ABOUT Susan, THE OWNER
Ten years ago I came here alone, a single woman, and fell in love with Umbria and especially Podere Vigliano. Without knowing a word of Italian I made this my home and embarked on the amazingly fun adventure of restoring my 250 year old farmhouse in the old way. Everything about Italy and Umbria has been so transformative. The landscape is magnificent, but most of all the Italian people exude the beauty, warmth, and pace of the land. When I first came to Umbria after the end of my long marriage I felt renewed and my spirit so free that it seemed I could do and be anything in Italy. Soon after, my former husband passed away, and my responsibilities to my children still in high school made it so I wasn't able to spend as much time here. A house needs to be lived in so I started sharing my home with guests so that they too could experience the beauty and love I have here as well. This way I feel always connected to my home in Italy.
Italy brings out the romance in everyone, and after 12 years of being on my own, my American boyfriend, Greg, flew over from California to get down on one knee and propose marriage on my terrace. I accepted! With all the time spent in Italy I was sure I would marry an Italian, and who would guess I was to fall in love in California ? So many times I dreamt of love on that terrace under the night sky looking up at the lights of Monteleone, drinking local sangiovese wine. It was perfect that his declaration of love was on that very terrace where my dreams soared and my heart opened. Now I have a partner to share in this beautiful life here and in California. Between the two of us we have four lovely young adult children, my two, Steve and Katie; and his two, Kendall and Courtney.
I steal away to Italy as often and long as possible. I have lead many customized tours and love to explore the countryside and bring my discoveries to others. I am an avid cyclist, triathlete, and outdoor enthusiast who believes anything you do outside is always best. Hence, life in the Italian countryside suits me perfectly.
