Six Senses Antognolla Resort:  In the heart of Umbria, Italy’s green heartland, the 12th-century Castello di Antognolla has presided over one of Europe’s most spectacular golf estates for nearly three decades. Antognolla Golf Club was crowned “Italy’s Best Golf Course” by the World Golf Awards in 2020, 2022, and 2024 – an accolade that underscores the exceptional quality of this Championship Course designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. With the development of the Six Senses Antognolla Resort, this location is becoming one of Italy’s most exclusive MICE destinations, combining golf, wellness, history, and state-of-the-art conference technology in a unique setting.

The Location: Umbria’s Hidden Gem

Antognolla occupies an ideal strategic position in central Italy, just 25 minutes north of Perugia, Umbria’s capital. The location offers optimal accessibility while maintaining seclusion – a decisive advantage for both golf holidaymakers and business travelers.

Perugia International Airport San Francesco d’Assisi (PEG) is 20 minutes away and offers direct connections to several European cities. Alternatively, the larger airports of Rome-Fiumicino (150 km, 2.5 hours) and Florence (120 km, 2 hours) are well connected. By car, Antognolla is also easily accessible from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland via the A1 motorway (Milan-Rome).

The surroundings feature rolling hills, extensive forests, olive groves, and vineyards – that typical Umbrian landscape whose unspoiled beauty recalls Renaissance paintings. The seclusion of the valley where the golf course lies contributes significantly to its special charm. One has the feeling of stepping back in time, far from the mass tourism that characterizes other parts of Italy.

Culturally, Antognolla is ideally positioned between Rome (160 km) and Florence (120 km). The Basilica of Saint Francis in Assisi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is only 30 kilometers away. Perugia itself is a vibrant university city with Etruscan and medieval history, excellent restaurants, and the famous University for Foreigners. Orvieto, Spoleto, Todi – all the great Umbrian art and cultural cities are within an hour’s reach.

Castello di Antognolla – 900 Years of History

The Castello di Antognolla, majestically overlooking the golf course and visible from virtually every point on the course, lends the entire estate a unique atmosphere. The fortress dates back at least to the 12th century, with the crypt beneath the castle chapel even older, originally part of a 10th-century Benedictine monastery.

Even older traces were recently discovered during renovation work: frescoes in the crypt dating to the 6th century. The castle was once the resting place of the relics of Saint Herculanus (San Ercolano), the patron saint of Perugia. In the Middle Ages, the castle changed hands several times and was the scene of bloody sieges between rival noble families – the Antognollas, Baglioni, and Oddis.

Today, the castle is being carefully renovated and converted into a 71-room hotel under the Six Senses brand. The historic architecture is being preserved – stone walls, vaulted ceilings, frescoes, the original character – but combined with modern comfort and Six Senses’ characteristic sustainability philosophy. 16 suites will be housed directly in the castle, with additional rooms in the adjacent historic buildings of the Borgo (village).

The opening of Six Senses Antognolla Resort is planned for late 2026. Already, the golf course and La Boiola restaurant are open to the public, offering a preview of what’s to come.

The Golf Course – Championship Course with Soul

The 18-hole Championship Course at Antognolla is the estate’s centerpiece and was designed by none other than Robert Trent Jones Jr., one of the world’s most renowned golf course architects. The course opened in 1997 and underwent comprehensive renovation in 2018 under Jones Jr.’s supervision. All bunkers were renewed, modern irrigation and drainage systems installed, resulting in year-round playability and quickly draining surfaces.

Technical Data and Layout

The course measures approximately 6,400 meters from the back tees (Par 72) and offers different tee positions for all skill levels. The fairways are generous but strategically designed, rewarding precise shots. Characteristic features include fairways lined by cliffs, spectacular water hazards, artfully crafted bunkers, and large, heavily undulating greens that challenge even experienced golfers.

