Villa del Cardinale

The owner was so kind, even giving me a small discount when he asked whether I’d share my room with another pilgrim who had nowhere to stay. It’s a beautiful family home that feels almost like a castle, with only two rooms. Dinner was great, and watching the funeral of the Queen of England with the owner was priceless. Breakfast was nice too. Right across the way there’s a bar and market run by an amazing woman who keeps it open just for pilgrims, so be sure to visit her.

Nazaro welcomed us so warmly, and the room was nice and very clean. I finally slept without waking up with neck pain from hard pillows, the pillows here were lovely. There’s also a cosy common room with a fireplace. Since Poreta has no restaurant, Nazaro arranged for us to get food from Rosa, which was great. Breakfast was delicious and homemade: croissants, ricotta, primo sale, apricot pie, bread, and olive oil. There isn’t much to do in Poreta, but if you’re walking the St Francis Way through here, you should stay at this place.

In this picturesque 17th century country villa, surrounded by the distinctive Umbrian hills and olive groves, the owner treats guests with the kindness and generosity of a true Italian gentleman. The rooms are cosy and tastefully furnished, and the breakfast room is a rustic treasure.

Our host was a real gentleman. He even drove us into Spoleto and came to collect us again after we’d spent the day sightseeing.