Set among rolling hills and lush fields in the enchanting Italian region of Le Marche, Villa Rivo is an idyllic place to enjoy a vacation with family or friends, relaxing, reconnecting and experiencing the beauty of living in the Italian countryside.
The property and surrounding areas offer up an expansive choice of indelible experiences and it is an ideal destination for bikers & hikers, yogis & foodies, culture buffs & Italian shoe lovers and especially for diverse groups or families who love a little of all of the above.
Villa Rivo is located 20 minutes from the Adriatic Coast and walking distance from the picturesque hilltop village of Montottone.
Designed by Canadian architects James Macgillivray & Vivian Lee (LAMAS), the house sleeps up to 10 people in 4 bedrooms, all featuring large en-suite bathrooms and outdoor private seating areas.
The house features a large yoga room overlooking rolling fields, as well as an expansive living & dining area, with a semi-professional grade kitchen and plenty of indoor and outdoor eating and relaxation areas, including a 15 x 4 meter salt-water swimming pool.
The design combines Italian craftsmanship with the owner’s interest and love for Asian art and design, built over their 20 years of living and traveling in Asia.
Every season has its own charms & reasons for coming to visit: biking through the lush rolling fields of spring, enjoying the village festival filled heights of summer; plucking fresh figs from the trees in autumn, exploring magical snow covered medieval hill-top villages in winter.
Visiting is an opportunity to slow down and enjoy the simple pleasures of Italian country-side life.
* In case of larger groups please contact us to explore additional accommodations.
THE HOUSE AT A GLANCE
Location: Montottone, Le Marche, Italy.
Sleeps up to 10 guests – 450 sq.m. / 4800 sq. ft.
Ground floor:
- Living area featuring open kitchen, dining table, corner sofa, fireplace, flat-screen LCD TV, stereo
- 2 bedrooms (choice of king-size bed or twin bed) each with en-suite bathroom and private outdoor sitting area
- Outdoor living and dining areas with barbecue
First floor:
- Yoga Shala (45 sq.m / 485 sq.feet) with attached outdoor terrace. Equipped with Manduka Pro mats and all props.
- 2 bedrooms (choice of king-size bed or twin bed) each with en-suite bathroom and terrace
Basement:
- Equipped Laundry Room, with dryer.
- Washroom
Other:
- Private outdoor salt-water swimming pool (15 meters x 4 meters) with a shallow area for kids
- Wi-Fi Internet access
- Air conditioning & heating
- Outdoor with living and dining areas
- Outdoor pizza oven
- Outdoor Gas barbecue
- Trek Bikes
AT A GLANCE
Location: Montottone, Le Marche, Italy
Sleeps up to 10 guests – 450 sq.m. / 4800 sq. ft.
Ground floor:
- Living area, with open kitchen, dining table, corner sofa and fireplace, flat-screen LCD tv.
- 2 bedrooms with choice of king-size bed or twin bed and en suite bathroom.
- Outdoor living and dining areas, with barbecue.
First floor:
- Yoga Shala (45 sq.m / 485 sq.feet) with attached outdoor terrace. Equipped with PRO mats and all props.
- 2 bedrooms with choice of king-size bed or twin-bed and en suite bathroom and terrace
Basement:
- Equipped Laundry Room, with drier
- Washroom
Other:
- Private outdoor swimming pool (15 meters x 4 meters) with a small shallow area for kids
- Wi-Fi Internet access
- Air conditioning & heating
- Outdoor with living and dining areas
- Outdoor pizza oven
- Fire-pit
- Mountain bikes
Villa Rivo is located 20 minutes from the Adriatic Coast and walking distance from the picturesque hilltop village of Montottone.
Designed by Canadian architects James Macgillivray & Vivian Lee (LAMAS), the house sleeps up to 10 people in 4 bedrooms, all featuring large en-suite bathrooms and outdoor private seating areas.
