Casa Maria Luigia
Stradello Bonaghino, 56, 41126 Modena MO, Italy
Tel.: +39 059 469054
Web: casamarialuigia.com
Price: from about € 500,-/night

Massimo Bottura - a name that makes gourmets' mouths water. After all, Bottura is one of the most famous chefs in the world. His restaurant in Modena, the Osteria Francescana, boasts three Michelin stars. Anyone who wants to eat here has to wait in line. The waiting list is long, and there are only short time slots. Guests at his hideway in the country have a much better chance of enjoying Bottura's cuisine. Not only does a refrigerator full of delicacies await them, it's ready to be plundered at night. Foodies can also look forward to Osteria Francescana at Casa Maria Luigia. The restaurant outlet, under the direction of Jessica Rosval, is located in the former carriage house of the 18th-century estate. It has just three tables around an open kitchen. Here, they serve a nine-course tasting menu that makes gourmet dreams come true. In addition, guests at Casa Maria Luigia are given the opportunity to book a table at Osteria Francescana. But that's far from the only reason why the pretty villa near Modena should be on your bucket list.

From Italy around the world - and back

When American curator Lara Gilmore decided to leave her hometown of New York in 1993 and move to Italy to join her fiancé Massimo Bottura, the two had no idea of the successful future that lay ahead of them. Bottura's diligence, ambition and unusual way of cooking soon attracted attention. After working for Alain Ducasse in Paris for some time, he opened his osteria in Modena. There he finds innovative ways to translate traditional Italian dishes into the present. His dishes have names like "Oops! I dropped the lemon tart" and are well-known in the scene worldwide. It has been named the best restaurant in the world several times. It also carries three stars in the Guide Michelin.

Casa Maria Luigia: a hideaway in the countryside

In 2017, Lara Gilmore and Massimo Bottura bought an 18th-century villa at an auction just outside Modena. The two wanted to protect the historic property from decay and live in it themselves. And host friends there, if necessary. As the renovated jewel unfolded its splendor, it was clear: more people need to see this beauty. And while the luxury hideaway hasn't been an insider's tip since it opened in 2019, it still feels incredibly intimate. Much like visiting a good friend (and well-heeled) couple in their country home. In fact, you're very close to Bottura and Gilmore when you move into one of the only twelve rooms.

Most of the paintings, sculptures and photographs in the rooms and public spaces were hand-picked by the couple. In the music room, guests can enjoy Bottura's personal record collection, and in the kitchen there is a refrigerator with chef-made snacks. There's also a cocktail lounge where you can grab a shaker yourself. Bathrooms feature handmade tiles. Guests of the penthouse have an extra bed in the turret and enjoy the magnificent view from the top. Oh, and the couple named their fine countryside hideaway after Bottura's mother.

Luxury hideaway with a wink

The fact that guests immediately feel at home here also has to do with the atmosphere of the villa. Because the personality of the hosts is reflected in every corner. The adults only hideaway does not take itself very seriously. Life is lightness - at least here in the Modena countryside. Consistently, the staff marches through the villa in lemon yellow uniforms and strawberry-printed Gucci shoes. Hedges trimmed into ice cream scoops grow from the amphorae in front of the entrance. Close to the main house, Casa Luigina recently opened its doors to guests. The smaller guest house can be rented exclusively for you and your friends; cooking classes and private chef included. And instead of chocolate and mineral water, a piece of Parmiggiano and chilled Lambrusco await the guests at the room as a welcome. The kitchen at Casa Maria Luigia is open from 6 a.m. to midnight. No matter when you visit, fine delicacies always await you here. Such as freshly baked bread, salads and snacks. Another speciality is the Sunday brunch. A multi-course tasting menu is served - accompanied by live music.

Vacation in the country

Guests of Casa Maria Luigia will definitely not be bored. Active guests will discover the beautiful surroundings of Emilia Romagna while walking, hiking, jogging or cycling. A pool and tennis court are available right on the property. Excursions to nearby Modena provide variety. Guests get rid of excess energy in the gym. This also serves as an extended gallery. When strolling around the estate, you should definitely take a look at the herb garden. Because here grows and thrives what later finds its way into the cooking pots of Casa Maria Luigia.

Casa Maria Luigia
Stradello Bonaghino, 56, 41126 Modena MO, Italy
Tel.: +39 059 469054
Web: casamarialuigia.com
Price: from about € 500,-/night