Located in the center of Italy, Eremito hotel is surrounded by 3,000 hectares of protected natural reserve in Umbria. Considered the spiritual focal point of the country thanks to wonderful monasteries in the area, Umbria is a fitting choice for this Italian eco-resort. Built from a mix of the latest bio and old materials from the region, the innovative sustainable structure invokes the cells of monasteries, so much so that rooms are called “Celluzze” in the spirit of those ancient monk quarters.  The austere aesthetic aims to provide guests with an “old luxury”—plenty of quiet and space to reflect and rejuvenate, sans Wi-Fi, phone, and television. The kitchen serves up a vegetarian menu, also inspired by ancient monastic traditions, with ingredients sourced from local organic farms. The spa area features a heated pool dug from the rock and a stone steam room. It’s the perfect place to unwind while listening to Gregorian chants.

Built stone by stone upon a derelict house, it took four years to create Eremito hotel. Adhering to the ancient art of Italian masonry from the 13th century, 130,000 stones were used in its construction.  Natural materials, candlelight, and minimal, classic furnishings create an atmosphere of serenity and old luxury. Despite its traditional appearance, Eremito is technologically and sustainably up-to-date. The electricity, for example, is generated by a photovoltaic system and while it satisfies the needs of the hotel, the main source of lighting is still candlelight in keeping with the retrospective spirit of the hotel.

A focus on old luxury—meaning time, peace, and contemplative spaces—has resulted in an interior style where natural materials take precedence, where furnishings are few but comfortable, and where a reliance on candlelight creates the right atmosphere. Taking inspiration from Umbrian monasteries, the design can be described as “Franciscan minimalism.