Welcome to Guest House Casa da Carmine, a peaceful refuge nestled in the heart of Abruzzo. Experience authentic Italian life by sipping espresso from the Bar Lanterna's terrace with majestic Gran Sasso mountains views, listening to women's voices in the piazza outside the church next door, or strolling through nearby markets.
Reviews
1010 out of 10
Exceptional
Entire home
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 31507 sq ft
Popular amenities
Kitchen
Washing machine
Free Wi-Fi
Outdoor space
Parking available
Mountain view
Add dates for prices
About this property
Entire place
You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.
Traditional stone townhouse. Full of charm. Feel like a treasured family guest!
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, many varied day trips are easily doable. Host Teresa offers packages that include personal guide to local activities, driver service, itinerary and trip planning. A sample itinerary can include: - Wine tasting and winery tour - Cooking or cheese making classes - Olive press tour with tasting and light lunch - Hiking: The Gran Sasso and Maiella mountains afford hikes from mild to wild: through gentle pine forests, to waterfalls, lakes, hermitages, or above tree line. - Guided food tours - Guided tours to local festivals and towns with unique cultural features - Museum bookings: - Tours of Artesian crafts: The town of Castelli, for example, is famous for its ceramic production. - Guided city tours: 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! - A variety of outdoor activities such a canoeing local waters
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 D'Alessio are easily reachable. - Nearby restaurants offer Abruzzese specialties such as fresh fish, porchetta, arrosticini, and the famous regional 'maccheroni alla chitarra'. 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! 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 the nearby town of Castilenti's community pool open to the public. 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. 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!
And when you return: 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 sitting room is amply furnished with comfortable chairs and sofas The house has central heat, and a washing machine on site. Relax inside a cozy kitchen with the items needed for basic food preparation. Casa da Carmine is more than a place for 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! Abruzzo is all that Italy offers without the crowds. No matter what you do, you will find the real Italy here!
Property amenities
Ski
Optional ski privileges
Pool/Spa
Massage
Internet
Available in the house: Free WiFi
Parking and transport
Car available
Car recommended
Wheelchair-accessible parking and van parking available
Kitchen
Coffee/tea maker
Cookware, dishware, and utensils
Electric kettle
Hob
Microwave
Oven
Paper towels
Refrigerator
Spices
Toaster
Dining
Dining table
Bedrooms
Bedroom
Bedsheets provided
Bathroom
1 bathroom
Bathtub or shower
Bidet
Hair dryer
Soap
Toilet paper
Towels provided
Living spaces
Dining table
Living room
Entertainment
Books
Games
Outdoor areas
Balcony
Terrace
Laundry
Laundry facilities
Washing machine
Work spaces
Desk
Desk chair
Comfort
Heating
Pets
No pets allowed
Suitability/Accessibility
If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
Accessible parking space
No lift (single-level property)
Wheelchair-accessible parking
Wheelchair-accessible van parking
Smoke-free property
Services and conveniences
Iron/ironing board
Limited housekeeping
Location highlights
In a village
In the mountains
Near a health/beauty spa
Near a hospital
Near an outlet shopping centre
Near the marina
Near the sea
Things to do
Bicycles
Boat
Golf
Kayak
Optional ski privileges
Snow sports gear
Cycling nearby
Ecotours nearby
Golfing nearby
Hiking/biking trails nearby
Horseback riding nearby
Mountain climbing nearby
Sailing nearby
Scuba diving nearby
Swimming nearby
Windsurfing nearby
Winery tours nearby
Safety features
No carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is no carbon monoxide detector on the property but there are gas appliances; consider bringing a portable detector)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Rules
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.
Pets
Pets not allowed
Note from host: Some small pets allowed. Please contact owner.
Children and extra beds
Children are welcome
Events
No events allowed
Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Important information
You need to know
This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
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
This property accepts cash
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 fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
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
Frequently asked questions
Is Traditional stone townhouse. Full of charm. Feel like a treasured family guest! pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much is parking at Traditional stone townhouse. Full of charm. Feel like a treasured family guest!?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Traditional stone townhouse. Full of charm. Feel like a treasured family guest!?
Check-in begins at 11:00 AM.
What time is check-out at Traditional stone townhouse. Full of charm. Feel like a treasured family guest!?
Checkout is at 2:00 PM.
Where is Traditional stone townhouse. Full of charm. Feel like a treasured family guest! 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).
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Reviews
Reviews
Exceptional
All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.
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.
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.
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.
Todd & Stefani C.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2019
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Stephen A.
10 Nov 2017
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.
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.
Marie B.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2023
Archival
10/10 Excellent
karl b.
15 Sept 2011
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.
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.
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! ❤️
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!
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.
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.
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!
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.
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
Gloria B.
Verified
8/10 Good
Jackie W.
1 Jun 2019
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.
Jackie W.
Stayed 10 nights in May 2019
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Tony Y.
20 Oct 2018
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.
Tony Y.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2018
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Michele C.
2 Sept 2018
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
Michele C.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2018
Verified
8/10 Good
Denis G.
25 Aug 2018
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.
Denis G.
Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2018
Verified
10/10 Excellent
David B.
9 Aug 2018
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
David B.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2018
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Maximiliano M.
23 Jul 2018
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!
Maximiliano M.
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Gale S.
25 Jun 2018
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.
Gale S.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2018
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Amelia M.
22 Aug 2017
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