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Beyond tourism! Discover tranquil, authentic medieval village, charming house.

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Front of house. Separate guest entrance is the wooden door on the left.
The charming medieval village of Castiglione Messer Raimondo, our home
View from property
The Valley View bedroom
Welll-equipped kitchen

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 3140 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Washer
  • Parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Outdoor space
  • Free WiFi
  • Mountain view

Explore the area

Map
Castiglione Messer Raimondo, Abruzzo
  • Tower of Cerrano
    ‪41 min drive‬
  • Castel del Monte
    ‪53 min drive‬
  • Roseto degli Abruzzi Beach
    ‪56 min drive‬
  • Pescara (PSR-Abruzzo Intl.)
    ‪40 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 3)

Bedroom

1 Queen Bed and 1 Single Bed

1 bathroom

Private Guest bathroom

Soap · Towels provided · Bathtub or shower · Bidet · Toilet · Hair dryer

Spaces

Kitchen
Dining area

About this property

Beyond tourism! Discover tranquil, authentic medieval village, charming house.

A peaceful refuge to return to! Guest House Casa da Carmine is ideal for exploring the treasures Abruzzo offers, then returning to a restful place to relax and recoup. With easy access to paved roads, no long driveway to navigate, and little traffic, many varied day trips are easily doable.
We strive to be more than just lodging. You are welcomed as a visiting friend with whom we enjoy sharing the town, the region, the people, and ways of getting to know what we know and love about them. We invite you to ask us for suggestions, guidance, and recommendations.
Most of our guests are people we know or who have been recommended by people we know. This allows us to maintain our high standards for cleanliness and personalized attention. We are available to provide what is needed to make the stay enjoyable - don't hesitate to ask! We want this to feel like home - comfortable, secure, relaxing.
At Guesthouse Casa da Carmine you can choose to relax in our quiet mountain town or venture out and about to hike in the mountains, swim in the Adriatic, or sample local delicacies produced in surrounding towns.
Abruzzo is all that Italy offers without the crowds.
Romantic, scenic, historic delicious Italy is all contained within Abruzzo's borders. Guesthouse Casa da Carmine is the perfect place from which to explore Abruzzo's ample natural and cultural riches. Proprietor Teresa Mastrobuono will gladly help you plan and execute an itinerary tailored to your interests.
From Casa da Carmine, you easily slip into the rhythm of authentic everyday life, free of the restrictions of tightly organized tours:
- Sip espresso from the terrace of the Bar Lanterna while gazing at the majestic Gran Sasso mountains;
- listen to the hum of women's voices in the piazza outside the church next door; - -
- stroll nearby markets as the locals greet you and help you find the best fresh produce, cheese, and salami.
- Wave to Pasquale as he ferries his little dog, Camilla in the basket of his bike.
No matter what you do, you will find the real Italy here!
The main road is convenient for exploring the surrounding small towns of Arsita, Montefino, or Bisenti or the town centers of Citta' Sant' Angelo, Penne, Loreto Aprutino, or Teramo city.
For the Food Lover: Abruzzo abounds with some of the best food in Italy.
-The town of Farindola is famous for its pecorino cheese,
-Loreto Aprutino boasts high quality olive oil,
- the wineries of San Lorenzo and Bellfiore are easily reachable.
- Nearby restaurants offer Abruzzese specialties such as fresh fish, porchetta, arrosticini, and the famous regional 'maccheroni alla ghitarra'.
Throughout the spring, summer, and holidays, festivals offer samplings of local foods and products:.
-The town of Sulmona offers its artistic arrangements of 'confetti' candies,
- Bisenti offers world-renowned 'Cellini' chocolates, which must be sampled to be believed!
The town of Castiglione Messer Raimondo has two restaurants which serve excellent, fresh pizza and homemade gelato. The local grocery story contains a pasticieria where you will find 'feratelle' and biscotti made daily.
For the Nature Lover/Active Traveler: -Beautiful beaches can be found in the nearby towns of Montesilvano, Silvi Marina, and Pineto. Abruzzo's Adriatic coast is host to several Blue Flag beaches, where you can swim, kayak, sail, SUP board, or windsurf.The nature reserve of Punta Aderci is just down the autostrada.
- Swimming can also be enjoyed at nearby Abruzzo Incantato, a restaurant/pool complex where you can dine and dip to your heart's content. The nearby town of Castilenti also had a community pool open to the public.
The Gran Sasso afford hikes from mild to wild: through gentle pine forests, to waterfalls, lakes, hermitages, or above tree line.
There is a small playground in town for wee ones, as well as the 'belevedere' near the house for gathering, taking in fresh evening air, or enjoying the views over the Fino Valley. The promenade on the west side of town offers a lovely place for an evening stroll.
Bicycling, country walks, or horseback riding are also availably nearby.
For Cultural Buffs: You can get to know local and world-class culture in Abruzzo.
-Pescara hosts a jazz festival;
- Atri a blues festival.
-Stroll the ancient streets of Elice during their Medieval fair.
-Or dance to lively traditional folk music at the Valfino Al Canto (Valfino in Song) celebration in Arsita.
Visit art museums in Teramo city and Pescara, or the museums of Olive Oil in Loreto and of the local farming trades in Picciano.
The town of Castelli is famous for its ceramic production.
Every small town in the area celebrates its patron saint with processions, masses, and celebrations, Castlglione included. Its largest and most famous is the festival of San Donato, celebrated August 5, 6, and 7, during which you can enjoy concerts and view fireworks.
Festivals celebrating everything from beer to fish to local crafts to miracles pop up often. Check the posters mounted on the community bulletin boards, or ask the locals. They are always happy to help visitors get to know the area!
Don't miss our capital City of L'Aquila! It's been beautifully restored after the 2009 earthquake and is chock a block full of things to do - museums, award winning gelateria, stunning churches, fresh and delicious food. There is a mini-train that can take you on a tour of the city. Fun with a partner or child!
Citta' Sant' Angelo offers guided tours of the town's points of interest.
Penne has a large outdoor market, and many beautiful churches to visit.
All this can be experienced while you are right at home in a characteristic stone townhouse. Its convenient location in the heart of a traditional hilltop village allows you to walk to the town's businesses and easily reach other points of interest.
The bedroom is spacious and comfortable, with a queen bed and fold-out single. It can accommodate a couple, two singles, or a family with one child.
The house has central heat, and a washing machine on site.
Relax inside a cozy kitchen with the items needed for basic food preparation. Cooking lessons can be arranged by Teresa along with the necessary accouterments for them . She is also happy to arrange tours and offer guidance on how to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking the Gran Sasso or Majella mountains, or enjoying water sports such as kite surfing and SUP boarding.
But Casa da Carmine is more than a place that provides lodging or a base for exploring the area. Casa da Carmine strives to preserve the spirit of the man for whom it is named. A consummate people person, Carmine Mastrobuono took you in to his generous and gregarious heart to care for you like a unique treasure. His daughter, proprietor Teresa Mastrobuono, scoured cities, villages, and country hamlets to find a place that had the ambience that Carmine's presence created. She found that in Castiglione Messer Raimondo. Come experience that same warmth, welcome, and true Italian spirit!

