 Rome
& Venice
BAILEY'S
(***L): This hotel enjoys a superb location
in the historical centre of Rome. After a few minutes walk, guests
can reach the Via Veneto Trinta’ dei Monti, and the The 29 stylish, spotless rooms of this elegant and exclusive 19th Century palazzo, recently converted into a first class boutique hotel, feature all modern comforts (satellite television, minibar, IDD telephone...). All are lavishly furnished and decently sized: we particularly liked the deluxe rooms, larger, and with a view a the quiet street. Note that
a rich Buffet Breakfast is included in the room
rate. Many money saving promotions
available.
BAILEY'S:
Via Flavia, 39 - 00187 Roma
MARCELLA
ROYAL (***L): In the heart of Rome, strategically
located
next to Via Veneto, the spanish steps, the Trevi fountain and all the main
historical monuments of the We actually like to warmly recommend this fine property for its 500 sq.m roof garden: blooming just like an oasis of beauty and tranquility, offering a breathtaking view of the Eternal City, with its unforgetable skyline. This is where a most generous breakfast, courtesy of the house, welcomes the clientele every morning: either in the Panorama room or, during the good season, right on the terrace... surrounded by thousands of flowers!!! So romantic!!! This is also where, every evening, guests can have a light dinner, listening the enchanting melodies of the piano. The Marcella Royal is centrally located, so that you can easily walk to reach the most important monuments and points of interest: such as the famous Via Veneto, just a few minutes away. The hotel is anyway located next to the main transportation services of the city : 8 minutes walk from TERMINI railway station, to the subway and right next to the bus stop to reach every side of the city. All the front desk personnel has been especially trained to please the guests. Anticipating like in a five star deluxe hotel. One of the best boutique hotels in Rome. MARCELLA
ROYAL: Via Flavia, 106 - 00187 Roma
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DELUXE & PALACE HOTELS IN ROME
CASA
SANTA MARIA FORMOSA (***L): An aristocratic
house of exquisite neo-gothic design hosts this gem of hospitality, located
in a We were pleasantly surprised by the fabulous decor and by the standard of amenities of the spacious, spotless, richly furnished rooms. Tailored made for romance, most of them feature warm and striking tones: with Murano sconces, upholstered walls, and bed with a canopy. The much wanted rooms, alongside the canal, display breathtaking views. Quiet, despite of the picturesque animation over the waters, all of them are equipped with amenities you would not expect in a three star hotel: like minibar, air conditioning, IDD telephone with a direct line and safety deposit box. The private bathrooms, with a bath or shower, are supplied with hairdryers. The buffet breakfast –included in the room rate- is served in a room overlooking the canal, lavishly decorated with precious damask cloth. The courteous and helpful staff goes out of the way to assist the hotel guests. Worth the trip excursions with a private boat can be booked, on request, directly with the reception. Much recommended for a real Venitian experience!. CASA
SANTA MARIA FORMOSA: Castello 5841, 30100 Venise
LOCANDA
LA CORTE (***L): The CASA
SANTA MARIA FORMOSA's sister hotel is also located
in the heart of the old city of Venice: in a The dreamed place to experience the original Venitian way of life, the LOCANDA LA CORTE is a smart, elegant family run boutique hotel, located in a remarkable 16th Century palazzo overlooking a typical navigation canal (from some rooms, guests can actually see the gondolas passing by!). The large, well-lit, elegantly decorated rooms, accessible from a picturesque outdoor staircase in the courtyard, display precious original 16th century Venetian floors, and wood beamed ceilings. You will see there the curious and rare remain of an ancient well curb, where the inhabitants once drew their drinking water. Modern amenities, like sat TV, air-conditioning, minibar, IDD telephone and full bathroom with shower and/or bathtub are part of the standard equipment of this so charming three star superior hotel. Lovely reception area with very professional staff, ready to organize excursions to the many Venetian islands, or pleasant walking tours with private guide. In the morning during the summer, the happy guests will be served an abundant breakfast in the typical interior courtyard, which is included in the price of the room (more or less the same good valued rates like in the CASA SANTA MARIA FORMOSA). One of the best, most affordable addresses in venice for romance and honeymoon. LOCANDA
LA CORTE: Castello 6317, 30122 Venice
HOTEL
TORINO (***L): This romantic and top comfortable
hotel has been settled Difficult, indeed, to find a better location: the three palaces are just one minute walk from St. Mark's Square and the historical centre, in the very heart of the city. Main shopping, and particularly Italian top fashion designers' boutiques, are located along the Via XXII March. There is a boat stop very close to the hotel. The very pleasant and helpful English speaking front desk staff likes to assist guests with personalized tips. Depending on low, medium or high season, published rate for a double Standard Room goes from US$ 126 until 149. A double Deluxe Room stands in the US$ 158 - 237 bracket. Attractive money saving special offers available. A splendid address. HOTEL
TORINO: Calle delle Ostreghe, 2356 - San Marco - 30124 VENICE
VILLA
ALBERTINA (**): This family run aristocratic,
100 years old building, is located on the Lido: Venice Families, honeymooners and people looking for more space, will like the Casanova Suite, indeed! Deserving, just like the rest of the villa, much more than two stars, it displays 2 separate rooms, a large sun terrace as well as a luxurious marble bathroom with both shower and bath-tub! The sunny breakfast room, as well as the intimate bar lounge, are ideal places to socialize with other hotel guests coming from worldwide, or to catch tips from the Amadeo and Nicole, the young couple making their VILLA ALBERTINA the opposite of an unpersonal hotel. Those looking for complete relaxation, so far away from the crowd invading Venice in peak season, will like the greenery of the villa's peaceful garden. Rates for
