Six Senses Antognalla enjoys a stunning location in the heart of the Umbrian countryside (Photo: Mike Jones, Waterline Agency)

Luxury hotel brand Six Senses is transforming a medieval castle near Perugia into a spectacular resort that aims to preserve and enhance an area of historic and cultural significance.

Six Senses has announced proposals to develop its sophomore offering in Italy. We find out more about this remarkable project, which is promising to create a rural escape set against the backdrop of olive groves, vineyards and cypress-topped hills.

A sensation in Umbria

Due to open in 2023, Six Senses Antognolla will occupy a beautiful 540-hectare site around 12.5 miles north of Perugia. There will be 71 rooms, 79 branded residences available to buy, an 18-hole golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr, a luxurious spa complex, an equestrian centre, a cookery school and even an organic farm.

“Umbria really speaks to me. After many years of studying and living in the country, my connection to Italian people and culture is strong,” said Neil Jacobs, CEO of Six Senses Hotels Resorts Spas.

“Six Senses Antognolla lends itself to the creation of a unique community that will touch the hearts of its residents and hosts through honesty and respect for the land coupled with the aligned intention of all its stakeholders. We’re excited to be working on this project that brings together sustainable practices, wellness programming, and out-of-the-ordinary activities for all.”

Style and ambition

Six Senses Antognolla is an ambitious undertaking, and one that the brand appears well-suited to, given its track record of crafting unique experiences in some of the most idyllic places on earth. The hotel will take up residence in the 12th-century Castello di Antognolla, which was once the seat of one of Perugia’s most powerful families.

“We are thrilled to start bringing our collaborative plans with Six Senses to life. Antognolla is a unique project in Italy in terms of its concept; combining a luxury hotel in a medieval castle, stylish serviced residential properties, an exceptional golf course and a luxurious spa complex – all of which will be operated by a world-renowned international hospitality brand,” said development director Jim Ryan of Antognolla.

“We are delighted that our vision of the project is in line with that of Six Senses, and we have a truly unique opportunity to carefully preserve and develop this area of historical and cultural significance.”

The eye-catching development is headed up by VIY Management and investor Alessio Carabba Tettamanti. Woods Baggot is behind the masterplan, with interiors from Design Studio SPIN.

Let’s take a look at some more upcoming hotel projects by Six Senses: