Situated within a tastefully renovated 18th century palazzo, Bulgari Hotel Milano is a luxury hotel that serves as a tranquil oasis within this bustling Italian city. On any given day, it’s quite normal to find locals and jet setters pulling up the hotel in an assortment of new Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Porsches and Mercedes. 

Located between trendy Brera and the Quadrilatero d’Oro, Bulgari Hotel Milano is tucked away on a private street. When I pulled up to the hotel I was immediately greeted by a valet member. Throughout my stay I was amazed by the impeccable service and strong attention to detail. Staff members were all incredibly kind and helpful while maintaining individual character.

The hotel design is contemporary and features a color palette of neutrals, browns, and greens. The sumptuous accommodations include walk-in closets and floor-to-ceiling windows with garden and courtyard views. There was also a luxurious bath tub with wonderful Bulgari bath products. Other nice touches included noise-cancelling headphones, a cashmere Bulgari branded bed throw, and each day I was delighted to find a fresh fruit bowl delivered to my suite. 

The property offers multiple dining options, including Il Ristorante – Niko Romito. The Chef, Niko Romito has three Michelin stars and the menu’s focus is contemporary Italian cuisine with traditional ingredients and modern techniques. The dining room of Il Ristorante – Niko Romito is sophisticated yet relaxed and offers both indoor and outdoor seating that transitions seamlessly from day to night. Finally, don’t miss the newly relaunched Sunday brunch. It’s an incredible spread that’s a feast for all of the senses!

When it comes to socializing, the Bulgari Bar is a meeting place not only for hotel guests but for in-the-know Milanese. It’s an oval bar set against a glass wall that opens onto the private garden. Bartenders serve up traditional and innovative drinks, including the exclusive Bulgari Cocktail.

As for relaxation, the on-site spa offers an opulent environment that’s a restorative oasis of serenity and relaxation. Guests can choose from a variety of services including stimulating heat experiences, massages, facials, and body treatments. There’s also a hot tub, steam room, sauna and pool. The indoor pool is even made with real gold tiles! This addition gives the water a luxurious green color that I’ve never seen before.

Overall, it was my first time staying at a Bulgari hotel. I was very impressed with the service, cuisine, and luxurious accommodations. The hotel conveys the excitement of the Bulgari brand and the timeless glamour its jewelry is known for.

Considering what a gem this hotel is, I look forward to experiencing its other locations around the globe.

Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco is a 5,000-acre country estate in Montalcino, Tuscany founded by Massimo and Chiara Ferragamo of the iconic Italian brand, Salvatore Ferragamo. It’s steeped in style, history, and one can immerse themself in the peaceful Tuscan countryside and simply relax.

The estate has been an UNESCO World Heritage site since 2004 and its ownership is dedicated to preserving Tuscan traditions such as craftsmanship and winemaking. When wandering the property one can find ancient castle ruins and a medieval church. Old meets new with modern amenities such as a fitness center and pool that’s set against a stunning backdrop of rolling Tuscan hills. The serene spa on site offers spa treatments that feature luxurious Santa Maria Novella products. After a treatment, guests can enjoy the the sauna, steam bath, relaxation area and lush private garden.

There are endless things to do at the estate so one won’t want to or need to leave. Golf enthusiasts will be pleased to find a private members golf club onsite, The Club at Castiglion del Bosco. The course was designed by Tom Weiskopf and the club unlocks access to one of the finest private golf courses in Europe. 

My boyfriend, Matthew and I visited the winery on site, Castiglion del Bosco that produces Brunello di Montalcino. Our guide, Valentino, was friendly, very knowledgeable, and took us on a tour of the winery. We viewed the fermentation room, cellar, and elegant library. At the end, we sat down for a seated tasting and sampled four wines:

2019 Chardonnay

2018 Gauggiole Rosso di Montalcino

2015 Brunello di Montalcino

2018 Prima Pietra

A must when in Italy is participating in a hands-on cooking class and the La Canonica cooking school onsite has its own organic vegetable garden tucked in the hills. There are also two restaurants at the estate, Osteria La Canonica and Ristorante Campo Del Drago that serve Italian cuisine. 

The property recently expanded and unveiled private suites located within a new complex. There are also regular suites that fuse Tuscan elegance with modern amenities. A favorite feature was the leather minibar with a series of compartments, drawers and shelves for storing various types of glasses and everything one needs to make a perfectly concocted cocktail. There’s also a collection of luxurious one-of-a-kind luxury villas built from restored 17th and 18th-century Tuscan farmhouses.

Overall, Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco indulges the senses with the some of the best sights and tastes of Tuscany.