Property manager

Teresa Mastrobuono

Languages

English, Italian

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
Mountain view
Parking available

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House Rules

Check in after 11:00 AM
Minimum age to rent: 24
Check out before 2:00 PM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 3–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
Some small pets allowed. Please contact owner.
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
Small dogs may be permitted with prior approval of owner.
Smoking is not permitted in the house or entrances. For the comfort of all guests please smoke only outdoors.
Please do not eat or store food in bedrooms.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is no carbon monoxide detector on the property, but there are gas appliances; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a first aid kit
Property Registration Number 067013CVP0005, IT067013C274WOXSFC

We should mention

All guests, including children, must be present at check-in and show their government-issued photo ID card or passport
Cash transactions at this property cannot exceed EUR 5000, due to national regulations; for further details, please contact the property using the information in the booking confirmation
A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Castiglione Messer Raimondo

Located in Castiglione Messer Raimondo, this holiday home is in the mountains and by the sea. Palazzo Ducale dei Duchi d'Acquaviva and Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta are local landmarks, and travellers looking to shop may want to visit Citta Sant'Angelo Outlet Village and Centro Universo. Scuba diving and windsurfing offer great chances to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with ecotours and horse riding nearby.
Map
Castiglione Messer Raimondo, Abruzzo

What's nearby

  • Pescara Beach - 38 min drive - 34.2 km
  • Tower of Cerrano - 41 min drive - 34.6 km
  • Castel del Monte - 53 min drive - 51.5 km
  • Roseto degli Abruzzi Beach - 56 min drive - 38.5 km
  • Giulianova Lido - 65 min drive - 54.8 km

Getting around

  • Montesilvano Station - 31 min drive
  • Pescara (PSR-Abruzzo Intl.) - 40 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Bar Rosticceria Perilli - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Agriturismo Cignale - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪Antichi Sapori Ristorante Pizzeria Braceria - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Bar Pizzeria Pino Verde - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪La Taverna degli Antichi Sapori - ‬19 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Beyond tourism! Discover tranquil, authentic medieval village, charming house. pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Beyond tourism! Discover tranquil, authentic medieval village, charming house. ?