The clever layout makes Antognolla an exciting and satisfying course for golfers of all abilities. The forward tees allow even higher handicappers to enjoy the course, while the back tees challenge even scratch golfers. The greens are fast and true – typical RTJ Jr. – and require good touch on the putting surface.

The natural topography has been skillfully utilized. The course is hilly, with significant elevation changes in places, making carts or at least e-trolleys advisable. Many holes play uphill or downhill, influencing club selection and requiring tactical thinking. The views from the course are magnificent – of the medieval castle, the Umbrian hills, forests, and on clear days, the Apennines.

Signature Holes and Features

Every hole at Antognolla has its own character, but several stand out:

Hole 18 – The Signature Hole: The closing hole is one of the most spectacular and difficult holes in Italy. A par 5 with a double ravine dividing the fairway into three sections. The climb to the elevated, small green is steep and narrow – take at least two clubs more! The hole requires courage, precision, and strategic planning. An unforgettable finish to a round.

Hole 5 – Drama by the Water: A long par 4 with water hazard along the entire left side. The green is elevated and defended by deep bunkers. In the wind, a real challenge.

Hole 13 – Precision Required: A medium par 3 over water to a large, heavily undulated green. Difficulty varies considerably depending on pin position.

Hole 7 – Downhill Drive: A spectacular par 5 playing downhill with clear views of the castle. Long hitters can reach the green in two shots but must avoid strategically placed bunkers.

Condition and Maintenance

Antognolla is considered one of the best maintained courses in Italy. The fairways are dense and well-groomed, the greens in excellent condition – fast, true, and consistent. The bunkers are perfectly crafted after the 2018 renovation with clean sand. Course management maintains high standards, reflected in numerous positive reviews from golfers.

The course is GEO-certified (Golf Environment Organization), documenting commitment to sustainability and environmental protection. State-of-the-art irrigation systems minimize water consumption, native plants are preferred, and chemicals used sparingly.

Tournaments and Professional Recognition

Antognolla hosted the 2019 PGA Italian Championship, a professional tournament of the Italian PGA. In April 2021, an Alps Tour tournament was held here. These tournaments underscore the championship quality of the course and its suitability for professional golf.

The World Golf Awards, considered the “Oscars of golf tourism,” named Antognolla “Italy’s Best Golf Course” in 2020, 2022, and 2024. This award is based on voting by golfers and professionals worldwide and is a strong indication of the course’s quality and reputation.

On leading golf course rankings like Worldclass and Leading Courses, Antognolla regularly ranks among Italy’s Top 10 and is often cited as the best course in central Italy.

Practical Information for Golfers

Green Fees: Prices vary seasonally. In high season (April-October), green fees are approximately 80-110 euros. In low season (November-March), there are significant discounts, sometimes under 60 euros. Twilight rates and replay rounds are cheaper. Group rates available upon request.

Handicap Requirements: Players need a valid club card with registered handicap. Men: HCP 28 or better, Ladies: HCP 36 or better. This requirement underscores the championship character of the course.

Carts and Equipment: Motorized golf carts can be rented for about 40-50 euros per round and are recommended due to the topography. E-trolleys and pull carts are also available. The pro shop is well-stocked with a curated selection of premium brands. Club sets (latest Puma rental sets) can be hired.

Driving Range and Practice Facilities: A full driving range with grass tees and unlimited balls is available. Putting green, chipping green, and practice bunker allow comprehensive warm-up before the round.

Golf Academy and Instruction: Professional golf instructors offer individual training and group clinics. Video analysis and personalized fitting services for new clubs are available.

Playing Times: The course is open year-round. Booking is recommended, especially on weekends and in high season. Soft spikes are mandatory (to protect the greens). GPS devices permitted, mobile phones allowed on course (in moderation). Leashed dogs are allowed.

Six Senses Antognolla Resort – The Future of Luxury Tourism in Umbria

Six Senses Antognolla Resort is currently in development with a planned opening in late 2026. The project will become one of the most exclusive countryside resorts in Europe, combining Six Senses’ philosophy of sustainability, wellness, and emotional hospitality with Umbria’s historical heritage.

