About host

We are Anglo-Italian sisters, Deborah and Karen, with roots in Naples and Yorkshire.

Our late mother, Lyn, loved Umbria, and some of our happiest family memories were made here. After 45 years, we decided to return to Italy with our father Ciro and Karen’s husband Marco.

After much searching, we chose this house in Monterubiaglio, a village we fell in love with for its beauty and charm. Restoration began in 2023, and in 2025 we made it our permanent home — and so La Rana e L’Ulivo came to life.

The house is shaped by the women who came before us: from our Nonna Maria, a love of family, food and recipes passed through generations; from our Zia Enza, an appreciation for beautiful linens, handmade pieces and artisan skills; and from our mother Lyn — who came to Italy for love — a passion for life, languages, curiosity and adventure.

Their influence is woven throughout La Rana e L’Ulivo — in the house, the things we have chosen, the food and experiences we share, and our belief that hospitality is about much more than somewhere to sleep.

La Rana e L’Ulivo is run by us as sisters, with Ciro, Marco, Muffin our dog, and our cats Tigger and Sooty all part of family life here. We live year-round in our own separate home on the upper floors, so we’re close by if you need us, while your house and garden remain completely private for you to enjoy.

We look forward to welcoming you soon!

Deborah & Karen