Three Dutchmen take over a largely-abandoned town in Tuscany. They set up camp and invite the like-minded over 90 days of summer each year. It sounds like the beginning of a story with a punchline. Instead, it’s a story of purpose and determination, which rejuvenated sleepy Borgo di Gello in the Casetino Valley into an active destination. Today, artisans, farmers and tradespeople thrive as Novanta 90 grows and develops.
This self-sustaining haven on more than 300 hectares, leans heavily on ancient ways and means. Recently, the Dutchmen purchased the Castello di Gello, adding both a wedding venue and additional accommodation. An entire community is in revival on this perpetual restoration project, shared for just three months a year with guests. Is it a resort? A village? Or a castle? It’s up to the guest to decide and that’s the point.
A Week At Novanta Changes Perspectives
Novanta is like summer camp for the whole family, only with a distinctly Italian edge. It’s a retreat for the senses and the soul, a place to connect with the ways and practices of the old world. The founders of this seasonal resort bring a love of the great outdoors to the ancient hills of Tuscany and a deep respect for the artisanal practices. It’s a holistic experience guided by life’s essentials.
Cooling waterfalls hidden along guided walks are the backdrop to picnics encouraging play — if only to build up an appetite for the exceptional cuisine. Re-connecting with memories, making new friends and indulging in truly unique experiences are rare luxuries. Yet, Novanta 90 facilitates experiences in a manner where time is arbitrary and purpose re-established.
Novanta Is Where No Agenda Is The Agenda
Each day, activities are announced on an oversized message board (no glasses needed). It’s an invitation to participate, rather than a demand to be involved. Cooking classes and truffle hunts remind guests where food comes from and how it’s made. Long tables are set with candlelight for communal dinners under the stars. And there’s no shortage of activities to burn through the perfection of dishes prepared with the best of the region.
E-bikes are on hand for self-piloted tours of the valley. Guides share the history of the valley on meandering walks to nearby waterfalls or the forest. And back at the Castello, guests are encouraged to engage in cooking classes or daily group yoga for all ages.
Rooms As Unique As The Experience
With 44 rooms, including two- and three-bedroom homes, it’s big enough to find your new best friend and small enough to get to know most guests over the required Saturday to Saturday stay.
Each room is unique, finished over time by local artisans with antique furnishings that are at once both warm and comforting. For the glamper, there’s The Treehouse in a 200-year-old oak, as well as the Skylodge, set under the stars. Both are completely remote for a true nature experience with the comforts of a hotel nearby.
Novanta 90 asks gently for you to reconnect with the essence of humanity and its place in the world. The experiences are subtle, but deeply engaging. A week renders time and artifice immaterial. In return, guests leave with the money-can’t-buy memories of soulful living and perfection in simplicity.
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FAQs
Q. Is Novanta a good place for a family holiday?
A. Yes. It’s an ideal location for children who are old enough to swim and walk for a few hours.
Q. When is Novanta open?
A. Novanta is open to guests during June, July and August only.
Q. Why is there are minimum stay of a week?
A. Over the years, the founders recognised time is essential to slow down and enjoy the pleasures of both the location and experiences.
