Villa Corallo and the very best in hospitality

The journey finds its perfect culmination in exceptional hospitality. Crowning this itinerary is Villa Corallo, which holds an exceptional distinction: it is the first and only Relais & Châteaux in Abruzzo, a prestigious title that is unrivalled even in the neighbouring regions of Marche, Emilia-Romagna and Molise. This historic late 19th-century residence, now a contemporary relais, is considered one of the most significant residences in northern Abruzzo, nestled between the Adriatic Sea and the countryside, and adorned with frescoed salons, a centuries-old park and an ancient impluvium. The villa is an architectural masterpiece, originating from the core structure built in 1843 and enriched in the early 20th century with sinuous Art Nouveau influences. The Di Serafino family (the current owners) opted for conservation and restoration rather than new construction, breathing new life into 100 hectares of olive groves, pastures, vegetable gardens and farmhouses, in a project that combines exceptional hospitality, respect for the landscape and a strong connection with the local community. Inside, surprising details are revealed: from the striking rose windows decorated with coral to the carriages donated in 1861 in honour of the Unification of Italia. The next objective is to refurbish the ground-floor section of the villa and create a wine bar, café and lounge area, which is already under construction. Guests are offered horse rides at the nearby ranch, which is home to over a hundred competition-grade horses, as well as visits to local businesses, such as Maglificio Gran Sasso. Founded over seventy years ago, in 1952, in Sant’Egidio alla Vibrata by four brothers, this brand (with a turnover of 80 million and a strong international presence) has become a flagship of ‘Made in Italy’ excellence in knitwear, successfully combining artisanal expertise with a deep connection to the local area, now carried forward by the third generation of the Di Stefano family.