The house features a large yoga room overlooking rolling fields, as well as an expansive living & dining area, with a semi-professional grade kitchen and plenty of indoor and outdoor eating and relaxation areas, including a 15 x 4 meter salt-water swimming pool.
The design combines Italian craftsmanship with the owner’s interest and love for Oriental art and design, built over their 20 years of living and traveling in Asia.
Every season has its own charms & reasons for coming to visit: biking through the lush rolling fields of spring, enjoying the village festival filled heights of summer; plucking fresh figs from the trees in autumn, exploring magical snow covered medieval hill-top villages in winter.
Visiting is an opportunity to slow down and enjoy the simple pleasures of Italian country-side life.
* In case of larger groups please contact us to explore additional accommodations.
The Bedrooms
The four bedrooms each feature indoor and outdoor relaxation areas and large en-suite bathroom with both soaking tubs and showers. The rooms can be configured as doubles (king size) or twins, with 2 rooms also being available as triples. All four rooms feature super comfortable mattresses, high quality linens and a choice of pillows.
Two rooms face east for those who love to wake-up early and watch the sun slowly rising over the surrounding hills and two rooms face west, perfect for those who prefer to sleep in a bit later and wake to the sound of the songbirds.
Full list of room amenities
Selection of fine teas
Insulated hot water jugs
Rainfall & Waterfall shower head
Soaking tub (freestanding in 3 rooms)
Bath amenities
Scale
Hairdryer
Robes + Slippers
Bathroom alarm
Foldable luggage rack
The Bathrooms
Villa Rivo’s bathrooms were designed with a spa like experience in mind. Impeccable lighting, from soft ambient glows to vintage fixtures, sets the mood for relaxation. Oversized soaking tubs beckon you to unwind, while spacious walk-in showers with rainforest heads offer a rejuvenating escape. All of the soaking tubs have been positioned to have a beautiful view of the surrounding countryside. Exhale and relax!
Living & Dining
Graceful lines, tranquil ambiance, and a fusion of East meets West characterize the living and dining areas. Antique Chinese furniture and modern art are illuminated by iconic pieces of Italian lighting design in the dining area. Guests can indulge in a special meal or cocktails with our collection of beautiful vintage stemware and porcelain.
The living room features a large L-shaped couch that faces a beautiful fireplace and charming views of the surrounding countryside. Guests can unwind and relax while reading books or magazines from the library while listening to a selection of vinyl on the stereo.
The Kitchen
FOODIES’ PLAYGROUND
The kitchen, LA CUCINA, is the heart of every Italian home, where stories evolve and lives are nourished.
Villa Rivo’s kitchen is a place of abundance; ask us and you will find it stocked up with the freshest local produce. We will also unlock our PINK PANTRY, filled with spices and ingredients from all over the world.
Not in the mood for cooking? We can arrange a home chef to prepare delicious meals while you sip your drink in the garden or in front of the fireplace.
The kitchen is fully equipped for the most demanding cooking lovers. Check the full list below.
Full list of kitchen props
Gas Stove & Induction Stove
Ovens (Traditional, Steam, Microwave, Sous-vide function)
Yoghurt maker
Toaster
Kitchen Aid
Spiralizer
Rice Cooker
Slow Cooker
Black garlic fermenter
Fermentation kit
Dishwasher
Barbecue (outdoor)
Wood burning pizza oven (outdoor)
The Yoga Shala
UNPLUG & RECHARGE
The house features a 45 sq.m wood floor yoga shala that comfortably fits up to 12 people and opens onto a large terrace, so you can easily move your yoga practice outdoor where you are blessed with a beautiful panorama of gentle rolling hills.
The room faces east and gets basked in natural light at sunrise and it is a magical way to start your day. In the evening the room is bathed in a soft amber glow provided by glass blown sconces manufactured by the artisans at Gabbiani in Venice.
The yoga shala comes equipped with Manduka Pro mats and all the props.
We will be working with yoga / taichi / wellness teachers from around the world, to create special all-inclusive retreats.
If you are interested in hosting or attending please contact us.
