Welcome to I Romiti, a converted 13th-century Augustinian monastery situated within lush chestnut forest in Tuscany’s mountainous northern area, the Garfagnana. A place to explore a range of outdoor activities, find creative inspiration and well-being in a valley of great natural beauty. I Romiti has been designed to meet the needs of family gatherings, groups of friends coming together and public and private events. Make it your home for a week, host a reunion or organise a range of cultural and outdoor activities. From hiking and canyoning, yoga and Tai chi retreats, pottery, glass and painting workshops and many more, we can help you have an unforgettable experience.
I Romiti is a not-for-profit organisation Every stay contributes to the ongoing preservation and restoration of the monastery and its grounds.
We are Steven Newell and Lindsay Henderson and in 2007, with the support of friends, family and investors, we took over the ownership and management of the current site. Over the course of the three year restoration project we tried to honour its story, using locally sourced materials and employing skilled craftsmen and traditional techniques. Sustainability has been at the heart of the approach: the mountain spring from which the monks drew their water and irrigated their crops still provides the water supply, and state-of-the-art energy and waste management systems ensure minimal impact on the environment. All wood for heating comes from the surrounding mixed woodland.
Against this backdrop, our part in the story of Romiti seems historically insignificant but the most amazing journey to be part of, preserving this site for future generations.
OUR AREA
I Romiti sits within extensive grounds of mixed woodland which guests are welcome to explore. We sit on one of the many branches of the pilgrim route to Rome - the historic Francigena - and the gateway to the national park. A short walk through the woods takes you to the historic village of Fabbriche di Vallico for shops and local restaurants. The Turrite river running along our southern boundary offers secluded wild swimming spots. Terraces have been designed for sun and shade lovers and there are ample outside eating spaces for large groups. There is a traditional outside stone pizza and bread oven.
