Falling in love with Umbria is easy, maybe too easy for a guy like me. What’s more difficult is to get over it, but I don’t think that ever happens. My love affair with this magical land began many years ago. Back then in the UK, I was an hotelier, and long dreamt of making Umbria my home, a home open to accept anyone, regardless of their background or sexuality. A gay country house where gay guys like me could be themselves: instinctive, natural and free.

Finding the right spot took me time because I needed an old and welcoming house, space enough for five unique suites and a dining room with trust bar. It had to be on an elevated site, facing south with huge views, no nosy neighbours, screeching kids or revving cars. Instead, peace and beauty. I wanted space to create a garden full of mystery and scents, an infinity pool with views stretching on and on, a Jacuzzi and Sauna area. A terrace backed by a mellow stone wall warmed by the sun, with a large table for all of us to eat together, laughter and joyous conversations. Oh, and I needed space for a vegetable garden, some old olive trees, and shady lanes to walk along. All this to be not too far from a decent size town…

Over the years I have fulfilled that love affair. The garden has matured, as have I. Umbria delights me more and more, the harmony and tranquillity ever valued. I have welcomed so so many great guys from all over the world. Very many of you return, many of you have become important friends. Of course every year I so look forward to welcoming ‘first timers’. Bellaugello is a place where friendships are made, the magic here is strong. I’m so lucky, I love my job.

Yes, Bellaugello is the name of the farm, it has been for over 400 years. Sure the name has a second meaning, but that is something I can only tell you in person when we meet.