Villa Giara, an enchanting boutique guesthouse with ten bedrooms, has recently opened its doors in the picturesque Piedmont region of Italy. This exquisite property is the result of a remarkable five-year restoration project led by Stephen Croncota, former Chief Marketing Officer of Versace, and his partner, designer Ricardo Baptista Fernandes.

Situated in the heart of the Piedmont region, Villa Giara enjoys a prime location, less than two hours away from the international airports of Milan, Turin, and Genoa. Its strategic position makes it an ideal base for exploring the renowned ‘Golden Triangle’ of Piedmont, an area encompassing the charming wine town of Asti, the truffle haven of Alba, and the relaxing thermal bath town of Acqui Terme. Recently crowned as Lonely Planet’s top region in the world to visit, Piedmont remains one of Italy’s best-kept secrets, offering unparalleled cuisine, breathtaking scenery, and rich cultural experiences, all at a fraction of the cost compared to neighbouring regions and with fewer tourists.

Perched atop a mountain near the quaint town of Calosso, Villa Giara beckons guests with its captivating surroundings. The property comprises two meticulously restored farmhouses, nestled amidst rolling hills adorned with vineyards. Impeccably manicured gardens, complete with a tranquil yoga deck, and a spacious pool boasting panoramic views of the valley below, add to the allure of this enchanting guesthouse.

Each of the ten bedrooms at Villa Giara possesses its own unique charm and personality, meticulously curated with artwork, textiles, and antiques personally selected by Stephen and Ricardo during their travels. Italian artisanship is celebrated throughout the property, with luxurious Italian mattresses and bath products adding an authentic touch of indulgence. From sweeping vistas of vineyards and mountains to French doors, balconies, or terraces overlooking the historic hilltop town of Calosso, every room offers a captivating view.

Start your day with a delightful breakfast served in Villa Giara’s charming Limonaia room, and savor daily aperitivos and antipasti on the terrace, a perfect setting to soak up the mesmerising sunset before venturing out to a local trattoria. For a truly special dining experience, private on-site dining arrangements can be made upon request.

Further expanding its offerings, Villa Giara is nearing completion of the restoration of a separate outbuilding located at the base of the property’s hill. This additional accommodation will be capable of hosting up to four adults, providing an exclusive retreat that combines the tranquility of a private residence with easy access to Villa Giara’s services and facilities. Starting from June 2023, this exquisite villa will be available for hire, inviting guests to indulge in the ultimate Italian escape.

Villa Giara goes above and beyond to curate a variety of local excursions for its guests. Immerse yourself in private tours of the UNESCO World Heritage site in Canelli, home to five ancient wine cathedrals that are considered the birthplace of modern winemaking. Delight in vineyard tours and tastings, embark on truffle-hunting adventures, or partake in cooking classes alongside a local Nonna. Moreover, Alba, just a short drive from Villa Giara, hosts the internationally acclaimed White Truffle festival each year, a paradise for truffle enthusiasts.

With a vibrant local gastronomic scene at its doorstep, Villa Giara’s friendly team is always on hand to provide personalised recommendations, assist with bookings, and arrange transportation as needed. Their commitment to ensuring an unforgettable stay shines through in every detail.

Originally from the United States and Portugal, Stephen and Ricardo embarked on their passion for property restoration over 17 years ago while juggling their respective careers. In 2017, they decided to make this

passion their full-time occupation. Having lived and worked in various countries, including the United States, Germany, and Argentina, the couple eventually found their home in Italy. It was in Italy, particularly in the regions of Puglia and Piedmont, that they stumbled upon numerous neglected properties brimming with untapped potential, waiting to be restored to their former glory. Typically, Stephen and Ricardo would live in, rent, or sell the properties they renovated. However, when they discovered Villa Giara, they uncovered a gem so extraordinary that they knew it had to be shared with the world.

Their unwavering dedication to preserving the essence of Villa Giara while infusing it with their own refined style has resulted in a guesthouse that captures the hearts of all who visit. The journey of restoring this idyllic retreat was a labor of love, as every detail was carefully considered to provide guests with an unforgettable experience. Stephen and Ricardo’s shared passion for art, design, and hospitality shines through in every corner of Villa Giara.

Now, as Villa Giara opens its doors to travellers seeking a haven of tranquility and elegance, guests can immerse themselves in the beauty of the Piedmont region. Whether it’s exploring the enchanting towns of Asti, Alba, and Acqui Terme, indulging in the region’s world-renowned cuisine, or simply basking in the serenity of the surroundings, Villa Giara offers a truly immersive experience.

With its rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and remarkable cultural heritage, Piedmont beckons travellers seeking an authentic Italian escape. And within this enchanting region, Villa Giara stands as a testament to the vision, passion, and artistry of its creators. So, come and experience the magic of Villa Giara, where a world of elegance, tranquility, and warm hospitality awaits you.