In short…Nestled amongst Piedmontese grape vines, this family-run boutique hotel is a haven for creatives in the Bormida valley.
The surroundings… located just 2km from the town of Monastero Bormida, in the province of Asti in the north-west of Italy. Villa La Madonna was painstakingly restored by chic Swedish sisters Annica and Marie Eklund, who are behind the high-end Swedish flooring company BOLON. A real labor of love! They also decided to establish a vineyard to produce their own wines. Situated in the rolling hills of the Piedmont wine growing region, this 17-bedroom escape is the perfect base to explore the surrounding area.
The vibe… A member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World, this thoughtfully designed property is airy and light filled. The sisters have combined Scandinavian style with old-school Italian glamour: chic, rustic interiors mean exposed beams, vintage furniture and stone walls adorned with carefully curated photography. I loved that I could relax and read in the dappled shade on the terrace or in one of the cozy nooks inside.
The rooms… Expect contemporary meets countryside. Crisp white linens, a muted colour palette with a splash of their signature dark green. Nice personal touches include a copy of their own giant-paged magazine, an embroidered straw bag to use during your stay and Diptyque amenities in the bathroom. Very welcoming! All rooms have their own balcony or terrace, so a peaceful spot to enjoy a coffee in the morning or a glass of their own house Barolo in the evening.
The food & drink… After an early evening wine tasting in their cellar, dinner is served in their white starched-table-clothed dining room. Huge arched picture windows give great sunset views over the Bormida valley. Slow food is really at the heart of everything chef Valerica Borcea cooks. Her unfussy, generous seasonal dishes are right up my street. The highlight for me was the agnolotti al sugo d’arrosto (traditional Piemontese ravioli filled with veal), which blew my mind! Breakfast is a simple affair, with lots on offer including fresh fruit platters, pancakes and egg dishes.
The wellness… I will miss the beautiful green-tiled pool that is set amongst the vines, but there can’t be a lovelier spot to do yoga than their studio, with floor-to-ceiling windows. Massages and facials can also be booked.
The family-friendly factor… We saw a few young families whilst staying. With its vast swimming pool, in-house bikes to borrow, horseback riding, boule and table tennis, there are plenty of activities for all the family.
Extra tip goes to…Simone, the young bartender, who showed martini-making skills to rival the Connaught in London! Made our trip!
Be sure to… book a white truffle experience if visiting in the months of October or November. Hop aboard a tractor into the misty forests to search for “white gold,” followed by a three-course meal all made with freshly foraged alba truffle.
Parting words… I will miss the festoon lit terrace and crickets chirping in the evening whilst enjoying a glass of Nebbiolo. I couldn’t bring the sunshine home, but at least I could bring a bottle of their wine.
Date of stay… August 1st, 2025
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