Emilian culinary estate
The 18th-century estate runs like an art collector's countryside home, with a communal kitchen open for snacks around the clock.
“Casa Maria Luigia is a reimagined 18th-century villa surrounded by private gardens.”
What it’s good at
Exceptional
Attentive hosts provide pantry service, morning tastings, and chilled Lambrusco upon arrival.
Remarkable
Contemporary masterworks by Ai Weiwei and Damien Hirst meet mid-century furnishings.
Remarkable
An estate acetaia aging balsamic vinegar beside traditional breakfasts of warm cotechino.
What they say
Three Michelin Keys
Michelin
Also in Condé Nast Traveler, The 50 Discovery and AFAR.
Casa Maria Luigia is intimate, but it’s far from sleepy, thanks to lively boutique-style interior design and a quality collection of modern furniture…
Tucked away
A place apart: the property is the destination.
The grounds look out on quiet countryside in San Damaso, fifteen minutes by car from central Modena.
The rooms
Bedrooms keep their original walnut floors and historic shutters, stocked with wedges of Parmigiano Reggiano and chilled Lambrusco.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
A rectangular swimming pool sits among private lawns and wooden decking, reached along stone paths through vine-covered arches.
The gym
Workout equipment shares a pavilion with contemporary art and a billiard table across from the tennis court.
Restaurant
Al Gatto Verde
Housed in converted stables, the restaurant cooks over wood fire and embers using produce grown in the estate gardens.
In 2019, they ventured into rural Emilia-Romagna, transforming an 18th-century farmhouse into Casa Maria Luigia, a boutique hotel with a personal touch.
At the table
Mornings bring warm gnocco fritto and sliced mortadella at Casa Lu, followed by barrel tastings in the estate acetaia.
How it began
The 18th-century estate takes its name from the founder's mother, reviving a party-throwing tradition begun here in 1900.
“Equal parts culinary destination, contemporary art haven, and design retreat, the property feels like checking into someone’s well-curated Italian home.”
Modena
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.