Pellicano Hotels has always had a remarkable knack for discovering locations that forgo the crowds, opting instead for destinations that speak in subtler, more soulful tones. Now, the Italian hospitality group is turning its gaze inland, adding a fifth property to its portfolio: La Badia Estate. This picturesque Benedictine abbey lies just outside Orvieto, Umbria. The commitment is undeniable: €43 million has already been set aside to acquire and lovingly bring this estate back to its former glory.
La Badia Estate
La Badia Estate commands a quiet awe. A 6th-century abbey wrapped in medieval stone, crowned by a rare twelve-sided tower, and surrounded by nearly 30 acres of Umbrian countryside. It has been a four-star hotel since the 1960s. But under Marie-Louise Sciò’s creative direction, Pellicano’s CEO and design visionary, it will soon be imbued with a new grandeur.
The estate will reopen in 2027 with 24 rooms, a spa, curated boutique, restaurant, and bar. You’ll find a pool and tennis court on-site, of course. But for most, the real allure lies in the estate’s fortified tufa walls, cloistered gardens, and sweeping views of Orvieto’s gothic skyline. This is an atmosphere steeped in centuries of quiet elegance.
Why Orvieto?
Because its natural beauty is still largely untouched. Orvieto sits atop volcanic cliffs, its skyline punctuated by Gothic spires and Etruscan ruins. It’s just minutes off the highway between Rome and Florence, yet somehow still feels like a detour. It’s a rare find, with no luxury hotel group having set up shop here – until now.
Pellicano is on a mission to uncover Italy’s most authentic destinations. And they’re succeeding — the town’s layered history, vibrant traditions, and cinematic beauty make it a natural fit for the brand’s ethos: immersive, elegant, and never overdone.
Restoration
It’s not about replication. Pellicano’s way is for each property to have its own character, shaped by its surroundings and given space to breathe. But, there are some signatures. Expect a design language that’s tactile and refined, and service that’s warm but never fussy. Here, it’s also infused with local character: olive oil from the nearby frantoio, sun-drenched afternoons spent wandering ancient olive groves, and Lungarotti wines uncorked at sunset.
The Investment
Pellicano Hotels is investing over €43 million into La Badia and an adjacent property that will expand the guest experience. Backed by Aermont Capital, the group is scaling with intention – aiming for 10 to 12 properties in the coming years, but always with a focus on individuality.
Their 2024 revenues hit €37.4 million, up nearly 10% year-on-year. And with La Suvera in Tuscany set to reopen in 2026, the brand’s footprint is growing.
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FAQs
Q: When will La Badia Estate reopen under Pellicano Hotels?
A: La Badia Estate is set to reopen in 2027, marking a compelling new chapter in Pellicano’s expansion into inland Italy.
Q: How much will it cost to stay at La Badia once reopened?
A: While Hotel La Badia di Orvieto’s current rates are about €117 per night, expect the Pellicano version to reflect its luxury brand, likely ranging from €600 to €1,200 per night.
Q: Where is La Badia Estate located?
A: La Badia Estate is just outside Orvieto, a hilltop town in Umbria, Italy – conveniently positioned between Rome and Florence.
