↟ A Secluded Shelter in the Italian Alps ↟

About this space

We are Riccardo, Cristina, Lorenzo, Bianca and Alice, and we came to this place in the forest to begin a simple yet rewarding life, trying to learn from nature. Our home in the deep mountain forest exists in quiet isolation, 1 kilometer from the nearest inhabitants. We offer you an attic apartment hand-renovated by Riccardo. The apartment has a big bed and pull-out couch (both situated under skylights), a living area, kitchenette, small private bathroom and a view of the valley.

The space

For poets, naturalists, thinkers, writers, hikers and lovers of peace: a shelter in the woods. ‘Aran’. 
Located on the mountainside along the trail to the Sanctuary of Santa Cristina, our home is surrounded by chestnuts, birches, hazels, wild mushrooms, aromatic plants and presents itself as the entrance to the Val d’Ala.

Here, you feel you are a part of the elements. We are observing the silent power of nature, working with it instead of against it. There is a wild beauty that permeates everything around us, which at the same time demands our care and attention, and provides healing and inspiration. In your time here, you will have the opportunity to reunite with nature in this way, finding how it connects with you personally.

At the property, we also have some pets – two cats, two dogs, and some chickens, all of which roam around freely. Dharma, our calm shepherd dog, will guide you on your hikes if you like.

Other things to note

*** PLEASE READ ENTIRE LISTING DESCRIPTION AND RULES BEFORE MAKING A RESERVATION.*** We want to make sure that your stay meets your expectations.

OUR PLACE IS ALONE ON THE MOUNTAIN, 250m skyward from Ceres where you will arrive. Consequently, there is a ~30 MINUTES STEEP HIKE to the house, with an intermediate incline. Along the way you will discover the mountain forest that creates the context of our life here. We will provide you with detailed directions on how to reach us, including GPS coordinates & photo guide, although the path is clearly marked and simple to follow.

*** WE ASK YOU to respect the maximum check-in time of 19:00 and in any case to arrive before dark if you decide to reach us on foot.

*** KEEP IN MIND: If you are hiking up to us, we STRONGLY advise that you come with hiking shoes and backpacks, not trolleys or suitcases. The mountains invite you to dress properly and travel lightly. 

Alternatively, only if and when available, we can give you a lift up for 15 €. The maximum time to pick you up in Ceres is 6:30 pm. Beyond this time we do not absolutely guarantee our availability and in any case the passage will have an extra cost.
Please note that winter snow or severe weather conditions could make it impossible for us to pick you up.

*** IMPORTANT: It is NOT POSSIBLE for anyone to reach our place with their own car. The road we use up the mountain is privately owned (not by us) so no other cars are allowed on it. Additionally, it is off-road and not navigable without the proper car. 

*** ABOUT THE ATTIC:
* 4 people can be accommodated but the space has been designed for 2 people.
* If you have children, pets, or physical ailments, keep in mind that the stairway leading to the attic is steep and narrow. It has never been a problem, but we just want you to know.
* Due to the original dimensions of the attic, the roof is low in some parts. This gives the cozy atmosphere that hugs guests into the mountain as was the intention in creating a true shelter. Key areas like the kitchenette and bathroom maintain a high roof for your comfort.
* The water heats up thanks to a solar panel that works during light hours. You will find the water completely hot in the late afternoon.
* We love natural light changes and we believe in their healing power so there are no curtains in the attic (except the bathroom).

** Cristina is an excellent vegan cook, and she is happy to prepare, whenever available, fresh meals for you, served in your apartment (minimum 2 people). If you prefer to cook for yourselves, you may wish to buy some groceries before you come up to our place. The nearest food shop is in Ceres (exactly 1km walking), and as we live in the mountains, it’s convenient to have some things here.

** It may happen, especially in summer and weekends, that there are small events happening here at Aran that involve a few people and a lot of fun! Life here at Aran is a constant surprise! 🙂