a double room/single use go from US$ 40 to 86. Double use is about US$
65 - 105. The fine Casanova Suite goes for US$ 82 - 130 on a double occupancy
basis; for the same room, four people will pay approximately US$ 108 -
164. Very interesting rates and special packages are available upon request.
Delicious breakfast, safe parking in the villa's garden, and VAT are included
in the price.
VILLA
ALBERTINA: Via Vallaresso 1a, Lido di Venezia, 30126 VENICE
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DELUXE & PALACE HOTELS IN VENICE
GRAND
HOTEL PALACE-SCHLOSS MAUR (****L): It takes
few words to describe this legendary hotel: magnificent and enchanting! Much attention is paid to the guests: should they be young honeymooners or “people” reviewed in the “Who’s Who”, they all princely receive same innumerable attentions. Which is one of the first qualities of the hotel. The 125 rooms and 12 suites, richly appointed with much taste, equipped as one might expect in a four star deluxe hotel (IDD telephone, Sat TV, safe, air –conditioning), all show particularly elegant bathrooms. Choose those with a view over the large, blue-lagoon swimming pool: they are particularly relaxing and quiet. The hotel last but not least quality is its superb relax center, transforming the Palace into one of the most attractive beauty-farms in Italy. This space of absolute well-being, with a soothing and regenerating atmosphere, makes the guest rediscover the pleasure of feeling well: both in mind and body. It takes only few days to recover all your vital energy, thanks to a personalised and exclusive programme of treatments. Rate stands in the EURO 90 – 175 bracket. A lavish
hotel.
GRAND
HOTEL PALACE – SCHLOSS MAUR: Via Cavour 2,
39012 Meran (Südtirol)
VILLA
EDEN (****L): This family run top luxurious
property has guest’s individual requests and needs at heart. Striving to
be the best in the The happy few (like Diego Armando Maradona, Luciano Pavarotti, Giuliana Benetton, Ornella Muti…) wander around the spectacular landscape park with a panoramic view of lovely Alto Adige: merely interrupted in their meditation by concerts of the numerous birds. They swim either in spacious indoor or outdoor pools. They relax in elegant and large rooms reflecting the impressive nature of the estate and its long ago Art Nouveau style. This beauty and health resort blossoms as a source of regeneration and contentment. Just a few minutes' walk from downtown Meran. In an absolutely serene village quarter: far from any hustle and bustle. The Villa Eden provides personalized diets and specialized treatments aimed at three areas: weight-loss, anti-stress and beauty. Supplementing these programs are a variety of treatments calibrated to suit the needs of each individual, determined by an extensive check-up. The method used combines several diverse therapies: osteopathy, hydrotherapy, dietary control, and stimulation of the chakra (points of concentrated energy according to an oriental theory). Although 10 days a required to be fully restored, it is possible to undergo only a week of treatment. Last but
not least, the hotel rates –depending on the selected treatment, season
and length of stay- can match all budgets. Lots of package and special
offer available and updated on a regular basis on the resort homepage.
VILLA
EDEN: Winkelweg, 68 39012 Meran (Südtirol)
MIGNON
HOTEL & PENSION (***L): Rifiano,
a jewel in the crown of the Alto Adige, lies in the heart of South
Tyrol, on the sunny side of The Mignon stands in this Garden of Eden: amidst immaculate snow on Winter, and blooming orchards on Spring and Summer. With a splendid panorama from all balconies and windows on Schenna Palace, Meran and the Alps. More than a pension, this looks like a small resort tailored made for relaxation. There is a covered heated swimming-pool, a sauna, and a solarium. The large balconies and lawn are tailored made for those wishing to relax and breath the invigorating oxygen of the mountains. The large, brand new rooms and appartments are very comfortable. All equipped with bathroom, IDD telephone and TV Sat. Like in most of the hotels in South Tyrol, half board is possible. Even recommended… as the pension small Bierstube serves succulent Italian and Tyrolean specialities... Some guests come back, just for the excellent table! The Mignon is quiet, indeed; though by no mean dull. Franz, the friendly manager, entertains his guests with a smile. Many excursions (wine testing, visit to the nearby Villa Tappeiner or the Reinhold Messner Castle) and trekking can be organized from the pension, in one of the most attractive and picturesque regions of Italy. Indicative
rate, per person/night, including a generous buffet breakfast, is EURO
29 / 38 (low / high season) in a double room, and EURO 45 till 66 in an
appartment (depending on the size – a large “type A” appartment can host
up to 5 persons- and season).
