Charming medieval apartment with views centre Todi

L'alloggio

You'll find La Gardenia in the heart of Todi, an Umbrian hilltown famous for its picturesque winding streets and breathtaking views. It has been recommended by Lonely Planet's Tuscany/Umbria edition, and it is easy to see why. This is a place where you feel instantly at home, because the apartment belongs to an Italian, not a foreigner using it as an investment. It has been in the family for generations and the owner has personally seen to its decoration. The result is an eclectic and harmonious combination of cherished family heirlooms and stylish contemporary pieces. At La Gardenia, you'll be welcomed as a traveller -- even a member of the family -- and never an anonymous tourist.

The apartment is situated on the upper two floors of a traditional stone-built house dating from the Middle Ages. Because the house is taller than those surrounding it, each room enjoys plenty of light all day long (many such houses can be dark and damp), and there are stunning views over rooftops, churches and town monuments. The balcony offers fresh air and a peaceful view of the surrounding hills.

The First Floor has a formal living-room with lovely 19th-century antiques and 2 bedrooms (1 double and 1 single) connected by a full bathroom. Both bedrooms have fine views.

The Second Floor has a dining-room with a table for four which leads out onto a balcony with beautiful views over the hills to the south and west. The sunsets behind the cupola of the famous Renaissance church of the Tempio di Santa Maria della Consolazione are amazing. There is a fully equipped kitchen open to the dining-room on one side and a sitting-room (with sofabed) on the other, and a single bedroom with half bath.

The narrow streets of Todi are beautiful but can also present parking problems. Directly in front of La Gardenia is a small piazza where you stop to unload your bags. And only a few metres down the road there is unlimited secure free parking.