Spello, Italy: Your Dream Apartment Awaits (Private Pool!)
Okay, buckle up buttercups, because we're about to spill the Umbrian beans – nay, the Umbrian truffle oil – on this place: Spello, Italy: Your Dream Apartment Awaits (Private Pool!) And yeah, I'm already picturing myself there, sipping a Negroni, sun-kissed and utterly blissed out. Let's get down to brass tacks, shall we? And trust me, I'm going to get REAL with you.
Accessibility – The Good, the Bad, and the "Hmm…"
Okay, so "accessibility" in Italy can be, let's say, character-building. Spello itself? Prepare for cobblestones. Lots of them. And hills. Seriously, bring good walking shoes (or, you know, a chauffeur, which might be even better). The good news? The place claims to have facilities for disabled guests, including an elevator. Which is HUGE. I mean, Italy's not exactly known for its perfect infrastructure. But I'd call ahead and confirm everything, because a "facility for disabled guests" can sometimes mean "we tried."
On-site Accessible Restaurants/Lounges: Ugh, this is the one area that feels like I need to just, call them and ask. I can't tell you until I know the details.
Wheelchair Accessible: Same as above, it's going to make this place sound better or worse and I want to make sure it's on a positive side of things.
Internet Access & Techie Nitty-Gritty:
- Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!, Woohoo! That's a MUST for me. I'm a digital nomad. I need my fix, and fast. Imagine this: me, sprawled on a sun lounger next to that private pool, furiously writing emails with a Negroni in one hand and a laptop in the other. Perfection. And I need Wi-Fi in the public areas, so I can upload all my awesome pictures!!
- Internet [LAN]: Also available? Cool. Back-up plan if things go south on wireless.
- Internet Services: See above. Crucial for, you know, life.
- Wi-Fi in Public Areas: Thank goodness! I'm a social media fiend! Gotta get those Instagrams up, people!
Things to Do & Ways to Relax – The Heart of the Experience!
Okay, this is where it gets good. Like, really good. And a little bit messy, because I’m so excited.
- Pool with a View: Obviously, considering the title, this is crucial. And I'm obsessed with a pool with a view. Think of the Instagram potential! I want to look out and think "this can't be real." I'm picturing myself lounging by a gorgeous pool, Aperol Spritz in hand, gazing out at the Umbrian hills. Mamma Mia!
- Restaurants: A la carte, Buffet, International, Asian, and Vegetarian! This sounds delightful! I can't live on pasta every day, even if I want to. And the thought of Asian cuisine in Italy? Mind. Blown.
- Spa, Sauna, Steamroom, Massage, Body wraps and scrubs: Okay, I need this. This is the "treat yourself" aspect of the trip. I'm here for this. I gotta work through that stress over emails, you know? I’m all about being pampered. Okay, I'm already so checking for a body scrub. Like, right now.
- Gym/Fitness: Ugh, fine. I guess I'll have to, when things get a little out of hand with the gelato and pasta. But only because I will feel that much better when I do!
- Breakfast in Room/Takeaway: Essential. Imagine waking up, throwing on a robe, and having a delicious breakfast delivered right to your door. Or grabbing something to go and heading to the pool with your coffee. Ciao Bella!
- Happy Hour: Oh, yes, the little things in life make it all better. I always love a great happy hour.
Cleanliness & Safety – Because, Well, We Need It:
This is seriously important. Especially after… gestures vaguely at the world. The fact that they're using "Anti-viral cleaning products", "Daily disinfection in common areas" (and "physical distancing of at least 1 meter") gives me a huge sigh of relief. I'm looking for a great trip, not a hospital stay. Let's face it.
- Hand Sanitizer: A must.
- Room Sanitization Opt-Out Available: Alright… I like this. I hate when people are too careful not to get infected.
- Staff Trained in Safety Protocol: Good.
- Rooms Sanitized Between Stays: Essential.
- Safe Dining Setup: Definitely important.
- Cashless Payment Service: Perfect. Less fumbling with Euros, more time for Aperol Spritzes!
