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I
taly really has got it all! To begin with it’s one vast art emporium, bursting with classical paintings and sculptures,
fabulous Renaissance buildings and medieval hilltop villages. To be honest the story really has not stopped since
the Romans, and their modern counterparts are accomplished hosts, who understand the better things in life.
The country also has great style from cutting edge fashion to fast cars, and the food
is simply sublime. As if this was not enough there is also the sheer diversity of
scenery - from snow-clad Alpine slopes and Tuscan hillsides to sun-
drenched Sicilian beaches. The truth is, and this is reflected in its enduring
popularity, “La Bella Italia” is in a league of its own.
Join us as we embark on a whistle-stop tour of some of her favourite
regions, and in the course of our journey we hope to highlight
some wonderful, yet intimate hotels to add that extra fizz to the
glass! We will begin with the three classic cities and then into the
countryside and finally onwards to her coast and islands...
V
enice, more than any other city in the world is a living
museum. Although its whole reason for existence is now firmly
entrenched in a struggle against nature to preserve its historic
buildings, the romance of the floating city is unquestionable. Every
classical building has a treasure to reveal and every street, alleyway
and waterway delivers surprises. To just meander without a care in
the world is the best way to sample her delights.
And if you are so lucky as to stay for a few nights in Venice then be
sure to book into one of the city’s treasures.
Ca’Sagredo
, on the
Grand Canal, is a 15th century Palace that still preserves the
untouched beauty of an ancient noble Residence. It oozes romance
while the opulently frescoed ballroom and lounge echoes with epic
events of the past. Just gliding up the imposing marble staircase;
whilst resisting a tap on a cherub’s peachy cheek, feels positively
regal. Ca’ Sagredo’s views of the canal life and the historical Rialto
Market opposite are storybook scenes of old. The hotel’s 42
magnificently appointed rooms and suites are a seriously suggestive
sight to behold with classic Venetian styling.
Art lovers be warned: there are so many treasures here, it’s easy to
forget the outside world. But there’s always the hotel’s panoramic
waterside L’Alcova restaurant with terrace over the Grand Canal to
remind you, serving dishes that are a celebration of Italy on a plate.
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A journey through her most popular cities and regions
Palace on the Grand Canal
Don’t just visit Venice ...live it!