Castel di Luco

The Castel di Luco is an imposing medieval fortress whose history goes back to at least 1052. This incredibly well-preserved castle, crowning the top of a small hill in the countryside near Aquasanta Terme, has passed down for five centuries in the same family. The Amici family continues to live in the fortress, but part has been converted into a stunning restaurant where guests dine in medieval vaulted halls enriched by original frescoes. Diners climb an ancient stairway carved into the rock to enjoy romantic meals by candlelight featuring regional cuisine prepared by Sra Amici and her daughter, Laura. This is totally a family operation and Laura and her gracious brother Francesco have poured their hearts and souls into expanding the family business by converting two stone houses in the small hamlet at the base of the castle into a tiny hotel. The four suites all have brick floors, stone walls, beamed ceilings, a small sitting room, a separate bedroom, and a very modern bathroom. The decor is simple as befits the rustic nature of the stone buildings, but they are all very tastefully furnished, have every modern comfort, and feature pretty antique beds in all the bedrooms. My favorite, Elena, has a wonderful large terrace with a beautiful view up onto the hills. The Castel di Luco is a great base for sightseeing and for exploring the beautiful adjacent National Park of the Gran Sasso.