The Hotel Concept

The resort will comprise 71 rooms and suites, distributed across the renovated castle (16 suites) and the surrounding historic buildings of the Borgo. Rooms will offer a harmonious balance between authentic Italian architecture (exposed stone walls, vaulted ceilings, terracotta floors) and modern Six Senses design.

Interior architecture is by Design Studio SPIN from Tokyo, known for designing renowned hotels worldwide. Master planning is by Woods Bagot, a globally leading architecture firm. Landscape design is by Paghera, specializing in integrating architecture into natural environments.

All rooms will feature floor-to-ceiling windows or terraces with panoramic views of the Umbrian hills, golf course, or castle. Amenities include cutting-edge technology (high-speed WiFi, smart room controls), luxurious bathrooms with sustainable amenities, and design celebrating local craftsmanship.

Gastronomy and Culinary Excellence

The resort will offer several restaurants and bars serving seasonally changing menus with ingredients from the estate’s own organic farm (herbs, vegetables, fruit) and the region.

Already open is Restaurant La Boiola, an independent restaurant on the property offering authentic Umbrian cuisine with a modern touch. The chef emphasizes local products: truffles from nearby forests, olive oil from the estate’s own trees, pecorino and salumi from the region, meat from local farmers. The menu changes seasonally, and the wine list offers a curated selection of Umbrian and Italian wines.

After the resort opens, there will be additional dining options: a fine-dining restaurant with international cuisine, a poolside restaurant for light lunches, an espresso bar, and an Alchemy Bar for cocktails and workshops (cooking classes, wine tastings).

The resort also produces its own wines under the direction of renowned oenologist Riccardo Cotarella. Vineyards on the estate produce powerful reds, fresh whites, and the first vintage of a sparkling wine will be ready for the resort’s opening. Wine tastings, vineyard tours, and harvest events will be part of the guest program.

Six Senses Spa – 3,000 Square Meters of Wellness

The resort’s centerpiece will be a 3,000-square-meter spa on three levels, embodying Six Senses’ holistic wellness approach. Six Senses’ philosophy goes beyond traditional spa treatments, integrating mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional wellbeing.

The spa will include:

• Finnish Sauna and Infrared Sauna
• Herbal Steam Room and Hammam in Oriental style
• Snow Room (ice cabin for contrast therapy)
• Salt Lounge with Himalayan salt for respiratory health
• Indoor and Outdoor Pools, heated year-round
• Treatment Rooms for massages, facials, body treatments
• VIP Treatment Suite for couples or exclusive treatments
• Relaxation Lounges indoors and outdoors
• Spa Boutique with Six Senses products
• Courtyard Garden as relaxation area

Treatments will be based on natural products, many with local ingredients (olive oil, truffles, herbs). Six Senses is known for its signature treatments combining Eastern and Western techniques. The spa team will also create personalized wellness programs based on an initial health analysis (Six Senses Integrated Wellness).

Yoga and Pilates classes, guided meditation, breathing exercises, and workshops on topics like sleep optimization, nutrition, and stress management round out the offering.

Activities and Experiences

Six Senses Antognolla will offer a wealth of activities for guests of all ages:

Golf: Naturally, the Championship Course is the main highlight. Guests have priority access with discounted green fees.

Tennis and Racket Sports: A racket center with tennis courts, padel courts, and possibly squash is planned.

Hiking and Cycling Trails: The estate has hiking and mountain bike trails through forests, olive groves, and vineyards. A scenic path leads up to the castle. Guided tours and e-bike rental will also be offered.

Truffle Hunting: Umbria is truffle country. Guests can go truffle hunting with trained dogs and local truffle hunters (Tartufai) – an authentic experience.

Cooking Classes: Learn traditional Umbrian dishes like handmade pasta, porchetta, or torta al testo in the resort’s cooking school.

