OUR STORY

From a holiday villa to the dream of Mauro and Tomasina. A tale of hospitality and love for Elba Island.

Welcome to the section dedicated to the history of our hotel, a place that has been a haven of peace and hospitality on Elba Island for over 60 years.
Through a collection of historical photos, we invite you to relive these moments with us.

Villa Vittone

Our story begins in 1962, when the Vittone family from Biella, eager to create a serene retreat surrounded by nature, decided to purchase a plot of land just steps away from the stunning Fetovaia beach. It was Guido Vittone, in particular, who fell in love with this corner of paradise during an outing with the Italian Alpine Club.

The following year, in 1963, a large villa was built, divided into four apartments to accommodate the four Vittone siblings: Guido, Giuseppe, Nina, and Luigi.

From Guesthouse to Pensione Montemerlo

In 1965, the villa began operating as a guesthouse, welcoming its first visitors in search of tranquility and relaxation. The following year, in 1966, the property was transformed into a small pensione, lovingly managed by Uncle Mario and Aunt Maria, fondly remembered to this day as “the uncles of Montemerlo.” They were the ones who named the pensione, drawing inspiration from their hometown of Montemerlo, a village located in the Euganean Hills.

In 1968, the management of the pensione was passed to Giorgio Francescato from Bordighera, the brother of Maria Francescato in Vittone. He ran the business until 1970, continuing to nurture the warm and welcoming family atmosphere that had become the hallmark of the establishment.

The Dream of Mauro and Tomasina Palmieri

A new chapter in our story began at the end of 1970, when the Palmieri family, represented by the young Mauro and Tomasina, purchased the property. With passion, enthusiasm, and a clear vision, they started transforming the pensione into what we now know as Hotel Montemerlo.

In 1971, Mauro and Tomasina launched their first official season as managers, bringing to life a project that seamlessly combined hospitality, love for the land, and a unique family approach. Since then, Hotel Montemerlo has grown into a beloved destination for those seeking an authentic and relaxing experience on Elba Island.