Check-in begins at 11:00 AM.

What time is check-out at Beyond tourism! Discover tranquil, authentic medieval village, charming house. ?

Checkout is at 2:00 PM.

Where is Beyond tourism! Discover tranquil, authentic medieval village, charming house. located?

Situated by the sea, this holiday home is 5 mi (8.1 km) from San Lorenzo Vini and 10.5 mi (16.8 km) from Calanchi di Atri Regional Nature Reserve. Palazzo Ducale dei Duchi d'Acquaviva and WWF Oasis Visitor Center Calanchi di Atri are also within 16 miles (25 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 52 out of 57 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 57 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 57 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 57 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 57 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.6/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Tim S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great time in Abruzzo

In the heart of an old traditional village. Terri showed us around a few of the places one should go when staying in this area. She was gracious with her time and pointed us to some great restaurants as well.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2024

8/10 Good

Maria B., Barrie

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay in abruzzo

The unit itself was exactly as described in the listing, the manager (Laura) was extremely helpful and responded promptly to minor issues . Unfortunately, there was no mention in any of our communications of the major renovation happening next door at the church. Our experiences through out the 2 weeks in the surrounding area were quite enjoyable, some knowledge of Italian would be recommended, since none of the locals speak English. I’d recommend that a car is essential for efficient travel through the area, especially the beach. Overall, our trip was a 4.5 out 5.
Stayed 16 nights in Sep 2019

10/10 Excellent

Todd & Stefani C., California/Maui

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best kept secret.

This place and this town are one of the best kept secrets in all of Italy. Adjacent to this tiny little towns beautiful church is Teresa’s unit which was gorgeous. The downstairs kitchen was well equipped and had everything we needed. Upstairs was magical with creative furnishings and artwork. Everything was clean and neat. Teresa was a great host who went out of her way to help with directions and suggestions on things to see. This was real Italy. You won’t find this town in Rick Steves. We were the only tourists in the whole town. No one spoke any English which we loved. Had REAL Italian food and prices in this remote region were unbelievably low. This is the opposite of Capri! The Abruzzo region is absolutely beautiful with breathtaking views. I highly recommend you include this town and Teresa’s place for your Italian vacation.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2019
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Stephen A., Bath Maine USA

A great stay in a special part of the country ...

We had a wonderful time in Abruzzi and this apartment was a good place to use as a base for driving some of the most beautiful parts of Italy. There was an early snow in the mountains but the weather warmed nicely even though our travel to the region was outside the "season." unless you were there for skiing. That only added to the charm of Castiglione Messer Raimondo and the surrounding towns. The apartment is great: comfortable, very clean, wonderful views. Communication with Theresa and Laura was good. After a few wrong turns, Laura helped to get us out of Pescara and met us on arrival. It had been a long travel day for us but she made us feel very welcome and explained how to get around the town. While the kitchen could use another pan or two, it worked well and we were able to have fresh pasta, good fresh produce, and some excellent meat products from a shop in Bisenti a few kilometers away. After that it was just one road adventure after another ... you have to like driving in Italy.
Stayed 8 nights in Oct 2017

10/10 Excellent

Marie B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Grazie mille

From the time of my initial inquiry until checkout, Teresa was highly responsive, attentive, and a gracious host. To say that she excels at hospitality seems like understatement as she and her husband Gregg led me to feel immediately at home. Teresa’s passion for Italy and familiarity with Abruzzo led her to be a superb tour guide who introduced me to some of the hidden secrets of the region. Abruzzo itself seems to be something of a secret and offers a rejuvenating respite from record numbers of tourists. And what a joy it was to wake up every morning to brilliant birdsong, superb espresso, and a warm cornetto (aka croissant) loaded with Nutella amid what might be described as “authentic” Italian life at La Lanterna just feet away from Casa di Carmine. Gregg’s outdoor and hiking expertise was also invaluable as he led us on a day hike in the stunning Gran Sasso d’Italia, one of the most memorable highlights of my three-week travels throughout Italy. Now an ocean away, I am still savoring recollections of intense sunlight, clear mountain air, startling blue skies, and the wild and brilliant beauty of Abruzzo. Grazie mille.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2023
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

karl b.