Wine Tastings and Vineyard Tours: Discover the vineyards, learn about organic wine production, and taste the estate’s wines as well as other top regional wines.

Organic Farm and Gardens: Visit the organic farm, workshops on permaculture, composting, or simply harvest vegetables for personal use.

Equestrian Center: A riding center is planned with horses for rides through the Umbrian landscape.

Cultural Excursions: The resort organizes tours to Assisi, Perugia, Orvieto, Gubbio, and other cultural sites. Private tours of museums, vineyards, and historic sites can be arranged.

Sustainability and LEED Certification

Six Senses is a pioneer in sustainable luxury tourism. Antognolla follows LEED principles (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and aims for the highest environmental standards:

• Energy Efficiency: Modern insulation, energy-efficient heating/cooling, LED lighting, solar panels
• Water Conservation: Rainwater collection, greywater recycling, water-saving fixtures
• Local and Recycled Materials: Building materials from the region, recycled wood, natural stone
• Zero Plastic Goal: No single-use plastic, glass bottles instead of plastic, reusable containers
• Organic Agriculture: Pesticide-free farm, composting of organic waste
• Nature Conservation: Preservation of natural flora and fauna, reforestation, forest protection

Six Senses publishes an annual Sustainability Report transparently presenting progress and goals. Guests are encouraged to participate in the sustainability program (e.g., declining daily room cleaning, reusing towels).

MICE and Business Events – Antognolla as Premium Conference Hotel

With the completion of Six Senses Antognolla Resort, Antognolla will become one of Italy’s most exclusive MICE destinations (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Events). The combination of historic ambiance, state-of-the-art infrastructure, world-class golf, wellness, and peaceful location makes it ideal for demanding corporate events.

Why Antognolla for MICE?

Unique Location: Meetings in a renovated medieval castle offer an ambiance without equal. Imagine board meetings in vaulted halls with frescoes, product presentations overlooking the golf course, galas in the castle hall.

Seclusion and Focus: The rural location away from distractions promotes concentration. Simultaneously, the activities (golf, spa, culinary) offer ideal opportunities for team building and relaxation.

Accessibility: Despite its peaceful location, Antognolla is easily accessible (25 minutes from Perugia, 2 hours from Rome or Florence). Charter flights can land at Perugia airport, and the resort will offer shuttle services.

Flexibility: From small executive retreats (10-20 people) to larger conferences (100+ people), various event sizes can be realized.

Exclusivity: For maximum privacy, the entire resort can be booked exclusively. This is ideal for high-level meetings, board strategy sessions, or VIP incentive trips.

Meeting Rooms and Technology

Although final details are still being worked out, several conference rooms are planned:

Main Conference Room in the Castle: A large hall for up to 100 people (depending on seating arrangement), equipped with cutting-edge AV technology (projector, video wall, conference system, high-speed internet), flexible seating options (theater, U-shape, banquet, boardroom), and natural daylight or controllable blackout.

Breakout Rooms: Several smaller rooms for workshops, group work, or parallel sessions. These can also be used as boardrooms for smaller meetings (10-20 people).

Outdoor Locations: Terraces overlooking the golf course and hills for receptions, lunches, or team-building activities outdoors. In summer, plenary sessions can also take place in the open air.

Experience Pavilion: A dedicated space for workshops, masterclasses, wine tastings, and creative sessions. With flexible setup, it can be used for product presentations, brainstorming sessions, or team challenges.

Technically, everything will be at the highest level: fiber-optic internet with redundant connections, state-of-the-art video conference systems for hybrid events, professional audio systems, digital signage, and a dedicated technical team.

Incentive Travel and Team Building

For incentive travel – reward trips for a company’s top performers – Antognolla is perfect. The experience combines:

Golf Tournaments: Corporate golf tournaments on a Championship Course are a highlight. The resort can organize complete tournaments (shotgun start, scoring, prize ceremony, gala dinner).

Wellness Programs: Spa days, yoga retreats, detox programs as rewards or for work-life balance initiatives.

