La Tana Dell'Istrice
C. Italy: Lazio: Civitella D' Agliano
Located in northern Lazio between Viterbo and Orvieto in a 12th century village, this property is only a 90-minute drive north of Fiumicino Airport in Rome. The building dates to the 12th century and was formerly a private palazzo. It is unpretentious, as are the very warm and friendly owners, the Mottura family. The comfortably but not lavishly furnished rooms with exposed beam ceilings, are air-conditioned and have tiled bathrooms with marble sinks. Most rooms (none connecting) have showers only (3 have tub and shower). Below the palazzo are the Mottura wine caves, the deepest dating to the Etruscan period, and Mr. Mottura is delighted to offer a tour and wine tasting (definitely worth doing!) to his guests. (Wines can be purchased as well. JDB tip: the Mottura "Muffo" is an outstanding dessert wine that is not exported!) He also delights in showing his guests his farm where he grows grapes, olives and a host of fruits and vegetables. Meals are served family style at La Tana dell'Istrice ("The Porcupine's Lair") and feature produce grown organically on the Mottura estate. As the porcupine is the symbol for ecology, it was chosen as the symbol for the property and the hotel. In JDB's opinion, the MAP rates at La Tana are one of the best buys in Italy because the meals include Mottura wines with each course. La Tana dell'Istrice offers an excellent, reasonably priced base to explore the fascinating surrounding countryside.

NOTE: La Tana dell'Istrice is three stories and there is NO ELEVATOR. Hotel is closed in January, February, and March. Hotel recommends clients advise in advance approximate arrival time and any dietary restrictions. Restaurant is closed on Sundays.