Archive for August, 2010

Top 10 places to see in Italy before you die

August 27th, 2010

Top selection of places in Italy to see at least once in life


I have a long, endless list of places to see before I die. I thing everyone has its personal list of places which have captured his interest. If Italy is in your top list of places to see before you die, I would like to suggest you some nice places to visit in my home country. Here’s the top ten of not-to-be-missed places in Italy …. Enjoy!

1.    Walking through the historical centre of Florence, Tuscany

View of FlorenceCredits: Flickr

Florence is the first one on my places-to-see-before-you-die list and it’s not by chance. Have a stroll in the historical centre through the most important monuments of the city, treading the same streets once travelled by Leonardo, Donatello, Giotto, Botticelli…really unforgettable moments.

2.    St. Peters’ Square and Basilica, Rome, Lazio

St. Peter's SquareCredits: Flickr

Designed by the popular architect Gian Lorenzo Bernini, St. Peters’ Square lies in front of the Basilica, the biggest existing Christian church.  Rome is the city which holds the main concentration of historical and architectonical heritage of the world. How can you miss visiting the Eternal City? (Especially if you’ve just read Angels and Demons …)

3.    Valley of the Temples, Agrigento, Sicily
Valley of the Temples, Agrigento

Whith its 1300 hectares it is the biggest archaeological site in the world and was named World Heritage by Unesco in 1997. The Valley is composed by seven temples as well as sanctuaries, necropolis, fortifications…The visit at sunset is suggested, both to enjoy the romantic atmosphere and to avoid the sultry weather, really strong there during hot summer days!

4.    Boat trip to Cala Luna, Sardinia
Cala Luna, Sardinia

Cala Luna is maybe the most fascinating cove of the island. It is reachable by boat from Cala Gonone (where you can also visit the beautiful Caves) or by land through a coastal path. The clearness of its waters is simply amazing. Cala Luna needs to be present in my places-to see-before-you-die list!

5.    The Trulli of Alberobello, Puglia
AlberobelloCredits: Flickr

The ancient white buildings are typical of south-centre of Puglia and the Trulli of Alberobello are the most popular. Just spend one night in a Trullo and experience the genuine Apulian atmosphere!

6.    Aosta Valley Castles, Valle d’Aosta
Fénis Castle

Besides the amazing landscapes (the smallest Italian region is surrounded by the highest European mountains), Aosta Valley is popular for its medieval castles.  Issogne, Fénis, Verrès…you’ll be spoiled for choice!

7.    Siena and the Palio, Tuscany

The Palio of SienaCredits: Flickr

The medieval city of Siena is a popular tourist destination in Tuscany. If you decide to visit it during the Palio, one of the most ancient horse races in the world, you’ll kill two birds with a stone!

8.    The Sea Stacks of Capri, Campania
Capri, CampaniaCredits: Capri Hotel

Capri is located in the Gulf of Naples (to be visited as well!) and it’s a well-known holiday destination. The three Sea Stacks that characterize the island rise from the deep blue sea and create a wonderful visual effect.

9. Cinque terre (The five lands), Liguria
The five lands, LiguriaCredits: Flickr

Inserted on World Heritage List by UNESCO, the five lands are located in the northern Italian region of Liguria. They are represented by a rugged stretch of coast of the Italian Riviera and include five villages (anciently called five lands). Due to its long isolation, the five lands have kept their authentic and ancient traditions.

10. Venice, City of Love
Mask of VeniceCredits: Flickr

City of love, city of canals and city of bridges, Venice is the dream of lovers looking for romantic moments as well as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. I think it’s the perfect place to end my places-to-see-before-you-die list. Don’t you agree?

What are in your opinion the most beautiful spots in Italy? Do you have a personal places-to-see-before-you-die list that you would like to share whit us? Feel free to comment!

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Top 5 Honeymoon Hotels in Italy

August 18th, 2010

Suggestions for romantic honeymoons in the most fascinating hotels of Italy 

Honeymoon: which is the best destination for the dreamiest trip of your life?

