About us
Experience the Magic of Il Ritiro and step into our lovingly restored Italian villa nestled in the enchanting town of Vignale Monferrato, at the very heart of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Monferrato wine region.
Here, the timeless beauty of the rolling hills, historic streets, and vineyards surrounds you, while the villa itself offers every modern comfort for a truly indulgent stay. From the serene master bedroom to the elegant living spaces and a gourmet kitchen, every corner of Il Ritiro has been designed to delight the senses and provide absolute relaxation.
Just a short stroll from the village's picturesque piazzas, renowned restaurants, and charming cafes, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Monferrato, then return to your private retreat to unwind in peace.
Recently fully renovated, Il Ritiro blends rustic Italian charm with contemporary luxury, making it the perfect base for wine lovers, culture enthusiasts, cyclists or anyone seeking an unforgettable escape.
Book your stay with us today and experience the perfect harmony of heritage, comfort, and the magic of Monferrato.
A Luxury Retreat in northern Italy perfectly positioned between Milan and Turin.
we love that you can have breakfast at il Retiro and then lunch at the amazing destinations below, and there are so many other options for you to explore during your stay;
- Monaco (3 hrs - 250 k's)
- The Italian Riviera (1 hr - 96k's)
- Lake Como (1 hrs 40min - 147k's)
- Lake Maggiore (1 hr 15 min - 103 k's)
- The Alps (at least 5 good skiing options in under 3 hrs)
- Parco Nazionale Gran Paradiso, Italy (1 hr 30 min, 130k's)
- Milan (1 hr 20 min - 116 k's)
- Turin (1 hr 10 min - 79 k's)
- Genoa (1 hr 30 min - 110k's)
- Monza for the F1 and the Ferrari HQ at Modena (1hr 30 min - 130 k's)
Go to the blog section and have a look at our great 2 day local excursion guide - perfect for those on a weekend escape !
The Story of Il Ritiro
Il Ritiro was originally constructed in the early 1900s, though during recent renovations it became clear that the lower sections of the house date back even further. For generations, the villa was owned by the Spada family—a lineage deeply connected to the local wine culture. Renata Spada, whose photograph now sits on the mantlepiece, moved into the home with his wife following the passing of his parents, whose portraits also remain as a tribute.
Mr. Spada was a member of the local winemaking cooperative, and the cellar was once used for the commercial production of Monferrato wines. Some of his damigiane (demijohns) remain in the house, and his later paniera can still be found in the cellar, offering a tangible link to the home's vinous past. Though his four oak barrels and original paniera could not survive the renovation, the spirit of those days remains alive.
Renata's old bicycle hangs in the front courtyard as a charming reminder of the villa's history—evoking images of him pedaling up the steep, winding Vignale hill, laden with grapes to produce his wine in the cellar below.
In 2025, Sandy and Ainslie, a couple from Brisbane, Australia, fell in love with the home and the region and became its new custodians. They undertook a complete renovation, updating electrical and plumbing systems, refreshing both interior and exterior surfaces, and refurbishing all the original windows and doors. New Piedmontese shutters were handcrafted by a local artisan, and a modern kitchen and bathroom were installed alongside reverse-cycle air conditioning and heating, ensuring comfort throughout the year.
The villa's furnishings reflect its rich heritage, with treasures sourced from local antique markets, original artworks, and the Spada family's cherished blue china, blending history and character with modern comforts.