ITALY
Villa d’Este (Lake Como)
Expert Opinion:
A 16th‑century palace turned iconic hotel, renowned for its timeless elegance and aristocratic charm. It has long attracted royal families, Hollywood stars, and the political elite.
- Location: Cernobbio, along the shores of Lake Como, Lombardy.
- Transfer: Approximately 50 minutes from Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP).
- Dining: The Veranda restaurant serves Mediterranean cuisine with a world‑class wine list, while the legendary Canova Bar offers exquisite cocktails.
- Entertainment: Enjoy classic Riva boat rides, tennis, golf, and private tours of the historic villas dotting Lake Como.
- Beach/Pool: A unique floating pool set directly on Lake Como.
- Feature: Lush gardens, elegant fountains, Renaissance frescoes, and an atmosphere steeped in history.
Lefay Resort & SPA Lago di Garda
(Lake Garda)
Expert Opinion:
One of Europe’s premier wellness resorts, offering holistic detox programs, world‑class spa treatments, and breathtaking views over Lake Garda.
- Location: Gargnano, on the western shore of Lake Garda in Lombardy.
- Transfer: Approximately 1 hour from Verona Airport.
- Dining: Gastronomic excellence at La Limonaia, featuring light detox menus paired with local wines.
- Entertainment: Indulge in spa therapies, yoga, meditation sessions, hiking, and wine tours throughout the region.
- Beach/Pool: Three panoramic pools, including a stunning infinity pool.
- Feature: An expansive 3,800 m² spa area inspired by principles of Chinese medicine and aromatherapy.
Grand Hotel des Iles Borromées
(Lake Maggiore)
Expert Opinion:
A symbol of aristocratic luxury, this hotel gracefully blends Belle Époque style with modern comforts along the serene shores of Lake Maggiore.
- Location: Stresa, on the western shore of Lake Maggiore in Piedmont.
- Transfer: Approximately 50 minutes from Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP).
- Dining: A refined gastronomic restaurant offers panoramic lake views and dishes featuring delicate white truffles.
- Entertainment: Experience yacht cruises, golf, tennis, and exclusive tours of the Borromeo Islands.
- Beach/Pool: Both open-air and indoor pools are complemented by thermal baths.
- Feature: A legendary destination where even Ernest Hemingway once found inspiration.
Hotel Eden – Dorchester Collection (Rome)
Expert Opinion:
An epitome of Roman prestige, this hotel marries historical grandeur with modern luxury in the heart of the Eternal City.
- Location: Centrally located in Rome, just steps from the Spanish Steps.
- Transfer: Approximately 40 minutes from Fiumicino Airport.
- Dining: Dine at La Terrazza, a Michelin‑starred restaurant offering panoramic dinners with captivating views of Rome.
- Entertainment: Enjoy private Vatican tours, personalized shopping experiences, and rejuvenating spa treatments.
- Beach/Pool: No pool available.
- Feature: Unmatched service and an unbeatable central location epitomize the Dorchester Collection’s standards.
Palazzo Fiuggi (Fiuggi, Lazio)
Expert Opinion:
A leading medical spa resort in Europe, specializing in detox and anti‑aging programs designed to rejuvenate body and mind.
- Location: Fiuggi, in the Lazio region.
- Transfer: Approximately 1 hour from Rome Airport.
- Dining: Custom‑crafted dietary programs that artfully blend Italian culinary traditions with wellness-focused cuisine.
- Entertainment: Benefit from therapeutic spa treatments, healing thermal waters, medical consultations, and tailored fitness programs.
- Beach/Pool: Offers both indoor and outdoor thermal pools.
- Feature: Celebrated since the 14th century, the healing waters of Fiuggi are renowned for their restorative properties.
Four Seasons Hotel Firenze (Florence)
Expert Opinion:
Florence’s most luxurious retreat, set in a historic 15th‑century palace with a private park, offering an immersive experience in art and history.
- Location: Florence, just a short distance from the city center.
- Transfer: Approximately 20 minutes from Florence Airport.
- Dining: Experience culinary excellence at Il Palagio, a Michelin‑starred restaurant perfect for al fresco dining.
- Entertainment: Enjoy curated city tours, indulgent spa sessions, and personalized shopping tours along Via Tornabuoni.
