The ultimate summer rental: Château Bolza

It’s not often that a property can appeal to you on this many levels. Château Bolza is equal parts breathtaking and approachable and it somehow manages to remain humble despite its grandiosity.

Perched atop a large hill, and watching over its surroundings like a father would his 16-year-old daughter, Château Bolza dominates its 400 hectare Italian countryside. Made up of out-houses, barns and even a golf-course, this huge expanse of land is quite unprecedented for a property of this size, although it is of course the chateau itself that’s the star of the show.

Whilst the numbers won’t blow you away – it has 5 bedrooms – Château Bolza has practically everything you could ever need, or want. Its home cinema is bettered only by its wine cellar, and with a billiard room, gym and heated swimming pool, there really is something for everyone.

Those with an eye for design will be right at home here. A refreshing lack of opulence is matched by a striking minimalism, ensuring that everything in the chateau is there for a reason. There are no outlandish excesses here. Marrying the traditional with the contemporary, materials used include terracotta, muted stone and brushed stainless steel; the results are nothing short of stunning.