Villa in Istria County
Reasons to book
About this villa rental
A 16th-century Venetian country estate, fully restored with rare attention to every detail - recognized by Architectural Digest (AD100, 2023). Eight bedrooms across the main house and stone outbuildings, big private pool, indoor and outdoor kitchen, olive trees and a garden of 3,600 m². Star Link Internet in the main house. Sleeps up to 16 guests in the quiet hills of northern Istria. For families and larger groups who value privacy, space, craftsmanship and the kind of house that rewards being lived in slowly.
The Space:
Casa Ceppi***** is a 16th-century Venetian country estate above Grožnjan, meticulously restored - an architectural project recognized by Architectural Digest (AD100, 2023). Exposed beams, Italian terracotta floors, thick stone walls, and additions so softly made that the original character is never overshadowed. Booked as a whole, the entire estate is yours: main house, gate house, gardens and pool - no shared spaces, no other guests. Ideal for families, milestone celebrations, and groups seeking a private country week.
There's wall-cooling and underfloor heating throughout the house. The wall-cooling works better than air-conditioning in large houses like these and can perfectly regulate the temperature inside the house.
**Bedrooms & Bathrooms**
Eight refined bedrooms - seven in the main house and one in the gate house. Five ensuite bathrooms plus two separate ones. All covered with polished concrete and natural stone; two have a bathtub. Cot on request.
**Living & Dining**
Three seating areas: a formal salon in the main house, a large room with a fireplace, and a smaller family room. On the ground floor, you will find a dining room with a fireplace and a table large enough for everyone to sit together.
**Kitchen**
Fully equipped for cooking at scale: oven, microwave, coffee machine, two dishwashers, three fridges, and everything you need for meals with friends and family.
**Garden & Estate**
Mature olive trees, herb garden, and lavender-lined terraces. Shaded corners and quiet spots throughout the grounds. Part of the 16th-century courtyard ruins remain as they were found, planted with greenery and covered with wilde vines. Sun loungers, parasols, and outdoor dining areas for all guests.
**Pool & Outdoor kitchen**
A 14-meter private pool forms the heart of the estate, a place for swimming and sunbathing, as well as for enjoying the surrounding tranquility. The spacious pool house features a small kitchen for snacks and drinks, changing rooms, and a toilet. An outdoor shower is located right nearby.
**Good to know**
"Star Link" internet is available at the manor house. This house deserves to be treated with respect. Guests who arrive with this attitude are usually already planning their return by the time they leave.
**Group size**
Casa Ceppi***** suits groups of up to 16. Smaller groups (up to 8) can also book for a better price through our separate listing - please ask. With smaller bookings, only part of the bedrooms are opened; either way, the full estate - gardens, pool, kitchen, living rooms - is at your disposal.
Guest Access:
The entire estate is yours during your stay - the house, the pool, the gardens and the terraces. No shared spaces, no other guests, no host on the grounds. Our local host will just meet you in person for check-in and check-out.
The Neighborhood:
Casa Ceppi***** is nestled in the quiet and hilly landscape of northern Istria. Still, there's so much to discover in the area. You will find several cozy restaurants, Konobas and supermarkets within a 15-minute drive. Istria is famous for it's truffles, wine farms and within a 30 minute drive you'll be at the coast for a refreshing dip into the Adriatic Sea. Unique hilltop villages like Oprtalj, Grožnjan and Motovun are reached within 15-20 minutes as well.
Getting Around:
A car is essential. Around 1 hour and 15 minutes from Pula Airport, 1 hour and 30 minutes from Trieste Airport and aprox. 2 hours to Ljubljana Airport. You'll receive detailed arrival instructions after booking.
Other Things to Note:
Ideal for 8-16 guests. Smaller groups (up to 8) can book through our separate listing for a better price - please ask. Well-behaved children of all ages welcome. Cots and highchairs on request. One dog considered on request. Casa Ceppi is set in a quiet valley. Out of respect for the neighbours and for the estate itself, we do not accept bookings for parties, corporate events, or celebrations involving external guests. Quiet hours between 22.00 - 7.00.
Interaction with Guests:
Every stay at Casa Ceppi is personally reviewed and confirmed by the owner, usually within 24 hours of the booking request. A slower process than instant book, but it means every stay is welcomed by someone who cares deeply about this house. During your stay, our local team is available for anything you need - restaurant recommendations, private chef, wine tastings, a boat day on the coast. Close by, never in the way.