- Beach/Pool: An outdoor pool nestled within a private garden.
- Feature: Exquisite Renaissance interiors and frescoes that echo the city’s rich artistic heritage.
Aman Venice (Venice)
Expert Opinion:
Set within a private 16th‑century palace on the Grand Canal, this exclusive hotel offers an intimate Venetian experience defined by historical charm and refined luxury.
- Location: Venice, gracefully situated along the Grand Canal.
- Transfer: A 20‑minute water taxi ride from Venice Airport.
- Dining: A gourmet restaurant presents a signature menu crafted by a Michelin‑starred chef.
- Entertainment: Discover Venice through private canal tours and exclusive excursions, complemented by serene spa experiences.
- Beach/Pool: No pool is available.
- Feature: Historic halls, majestic marble staircases, and the distinctive Aman style create an atmosphere of timeless elegance.
Mandarin Oriental (Milan)
Expert Opinion:
A magnet for fashion and art enthusiasts, this hotel exudes Milanese chic with its sophisticated design and prime location near Via Montenapoleone.
- Location: In the heart of Milan’s Quadrilatero della Moda.
- Transfer: Approximately 50 minutes from Milan Airport.
- Dining: Savor refined dishes at Seta, a Michelin‑starred restaurant, and enjoy innovative offerings at the Japanese bar.
- Entertainment: Benefit from personal styling sessions, exclusive fashion shows, and rejuvenating spa treatments.
- Beach/Pool: An indoor pool equipped with hydromassage facilities.
- Feature: Elegant design seamlessly blended with the vibrant spirit of Milan.
Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco (Tuscany)
Expert Opinion:
An exclusive wine resort nestled within a historic estate, offering a serene escape amid vineyards and a private golf course.
- Location: Val d’Orcia, Tuscany.
- Transfer: Approximately 2 hours from Florence Airport or 3 hours from Rome Airport.
- Dining: Enjoy Tuscan specialties at Campo del Drago, complemented by wine tastings of Brunello di Montalcino.
- Entertainment: Engage in wine tours, cooking classes, golf, and horseback riding amidst breathtaking scenery.
- Beach/Pool: Two panoramic pools provide a perfect setting for relaxation.
- Feature: Private villas set among rolling vineyards create an idyllic haven for wine and nature enthusiasts.
Terme di Saturnia Natural SPA (Tuscany)
Expert Opinion:
A legendary thermal resort where mineral springs, cherished since Ancient Rome, offer transformative healing experiences.
- Location: Maremma, Tuscany.
- Transfer: Approximately 2.5 hours from Rome Airport.
- Dining: Savor Mediterranean cuisine paired with health‑focused detox programs.
- Entertainment: Indulge in spa treatments, hydrotherapy, golf, and guided wine region tours.
- Beach/Pool: Natural thermal pools maintain a soothing temperature of +37.5°C.
- Feature: Renowned for its therapeutic waters and rejuvenating treatments.
Castello di Reschio (Umbria)
Expert Opinion:
An 11th‑century castle transformed into a luxurious boutique hotel, offering an intimate escape imbued with medieval charm.
- Location: Umbria.
- Transfer: Approximately 2 hours from Florence Airport.
- Dining: Organic, farm‑to‑table Italian cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients.
- Entertainment: Enjoy horseback riding, archery, spa treatments, yoga sessions, and wine tastings.
- Beach/Pool: A panoramic pool with stunning views of the surrounding hills.
- Feature: Complete seclusion and the evocative atmosphere of a medieval castle.
Relais San Maurizio (Piedmont)
Expert Opinion:
A sophisticated spa retreat housed in a former 17th‑century monastery, set among the lush vineyards of the Langhe region.
- Location: Langhe, Piedmont.
- Transfer: Approximately 1.5 hours from Turin Airport.
- Dining: A gastronomic restaurant specializing in truffle‑infused dishes.
- Entertainment: Delight in wine tastings, truffle hunting excursions, spa treatments, and golf.
- Beach/Pool: Enjoy an intimate indoor pool within a cave and an outdoor pool in the garden.
- Feature: Unique spa treatments inspired by grapes and sea salt enhance the overall experience.