Lying on the beach or discovering a new city from side to side? Relaxing on a cruise or enjoying an adventure safari in Africa? The options for your Honeymoon are many, the possibilities are endless. One thing is sure: the Hotel always makes the difference. Many people decide to spend their honeymoon in Italy, which is considered by many one of the most romantic destinations in the world. But which hotels in Italy are Honeymooners Friendly? Here some tips for you!

Villa Ducale – 4* Hotel in Sicily

Romantic hotel in traditional Sicilian style, located in one of the most renowned locations in Sicily: Taormina. Villa Ducale is definitely one of the most romantic hotels in the region, the ideal choice for honeymooners looking for a pleasant stay in the island.

Caruso – 5* Hotel in Campania

For couples who know and love the special beauty of Campania, what better place than the Amalfi Coast as perfect destination for the most romantic honeymoon? Hotel Caruso offers stunning landscapes (almost all the rooms have a private sea view terrace) and disposes of a heated infinity pool overlooking the Coast…sounds good?!

Capo d’Orso – 5* Hotel in Sardinia

For a dreamy honeymoon in Sardinia, Capo d’Orso Hotel seems to be the ideal place. The perfect location in a private bay gives really intimate moments. The hotel, one of the most charming Hotels in Costa Smeralda, is neither too big nor too small (84 rooms), this allow guests to feel pampered but always keeping their privacy. The Thalasso & Spa centre offers modern relaxing treatments.

Villa Sassolini – 4* Hotel in Tuscany

Charming retreat immersed in the lush Tuscan countryside, Villa Sassolini is suggested to couples looking for a romantic honeymoon in a luxury and private setting. The beautiful Villa, built in the fourteenth century and recently restored, offers a stunning panorama over the Tuscan estates, both from the rooms and from the panoramic swimming pool.

Masseria Torre Coccaro – 5* Hotel Masseria in Puglia

The elegant Masseria is just a few km away from the beautiful Apulian sea. It offers 34 elegant and refined rooms, included a superb 100sqm Suite built in an ancient cave, which also disposes of a private swimming pool and a comfortable Jacuzzi for peaceful moments. It’s worth noting the enchanting wellness centre built in the stone…simply amazing!!

I wish I could stay in all these charming hotels once in my life! The honeymoon is, of course, a special occasion to choose the most romantic hotel in Italy, the one that conveys you the best feelings, the one you prefer for your luna di miele… But why just for your honeymoon? Every day could be a special day, and every holiday becomes special in so romantic settings….What are you waiting for?!

Credits: Flickr

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Hotel of the month – Ca’ Pa’ Casa Privata

August 11th, 2010

Not a regular hotel in Italy: Ca’Pa’, a solitary gem perched on the rocky Amalfi coastline

A private house in the heart of Italy: the exclusivity of Ca’Pa’ Hotel

Surrounded by a garden of more than 5000 sqm, Ca’Pa’ Hotel is without any doubt one of the most fascinating and high-class hotels you can find in this romantic part of Italy. Have a look at the rugged cliffs falling into the blue sea and let yourself be enchanted. Immerse yourself in the garden of herbs, spices and fruits smells, let yourself seduce and surprise your senses.

Location: Praiano, Salerno, Campania


Why does it deserve a mention?
Ca’ Pa’ Hotel needs some sacrifice from your part: a number of steps to reach the house are to be considered as well as the lack of air conditioning (even if the thick ancient stonewalls keep the rooms enough cool). The owners are interested in receiving a few selected guests able to appreciate the essence of the house: this is why Ca’Pa’ Hotel disposes of just six rooms in total.

The six rooms of Ca’Pa’ Hotel, this small charming accommodation, are located between the first and the second floor and are divided into four double rooms and two Suites. They’re all spacious and have their own personality: each room at Ca’Pa’ Hotel has been created in a special way, following the simple typical style of Italy.

Do you need to relax with a good book? Just open the glass box in your room containing around 130 volumes. Each box focuses on a particular field: art, architecture, nature, history, philosophy and psychology. Which one do you prefer?