If you are a yoga teacher or wellness coach looking for a peaceful and special space to host your retreat we would love to hear from you.
The Outdoor
The house sits on a 2 hectare plot of land surrounded by working farmland, half-way down a valley in a natural amphitheater with beautiful views of the surrounding hills.
Sitting beside the house is the owner’s house, an 1860’s farmhouse that was tastefully restored 10 years ago and that is sometimes available for rent in case of larger groups.
The 15 x 4 mt salt-water swimming pool sits in the middle of a field, just steps away from your door. There are many outdoor seating areas, with comfortable outdoor sofas and sun loungers.
On the property we have several fruit trees and bushes so, depending on the timing of your visit, you can enjoy the reward of picking your own breakfast.
The Bedrooms
The four bedrooms each feature indoor and outdoor relaxation areas and large en-suite bathroom with both soaking tubs and showers. The rooms can be configured as doubles (king size) or twins, with 2 rooms also being available as triples.
All four rooms feature super comfortable mattresses, high quality linens and a choice of pillows.
Two rooms face east for those who love to wake-up early and watch the sun slowly rising over the surrounding hills and two rooms face west, perfect for those who prefer to sleep in a bit later and wake to the sound of the songbirds.
ROOM AMENITIES
Choice of pillows
Selection of fine teas
Insulated hot water jugs
Rainfall & Waterfall shower head
Soaking tub (freestanding in 3 rooms)
Bath amenities
Scale
Hairdryer
Robes + Slippers
Bathroom alarm
Foldable luggage rack
The Bathrooms
Villa Rivo’s bathrooms were designed with a spa like experience in mind. Impeccable lighting, from soft ambient glows to vintage fixtures, sets the mood for relaxation. Oversized soaking tubs beckon you to unwind, while spacious walk-in showers with rainforest heads offer a rejuvenating escape. All of the soaking tubs have been positioned to have a beautiful view of the surrounding countryside. Exhale and relax!
The Kitchen
FOODIES’ PLAYGROUND
The kitchen, LA CUCINA, is the heart of every Italian home, where stories evolve and lives are nourished. Villa Rivo’s kitchen is a place of true abundance.
Ask us and you will find it stocked up with the freshest local produce. We will also unlock our Pink Pantry, filled with spices and ingredients from all over the world.
Not in the mood for cooking? We can arrange a home chef to prepare delicious meals, while you sip your drinks in the garden, or in front of the fireplace.
The kitchen is fully equipped for the most demanding cooking addicts. Check the full list below.
Full list of kitchen props
Gas Stove & Induction Stove
Ovens (Traditional, Steam, Microwave, Sous-vide function)
Yoghurt maker
Toaster
Kitchen Aid
Spiralizer
Rice Cooker
Slow Cooker
Black garlic fermenter
Fermentation kit
Dishwasher
Barbecue (outdoor)
Wood burning pizza oven (outdoor)
The Yoga Shala
UNPLUG & RECHARGE
The house features a 45 sq.m wood floor yoga shala that comfortably fits up to 12 people and opens onto a large terrace, so you can easily move your yoga practice outdoor where you are blessed with a beautiful panorama of gentle rolling hills.
The room faces east and gets basked in natural light at sunrise and it is a magical way to start your day. In the evening the room is bathed in a soft amber glow provided by glass blown sconces manufactured by the artisans at Gabbiani in Venice.
The yoga shala comes equipped with Manduka Pro mats and all the props.
We will be working with yoga / taichi / wellness teachers from around the world, to create special all-inclusive retreats.
If you are interested in hosting or attending please contact us.
If you are a yoga teacher or wellness coach looking for a peaceful and special space to host your retreat we would love to hear from you.
Living & Dining
Graceful lines, tranquil ambiance, and a fusion of East meets West characterize the living and dining areas. Antique Chinese furniture and modern art are illuminated by iconic pieces of Italian lighting design in the dining area. Guests can indulge in a special meal or cocktails with our collection of beautiful vintage stemware and porcelain.
