Unique Hotels in Italy: Sextanto Albergo Diffuso, Stefano di Sessanio
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Sextantio Albergo Diffuso: An Immersive Trip Back in Time

Nestled within the ancient hilltop village of Santo Stefano di Sessanio, in Italy’s picturesque Abruzzo region, Sextantio Albergo Diffuso offers a unique and unforgettable travel experience. Far from a conventional hotel, this one-of-a-kind property invites guests to step back in time and immerse themselves in the rich history and traditions of a bygone era. Carefully restored from the crumbling ruins of medieval dwellings, the hotel retains its authentic character while providing modern comforts and amenities. The result is a harmonious blend of history, culture, and luxury, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Apennine Mountains.

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The Village: Santo Stefano di Sessanio

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To truly appreciate the magic of Sextantio Albergo Diffuso, one must first understand the history and charm of its setting: the enchanting village of Santo Stefano di Sessanio. Dating back to the 11th century, this medieval gem has managed to preserve its historic architecture, narrow cobbled streets, and picturesque squares, providing a captivating glimpse into the past.

With a population of fewer than 100 residents, Santo Stefano di Sessanio remains largely untouched by the passage of time. The village’s ancient stone buildings, adorned with ivy and red-tiled roofs, are scattered across the hillside, blending seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. This tranquil and timeless setting provides the perfect backdrop for the truly unique experience that awaits guests at Sextantio Albergo Diffuso.


History of Sextantio Albergo Diffuso

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The story of Sextantio Albergo Diffuso began with a vision to preserve and revitalize the endangered village of Santo Stefano di Sessanio. In the early 2000s, the village was in danger of becoming a ghost town, as its aging population dwindled and younger generations migrated to urban centers in search of opportunity. It was then that Daniele Kihlgren, a passionate advocate for Italy’s cultural heritage, embarked on an ambitious project to restore the village’s crumbling buildings and transform them into a unique and immersive hotel experience.

Over the course of a decade, Kihlgren and his team painstakingly restored the village’s ancient dwellings, using traditional methods and materials to ensure their authenticity. Their efforts culminated in the creation of Sextantio Albergo Diffuso, a hotel that honors the history and traditions of Santo Stefano di Sessanio while providing guests with a truly one-of-a-kind experience.


The Unique Accommodations

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Sextantio Albergo Diffuso offers a total of 27 guestrooms, each housed within a separate medieval dwelling scattered throughout the village. The rooms have been meticulously restored to maintain their original character, with ancient stone walls, timber ceilings, and traditional furnishings. However, each room also features a selection of modern amenities, such as comfortable beds, en-suite bathrooms, and heating systems, ensuring guests’ comfort during their stay.

Guestrooms at Sextantio Albergo Diffuso are available in a range of categories, including Classic, Superior, and Suite options. Some rooms offer sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and countryside, while others overlook the village’s charming streets and squares. Each room is unique in its layout and design, providing guests with a truly personalized experience.

While the accommodations at Sextantio Albergo Diffuso may be rustic in appearance, they are far from lacking in luxury. Guests can expect to find plush linens, handmade soaps, and soft bathrobes in each room, as well as a curated selection of local wines and artisanal snacks.


Dining: A Culinary Journey Through Time

Best Places to Stay in Italy: Sextanto Albergo Diffuso, Stefano di Sessanio

The dining experience at Sextantio Albergo Diffuso is a true celebration of the region’s culinary heritage, offering guests the opportunity to savor the flavors of Abruzzo’s rich gastronomic traditions. The hotel’s restaurant, located within a beautifully restored 16th-century building, serves a carefully curated menu of authentic, locally sourced dishes prepared using time-honored methods.

Guests can enjoy a sumptuous breakfast spread, featuring a variety of homemade breads, pastries, cheeses, and cured meats, as well as fresh fruits and locally produced honey. For dinner, the restaurant offers a selection of regional specialties, such as handmade pasta, slow-cooked meats, and seasonal vegetables, accompanied by a thoughtful wine list showcasing the best of Italy’s local vineyards.

In addition to the restaurant, Sextantio Albergo Diffuso offers a number of unique dining experiences designed to immerse guests in the village’s culinary traditions. Guests can participate in cooking classes led by local chefs, learning the secrets behind some of Abruzzo’s most beloved dishes. Alternatively, visitors can embark on guided food and wine tours of the surrounding countryside, visiting local producers and sampling their artisanal products.


Experiences and Activities

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Sextantio Albergo Diffuso offers a range of experiences and activities that allow guests to fully immerse themselves in the history, culture, and natural beauty of the region. One of the hotel’s most popular offerings is its guided walking tours of Santo Stefano di Sessanio, during which guests can explore the village’s narrow streets, historic buildings, and ancient fortifications, while learning about its fascinating past.

For those interested in delving deeper into the region’s history, the hotel can arrange visits to nearby archaeological sites, such as the ancient Roman ruins of Alba Fucens or the impressive fortress of Rocca Calascio. Guests can also participate in workshops and demonstrations led by local artisans, learning about traditional crafts such as pottery, weaving, and woodworking.

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The breathtaking natural surroundings of Sextantio Albergo Diffuso provide ample opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts to explore the region’s pristine landscapes. The nearby Gran Sasso National Park, home to the highest peak in the Apennine Mountains, offers a wealth of hiking trails, wildlife spotting, and panoramic vistas. Guests can also enjoy horseback riding, mountain biking, or guided nature walks through the park’s diverse ecosystems.

The hotel’s attentive staff is on hand to assist guests with planning their perfect Abruzzo itinerary, from arranging excursions and activities to providing recommendations for off-the-beaten-path experiences that showcase the true spirit of the region.


Conclusion

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Sextantio Albergo Diffuso invites guests to step back in time and immerse themselves in the rich history and traditions of the captivating village of Santo Stefano di Sessanio. This unique hotel, with its painstakingly restored medieval dwellings and unparalleled commitment to authenticity, provides a truly unforgettable travel experience.

From the rustic yet luxurious accommodations to the immersive culinary offerings and diverse range of activities and experiences, Sextantio Albergo Diffuso transports guests to a bygone era, all while providing the modern comforts and amenities that discerning travelers have come to expect.

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What do the reviews say:

“The rustic luxury is unique and visually enticing. Although rustic it was very comfortable. The village was buzzing but not too crowded.”