house, named for the small stone buildings in which the winegrowers used to store their tools, stands in the most beautiful spot in the vineyard. A hideaway for a maximum of two nature lovers with a terrace, fireplace, and floor heating, it’s about a five-minute walk from the village of Roddino.
• The Rustico Casale is located in an idyllic borgata between Dogliani and Belvedere Langhe and is ideal for families or a group: a large room is under the roof, a cozy terrace offers privacy and outdoor living space
• Every house (yes, even the Casa Castello in the small town alleyways of Dogliani!) has a parking space; Wi-Fi is available in all houses except the Bocciarda.
• Bra, Monforte d'Alba, and Savona by the sea are suitable destinations for a day-trip.
• The Serafina Houses are ideal vacation accommodations for families or small groups. They also accommodate artists in residence for longer periods of time.
• If you feel like getting creative in such an inspiring place, you can live it up here. The Borgata Casale, an old country house between Dogliani and Belvedere Langhe, houses the Serafina Quota workshops, studios and ateliers, which can be used by guests
• The seaside apartment in Imperia is located in the Parasio district, has 2 double rooms, 2 additional sofa beds, a bathroom, kitchen and a terrace - the apartment can also be booked in combination with a house in the countryside in Piedmont