Discover the exclusive charm of this retreat nestled on the shores of Lake Orta, a hidden gem cherished by those who appreciate refined elegance and uniquely curated hospitality in Piedmont, Italy.
Architect brothers Gian Carlo and Matteo Primatesta have embarked on a pioneering journey by converting a deserted rural settlement on Piedmont’s Lake Orta into an exquisite holiday retreat that epitomizes serene luxury and the quintessential Italian Dolce Vita. Their recipe for success? Being self-taught hoteliers with a keen eye for understated elegance.
Situated merely an hour north of Milan, in close proximity to the Swiss border, Lake Orta stretches for a modest 13 kilometers, cradled by the protective embrace of Monte Rosa, the Alps’ second-highest peak towering 4,634 meters above. Against the backdrop of Piedmont’s diverse landscape and its rich cultural heritage, the Belle Époque era bestowed upon Lago d’Orta and its charming lakeside villages a medley of architectural marvels and picturesque promenades. The likes of Lord Byron, Nietzsche, and Balzac, among numerous other luminaries of the time, found inspiration in the lake’s enchanting allure, a sentiment that still lingers in the atmosphere today.
While the masses flock to Lake Maggiore and Lake Como, basking in their glamorous allure, Lake Orta remains a hidden gem to much of the world. Nestled discreetly along its eastern shore, just above the historic center of Orta San Giulio, lies the refined enclave of La Darbia, ensconced within a lush Mediterranean park meticulously crafted by landscape architect Anna Regge, alongside meticulously tended Nebbiolo vineyards. With its breathtaking vistas of the glistening lake and the majestic peaks of Monte Rosa, this holiday haven redefines luxury with its soul-stirring aesthetics and genuinely hospitable ambiance.
Venturing into the realm of hospitality was an entirely novel endeavor for the founders of Studioprimatesta, yet it proved to be the catalyst that propelled “La Darbia” into the realm of choice destinations for aficionados seeking beauty in design and depth in detail.
The acclaimed restaurant “La Cucina”, along with its idyllic terrace and cocktail bar nestled amidst an organic vegetable garden, has become a closely guarded secret among discerning epicureans spanning from Milan to Hamburg, from New York to Helsinki. Chef Matteo Monfrinotti channels the essence of the region, accentuating Piedmont’s culinary identity with his emphasis on locally sourced ingredients and authentic gourmet fare.
Exuding an unassuming elegance that eschews ostentation, the 20 suite-apartments and the restaurant embody the ethos of “Sobrio” as the Italians would say—simple, yet captivating. Drawing inspiration from the vernacular architecture of rural Piedmont, La Darbia seamlessly integrates indigenous materials, Mediterranean flora, and unembellished craftsmanship.
The interiors, echoing the nuanced hues of nature, are introspectively oriented towards the forest, enveloped by ivy, while each of the 20 apartments opens onto the garden, overlooking vineyards and a heated saltwater pool. On the sundeck, guests can partake in yoga sessions while soaking in panoramic views of the lake and its surrounding peaks.
Marking its 10th anniversary with the refurbishment of its 20 opulent suite-apartments and an expansion of the wine cellar catering to intimate gourmet gatherings, La Darbia has firmly established itself as a coveted destination. Securing a reservation at “La Cucina” under the culinary stewardship of Chef Matteo Monfrinotti, or booking a stay at La Darbia requires foresight due to its popularity among enlightened patrons who have been captivated by its intimate charm. Little wonder, then, that the prevailing sentiment among those in the know is to safeguard its mystique: “Don’t let the secret out!”
Thanks to v2com
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