COUNTRY LIFE: Il Poggio Amerino

„What a pig!“ is one of the first thoughts when you see her – and indeed, Chicca („Candy“), an impressive beauty weighing delicate 600 lbs is standing under the pear tree and obvious delighted by the fallen ripe fruit. When this lady is not enjoying natural delicacies or an afternoon nap in the hay, you will find her strolling around inspecting her estate. Just like Chicca, about 200 or so other animal companions revel the lifestyle they enjoy on the farm of Alfredo and Daniela. The idyllic property is home to numerous cousins of Chica, quite a number of young pigs, sheep, cows, a full-grown but gentle wild boar, 2 charming lady dogs and, last but not least, 6 wonderful riding horses, the big passion of their owners.

„Live your dream“ was the credo of native Swiss Alfredo Seiler when, a number of years ago, he quit his job and life in suburbia and left his home country together with Daniela Wintsch to realize their dream. The vision became reality in the form of Poggio Amerino: just a few kilometers from the charming Umbrian town of Amelia, surrounded by hilly woodlands the farm is a childbook charming place with paddocks and meadows. Two old natural stonehouses have been delightfully restored to become a farmhouse and a spacious guesthouse. Don‘t worry about sharing your appartment: the four-legged denizens have their quarters in the nearby stables and barns.

It all began with two „Freiberger“ horses, a traditional Swiss breed, and soon developed into a passion: the two deeply committed escapists have invested hard work and dedication into the challenge of running a strictly ecological farm that few can rival. Yet at the centre of it all are still those wonderful riding horses that seem to trust and follow Alfredo blindly. No wonder, as his natural handling of these animals is the result of a deep understanding of their character and a true passion for horses. Riding lessons by this veritable horse whisperer and excursions into the breathtaking landscape of the area are an unforgettable experience.

Children especially will love the adventure of „Il Poggio Amerino“. Where else do you encounter so many beautiful animals so close, where else can you romp about, ride, help cleaning the stables, feeding and brushing the horses? Endless fun is to be had with all the little pink piggies, the clumsy young lambs and feisty calves who are all out to discover their new surroundings. Of course, the grand ol´ lady pig, Chicca, remains the centrepiece attraction as she roams the property completely freely – that is, if she is not resting in her hay stack, a befitting throne for the secret queen of the estate.

But all other animals also have their story. And many an interesting feature as well as surprising insights into ecological farming are what makes a visit to Alfredo and Daniela an exciting experience for grown-ups as well. To enjoy Alfredo's stories and the unique environment for more than an afternoon there are three inviting appartments, each with its own kitchen, fireplace and bathroom to bid you welcome to this remarkably enjoyable country life.