Hotel Eremito, Umbria: In alignment
It’s a huge luxury to do something for yourself. But it’s an even bigger luxury to recognise that. It can be difficult to do in our hectic daily lives, but there are places that make it easier. It might be strange at first that there are no distractions at the Eremito of the type that we usually like to hold onto. But soon the solitude brings healing.
It was a long journey that Marcello Murzilli took to get here, to this building from the 14th century in the middle of nowhere in hilly green Umbria. He founded jeans brand El Charro in the 1980s, then he travelled around the world in an old sailing boat dating back to 1937. He stopped on the Mexican coast and opened the Hotelito Desconocido eco-resort there. And now he is back in his homeland to enable himself and solo travellers to find the path to their inner selves. Against a backdrop of Gregorian chanting and the sounds of nature, we spoke to the “hermit”.
Marcello, with Eremito you have created a unique place that is vastly different to other hotel concepts. What was your inspiration?
Marcello Murzilli: I worked in the fashion business for many years, it’s a fast-paced and stressful industry. When I got older, I longed for a place where you could get away from the hectic world. A place to find peace. A place with a connection to nature. That’s how Eremito came about.
There are no TVs or Wi-Fi here. Why is that?
Marcello Murzilli: In our modern world, we are constantly connected and it’s hard to simply switch, and not just in the literal sense. At Eremito, we don’t turn the technology on in the first place and give guests the opportunity to focus on what’s really important: nature, themselves and the simplicity of life. This creates space for real relaxation and inner peace.
How would you describe the guests at Eremito?
Marcello Murzilli: They are very different, but they all have one thing in common: the longing for a place where they can unwind and recharge. Many of them are extremely busy in their professional lives and are
looking for a contrast to their stressful daily routines.
What makes the place spiritual for you?
Marcello Murzilli: The spirituality at Eremito is subtle and not associated with a particular religion or practice. It’s more about creating a space in which you can get to know yourself better. The daily routine is simple, meals are vegetarian and the architecture of the building is similar to that of a monastery. Many guests report that they have gained clarity about themselves and their life after their stay.
Which rituals do you carry out at Eremito?
Marcello Murzilli: There are daily meditation sessions and tranquil walks in nature. But it’s often the little things that have the biggest impact – the communal silence during meals or watching the sun as it sets over the hills of Umbria.
What does Eremito mean to you personally?
Marcello Murzilli: It’s more than a hotel project for me. It’s a philosophy of life. It is a place that energises me and I am happy to be able to share this experience with our guests.