Ca’Pa’ Hotel privileges: a private seafront
Just a few minutes walk and a series of steps will lead you from Ca’Pa’ Hotel to the seafront. It is for the exclusive use of the hotel guests, who can choose to relax in one of the platforms equipped with sun loungers, umbrellas, chairs and tables. What better place to enjoy the Amalfi Coast sea in total relaxation and privacy?

A dip into the deep blue waters and your day will be completed…

Let yourself be pampered in the exclusive Ca’Pa’ Hotel and discover the wonders of Amalfi Coast nature!!!

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The Best Italian restaurants in the most charming Hotels

August 4th, 2010

An appetizing selection of the best restaurants you can find in the most charming and luxury Italian hotels

Never underestimate the importance of food when you’re planning your holiday to Italy!!!

Yes, I know: food is not the first criteria people consider when choosing a Hotel for their holidays. But…don’t you agree that a nice holiday accompanied by excellent lunches and dinners  in an Italian Restaurant help to have an unforgettable holiday?! Well, I am convinced of this. Eating well improves mood and predisposes us to see things in a better way!!!

Credits: Flickr

As you know, Italians are mostly proud of their regional origins (in a different way and level from region to region). Either you choose a Hotel in Florence, in Rome or in the deep south of the boot, everywhere you’ll find Italian Restaurants promoting local food like it was the best thing you’ll taste in your life! No tricks: if you love Italian food, it can really be the best you have ever tasted. The assortment is so wide and the differences among regions are so distinct that we have a huge variety of original dishes and creative variants.

In order to help you to unravel the forest of Spaghetti alla Bolognese, Bruschette and Tiramisù, I’ve made a list (what a hard work!!) of charming and luxury Italian hotels whith the best Restaurants. Here it is!!

Castel Monastero Restaurant – Tuscany

 

The two restaurants of Castel Monastero, “La Contrada” and “La Cantina”, delight their guests with tasty Tuscan recipes. The popular chef Gordon Ramsey, who has a personal collection of 10 Michelin stars as well as a big passion for Tuscany, is in charge of the Menu.  He also cooperates with one of the 21 Restaurants of the luxury Forte Village Resort, in Sardinia.

Il Pellicano Restaurant – Tuscany

Il Pellicano Restaurant offers an elegant and refined atmosphere. The Restaurant boasts two Michelin stars and proposes delicious Mediterranean dishes.

La Casitta Restaurant, Sardinia

The exclusive Restaurant of La Casitta is located in a really exclusive setting: the island of S. Maria, in La Maddalena Archipel and is one of the few villas in the small island. The Restaurant is refined and the terrace overlooks one of the most beautiful seas in the world. The dishes are prepared with fresh local products. The Restaurant and the Villa can also be booked at exclusive use for private events!

Su Gologone Restaurant, Sardinia

If you wish to taste the ancient Sardinian recipes in a traditional setting, The Restaurant of Su Gologone Hotel is the right choice for you! Guests can enjoy the ancient savours in front of the romantic hundred-year-old fire-place.

L’Olivo Restaurant at Capri Palace Hotel, Campania

If you’re planning to visit Capri and you’re a food lover like me, just remember that the Olivo Restaurant at Capri Palace Hotel is the only one in Capri that awarded 2 Michelin stars. The ability of the chef Oliver Glowing allows interpreting the regional dishes in a modern way.

La Sponda Restaurant at Le Sirenuse Hotel, Campania

The chef Alfonso Iaccarino, awarded of 2 Michelin stars, is in charge of the beautiful Restaurant La Sponda in Positano. The dishes offered by the chef come from the regional tradition and are prepared with local products.

Don Serafino Restaurant at Locanda Don Serafino, Sicily

Located in the heart of the historical part of Ragusa, Don Serafino Restaurant boasts 1 Michelin star and has been listed among the best Sicilian Restaurants.

If you love tasting really local recipes, in some of these Restaurants you’ll maybe find the weird Italian foods I’ve written about in my previous article…just ask the waiter!!!

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