Culinary Experiences: Private wine tastings, truffle-hunting excursions followed by truffle dinners, cooking classes with renowned chefs.

Team Challenges: From orienteering in the forest to vineyard rallies to cooking competitions – creative team-building activities strengthen cohesion.

Cultural Program: Private tours of Assisi, Perugia, or Orvieto, possibly with exclusive access to normally closed locations (e.g., private palazzi, wine cellars).

Services for MICE Clients

Six Senses Antognolla will have a dedicated events manager to assist with planning and execution. Services include:

• Detailed proposal creation and event planning
• Technical consultation and equipment provision
• Catering planning (from coffee breaks to gala dinners)
• Transportation coordination (airport transfers, shuttles)
• Activity organization (golf, spa, excursions)
• Personalization (room branding, customized menus, individual programs)
• Post-event support (feedback, billing, follow-up)

Sample Programs

2-Day Executive Retreat (20 people):

Day 1: Arrival at noon, lunch, afternoon session in boardroom (strategy meeting), free time for golf or spa, dinner in castle with wine tasting.

Day 2: Morning yoga, breakfast, morning session (creative workshops), lunch, truffle hunting and outdoor team building, closing dinner, departure next morning.

3-Day Incentive Trip (50 people):

Day 1: Arrival, welcome aperitif, golf tournament (shotgun start), spa time for non-golfers, gala dinner with prize ceremony.

Day 2: Free morning (golf rounds, spa, hiking), joint lunch, afternoon: cultural excursion to Assisi with guide, return, aperitif, dinner at La Boiola restaurant.

Day 3: Cooking class workshop, cooking and lunch together, departure.

Combination Possibilities

Antognolla combines excellently with other Italian destinations:

Rome (2 hours): Conference in Rome + Incentive in Antognolla

Florence (2 hours): Cultural days in Florence + Golf/Wellness in Antognolla

Tuscany: Wine tour through Chianti + Conference in Antognolla

Multi-location events are also conceivable: keynote in Perugia, breakout sessions in Antognolla, gala in a historic palazzo.

Residences – Owning Paradise

In addition to the hotel, 17 exclusive villas and apartments are being developed as Six Senses Branded Residences. These are available for purchase and offer the opportunity to live permanently in the resort or use it as a vacation home, while the property is rented out by Six Senses management in the owner’s absence (with income for the owner).

The residences are designed as Borgo villas – modern interpretations of traditional Umbrian architecture. Each villa has private terraces, infinity pools, gardens, and spectacular views. Interior design is by Italian design studio A2Zen and offers two nature-inspired color palettes (olive groves or vineyards). High-quality materials (natural stone, wood, handcrafted ceramics), sustainable details, and cutting-edge technology combine to create timeless elegant living spaces.

Owners have full access to all resort facilities: spa, restaurants, golf (with membership conditions), concierge service 24/7, housekeeping, security. Six Senses also handles property management, so owners don’t need to worry about anything.

Prices and sales start are announced for 2025 with planned occupancy from 2027. International buyers are welcome (subject to Italian property laws).

Culinary and Wine in Umbria

Umbria, often in Tuscany’s shadow, is a gastronomic insider tip. The cuisine is rustic, honest, and based on excellent local products.

Truffles: Umbria is one of Italy’s best truffle regions. Especially black truffles (Tuber melanosporum and aestivum) are abundant. The town of Norcia is the center of truffle culture. October to December is high season.

Meat: Chianina beef (for bistecca), wild boar (cinghiale), lamb, and especially porchetta – whole, spiced suckling pig, slow-roasted.

Pasta: Strangozzi and umbricelli (handmade thick spaghetti), often served with truffles, wild boar ragù, or simply garlic and oil.

Legumes: Lentils from Castelluccio (one of the world’s best varieties), chickpeas, beans.

Olive Oil: Umbrian olive oil is intense, grassy, peppery – one of Italy’s best.