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking – The Fuel for Dreams:
- Restaurants, Bars, Poolside Bar, Coffee Shop, Snack bar: This is where it gets really good.
- Room service [24-hour]: Now we're talking! Late-night pasta cravings, anyone? Yes, please.
- Buffet in restaurant: I love buffets, there are SO many choices.
- Bottle of water: I am always thirsty, this is great!
- Desserts in restaurant: Okay, so the diet's going to go out the window. I'm so there.
Services and Conveniences – The Little Things That Make a Big Difference:
- Air conditioning in public area: Okay, so I need air conditioning!
- Concierge, Food delivery, Daily housekeeping, Ironing service, Laundry service: These are all the little things. I'm a travel queen, I need my linens laundered. Yes!
- Car park [free of charge], Airport Transfer, Car power charging station, Taxi service, Valet parking: It's nice to have some convenience.
For the Kids – Babysitting Service, Family/Child Friendly, Kids facilities, Kids meal
I’m here on my own, so I'm more aware of the kids side. This place sounds lovely.
Rooms:
Okay, let's get down to the nitty-gritty of the apartments themselves.
- Air conditioning, Air conditioning: YES to both! Double YES.
- Bathroom phone: Wait, what? Is that a real thing? I need to see this.
- Bathtub: Ooh, for those days when you just need to soak and think.
- Blackout curtains: Crucial!!
- Coffee/tea maker: The most important thing.
- Desk, Laptop workspace: gotta work from somewhere.
- Hair dryer, Mirror, Slippers, Toiletries, Towels: All are essentials, thank goodness.
- Wi-Fi [free]: Obviously.
- Window that opens: I gotta have a window that opens!
My Honest Review – The Good, the Bad, and My Personal Wishlist
Okay, so I’m sold. I mean, the idea of having a private pool in the middle of Umbria? Sign me up! I'm seeing myself now: bronzed skin, book in hand, sipping something delicious, and utterly, totally, and completely relaxed.
The "Hmm.." Factor (Things to Double-Check):
- Accessibility: I’m serious, call and confirm EVERYTHING. Don’t take their word for anything!
- The Vibe: Is it more "boutique luxury" or "rustic Italian charm"? I need to know. My expectations are high!
- The Food: Asian cuisine in Umbria? Intriguing, but I need to know if it's authentic.
My Personal Wishlist:
- A killer view from the apartment itself: Can I wake up and see those rolling hills from my window? Please say yes!
- A balcony or terrace: Coffee in the morning, wine in the evening – it’s a must.
- A really, REALLY comfortable bed: Because sleep is everything.
The Quirks:
I'm sure there will be some Italian quirks. The service might be leisurely. The pasta might be too delicious. The air might be filled with the scent of olive oil. And, I’m absolutely fine with all of it.
Overall: This place sounds like paradise. I’m ready to book.
The Persuasive Pitch – My Dream Apartment Awaits (Private Pool!): Book Now!
Headline: Escape to Paradise: Your Dream Apartment in Spello, Italy (Private Pool!) Awaits!
Body:
Tired of the same old vacations? Craving an escape where the only agenda is pure relaxation and indulgence? Look no further! Nestled in the heart of Umbria, Italy, lies Spello, a charming medieval town where history, beauty, and tranquility intertwine.
Imagine this: You wake up in your beautifully appointed
Unbelievable Mariapfarr Ski Escape: Luxury Apartment Awaits!
Alright, buckle up buttercups! This isn't your textbook, perfectly-polished travel itinerary. This is the REAL deal. We're talking Spello, Italy, apartment with a freaking swimming pool (pinch me!), and a brain that just won't shut up. Let's go.
The "Spello Spaghetti Syndrome" (aka My Trip of a Lifetime)
Day 1: Arrival & The Great Luggage Debacle (and Pasta Panic!)
- Morning (Approx 9:00 AM - Bologna Airport): Arrive at Bologna Airport. Already feeling a little sideways because I swear I thought my luggage was lighter. Seriously, how does one pack less and end up with a suitcase that weighs the same as a small, slightly grumpy dog?