Splendido, A Belmond Hotel (Portofino)
Expert Opinion:
An iconic hotel that captures the spirit of the Italian Riviera, frequently graced by international celebrities and connoisseurs of luxury.
- Location: Portofino, Liguria.
- Transfer: Approximately 45 minutes from Genoa Airport.
- Dining: La Terrazza offers Mediterranean cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood.
- Entertainment: Yacht excursions, spa indulgences, tennis, and guided coastal tours enrich your stay.
- Beach/Pool: An outdoor pool with sweeping views of the picturesque bay.
- Feature: A landmark of Italian Riviera charm with an unmistakable aura of glamour.
Borgo Egnazia (Apulia)
Expert Opinion:
A stylish and atmospheric retreat inspired by traditional Apulian architecture, ideal for those seeking both relaxation and cultural enrichment.
- Location: Fasano, Apulia.
- Transfer: Approximately 1 hour from Bari Airport.
- Dining: Due Camini offers authentic Apulian cuisine in a refined setting.
- Entertainment: Enjoy spa facilities, a private beach, culinary masterclasses, and an on‑site golf club.
- Beach/Pool: Multiple pools and an exclusive private beach enhance your leisure experience.
- Feature: Architecture reminiscent of a quaint Apulian village, paired with curated cultural programs.
Il San Pietro di Positano (Positano)
Expert Opinion:
A pinnacle of luxury and seclusion on the Amalfi Coast, seamlessly integrated into the dramatic cliffs of Positano.
- Location: Positano, Campania.
- Transfer: Approximately 1.5 hours from Naples Airport.
- Dining: Zass, a Michelin‑starred restaurant, showcases dishes crafted with the freshest local ingredients.
- Entertainment: Enjoy exclusive yacht cruises, indulgent spa treatments, tennis, and guided coastal tours.
- Beach/Pool: A private beach and a seawater pool offer an intimate seaside retreat.
- Feature: Architecture ingeniously embedded into the cliffs creates unparalleled vistas.
Capri Palace Jumeirah (Capri)
Expert Opinion:
A celebrated icon on the island of Capri, where art, design, and luxury converge to create an unforgettable experience.
- Location: Anacapri, on the enchanting island of Capri.
- Transfer: Approximately 1.5 hours from Naples Airport (via ferry and car).
- Dining: L’Olivo, boasting 2 Michelin stars, sets the standard for culinary artistry.
- Entertainment: Revel in spa treatments, private tours, and bespoke yacht excursions.
- Beach/Pool: An outdoor pool and the exclusive Il Riccio Beach Club provide seaside luxury.
- Feature: Interiors inspired by modern art, enriched by a carefully curated art collection.
Mazzarò Sea Palace (Taormina, Sicily)
Expert Opinion:
A luxurious beachfront haven in the picturesque Mazzarò Bay, perfect for a refined and cozy escape.
- Location: Mazzarò Bay, Taormina, Sicily.
- Transfer: Approximately 50 minutes by car from Catania Airport.
- Dining: Savor Mediterranean and Sicilian specialties at Armònia, while L’Incanto Bar offers signature cocktails and light fare.
- Entertainment: Explore Taormina with guided tours, indulge in yacht cruises, enjoy spa facilities, work out at the gym, and partake in wine tastings.
- Beach/Pool: A private sandy beach and a heated outdoor pool enhance your seaside experience.
- Feature: A prime waterfront location combined with elegant design creates the ideal setting for a romantic, relaxing retreat.
Forte Village Resort (Sardinia)
Expert Opinion:
One of Europe’s finest resorts, offering an expansive array of activities, exceptional dining, and impeccable service—perfect for families and active travelers alike.
- Location: Santa Margherita di Pula, in southern Sardinia.
- Transfer: Approximately 45 minutes by car from Cagliari Airport.
- Dining: With 21 restaurants helmed by Michelin‑starred chefs, enjoy a diverse array of cuisines including Mediterranean, Italian, Asian, and grill specialties.
- Entertainment: From golf and tennis to Chelsea Football Academy programs, water sports, an aqua park, spa indulgences, and evening shows—the options are endless.
- Beach/Pool: A private sandy beach complemented by several pools featuring both seawater and freshwater settings.
- Feature: A sprawling resort complex that masterfully balances relaxation, sport, and gastronomic delights.