Cheese and Charcuterie: Pecorino, ricotta, norcineria (charcuterie from Norcia).

Wine: Umbria produces excellent wines. Sagrantino di Montefalco (a powerful, tannic red wine), Torgiano Rosso Riserva (also red, more elegant), and Orvieto Classico (a fresh white wine) are the most famous. Wineries Lungarotti, Arnaldo Caprai, and Castello di Montefalco are top producers.

Culture and Attractions Around Antognolla

Assisi (30 km): The birthplace of Saint Francis is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Basilica of San Francesco with frescoes by Giotto and Cimabue is a masterpiece. The medieval hilltop town is picturesque and spiritual.

Perugia (25 km): Umbria’s capital is a vibrant university city. Etruscan walls, medieval alleys, Palazzo dei Priori, and the famous Perugina chocolate factory are highlights. The Umbria Jazz Festival takes place in July – one of Europe’s largest jazz festivals.

Orvieto (70 km): This city on a tufa plateau is spectacular. The Duomo (cathedral) is considered one of Italy’s most beautiful Gothic buildings. The Pozzo di San Patrizio (well) is an engineering marvel.

Spoleto (60 km): A charming city with Roman theater, Romanesque cathedral, and the Festival dei Due Mondi (Festival of the Two Worlds) every summer – music, theater, art.

Gubbio (50 km): Medieval city on a mountainside with well-preserved palaces and a Roman theater. The Corsa dei Ceri (candle race) is a traditional festival.

Todi, Spello, Montefalco: Smaller towns, each with its own character, all very photogenic and less touristy.

Practical Information

Best Time to Visit: Golf is possible year-round. The most pleasant months are April-June and September-October (20-25°C, little rain). July-August can be hot (30-35°C) but manageable. November-March is cooler (10-15°C) but can be mild – ideal for golfers preferring peace. Some rainy days possible.

Getting There: Fly to Perugia (PEG), Rome (FCO), or Florence (FLR), then rental car. By car from Northern Europe via A1 motorway (Milan-Rome), exit at Orte or Valdichiana.

Language: Italian. English spoken in tourist facilities. German less common but possibly available at the resort.

Currency: Euro.

Dress Code Golf: Golf attire required (polo shirts, golf trousers/shorts of appropriate length). Soft spikes mandatory. No jeans or T-shirts on the course.

Reservations: Golf reservations and for resort information and MICE inquiries: info@sportmeeting.de

Conclusion: Antognolla – Where Golf, History, and Luxury Meet

Antognolla is more than just a golf course – it’s an experience that unites history, nature, sport, and luxury in a unique synthesis. The three-time award-winning best golf course in Italy offers golfers of all abilities a challenging and aesthetically impressive round in a landscape reminiscent of Renaissance paintings.

With the development of Six Senses Antognolla Resort, Antognolla is becoming one of Italy’s most exclusive destinations – for golfers, wellness seekers, cultural travelers, and demanding business guests alike. The combination of a renovated medieval castle, state-of-the-art wellness and conference infrastructure, exceptional gastronomy, and the peaceful, authentic location in Italy’s green heart is unparalleled.

For MICE clients, Antognolla offers an ambiance without equal: meetings in a castle, golf tournaments at championship level, team building in Umbrian nature, and gala dinners overlooking a landscape that has inspired artists and thinkers for centuries. The combination of exclusivity, flexibility, and the connection of business and relaxation makes Antognolla the ideal choice for companies wanting to offer their events or incentive trips something truly special.

Whether you come for a long golf weekend, spend a week on wellness and culture, host a corporate conference, or invest in one of the residences – Antognolla offers experiences that will be remembered. In an era when true exclusivity has become rare, Antognolla remains a place that values quality, authenticity, and beauty over quantity and mass tourism.

We contribute to sports sponsorship through TeamCoin with every booking.

Benvenuti ad Antognolla – Welcome to Umbria’s best-kept secret, where golf, history, and la dolce vita meet.