The living room features a large L-shaped couch that faces a beautiful fireplace and charming views of the surrounding countryside. Guests can unwind and relax while reading books or magazines from the library while listening to a selection of vinyl on the stereo.
The Outdoor
The house sits on a 2 hectare plot of land surrounded by working farmland, half-way down a valley in a natural amphitheater with beautiful views of the surrounding hills.
Sitting beside the house is the owner’s house, an 1860’s farmhouse that was tastefully restored 10 years ago and that is sometimes available for rent in case of larger groups.
The 15 x 4 mt salt-water swimming pool sits in the middle of a field, just steps away from your door. There are many outdoor seating areas, with comfortable outdoor sofas and sun loungers.
On the property we have several fruit trees and bushes so, depending on the timing of your visit, you can enjoy the reward of picking your own breakfast.
WHAT'S AROUND US
The region has a tremendous amount to offer and we are delighted to help you plan your time in Le Marche.
While the closest beach in Porto San Giorgio is only 20 minute drive away, we highly recommend heading up to Monte Conero National Park and in particular the beaches of Portonovo. It is spectacular! We can help arrange a day on a sailboat or motor-boat and suggest you where to find the freshest mussels…
From the highest point in Montottone you can see over 20 different hill-top villages. Spending a day driving the small roads and exploring them by checking out their churches, piazzas, small boutiques and restaurants is one of our favorite pastimes.
In the charming city of Macerata lies Lo Sferisterio, a beautiful open air arena that stages every summer a series of outdoor operas by italian and international composers, where you can see world class performers under the stars.
On any given summer night the different villages of the region come alive with traditional “Sagre“, village festivals showcasing famous regional dishes and old time music, activities and crafts.
Approximately a 1 hour drive away is the Sibillini National Park with its 2000+ meter peaks. There are numerous beautiful hikes up to hidden lakes and fantastic refuge restaurants. We will share our favourite trails.
The region is a paradise for bikers, offering a very diverse and positively picturesque terrain. The house comes equipped with 8 Trek Touring + hybrid bikes and we can put you in touch with bike guides as required.
Nobody comes to Italy without thinking about food, and our region will not disappoint. The closest restaurants are a 5 min drive from the house and the area is packed with small artisanal cheese producers, butchers, jam & honey makers and more. The region is also home to countless small vineyards making award winning wines.
Everyone needs them; some people (us included) love them and there is no better place in the world to find them. The Tod’s and Prada factory outlet are only a 30 minute drive away and we can introduce you to our favourite artisanal manufacturers.
ABOUT US
Villa Rivo was dreamed up by an Italian & Canadian couple who had spent many years living in Asia.
In 2004 we decided to search for an escape from the crazy Shanghai urban life and after a week of searching found an abandoned farmhouse half-way down a valley outside of the medieval hilltop village of Montottone.
We first renovated the main farmhouse to be our dream home in 2005. Ten years later we decided to embark on the 2nd stage of the plan and build Villa Rivo over the ruins of the old barn, stable and pig house as a place to welcome people from around the world and provide them unique experiences in one of Italy’s most charming and undiscovered regions.
Rivo is the Italian word for a small stream; namely the one that flows gently in the ravine below the house. It has been a meandering journey to build this house in Le Marche and here they have found a community and life still intricately connected to the rhythms of the earth and the bounty that it provides and we warmly welcome you to come and visit and experience it first-hand.
Want to learn more about us?
How to reach us
Villa Rivo is located outside the village of Montottone, in the province of Fermo, Le Marche.
The closest airport is Ancona (AOI) which is approximately 1 hour from the house. Rome (FCO) and Bologna (BLQ) are also good options, with more international connections, both around 3 hours drive away. Pescara and Perugia are other options as well and are each are less than 2 hours away.
A car is required, to move around the area and take full advantage of what the region has to offer.
We partner with local car rental companies (both with and without driver) if you need help to book a car or to arrange a van for your group.
Contact us for more information.
Follow our journey …