Tenuta Santi Giacomo e Filippo; An Italian Countryside Resort Near Urbino.

In the Italian countryside of Marche, just minutes from the historic city of Urbino, Tenuta Santi Giacomo e Filippo (TSGF) is a rare find; a stunning resort that combines rustic charm, refined elegance and authentic agritourism.

If you’ve been to Italy before, you know it’s not unusual to stumble upon a charming agriturismo that produces its own wine or olive oil. You may have stayed in a centuries-old farmhouse, had fantastic service, or dined on delicious local cuisine. But what makes Tenuta Santi Giacomo e Filippo truly special, is that it offers all of that in one place.

For 10% off your stay, and a complimentary glass of the estate’s own sparkling wine upon arrival, use my code; “vinorelax” and book here: Tenuta Santi Giacomo e Filippo.

An unexpected find in the Italian countryside

My first visit to TSGF was in the early autumn with Christina from Christina’s Cucina. The harvest was nearly finished, the grape leaves were burnished and the skies were mauve. It had been raining, and we had planned on staying just one night on our way north to Treviso. Travel weary from having bounced around the Italian countryside for over a week, we were ready to relax.

After the first sip of the estate’s wine, and bite of our dinner, we both looked at each other and agreed we’d have to stay another night! Had the platter of assorted local cured meats, cheeses and bread with estate grown olive oil not convinced us to stay, the pasta in brodo did.

Add in staff that is thoughtful, knowledgable, and who strive to make one feel relaxed and welcome, and the combination is magic. In addition to the front of house staff, the chef takes pride in the menu, sourcing quality local ingredients to supplement what is grown on the estate. The result is food that makes one swoon. Every bite is perfection!

We were lucky enough to be invited back to this gorgeous Italian countryside estate in the spring. This time with two friends we knew would also fall in love with the estate’s charms. Meet Christina from Christina’s Cucina, Corey Marshall, from California to Italy, who splits her time between homes in California and Italy, and Cathy, from She Paused For Thought, a graphic designer and photographer, who took many of the photos in this article.

(Disclaimer: We were hosted at Tenuta Santi Giacomo e Filippo.)

A historic estate reimagined in the Italian countryside

The estate, once a 15th- and 16th-century farming village, and home to the grandmother of Renaissance master, Raphael, has been lovingly restored by owner Marianna. Her passion for preservation and sustainability is evident throughout the property. Respect for the land and organic principles prevail.

Guests can choose from 30 suites and rooms spread across six historic buildings, each blending original architectural features, individual décor, and furnishings, with modern comforts.

A day (or three!) at Tenuta Santi Giacomo e Filippo

After a restful night in a comfortable suite or room, head to the main building for a complimentary breakfast that’s anything but ordinary. Indulge in homemade granolas, pastries, fresh breads, and rolls, alongside local cured meats, cheeses, eggs, and sausages.

The estate’s own honey and jams are the perfect complement. Enjoy your cappuccino in the airy breakfast room or on the patio overlooking the vineyards.

Outdoor Adventures: Hike, Ride, Explore

Start your morning with a hike through the La Badia nature sanctuary, or wander the vineyards down to the tranquil lake. For a more immersive experience, join a guided horseback ride or take an e-bike tour.

You can even take an agribus tour of the property for up to 14 people, which includes original sculptures scattered throughout the landscape and local wildlife. Or join a foraging tour and learn about the local flora.

Wine Tasting: From Vineyard to Glass

No visit to the estate is complete without a wine tasting. Sample five of the estate’s wines, paired with fresh bread and their exceptional olive oil.

Tastings are available in English in the morning, or in Italian at 5 PM, for those wanting to brush up on their language skills.

Looking for a more exclusive experience? Book a private tasting for six or more, featuring a curated platter of local meats, cheeses, condiments, and crescia sfogliata di Urbino, a flaky, flatbread native to the region.

Learn the art of pasta making in the Italian countryside

A highlight of my stay was the hands-on pasta making class led by Giorgia, the estate’s very own sfoglina (pasta master).

The class is taught using traditional techniques passed down through generations. We made fresh pasta dough from scratch, then kneaded, rolled, and shaped it into delicate ribbons of tagliatelle and pillowy ravioli.

The best part? Sitting down to enjoy the fruits of our labor for lunch.

Spa Serenity or Poolside Bliss

Spend the morning relaxing by the outdoor pool with fabulous views of the Italian countryside.

Or for those craving deep relaxation, TSGF’s wellness spa is an experience unlike any other. Housed in a beautifully converted barn with soaring ceilings and a panoramic glass wall overlooking the estate, the spa offers a perfect harmony between nature and tranquility.

Take a meditative walk along the sensory path or indulge in the Turkish bath or sauna. Or unwind in the indoor pool equipped with therapeutic jets.

The spa offers a variety of treatments including full-body massage, reflexology, and cupping. Afterward, sip herbal tea or an aperitivo on the spa’s balcony.

Looking for more Italian countryside holidays?

Slow Food and Wine in the Langhe Valley

Antica Corte Pallavicina; a relais in Emilia-Romagna.