- Mid-Morning (10:30 AM - Rental Car Hell): Pick up the rental car. It's a Fiat 500. Cute, right? Wrong. "Cute" translated to "Tiny and terrifying on Italian mountain roads." The guy at the rental place kept saying "Bellissima!” like I was going to experience a great love affair when I was terrified about driving the car.
- Lunch (12:30 PM - Highway "Snack Trap"): Highway stop for lunch. Found a place that looked charming from the outside, but the sandwiches? Dry. Utterly, heartbreakingly dry. My inner monologue was probably screaming for a proper Italian meal.
- Afternoon (3:00 PM - The Arrival in Spello!): Finally made it to Spello! The apartment – holy moly, it's even more gorgeous than the pictures. That pool… I almost jumped in fully-clothed. Seriously, pure, unadulterated joy. The view?! Forget about it. Jaw dropped. I'm talking, full-on, cartoon-character-jaw-on-the-floor situation.
- Late Afternoon (4:00 PM - Grocery Store Fiasco): Head to the local grocery store. My Italian is… well, let's say "enthusiastic." Wandered around, feeling like a clueless extra in a Fellini film. Accidentally bought a giant bag of…something. Still not entirely sure what it is. I did manage to get pasta, though. Pasta is essential. It's the bedrock of civilization, I tell ya.
- Evening (7:00 PM - Pasta Predicament): Attempt to cook the pasta. Turns out, there's a reason I mainly eat frozen meals. Slightly overcooked. Sauce was… let's just say, a work in progress. Ate it with an embarrassing amount of bread. And wine. LOTS of wine. Just needed to remind myself that the view made it ALL worth it.
Day 2: Spello's Charm & The Case of the Missing Gelato
- Morning (9:00 AM - Spello Exploration): Stroll through the utterly adorable, flower-covered streets of Spello. Honestly, it's like walking through a postcard. Got hopelessly lost (in the best possible way). Discovered a tiny, hidden church with frescoes so beautiful they almost made me cry. Almost.
- Mid-Morning (11:00 AM - The Olive Oil "Experience"): Went to a local olive oil producer - I felt like an expert until there was a tasting. The olive oil was so good, it made me feel like I was a goddess. And then I bought WAY too much. My suitcase is going to be a disaster on the way home.
- Lunch (1:00 PM - Restaurant Fiasco): Found a restaurant in Spello that was "highly recommended." My expectations were way too high, as usual. The food was good, but the service? Let's just say the waitress seemed to have a personal vendetta against me. She wasn't rude, just… chilly. Like, a polar vortex in her heart.
- Afternoon (3:00 PM - Gelato Quest): The gelato. The quest for the perfect gelato. Found what I thought was a promising gelateria. Ordered my usual: pistachio and stracciatella. The gelato was… gone. Just… gone. The poor girl behind the counter looked mortified. I could have cried. Gelato, my muse, my love, gone.
- Late Afternoon (4:00 PM - The Pool's Embrace): Compensated for the gelato tragedy with a long soak in the pool. Floating felt like pure bliss. Just me, the water, and the Umbrian sky. I could die happy.
- Evening (7:00 PM - The "Red Wine & Regret" Phase): Ate pizza on the balcony, drank more wine, and watched the sunset. The pizza was delicious. My mood, however, was bordering on melancholy. The gelato still haunted me.
Day 3: Assisi & Architectural Overload
- Morning (9:00 AM - Assisi Adventure): Drive to Assisi. Okay, the drive. We're talking hairpin turns, near-death experiences with Italian construction vehicles, and me screaming internally. But Assisi itself? Breathtaking. The Basilica of St. Francis… wow. Overwhelmingly beautiful. The sheer grandeur of it all left me speechless. (A rare occurrence, I assure you.)
- Mid-Morning (11:00 AM - The Basilica's Power): Spent hours wandering through the Basilica. Just absorbing the art, the history, the atmosphere. Felt a strange sense of peace wash over me. For a few minutes, I almost felt like I knew exactly where I was going in life. (Spoiler alert: I still don't.)
- Lunch (1:00 PM - Assisi's Hidden Gem): Found a tiny trattoria tucked away on a side street. Had a simple pasta dish that tasted like heaven. The owner, a sweet old woman with twinkling eyes, made me feel like family.