not to be missed

Words are not an adequate means to describe the warm and welcoming beauty provided by Teresa Mastrobuono. The townhouse has a split level layout so early risers, like myself will not disturb those in their party whom wish to take a more leisurely approach to the morning, like my wife. Amenities are everything or more than you would expect and very well maintained. That being said the real selling point is the community in which this property is situated. It is a rare thing indeed to find a community more open and gracious as found here. I speak absolutely no Italian and most certainly would not be mistaken for one. I being Irish/German. However I was immediately welcomed into the community as if I was a lost family member. This made exploring and experiencing the village a very pleasant time. Speaking as someone whom enjoys exploring and meeting people this was the perfect place. There is a small restaurant over looking the valley, small pub and bakery all run by very inviting people. I would definitely recommend this property for a family or couple whom wish to stay in a comfortable townhouse situated in a peaceful community. The townhouse is a very short drive from local attractions. I found this to be a plus. I could rush off to experience something more "touristy" like the beach or a museum and then return to this peaceful area and wined down. very nice.

8/10 Good

Toni S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Trying at Castiglione Messer Rainmondo

Charming place right next to an historic church, which was just redone in 2019…beautiful. Great view of the mountains from the bedroom balcony. Wonderful caffe shop a very short walk down the road. We were there for the Chestnut Festival; great party and great band (played until 1am). Mario’s was the real thing, so check that out for dinner. Town folks very friendly….as we know little or no Italian.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Carrie H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

In love

We fell in love with this village. The property was perfect and Teri and Laura are the best. The community was exactly what we were looking for..very relaxing. We hope to purchase property in the future here! ❤️
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

Jami P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Charming village.

Convenient location- generous sized bedrooms. Great spot to see eastern Abruzzo.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2021

10/10 Excellent

Alexander S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Picture postcard Italian mountain village

Teresa was a great host who communicated well at all stages. She made suggestions about places to visit and things to do. With the ongoing covid pandemic, we visited at a difficult time, but the house was spotlessly clean and Teresa advised us about local requirements in relation to attractions that were open, mask wearing, restaurants, etc. The location is absolutely stunning and there is a place in the village at the belvedere, which sells delicious pizza. There’s also a bar called La lanterna, which has amazing views (and also fresh, tasty bar snacks which come with your drinks!). There are lots of beautiful villages to visit and amazing beaches are only 40 minutes away (we went to Pineto). This is mountainous country, so there are quite a few hairpin bends on the roads. The house is also attached to a church, so be aware that you will hear the bells, however, it didn’t bother us. We loved our stay!

10/10 Excellent

Stefano M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Uno splendido soggiorno in un borgo indimenticabile

Siamo rimasti felicemente sorpresi dalla bellezza dell'Abruzzo e dall'accoglienza riservataci dalla cordialità della sua gente. Per quanto riguarda l'alloggio siamo rimasti molto ben impressionati dal livello di organizzazione e dalla trasparenza mostrata lungo l'intero soggiorno. Un'esperienza sicuramente da ripetere.

10/10 Excellent

Lucia D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Prima esperienza in Abruzzo ... torneremo!!

Bellissima esperienza, padrona di casa e casa accoglienti ed ospitali. Bella posizione in cima a una collina con uno splendido panorama, resta solo un po' scomoda per il parco del Gran Sasso a causa delle strade tortuose.

10/10 Excellent

John P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Unforgettable Italian Experience

Teresa guided us through the process of scheduling our stay. Even though she was not there, her house manager helped with with getting us settled in. The house has plenty of room and was spotlessly clean and comfortable. We got to experience life in a Italian hilltop village! Would love to return for a longer stay. We highly recommend Casa de Carmine as a place to stay and is close to so many places for day trips too!

10/10 Excellent

Timothy M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Terri, The hostess was amazing! Already planning to go next year. Everything was perfect!

Everything was so easy!
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2019

10/10 Excellent

Jose I.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

a piece of heaven.

If you are looking for a lovely place to stay in Abruzzo, the town of Castiglione and Casa da Carmine is the perfect place. A beautiful location with incredibles sights and landscapes, with lovely people and very good food ...A true italian spirit. I Stayed in Casa del Carmine with my family in August 2019, and had the most pleasant experience. Clean, comfortable and very neat. Hope to come back very soon Thank you Teresa.

