Location and Contacts
Vecchio Ippocastano Country House
An Extraordinary Location
in the Green Heart of Umbria
Il Vecchio Ippocastano is located in Avendita, a small village of ancient medieval origins set at 900 metres above sea level, where the air is pure and the silence of nature accompanies every moment of the day. From here, it is easy to reach Cascia, home to the Sanctuary of Saint Rita, and Norcia, birthplace of Saint Benedict and gateway to the Sibillini Mountains National Park, famous for the breathtaking Castelluccio flowering. Just a short distance away lie the wonders of Umbria: Perugia with its rich artistic heritage, Assisi and Franciscan spirituality, the Marmore Falls and Lake Piediluco for those seeking nature-based experiences.
A location that combines tranquillity and accessibility, offering a retreat from the world without giving up the discovery of the surrounding area.
How to Reach Us
Il Vecchio Ippocastano Country House is easily accessible by car, train, or plane from several Italian and European destinations.
By car:
From Rome: Take the A1 motorway towards Florence, exit at Orte, continue on the SS675 Umbro-Laziale towards Terni, then take the SS209 Valnerina in the direction of Norcia–Cascia. Follow signs for Cascia and then Avendita (approx. 2 hours 30 minutes);
From Florence: Take the A1 motorway towards Rome, exit at Valdichiana, continue on the E45 towards Perugia–Cesena, then take the SS3 Flaminia towards Foligno–Spoleto. From Spoleto, follow the SS685 towards Norcia–Cascia, then signs for Avendita (approx. 3 hours);
From Perugia: Take the SS3 Flaminia towards Foligno, then the SS77 Val di Chienti and the SS685 towards Cascia. Follow signs for Avendita (approx. 1 hour 30 minutes).
By train:
Nearest railway stations: Spoleto (approx. 50 km, frequent connections from Rome, Florence, and Ancona via Trenitalia) and Terni (approx. 60 km), with local buses or taxis available for the final stretch.
By plane:
Main airports: Rome Fiumicino (FCO) and Ciampino (CIA), followed by a drive via the A1 (Orte exit) and SS3 (2–3 hours);
Perugia “San Francesco d’Assisi” Airport (approx. 90 km) – Connections with Milan, London, and other European cities.
Cascia and Norcia: spirituality and tradition
Two villages rich in history and deep spirituality in the heart of Umbria. Cascia is home to the Sanctuary of Saint Rita, a constant pilgrimage destination and a place of profound inspiration, while Norcia is the birthplace of Saint Benedict and the ideal starting point for exploring the Sibillini Mountains National Park. Both offer authentic and genuine culinary traditions, with cured meats, cheeses, and fine truffles that express the true flavors of the land.
Perugia and Assisi: art, history, and spirituality
Two cities that embody the artistic and spiritual soul of Umbria. Perugia welcomes visitors with its medieval historic center, the National Gallery filled with masterpieces, and a lively atmosphere among narrow streets and squares. Assisi is home to the Basilica of Saint Francis with the frescoes by Giotto and Cimabue, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and offers unique views over the Umbrian landscape, from the Rocca Maggiore to the slopes of Mount Subasio.
Marmore Falls and Lake Piediluco
Two natural wonders just a few kilometers away. The Marmore Falls are among the highest in Europe and offer a spectacular display of water and nature that has inspired poets and travelers throughout history, with panoramic trails and opportunities for water sports. Lake Piediluco offers peace and evocative landscapes, perfect for relaxing walks, boat trips, or simply enjoying the reflection of the mountains on the water.
Activities and trails in the heart of Umbria
Umbria offers endless opportunities for those who love nature and outdoor activities. From trekking trails in the Sibillini Mountains to winter snowshoeing in Castelluccio, from rafting in the Valnerina to horseback riding through the hills, each season brings different experiences. Historic walking routes cross the region: the Way of St. Francis following in the Saint’s footsteps, the Path of the Silent Villages, and the former Spoleto–Norcia railway transformed into a nature cycle and pedestrian path.
Faq
Il Vecchio Ippocastano is located in Avendita, a small village surrounded by nature in the Valnerina valley in Umbria, at about 900 meters above sea level. The location offers peace and beautiful views, just a short distance from Cascia and Norcia.
The property can be easily reached by car via the main roads connecting the Valnerina valley with Umbria and Lazio. Once near Cascia, simply follow the signs toward Avendita.
The country house is ideally located for visiting some of Umbria’s most charming destinations, including Cascia, Norcia, Spoleto, and the Castelluccio plain, as well as many villages of the Valnerina valley.
The area is mainly connected by road, so traveling by car is the most convenient way to reach the property and explore the surrounding villages, nature, and art cities of Umbria.