In 2008 Stef and Nico (both male and happily married, to each other fortunately) made the big leap forwards and move to Italy.

Permanently!

They had no choice, as they had sold their house in The Netherlands to buy the Italian one. But they were also eager to start a new life, encounter new possibilities, start their B&B, enjoy the Italian climate, food and landscapes.

Stef and Nico had played with this idea of changing their lives for some time, but it really became something serious when they decided to stay in Pavia for half a year, partly for study, partly as a sabbatical from an office job. Once in Pavia they discovered the unspoiled and beautiful Oltrepo Pavese area, reminiscent of Tuscany with its smooth hills, medieval villages and castles and covered with vineyards. Breathtaking views everywhere. They started looking for the perfect house and were very lucky to find it quite soon.

A year of building passed by in which the house was adapted to suit its B&B purpose. A large terrace was constructed, from which the guests can admire the panoramic view, and a pool was made to be able to refresh (and enjoy the view) during the long hot summers. And now Villa I Due Padroni, as the owners named the place, is up and running! The B&B got is name as they are dog-owners and lovers and are the proud “padroni” of their little wolf called Thomas. This also means that Villa I Due Padroni is dog-friendly.

The hosts already were happy to meet quite a few guests already (from all over Europe) and found that they were very enthusiastic about the place. The Oltrepo Pavese offers tranquility, rest, relaxation and the authentic Italy. People are not used to tourists (yet) and you won’t see many of them during a stay at our Villa. This is why Stef and Nico call the experience of staying here “Italy Unplugged”.

The Oltrepò Pavese is situated in the south of Lombardy and offers the possibility to walk, hike, cycle, MTB. You start straight from Villa I Due Padroni and are allowed to cross the vineyards at liberty. Gastronomy is at its truest Italian here, and local wine can be tasted everywhere. Prices are moderate. Milan, Parma, Cremona and Genua  are not far off and neither is the Mediterranean. The Certosa di Pavia cloister is a must see.

Although they still have limited experience in the hospitality business, Stef and Nico  are full of energy and enthusiasm and sure to make your stay a pleasant one. They would really like to share their fascination for this part of Italy with you.

Stef & Nico 

Website: www.duepadroni.it