10/10 Excellent

Rammelaere S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Hartelijke ontvangst

Warm onthaal door de lieve gastvrouw die ons met raad en daad bijstond met praktische tips, suggesties.je voelt je er zeer welkom.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2019

10/10 Excellent

Gloria B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful

If you want to experience the real Italy this area is a must. Casa da Carmine is for you, very clean, spacious, well equipped, comfortable beds and beautiful views from every window. What an exciting time I had in Castiglione Messer Raimondo and the Abruzzo area during my three week stay. The people in this town will welcome you and make you feel right at home. This is my second stay at Casa da Carmine and hope to return. My daughter and granddaughter joined me for part of time, making the vacation extra special. So much to do and see; market in Atri, beach in Pineto, visiting towns of Citta Sant Angelo, , Bisenti, Castilenti and many more off the path villages. A visit to Campo Imperatore was amazing. A stop at Mario’s is a must—-but be warned come with an appetite and wear your ‘big pants’. A definite highlight of the vacation was being able to connect with my family in Poggio Santa Maria, outside L’Aquila. Teresa helped me coordinate the visit . My visit was only possible because of Teresa's guidance and ability to speak excellent Italian. I am so grateful to her for joining me on this adventure. My family was so warm and excited to have us visit. Boy, did we eat! I will be back--- Gloria Burke Jill Gilbert Jessica Gilbert Elizabethtown, PA USA

8/10 Good

Jackie W.

Great base for Sons wedding

Theresa was an attentive and caring host, not minding late arrivals and the fact that my children came and went a bit as my sons wedding approached. Thank you for your understanding Theresa. This us a great base to explore the region with friendly neighbours and lots of local flavour readily accessible. Beds are really comfortable including pull outs.
Stayed 10 nights in May 2019

10/10 Excellent

Tony Y.

A wonderful stay in Castiglione

We had a wonderful stay in Casa Del Carmine in October, so much so that we extended our stay ban two more days. The apartment was just as described and located in a charming hill town that we wanted. The bed in the "purple" room was very comfortable and I say VERY because my wife has back trouble and most strange beds are not good for her. The kitchen was clean, tidy, and appointed just fine for us with one exception that really did not hinder us from doing the cooking we did. The microwave was virtually unusable since thew cord was way to short to reach the receptacle. The bathroom was impeccably clean and had plenty of hot water, a luxury notion always found in apartments we have rented in Italy. Having Laura just a phone call or text away was terrific. She was extremely helpful. She is a gem! Overall this was a great stay for us. BTW we are a retired couple from Maine and we have travelled many times in Italy.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2018

10/10 Excellent

Michele C.

Casa confortevole spaziosa e con tutto il necessario ,

Mi sono trovato bene Teresa è cordiale discreta ma presente all'occorrenza e anche i vicini sono molto gentili e castiglione è a mezzora dal mare e quaranta minuti dal Gran Sasso
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2018

8/10 Good

Denis G.

Agréable séjour à Castiglione

Teresa et les habitants de ce petit village typique, niché au coeur des Abruzzes, ont été très accueillants. Cela nous a permis de découvrir les montagnes alentours et de profiter de la mer sur les plages de Pinetto avec nos trois filles. Encore merci à Teresa pour son accueil et sa gentillesse.
Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2018

10/10 Excellent

David B.

Great atmosphere !

Térésa is very cool and helpful. Appartment is very fresh but we can't go outside (no terace but a very little balcony to extend the towels) . Casteglio is a really typical italian village. A must see
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2018

10/10 Excellent

Maximiliano M.

Hermosa casa en un pueblo de ensueño

La casa de dos pisos se encuentra en el punto más alto y significativo de este hermoso pueblo, pegada a su iglesia histórica (hoy cerrada al público). La residencia de Teresa, quien vive al lado y es sumamente servicial, simpática y discreta, es el lugar ideal para descubrir las maravillas del Abruzzo. Castiglione Messer Raimondo está a 30 minutos del mar y en el medio de las montañas. Es todo historia, naturaleza y belleza. La casa es amplia y cómoda, con 2 habitaciones amplias con diferentes e imponentes vistas a la montaña y a pueblos cercanos. También tiene un living amplio para leer, y su dueña dejó muchos libros turísticos y literarios para sus huéspedes. Suenan las campanas de la iglesia y le dan un toque cinematográfico a la estadía. Italia al 100 % Muy recomendable!

10/10 Excellent

Gale S.