Nestled in the historic Italian village of Pella on the shores of Lake Orta is Casa Fantini / Lake Time – a sophisticated and contemporary boutique hotel with the atmosphere of a warm and inviting home. Italian architect, art director and designer Piero Lissoni of Lissoni Architettura worked with Daniela Fantini, CEO of Fantini Rubinetti to carry out her vision for this unique hotel which was inspired by the philosophy of “lake time”. One can relax in a serene environment, move at a lake time pace, and enjoy an authentic Lake Orta experience.

The Fantini family have lived in Pella for more than three generations and have always been closely intertwined with life on Lake Orta. Metalworking has historically been the main industry in the area and Fantini produces high-end and ultramodern faucets, as well as shower systems that are distributed throughout the world. Renowned contemporary architects have included Fantini products in their most prestigious projects.

Since water drives the everyday work of Fantini Rubinetti, it’s also the guiding element in their boutique hotel’s design. Natural materials such as accoya wood, beola stone, and calming hues of blue are incorporated throughout, cultivating an environment of serenity and relaxation. A highlight of my suite was its spacious spa bathroom featuring a shower with chromotherapy functions and a Turkish bath steam room capabilities. In typical Fantini style, superior quality of design is everywhere you look. There are too many highlights to count, but the mesmerizing view of San Giulio Island from my balcony will not escape from my mind. Also, the windows in my suite featured blue glass, reflecting a magical view of the island. 

Each evening, I enjoyed heading downstairs to the sitting room for an aperitif. The staff served local wines from the Piedmont region and snack-sized ham and cheese paninis to accompany. I enjoyed sitting by the modern fireplace and unwinding. The lobby has a wonderful library of books as well and I very much enjoyed reading Fantini’s book, Report from the Waterfront published by Rizzoli as well as others. 

My boyfriend, Matthew and I enjoyed a date night at the hotel’s restaurant as Chef Paolo Bullone’s seasonal menu piqued our interest. The menu items are local specialties and the culinary presentation is divine and showcases the utmost attention to detail. All of the dishes are small so one can try a variety of dishes. We indulged in:

• Scallops in Mugnaia Style
• Tortellini with Breme onions, parmesan and black truffle
• Rice “in fiore” with almond, red shrimp and marsala wine
• Duck, cherries, carrots and bay leaves

To settle my sweet tooth, I had a passionfruit soufflé topped with creamy chocolate gelato, while my boyfriend, Matthew, had a scrumptious rhubarb tart. Overall, it was a delicious meal, the service was impeccable, and the restaurant’s contemporary design featuring local wood and stone was lovely.

Each morning, I looked forward to a delightful breakfast. Each guest was presented with a lovely place setting of local yogurt, muesli, and strawberry puree to mix into it. A delightful basket of morning pastries accompanied it and I couldn’t find the willpower to say no to their buttery and indulgent croissants – they are irresistible! I was also delighted to find a Lake Time Notes local newspaper on the table that showcases food stories, exhibitions, and other goings-on in the area.

Overall, there are plenty of warm and inviting spots on site to relax – whether it be strolling the lovely garden on the lakefront or taking a dip in the swimming pool. The hotel is located between lakes and mountains, within easy reach of hillside vineyards and the cities of Milan and Turin. The Casa Fantini staff is happy to recommend activities for guests as well as help book them.

Fantini brings beauty, creativity, and the quality of Italian products and design into the world. I had a wonderful stay at Daniela Fantini’s luxury boutique hotel and would highly recommend adding it to your Northern Italy travel itinerary!

If you love fine Italian wine and lakes, Villa Cordevigo, a Relais & Châteaux hotel located near Lake Garda is a place you should consider staying at when in Northern Italy. If you’re on a road trip, it is a wonderful place to stop for the night when driving between Milan and Venice. 

We drove down a perfectly manicured cypress-lined driveway that eventually led us to a gorgeous red and yellow 17th-century villa that exudes opulence. Once we parked our car, a member of the villa’s staff transported our luggage onto an electric golf cart and chauffeured us to the lobby so we could check-in. There we were offered a glass of Villa Cordevigo’s own sparkling rosé and sat in the courtyard admiring the stunning gardens and fall foliage. 

Our Elegance Room overlooked the pool and Villabella vineyards and I especially enjoyed the large steam shower. Overall, there are 35 rooms and suites that are located in the main building and in the side wings called barchesse. Each room is unique in its own way, but they all exude old-world charm and feature modern amenities.

You won’t want to miss the delicious breakfast in the morning! The breakfast spread includes fruits, cereals, pastries, homemade cakes, local cold cuts and cheeses. Eggs are made to order and are cooked to perfection!

