Ah, Italy. A country where everything and anything feels and looks romantic no matter where you go. But beyond the architectural splendor and natural beauty of the country, the laidback lifestyle of Italians, “the sweet life,” is what attracts travelers from all over the world and keeps them coming back over and over again for more.
If you have always been dreaming of experiencing la dolce vita in Italy, here are some of the best destinations where you can indulge all your senses to the fullest:
Tuscany’s L’Andana Resort, Tenuta La Badiola
A laid-back ambience and impeccable service are the trademarks of L’Andana Resort at Tenuta La Badiola – member of The Leading Hotels of the World.
The former hunting lodge of Leopold II of Lorraine, Grand Duke of Tuscany, L’Andana Resort is located in Italy`s stunning Maremma region, celebrated for its lush countryside that stretches to the Tyrrhenian Sea.
L’Andana`s long driveway is lined with cypress trees, with vistas of olive orchards and vineyards in the distance, immediately evoking Tuscan beauty and its timeless charm.
Umbria’s Palazzo Seneca Relais & Châteaux
A home in an Umbrian Palace: this is the atmosphere of Palazzo Seneca, charming property in Norcia, in the heart of the most secret part of Umbria, the region of the black truffle.
Palazzo Seneca was built in the 16th century by the homonymous family from Piedivalle, whose inhabitants were famous as skilled wood carvers. Today it’s a fusion between design and tradition: the search for unique materials and objects, combined with the know-how of the most renowned Umbrian craftsmen, make it a unique and charming destination.
Veneto’s Byblos Art Hotel Villa Amistà
Byblos Art Hotel Villa Amistà is a classic Venetian-style villa of the XVI century, inspired by the tradition of the Veneto region and re-interpreted to become an elegant luxury hotel and hosting an impressive permanent exhibition of contemporary art.
Sitting in a beautifully manicured five-acre garden, it boasts ultra modern design by renowned architect and designer, Alessandro Mendini, that stands out in stark contrast to the historic building.
Set within the Renaissance architecture and the contemporary structures of the vibrant and historic Regola neighbourhood, Chapter Roma brings change in Italian travel, providing an accessibility to luxury that is not just saved for five-star hotels.
Embodying a true fusion of gritty and glamorous, with a contemporary and classic aesthetic, South African based designer Tristan Du Plessis of Studio A has breathed new life into the building which dates back to 1880.
Portofino’s Villa Gelsomino Exclusive House
Where European nobility once gathered and holidayed, the five-bedroom Villa Gelsomino is now an incredibly charming hideaway for anyone looking for a private, authentically Italian break away overlooking one of the country’s prettiest scenes: the Gulf of Portofino.
Built in 1874 accordingly to the traditional style of that time, today it still perfectly preserves frescoed ceilings, Genoese marble grit floors and antique furnishings that blend with touches of elegance and comfort for its guests.
Basilicata’s San Barbato Resort Spa & Golf
Located in one of the most beautiful naturalistic areas north of Basilicata, famous for the Aglianico del Vulture DOC and an authentic paradise for nature and sports lovers, San Barbato Resort Spa & Golf is the only luxury 5-star in the whole territory, and it’s pure excellence: design, spaces, the high quality of materials and finishes meet the most modern technologies for a truly exclusive hospitality experience.
Located on the spectacular Ionian coast of Calabria, Praia Art Resort is an unexpected haven. It boasts a privileged position close to the beach, just a few kilometres from the mountains and on the edge of the Marine Reserve of Capo Rizzuto, the largest protected marine area in Italy, a place where nature and history embrace each other.
Praia Art Resort – member of Small Luxury Hotels of The World – is part of a beautiful Calabrian canvas. Backed by hills, dotted with myrtle and citrus trees, and facing a beautiful ocean scene, it makes a striking first impression.
Montegrotto’s Esplanade Tergesteo
The Esplanade Tergesteo is not only a feast for the eyes: it’s pure wellbeing combined with natural elegance. A dreamy atmosphere, where the only noise is going to be the gentle thermal water flow.
The land surrounding Esplanade Tergesteo is full of history, art and nature. It tells of wine and food excellence, typical fragrances and unforgettable views.
Venice’s Ca’ Sagredo Hotel
Love is always in the air at the heart-throbbingly gorgeous 15th-century palace Ca’Sagredo perched with pride between the Rialto Bridge and Ca’ d’Oro on the majestic Grand Canal. Feast your eyes on enticing artworks within the walls of the hotel at every turn, from the jaw-dropping bas reliefs, the 18th-century stuccoed ceilings, and the intricately painted wall friezes.
But beyond the artistry, the Venetian lagoon has been capturing hearts through the centuries, including the heart of Lord Byron, the romantic poet who enjoyed the swirling waters while writing some of his most popular masterpieces.
The vintage yacht experience of Ca’ Sagredo is in honor of the poet and takes guests on a full-day tour around the most fascinating islands of Venice including Poveglia, Burano, and Sant’Erasmo for offshore sunbathing and swimming.
Umbria’s Castello di Reschio
Nestled amidst the rolling lush hills lined with verdant cypress trees, the 1,000-year-old Castello di Reschio has undergone meticulous restoration and stylish reimagination. It boasts of several bespoke farmhouses scattered across the spectacularly beautiful landscape spanning 1,500 hectares.
Views well-loved by Renaissance artists filter through the shuttered windows that offer tons of natural inspiration for all creatives. For sunseekers, they can lounge beside the rustic outdoor pool with Il Torrino overlooking it. Il Torrino is the original watchtower of the castle that has been transformed into a trendy pool bar.
Reschio also currently houses some of the most skilled dressage horses in the world. Featuring spectacular outdoor and indoor arenas, the multilingual instructors of the hotel are more than happy to teach you everything related to horses.
Brixen’s FORESTIS
FORESTIS is the sanctuary perched on the summit of the South Tyrolean mountainscape that is calm, cool, and looks right at home with its gorgeous setting. All experiences in FORESTIS are inspired by the four elemental pillars of air, climate, sun, and water.
This spa hotel with its ideal location is all about being one with nature, from sitting on the panoramic balcony while taking a sip of the Plose mountain spring water, going for a hike at sunrise with herbal tea and headlamps to gazing at the sparkling stars with a crackling fire to keep you warm.
Rome’s Hotel Vilòn
Brought to life on screen in La Dolce Vita and Roman Holiday, you will feel like you are stepping onto a magnificent film set the moment you go for a quick escape in the city of Rome. Hotel Vilòn is a wonderful oasis tucked right amid all the action, offering its guests the best of both worlds.
Every nook and corner of the boutique retreat boasts of tranquility while making sure that guests are just several streets away from the world-renowned sights such as the Spanish Steps and Trevi Fountain.
Indulge in la dolce vita at its finest in Italy this summer and enjoy the sweet life you deserve!