- Afternoon (3:00 PM - Castle Climb): Climbed up to the Rocca Maggiore, the ancient fortress. The views from the top were phenomenal. I felt like a queen surveying her kingdom. (My kingdom being a tiny, slightly-overcooked pasta dish, and a whole lot of wine bottles.)
- Afternoon (5:00 PM - The Souvenir Predicament): Bought a souvenir. A tiny statue of St. Francis. I'm not even religious, but I felt compelled. Now to figure out how to pack it. This trip is turning into a real Tetris challenge for my suitcase.
- Evening (7:00 PM - Back to Spello and the Pool): Back to the apartment. Pool time. Wine time. Contemplating life, the universe, and the perfect gelato.
Day 4: The Day of the Lake & The Lemon Scandal
Morning (9:00 AM - Lake Trasimeno): A day trip to Lake Trasimeno. The lake itself is lovely. The drive there was… well, let's just say the Fiat 500 and I have developed a complex relationship based on mutual terror and begrudging respect.
Mid-Morning (10:30 AM - Boat Ride Bewilderment): Took a boat to Isola Maggiore, one of the lake’s islands. It's charming, sure, with its quaint village and slow pace. Took photos, felt like I was in a movie. But then I got seasick. Not ideal.
Lunch (1:00 PM - The Lemon Scandal): Found a restaurant with a view. Ordered lemon pasta, because, Italy. And it came. It tasted like…dish soap. Pure, unadulterated dish soap. My face must have been a sight to behold. The waiter, thankfully, was very apologetic.
Afternoon (3:00 PM - Lake Lounging): Recovered from the lemon pasta trauma by lounging on the lake. The lake was pretty, but I kept thinking of Lemon pasta.
Late Afternoon (4:00 PM - The Swim): Another swim. The pool is the one constant in my trip.
Evening (7:00 PM - Pizza & Reflections): Pizza on the balcony. More wine. Thinking about how much I loathe packing. Day 5: Departure (The End of the Italian Dream…For Now!)
Morning (9:00 AM - Packing Purgatory): Packing. Oh, the joy. Trying to figure out how to fit everything in, while simultaneously trying not to cry. The olive oil? A problem, of course. The statue of St. Francis? Another problem.
Mid-Morning (10:00 AM - Final Spello Stroll): One last stroll through Spello. One last deep breath of that Umbrian air. One last gelato (this time, successfully!).
Late Morning (11:00 AM - Farewell, Spello!): Say farewell to the apartment, the pool, the view, the perfect imperfection of it all.
Lunch (12:00 PM - Highway Hangry): Drive to Bologna Airport. Snack at the same place as the first day. The sandwiches were surprisingly better.
Afternoon (2:00 PM - Departure): Attempt to navigate the airport. Feel the
Spello, Italy: Your Dream Apartment Awaits (Private Pool!) – FAQ (But Let's Be Real About It)
Okay, Seriously, Is This Place *Actually* That Beautiful, Or Is It Just Instagram B.S.?
Okay, deep breath. Instagram? Lies, all lies, mostly. But Spello… Spello is DIFFERENT. I went expecting postcard perfection, and I got something… more. The photos? Yeah, they're pretty. But smelling the rosemary bush as you walk up the cobbled streets? Feeling the sun bake the terracotta tiles under your feet? The way the light hits the pink facade of the church at sunset, turning it almost *glowy*? That's the stuff they can't capture on a filter. It’s breathtaking. Actually, I choked up the first time. Like, full-on ugly cry. So, yeah, skip the filter. It's even better. Just make sure you have tissues ready, because, damn, it’s a lot.
The Pool. Let's Talk Pool. Is it actually PRIVATE? And is it as *amazing* as it looks?
