Until recently one of the few things lacking in the Veneto was a beautiful yet economical place to stay. So when this very historical winery estate opened its doors in late 2002, it was a dream come true. Located on a large forested estate only minutes from the autostrada, it includes a 16th-century winery that produces Amarone and a host of other vintages, as well as balsamic vinegar and honey. Its massive size and ancient wood beams will quite simply knock your socks off, and you are welcome to visit it and enjoy a tasting. The 15th-century buildings that ring the grassy quadrangle, where guests can enjoy a meal al fresco or just soak up some sun, occupy the former hunting lodge that has been meticulously restored to offer eleven air-conditioned guestrooms and two apartments. Some of the rooms are on the ground floor; all the others are only a few steps up on the first floor. The single room has a French bed that is larger than a normal twin bed. Some of the rooms have twin beds; superior rooms have romantic canopy beds and are more spacious. All have the original terracotta floors and heavy wooden beams. Pretty local fabrics match the colorful walls, creating a totally unique atmosphere in each room. The split-level apartments are on the first floor. One has a living room with single sleep sofa and bathroom below, as well as a bedroom with two twin beds or one king bed on the loft above; the other has a living room with kitchenette (with dishwasher), sleep sofa and powder room on the lower level, and a bedroom with two twin beds or one king bed, and bathroom with bathtub and stall shower on the upper level. All rooms have a modern tiled bathroom with large stall shower; rooms and apartments offer satellite TV, electric kettle and mini-fridge in every room, good courtesy sets in the bathrooms and lots of closet space. Naturally, you will want to use this peaceful retreat as a perfect launching pad for your day trips in the Veneto. But we suggest you plan to spend at least one day here, either taking a hike in the well-marked forests, or fishing on the nearby Vibio River, or lazing by the swimming pool, or enjoying a cooking lesson followed by lunch. The delightful family who are your hosts will be sure to make your stay a pleasant one - something that you will probably want to repeat again and again