A Mandria di Murtoli, Corsica
A Mandria di Murtoli is a charming hamlet nestled in Corsica’s Ortolo Valley. This unique retreat features restored rural buildings, where guests can stay in cozy former sheepfolds or barns. There’s even a shared pool and some properties have private pools. Local craftsmen refurbished the buildings, keeping a minimalist Mediterranean vibe using materials from the area.
The neighboring farm focuses on sustainable practices, raising livestock and growing organic crops. The restaurant offers delicious dishes inspired by Sardinian cuisine, made with fresh ingredients from the estate and surrounding farms. With only 30 seats, it promises an intimate dining experience, complete with a terrace under olive and orange trees.
Located about 9 miles from the historic town of Sartène, it’s also a short drive to stunning beaches and the famed fortress town of Bonifacio.
Rastrello, Umbria, Italy
This boutique hotel sits in a renovated 500-year-old palazzo in the medieval village of Panicale. With stunning views of Lake Trasimeno, it offers a peaceful escape in nature. Recently, Rastrello expanded, introducing a garden annex that adds new rooms and a wellness area.
Guests enjoy fresh produce from local farms, and the restaurant features a menu that highlights award-winning olive oil and wines from Umbria. Cooking classes and truffle hunts add an interactive touch. The region also hosts a grape festival in September and a chocolate festival in November in nearby Perugia.
Sibbjäns, Gotland, Sweden
Sibbjäns is a family-run farm on Gotland’s southern tip, known for its farm-to-fork restaurant and hotel. Guests can stay in the historical farmhouse and enjoy activities like tomato harvesting and organic gardening. With its natural pool and yoga barn coming soon, it’s perfect for relaxation.
Diners can savor unique, seasonal dishes made from farm-grown vegetables. Gotland is famed for its culinary offerings, including saffron pancakes and black truffles, with food festivals celebrating these delights throughout the year.
Stone Barn, County Cork, Ireland
This quaint bed and breakfast near Skibbereen blends Nordic and Irish influences. Co-owner Stuart Kearney, trained in Stockholm, serves up delicious breakfasts featuring local ingredients. His seven-course tasting menu showcases the best of Irish produce, changing daily and highlighting seasonal flavors.
The B&B features stylish, cozy rooms and a hot tub for relaxation. Outdoor activities abound, from exploring scenic walking routes to enjoying the bioluminescent algae in nearby Lough Hyne during night kayaking trips.
Quinta Camarena, Alentejo, Portugal
Situated in Cercal, Quinta Camarena is an eco-retreat that brings together art and agriculture. Run by a couple with backgrounds in fashion and photography, the retreat emphasizes sustainable living. Guests can partake in workshops and culinary experiences, making everything from cheese to healthy meals with local ingredients.
New multilevel rooms offer stunning sunset views, and the grounds include gardens, a pool, and hiking trails. With Lisbon just a two-hour drive away, it’s a perfect blend of comfort and adventure.
Penrhiw Farm, Pembrokeshire
Penrhiw Farm is a delightful B&B run by chef Alan Latter, who has returned to his roots. Housed in a 17th-century farmhouse, it features beautifully decorated rooms with repurposed furniture from London’s Dorchester hotel.
Each morning starts with a hearty Welsh breakfast, while the dinner options utilize fresh, local ingredients. Daily menus change and often include dishes artfully prepared with produce from the farm. Guests can explore the scenic Pembrokeshire Coast Path, taking in the natural beauty of the area.
By focusing on sustainability and local culture, these unique stays provide memorable experiences for travelers looking to connect with nature and enjoy authentic culinary delights. Each location, with its own story and flavors, offers the perfect getaway.