The pool… ah, the pool. Yes, it's *private*. No screaming kids doing cannonballs (unless *you* happen to be the screaming kid, which, let’s be honest, might happen after a few Aperol Spritzes). And amazing? Listen, I’m a pool snob. I’ve stayed in places that promised the world and delivered a chlorinated puddle. This? This is the real deal. It’s the perfect temperature, the water practically sparkles, and the views… oh, the views! You’re looking out over the Umbrian countryside. Rolling hills, olive groves stretching as far as the eye can see… I spent an entire afternoon just staring, completely mesmerized. (My husband did a little sunbathing, too. He’s more practical.) The only downside? Leaving it. Seriously, I almost *didn't* get out. I considered selling my kidney to stay there forever.
Spello – Is it a good base for exploring Umbria? Or am I going to feel like I'm stuck in one place?
Good question! Spello is brilliantly positioned. You can definitely day trip it! Assisi is practically spitting distance – I mean, a short drive. Perugia, with its chocolate and art scene, is close by too. Then there’s Montefalco, for the Sagrantino wine (trust me), which is divine and will leave your head spinning. I’d recommend driving, renting a car is worth it, and the roads are surprisingly easy to manage. However, I spent a whole week in Spello and only did *one* day trip. Because… well, that pool. And also, because Spello itself has so much character. I became a local at that little cafe on the piazza in days.
Food - What are we talking about? Is it all pasta and pizza? And is it any good? Because I'm a picky eater.
Okay, the food. Listen. I'm *obsessed* with food. And in Spello? It’s a love affair. Yes, there’s pasta. And pizza. But it's *amazing* pasta and pizza. Handmade pasta, perfectly cooked, with the freshest sauces you can imagine. Regional specialties like "strangozzi" and "truffle anything" will feature heavily. The pizza? Thin, crispy crust. Fresh, simple ingredients that actually taste of something. And the olive oil? Divine. I actually bought a bottle to bring home – which almost didn't make it, because I wanted to just drink it straight from the bottle. My picky-eater husband? He ate *everything*! Even the things he swore he wouldn't. The quality is just that high. Prepare to loosen that belt buckle. You'll be grateful.
Logistics: How easy is it to get to Spello? What about parking? I hate figuring all that out.
Okay, logistics. Deep breaths. Getting there: You can fly into Rome (FCO) or Florence (FLR), and then travel by train or rent a car. The train is convenient, but a car gives you more freedom to explore. Parking in Spello… that’s where things get *interesting*. The town is built on a hill, so parking can be a bit of a treasure hunt. The apartment likely comes with a reserved spot, which is pure gold. Just follow the instructions carefully, because some streets are narrow and confusing, and Italian drivers… well, they have their own style, let's call it. But trust me, it’s worth the minor headache. That pool awaits!
What's the vibe like in Spello? Is it super touristy?
Thank goodness, no! Spello is *not* overrun with hordes of tourists. There are tourists, of course, but it’s more of a ‘charming village’ kind of vibe, not a ‘Disneyland with pasta’ one. You’ll see more locals going about their daily lives, chatting in the piazza, and popping into the local shops. It's authentically Italian. You can actually relax. Which is a huge bonus. I loved just wandering around, stumbling upon hidden courtyards, and chatting with the friendly shopkeepers. Plus, it actually feels safe. I didn't have to worry about pickpockets or aggressive vendors. It's a place where you can truly switch off and unwind.
Tell me about the "Infiorate" – are they as epic as the pictures suggest?
The Infiorate… Oh. My. God. Okay, so, if you’re lucky enough to be there during the Infiorate (the floral carpets), prepare to have your mind *blown*. The pictures? They don't do it justice. The entire town comes alive. Streets are transformed into these incredible works of art, made entirely of flower petals. It’s a sensory overload – the colors, the scents, the sheer artistry of it all. I actually welled up again! (I clearly have a problem with crying in beautiful places.) The whole town is buzzing with excitement, and local pride. It's a once-a-year event, so if you can time your trip to coincide with it, DO IT. Seriously, cancel all your other plans. It’s a memory that will stay with you *forever*. You'll be walking on flowers!!! I still feel the petals under my feet, even months later.
Any downsides to the apartment? Be honest!
Okay, the harsh truth. There's a *small* downside. No place is perfect, right? The apartment might not have all the mod cons of a five-star hotel.Quick Hotel Finder
