Architect brothers Gian Carlo and Matteo Primatesta were venturing into unknown territory when they purchased an abandoned rural settlement on Piedmont’s Lake Orta. But their creative vision of a sophisticated holiday hideaway that reflects quiet luxury and Italian dolce vita at its finest was clear – and the result is breathtaking. Their secret of success: a penchant for silent aesthetics.
Just an hour north of Milan, not far from the Swiss border, the narrow, barely 13 km-long Lake Orta shimmers in the protected embrace of Monte Rosa. The second highest peak of the Alps rises 4,634 meters into the sky, framed by the contrasting landscape of Piedmont and its many cultural treasures.
While the tourist crowds in Northern Italy flock to Lake Maggiore, and spotlights shine on glamorous Lake Como, Lake Orta remains a relatively unknown treasure to most of the world. On its eastern shore – just above the historical center of Orta San Giulio – the elegant hamlet La Darbia is quietly tucked away, surrounded by a lush, Mediterranean park designed by landscape architect Anna Regge, as well as lovingly cultivated Nebbiolo-vineyards. With a breathtaking view of the shimmering lake and peaks of Monte Rosa, the holiday hideaway redefines the connotation of luxury with soulful aesthetics and a truly empathetic hospitality.
La Darbia’s restaurant, La Cucina, and the idyllic terrace and cocktail bar amidst the organic vegetable garden have become a jealously kept secret for discerned epicureans – from Milan to Hamburg, and New York to Helsinki. Chef Matteo Monfrinotti shares the property’s connection to the region and emphasizes the culinary identity of Piedmont. Regional ingredients, genuine dishes, gourmet level – that’s what La Cucina is all about.
The 20 suite apartments, as well as the restaurant, emanate an understated elegance that does not need the loud notes to impress. “Sobrio”, as the Italians would say. Simple, and therefore intriguing. The architecture of La Darbia reflects the simple, formal language of Piemont’s rural buildings and integrates local materials, Mediterranean vegetation, and unadorned handicrafts. The essence of this stretch of land, its cultural history and rural typologies became the project’s architectural and conceptual leitmotif. The chromatic concept of the interiors picks up on the nuanced color palette of nature. Introverted towards the forest and overgrown with ivy, all the 20 apartments open onto the garden, with vineyards and a heated saltwater pool. On the sundeck, you can enjoy a yoga session while your gaze wanders all the way to the lake and surrounding mountains.
With the makeover of the property’s apartments, and an extension of the wine cellar dedicated to small, exclusive gourmet gatherings, the property has recently celebrated its 10th anniversary. Those wishing to experience a stay at La Darbia, or to get a table at La Cucina, must book well in advance. It’s no wonder that the primary concern of enlightened aficionados who have experienced its intimate magic is: Don’t spread the word!
Photography by Tobias Kaser.
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