After breakfast one morning, I went on a vineyard tour in an electric golf cart. Since it was during Harvest Season and the grapes hadn’t been picked yet I found fruitful vines with garganega grapes along with corvina veronese grapes. I also saw lesser known varieties such as Oseleta, an ancient variety which has given its name to Villa Cordevigo’s restaurant that’s Michelin recognized and serves Mediterranean cuisine.

In addition to great wine, Villa Cordevigo produces some magnificent extra virgin olive oil. The Lake Garda area is known for making marvelous extra virgin olive oil and a surprising amount of lemons. This is surprising considering how far north in Italy you are. 

Something that’s not to be missed is the chapel on-site that’s dedicated to Saint Martin. It houses some of Saint Martin’s bones and there’s also a collection of relics from other saints throughout the ages. Overall, the history and beauty combined with wonderful food and wine make for a lovely stay at Villa Cordevigo.

Grand Hotel Fasano is a five-star hotel on the Brescia side of Lake Garda that’s a Leading Hotels of the World property. It has welcomed guests since the 19th century as it was once a residence of the Austrian royal family and served as their hunting lodge. 

It was my first time visiting Lake Garda and I was immediately mesmerized by the enchanting beauty of the lake – a crystal clear expanse of water slightly rippled by gentle waves. Palm trees and bougainvilleas surround the hotel adding tropical accents. Upon arrival, my boyfriend Matthew and I were offered a non-alcoholic fruity welcome beverage and sat outside on the serene lakefront terrace of La Terraza. I found my worries melt away and my mind at peace.

While we were enjoying a welcome beverage, service brought our luggage up to our room. From the mere moments of arrival, I was immediately impressed by the white-glove service as well as the staff’s warm and professional demeanor.

We stayed in an elegant and spacious lakefront room with a balcony and I was delighted to find Grand Hotel Fasano branded artisanal chocolates and Champagne for us to indulge in. Overall, the accommodations at Grand Hotel Fasano are fit for royalty with king-size beds and delicate Egyptian cotton sheets.

In the evening, we dined at Il Fagiano, the hotel’s restaurant that’s recognized by Michelin. The dining room is decorated in original wood, but has a contemporary feel and the menu’s focus is traditional Lake Garda cuisine with a modern flair. Chef Matteo Felter, born on Lake Garda creates an experience that’s a feast for all of one’s senses, not just the palate. We indulged in a variety of dishes:

Eggplant with peanut mayonnaise and vegetable stock.

Homemade ravioli filled with pheasant on poultry jus and summer truffle.

Miso marinated black cod on basil foam with anchovy sauce and pine nuts.

Braised lamb with porcini mushrooms and garlic cream.

The desserts were divine too! My boyfriend had the white chocolate cream and milk ice cream with acacia honey. I had the chocolate tart with peanut cream and coffee ice cream. They were almost too pretty to eat!

After dinner, we headed to the Gin Lounge. Bar Manager, Rama Redzepi’s presented us a bar cart full of gins from all over the world and educated us about them, as well as tonic water varieties. He was incredibly knowledgable and I especially enjoyed learning about Italian gin brands since the region is widely known for its wines. Rama made me an incredible gin and tonic featuring The Italian Gin, J. Gasco Indian Tonic Water, and a huge rectangular shaped ice cube. It was an incredible G&T and going forward both of those items will be on my bar cart at home!

The following morning, I visited the wellness centre onsite, AQVA SPA. It’s inspired by ancient roman’s baths and its state of the art structures includes indoor and outdoor swimming pools as well as jacuzzis, saunas, Turkish baths, relaxing zones, a gym and a solarium.

I decided to indulge in a Tulasara Facial Treatment and prior to doing so, the skin therapist asked me about my skin, its sensitivities, and my daily skincare routine. Based on the information I provided, the therapist designed a customized treatment that included the best combination of products, personalized Aveda aromas and techniques. It was a delightful experience and I left feeling good and refreshed!

If you’re staying at the hotel, don’t not miss the opportunity to drive a stylish convertible BMW 8 series. One can set off to discover the treasures of Lake Garda and there are endless things to do in the area such as wine tasting, golf, water sports, etc.

Overall, I had a wonderful stay at Grand Hotel Fasano and appreciated the incredible attention to detail, the wide range of facilities, and unique experiences. Luxury meets relaxation at this grand hotel!

