Are you dreaming of life in a quaint, traditional Italian village? In recent years quite a few villlages in Italy have been granted government funding to attract more tourism and business to the area.

Have you ever heard of an “albergo diffuso”? It’s a recent concept adopted in European countries such as Italy, which employs an old method of using restored houses for tourism. If you’re dreaming of village life in Italy, it’s a great idea for investment or just to keep you busy. It’s also perfect for retirees looking to maintain an active life, as all you have to do is manage the property’s upkeep in between guests.

The “albergo diffuso” method

Some houses in Italian villages, mountain towns and countryside are classed as too small for modern living so are available for less than €50,000. The low price takes into consideration the funds needed to restore these properties.

The Italian term “albergo diffuso” is a concept used to represent these homes, which are usually scattered around the village and often only consist of a bedroom and bathroom.

“Albergo diffuso” roughly translates as ‘widespread hotel. Think of it as a hotel model scattered across homes throughout the village, within walking distance of each other.

This type of accommodation is available to let, just like a hotel. If you’re looking to move to an Italian village, it’s possibly the most authentic experience you can get and is worth a try.

Although the Albergo diffuso” rooms are spread around the village, the villagers treat it like a hotel so they’re run by locals and will usually have a hotel reception somewhere in the centre.

 

The benefits of the “albergo diffuso”

The diffusion of “albergo diffuso” is a result of countries looking to drive tourism in small towns and to respect the growing sustainability concerns.

This type of hotel structure brings community to local villagers as they require management and upkeep. If you’re looking to invest in a property and run it like a hotel, there are a few requirements to be aware of. Each region in Italy has its own rules and requirements for new levels of diffuso hotels.

 

Could you be an “albergo diffuso” manager?

If you’re interested in the idea of village life in Italy and these hotel-type properties your first point of call should be to visit a few. The Alberghi Diffusi National Association (ADi) is available for all your questions and there’s a downloadable eBook on the website.

Why not browse available homes on Rightmove Overseas? There’s over a thousand properties under €120,000!

 

Where is the “albergo diffuso” concept already operating?

Sardinia was the first region in Italy to recognise and support the “albergo diffuso” method of widespread hotels. Sardinia is an island separate from mainland Italy, surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea. It’s known for its unique culture which combines low-key village life and sophistication.

A quick Google search tells us that “albergo diffuso” rooms are available for as little as £44 per night on the northwest coast of Sardinia, increasing slightly on the east coast

Piemonte was one of the last regions in Italy to approve the law. It’s worth noting the distance between houses matters, so keep that in mind if you’re buying here. Piemonte runs the border between France and Italy. It’s renowned for its wines and fall truffles as well as proximity to the Alps.

Prices in Piemonte are reasonable, but rather high for mainland Spain, the further north you go, prices increase. But a quick search tells us the average is between £80-90 a night.

Emilia Romagna is one of the most developed regions in Europe, but that doesn’t mean it’s without villages and quaint towns with “albergo diffuso” to you discover local areas. There are several “albergo diffuso” operating in Verruchio and the ancient village of Romagna.

Prices in Emilia Romagna vary, but a quick search tells us the average price per night is around £65. It’s a great place to experience village life in Italy.

These are just a few locations with established laws concerning diffuso hotels. If you’re interested in learning more about this method of renting or letting out property, visit one in Italy for an authentic experience, or head to the ADi for more information.

And don’t forget to check the local law regarding diffuso hotels. Some regions are yet to approve the regulations, so it’s worth a check on the ADi for the most up-to-date info!