Clean and neat. Picturesque! Airy and Breezy. Calm and serene.

A lovely trip back in time without the "touristy" areas, you are provided with a chance to speak to the Italian people who live there as well as the Americans and Brits who have chosen to live there. Aromas fill the street at mealtime. Intriguing doorways and stone arches with cobblestone streets....and church bells from the large church at the top of the village hill. Local pizzerias or bars are there and restaurants at the bottom of the hill. A winery is nearby. I bought locally grown vegetables at market and make soup. The people loved having us visit their world. I felt immersed in rural and town Italian life.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2018
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Amelia M., USA Pennsylvania

A great stay in the heart of Italy

Our family had the pleasure of staying at Teresa’s house in Castiglione Messer Raimondo in July 2017. We wanted to find a place where we would be close to the town where our mother grew up (Appignano), but still had all of the necessities for a family of five with young children. This location definitely exceeded our expectations. When we arrived, we received a warm welcome from Teresa, who helped to familiarize us with her house and the town. We were provided with all the necessary information and tips to help make our stay enjoyable. The house had spacious bedrooms and nice size bathroom. There is also a full size kitchen. The town of Castiglione Messer Raimondo is a cute and quaint hilltop village. With cobblestone streets, classic architecture, and breathtaking views of the mountains, rolling hills, and farms, it made us feel like we were truly immersed in the culture of Italy. The town has everything you need within walking distance: a pizza shop, bar/café, grocery store, etc. Even though we only speak minimal Italian, the people of the town were friendly and welcoming. We even had the pleasure of meeting several Americans and Brits who had made this region their new home. One day, on our drive back from visiting Appignano, we came across a little restaurant called Ristorante da Mario. While it didn’t look like much from the outside, we were blown away by the delicious food and hospitality of the owner. Be sure to check it out! We will never forget the memories we made during our stay in Castiglione Messer Raimondo. Thank you Teresa for truly making us feel at home. We hope to visit again in the future. Sincerely, The Missimer and Skidmore Families
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2017

About the host

Hosted by Teresa Mastrobuono

Host profile image
Proprietor Teresa Mastrobuono is an Italian-American who has been traveling to her family's home town and elsewhere in Italy for over 25 years. She has led tours to Tuscany, Rome, Venice, Calabria, the Dolomites, Umbria, and Abruzzo. During a trip to this last region in 2008, she fell in love with the landscape, people, festivals, and, of course the food! So she purchased her house. She named it in honor of her father, from whom she received her beautiful Italian last name.
Having come to Italy from America, Teresa understands the challenges that can face a first-time visitor or one who has not experienced life in a village "off the beaten track." She can help you with the logistics of travel, making restaurant reservations, and planning the best sites to see in the area. Locals know and love her, making it easy to get to know the town in a way that many tourists may not be able to know Italy.
Teresa has worked for over 35 years in professional theater. This work has given her a profound love of the human spirit and a deep appreciation and curosity for the diverse personalities that make up the human spectrum. She thoroughly enjoys each and every one that crosses the threshold of Casa da Carmine!

Why they chose this property

Abruzzo - not famous, just FABULOUS!
Abruzzo is an area of Italy that has been historically overlooked as a destination. No more! People have now discovered that Abruzzo holds all of the fascinating, beautiful, and delicious wealth that is Italy. Casa da Carmine is ideally situated to enjoy this atmosphere. It is in the center of a lovely town full of friendly and helpful people, there is easy access to hard roads, and a variety of activities can be easily enjoyed from its vantage point - festivals, local food, museums, beaches, mountains, hiking, skiing, and sight-seeing. Teresa is only to happy to help organize your stay by pointing out places of interest and how to get to them. Staying at Casa da Carmine offers the best combination of a self-catered stay AND a guided tour!

What makes this property unique

Teresa's ample enthusiasm, experience hosting travelers, and knowledge of the area! Close to stores, a bank, gas station, and restaurants, yet private enough for a relaxing stay.
Teresa has been traveling to Italy for 25 years - the past 10 to Abruzzo to operate Casa da Carmine. Her goal is to help guests get to know this lesser known but extraordinarily rich area.
Friends and neighbors in the town have embraced her as family. As such, you, the guest, are extended family. You are welcomed as a treasured visitor, not a tourist.
The tiny town is safe at night; the residents take great care to keep the place they love clean and pleasant to reside in. The rural setting gives a pleasant break from crowds in the more densely populated and frequently visited areas of Italy.

Languages:

English, Italian