When you pull up to Villa d’Este you feel as if you’re visiting royalty. The villa was originally built in 1568 as the summer residence for Cardinal Tolomeo Gallio and was the favorite playground of many aristocrats. In 1873, it was transformed into an opulent hotel. Its 25-acre imperial garden and unique mosaic wall are signature icons that are UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Guest rooms and suites are split between the Cardinal Building and Queen’s Pavilion. While no two rooms are exactly alike, the décor is lavish and has old-world touches like thick drapes, dark woods and classic chandeliers. Views vary from those looking across the lake to others onto the park and magnificent gardens. There are two exclusive private villas, Villa Malakoff and Villa Cima, located inside the property that can be rented for ultimate privacy.

Strolling the property is an outing in itself. Discover sweeping staircases, stunning crystal chandeliers, and perhaps indulge in some retail therapy at their boutique onsite. If guests don’t have enough room in their suitcases for additional items they also have the option purchase items via Villa d’Este’s online boutique and have them shipped to their home. Their curated online boutique offers an exclusive selection of personalized products and accessories that are made in Italy that celebrates Villa d’Este’s timeless elegance and attention to detail. 

Don’t miss the floating pool on the lake! It’s located right in front of the villa and connected to the mainland by a walkway. Besides that, the hotel offers a wide-variety of other sports facilities such as an indoor pool, tennis courts, and a jogging track.

Around aperitivo hour, guests gather on the terrace overlooking the sparkling lake and sip on fine cocktails while noshing on olives and nuts served by waiters in black tie. If you prefer to sit inside, there’s also the elegant Canova Bar with a lovely ambiance. I sipped on a Cosmopolitan cocktail and I have to say, a Cosmo never tasted as good as it does here!

From there, we headed to dinner at Veranda, the hotel’s formal restaurant. As its name suggests, the dining room at this restaurant has an elegant veranda that transfers out onto the terrace overlooking the lake and gardens. Chef Zambanini oversees all culinary preparation at Villa d’Este and creates classic and gourmet interpretations of Italian fare that satisfies the most discerning palates. My boyfriend, Matthew and I went there for date night and dined on pasta with white Summer truffle and veal milanese. As for the service, there’s a ballet of maîtres and sommeliers attentive to guests every wish and beautifully plating dishes table side.

There were a couple of families celebrating birthdays and it’s the place to do so! One saw one chocolate cake that came out looking like a dream – it was generously topped with chocolate shavings that were large and thin, resembling prosciutto.

When in Lake Como, Villa d’Este is a destination to must not be missed! If you don’t end up booking a room at the hotel, I’d highly suggest dining at Veranda restaurant as its a meal that you won’t forget! Make sure to make a reservation well in advance and note that the hotel is open seasonally from early March to mid November each year. The words that linger in mind after my visit at Villa d’Este is incredible attention to detail, impeccable taste, and white glove service. It’s a place that should be on your bucket list!

With its lush hillsides, idyllic villages  and sparkling emerald waters nestled between towering mountains, there’s no destination quite like Lake Como. I recently visited Lago di Como (Lake Como) and took a wonderful 2-hour boat tour of the lake with Captain Giovanni of Lake Como Boats. 

Our day started with Captain Giovanni picking us up from our hotel dock just after breakfast in the Mizar III – a historic 10-meter vintage motor yacht entirely made of wood by Cantiere Navali Picchiotti of Viareggio. Built in 1961 and launched in 1962, the Mizar III is the perfect boat to cruise Lake Como and feel as though you’ve been transported back to a different time.

The Mizar III is an extremely comfortable cabin cruiser equipped with a large sundeck on the bow. At the stern of the boat there is a large lounge space with a dining table. Below deck there are bunks, a two person master cabin, kitchenette and bathroom. Throughout the cruise, Captain Giovanni made us feel comfortable with water, soft drinks, snacks and prosecco served on board. Depending on the time and conditions, the boat can stop for swimming and sunbathing.

During our cruise, we got to see all the famous sites around Lago di Como including Villa d’Este, il Sereno Hotel, Villa Pliniana, Nesso village with its picturesque waterfall, Villa Oleandra that’s owned by George Clooney, and Villa Fontanelle which was once owned by Gianni Versace. Of all the sites we saw, the most impressive was Villa Balbianello, a famous house which has been the setting for films such as Casino Royale and Star Wars Episode II.

Overall, there is no better way to enjoy a day on the lake. With Captain Giovanni pointing out the sites and serving up the prosecco, life doesn’t get much better!

Situated on the shores of the famous Lake Como, Villa Regina Teodolinda is a gorgeous 18th-century villa named after Italy’s Queen Teodolinda.

The villa has six suites that can accommodate up to eighteen guests and each of them are completely different from one another. Each suite features a palette of elegant colors, Provençal-style furnishings, and windows framed with soft linen curtains.

