The birthplace of the Duke of Urbino -- portrayed by Piero della Francesca in his famous oil portrait -- the Castello di Petroia is steeped in medieval history. The castle is comprised of three buildings: the Major Castellare, the main building with medieval halls and a library; the smaller Minor Castellare, where the castle's guardian's once lived; and the 66-foot Tower, which has a three-tiered guest room. The 13 individually-decorated rooms have historic flourishes such as stone arches, wood beams, and frescoed ceilings, making for a truly romantic vibe.

The 800-acre wooded estate includes footpaths, olive groves, and a seasonal pool. It's a serene and romantic spot that attracts mostly couples; with a removed location and a lack of amenities, the hotel does not particularly cater to families, although they have been known to visit at times.

Castello di Petroia is located in the rolling hills of Umbria, just east of the SR298 road. Gubbio -- with popular sights such as the Roman Theater, Church of San Francesco, and Piazza Grande -- is about a 20-minute drive north, and Perugia is 30 minutes southwest. Assisi, with its train station and Cathedral of St. Francis, is about a 40-minute drive south. Overall, the location is good for travelers who want the peace and quiet of nature, and don't mind being slightly removed from major sights.

The Perugia San Francesco d'Assisi–Umbria International Airport is about a 30-minute drive away.

The 13 elegant rooms at Castello di Petroia are individually decorated and come in six different categories, including suites. Rooms, ranging from 323 to 700 square feet, are spacious and decor includes antiques, original medieval stone arches, 16th-century oak wood-beamed, frescoed or mansard ceilings, four-poster or canopy beds, and pearl mosaic tiling. Most rooms have views of the green Chiascio Valley, and some rooms have whirlpool tubs. The room in the 66-foot Tower has a private terrace.

Room amenities include minibars, wired Internet (fees may apply), and flat-screen TVs with digital channels. Guests can order special in-room extras such as chocolates, champagne, rose petals, private dinners, and massages to up the romance.

Set on a lush 800-acre estate, the hilltop Castello di Petroia has numerous footpaths through its surrounding park and pristine woods. The neighboring farm of Petroia has herds of pure-bred Chianina cattle grazing in the open pastures. Guests can follow up their strolls with a refreshing swim in the seasonal outdoor pool, surrounded by olive trees, or take in views of the Umbrian countryside from the terrace.

A breakfast buffet is served in an elegant book-lined, wood-beamed room. The restaurant serves local cuisine and seafood in a romantic space with a fireplace, stone walls, boxed wooden ceiling, and candlelight. Limited room service is available, and free Wi-Fi is available only in public spaces.

The hotel lacks a fitness center and spa, but guests can arrange for private in-room massages.