Each morning, I woke up to a stunning view of Lago di Como and Villa Regina Teodolinda’s well maintained garden and grounds. For breakfast I would head downstairs and indulge in a healthy and tasty breakfast. The staff would offer us coffee first – I usually had a cappuccino. Following that, a lovely spread of pastries, fruit, yogurt, cheese, and a bread basket. 

After breakfast, guests can relax on sun loungers near the lakeside swimming pool or stroll the garden and soak up the panoramic vistas. With its own private dock, this noble building has direct water access to the lake which you can take advantage of for swimming or lake tours by boat.

If you’re looking for a little bit of physical activity, there are kayaks for guests to use. Take a short paddle down the lake and you may even spot George Clooney at his neighboring villa!

On top of being a great hotel, Villa Regina Teodolinda is a romantic place for a wedding celebration, birthday party or business event. The ballroom can accommodate seated dinners for up to 90 guests and the outdoor area offers a stunning setting for Aperitivo Hour.

If you’re looking for an intimate and authentic Italian getaway on Lake Como, look no further than Villa Regina Teodolinda. 

Located in the heart of Tuscany, Podere Ferranesi is the perfect destination for travelers who desire an authentic and relaxing holiday. It’s an old farm, located near Asciano that was reconstructed in the original rural Tuscan style found in the ”Crete Senesi” area. On the outside there are traditional stone walls, but the interiors are modern and feature high-ceilings, beautifully crafted archways, and an open floor plan. Both the villas and apartments are modern and equipped with everything one needs to lounge in Tuscan luxury!

Each morning I enjoyed walking outside and being surrounded by nature. The stunning views will put your mind at peace and wash away your worries. Hosts, Rita and Johny were very kind, accommodating, and made us feel right at home! Rita is a fantastic cook and one of her specialty dishes is eggplant parmigiana – don’t leave without trying it! Rita offers a private cooking class and can teach one about cuisine of the region as well as wonderful recipes that will be sure to impress your friends and family at home. 

Johny was very helpful and provided us activity suggestions based on our interests. If you’re seeking an adventure on two wheels, Johny can help with selecting the best bike or e-bike tours. An avid biker himself, Johny is very familiar with the nearby hilltop towns of Pienza, Montalcino, Montepulciano, and Siena. There are also fabulous wineries in the area and one can expand their knowledge and taste great wines such as Brunello di Montalcino, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano or Chianti. Other activities include hiking, tennis, horseback riding, and hot air-ballooning rides. 

Podere Ferranesi sleeps 22 guests across 9 modern bedrooms. Guests staying in their luxury villas have the opportunity to take advantage of exclusive services and unique experiences at an additional charge. This includes having a private chef and pizzolo, someone to assist with grocery shopping, babysitting, etc.

I found it quite easy to spend hours by the outdoor pool taking in stunning panoramic views of the countryside. Also, there are many spots around the property that are wonderful for lounging and relaxing. At Podere Ferranesi you can easily indulge in some proper Tuscan relaxation for days on end.

Overall, I had a wonderful stay and perhaps next time will book Tuscan Experience’s other villas and luxury apartments in the area. 

Situated in the Via Veneto district across from Villa Borghese park, is the opulent Splendide Royal Hotel. Elaborately decorated in ornate Baroque style, there are sparkling marble floors, Murano chandeliers, and gilt mirrors. The hotel offers a unique experience where old-world elegance meets modern technology. One can expect first class service and an exclusive yet warm atmosphere.

Many of the accommodations were recently renovated and are quite spacious. There’s elegant furniture, crisp white bedding, and some of the rooms feature fantastic views of Villa Borghese from private balconies. A highlight were the white marble bathrooms with heated bathroom floors and luxurious Acqua di Parma products. 

Each morning, I looked forward to breakfast at the Crystal Lounge located on the sixth floor. Each table was adorned with a white tablecloth and I enjoyed taking in beautiful views of Rome from above with a cappuccino in hand. Breakfast is buffet style and includes a varied spread of meats, cheeses, pastries, yogurt, and fruit.

At aperitivo hour head to the rooftop Adèle Mixology Lounge bar. If you get hungry, dine at The Mirabelle restaurant onsite serving modern Mediterranean cuisine with sweeping city views.

Splendide Royal is the perfect place to base yourself as it’s walking distance from all major points of interest in Rome. Also, it’s ideal for business travelers since there’s an elegant conference room for private meetings and good wi-fi.

I very much enjoyed my stay at Splendide Royal and look forward to experiencing more of Roberto Naldi Collection’s properties across Europe.