This
very attractive place is opened all year long.
MIGNON
HOTEL & PENSION: Via Hohlgasse 38, 39010 Rifiano presso Merano,
Alto Adige (Südtirol)
CENTRAL
ITALY (Southern Toscana, Umbria, Marche, Lazio & Abruzzo, Isola d'Elba):
RELAIS
IL CANALICCHIO (****): Divinely nested in
the heart of the verdant Umbrian countryside, eyrie atop a hill, this relais
provides Historical and rural reminders are apparent outside and inside the castle. Former “Castello di Poggio”, it still displays strongly structured typical Umbrian stonework walls, extending right into the reception area. Another impressive reminder of its medieval glory is the enormous milling grindstone and press. A lush garden surrounds the castle, with an elegant cool water swimming pool equipped with hydro massage. There is a gym and a sauna. Among the multiple sports you can practice on request to escape the premise of the relais, we can mention mountain-bike, horse riding, archery, and fishing. This deluxe hotel and resort, specially adapted to the particular tastes of the happy few, individual travellers looking for individual facilities, service and style, has 35 stunning doubles rooms (including 3 suites) in the Mother House. All feature air-conditioning, minibar, satellite TV, IDD telephone and a private safe. Atop the hill, the 14 Country Suites (around their own pool) display a private terrace with a dramatic panorama on the green Puglia Valley and the picturesque village of Collazzone. They are connected to the hamlet of Canalicchio by a path and by a cut wooden pedestrian bridge, which is part of the picturesque pedestrian trail. The most luxurious and largest suite (“Tower Suite”) has got not less than eight windows with a breathtaking panorama. No need to leave the castle to enjoy the best of the traditional Umbrian cuisine: the restaurant “Il Pavone”, in perfect harmony with the hotel, elegant and intimate, with large panoramic windows making dinners feel in total communion with the natural environment, is one of the most reputed in the region. It has his Piano Bar, and is linked to the “Congress Centre Le Oche”: a fully equipped convention hall with sitting 100 participants. Excellent level of service. The staff speaks many languages (English, French, German, Spanish…). The Relais Il Canalicchio opens to many natural and historic excursions. It is very close to from Perugia (30 km) and Assisi (40 km). You are expected to pay EURO 149 / 179 (low/high season) for a Double Room, and EURO 209 / 253 for a Suite. Breakfast and taxes included. A remarkable top class hotel. RELAIS
IL CANALICCHIO: via della Piazza 4, 06050 Canalicchio (PG), Umbria
VILLA
LEMURA (*** Deluxe): Former summer residence
of the noble Perugian family, this late 17th century farm was converted
in the Being hosted in the villa means being taken on a journey through time: which is certainly the greatest charm –not to say magic- of this jewel of the Tuscan hospitality. Relaxing in one’s room, reading a novel in the Gran Sala (a pure marvel: decorated with splendid frescoes and Murano chandeliers) or in the Count's Library, admiring the Italian garden or strolling through the park (planted in 1890 and dedicated to Santa Bibbiana), is like flirting with History. There is a lovely 6x12m pool, where you can swim enjoying a spectacular view of Panicale, the olive groves, vineyards, sunflowers, or the incredible sunsets over the Tuscan hills. The “Lamborghini Golf Club” (9 holes) stands nearby the hotel. Easy and exciting excursions can be made, on foot, to Panicale (medieval village with shops, bars and trattoria) and Paciano. In the heart of Umbria, the VILLA LEMURA is close to Perugia 35 kilometers): which is one of the most remarkable cities in Italy, with a lot of artistic resources. Rate starts from 50 euro per person (breakfast included): based on 2 people sharing a room. Suite for family available. Its is possible, for large families, groups of friends or companies, to hire the whole villa. Open all year round. Ideal to relax and renew with tradition. VILLA
LEMURA: 06064 Panicale (PG), Umbria
HOTEL
CERNIA ISOLA BOTANICA (*** Deluxe): Making
you feel at your ease is the strong desire of the family owning this small, The location is a pure paradise. The 10.000 square meters Botanical Garden, 200 meters from the seashore, hosts citruses, palms, bananas, among a wide variety of protected plants mixing their fragrance with the iodine of the Mediterranean Sea. Hedgehogs, green lizards, cuckoos and nightingales made this Eden their home. There is a tree-house, a pond, rocks and, last but not least, a large, beautifully shaped swimming pool… making those natural resources particularly picturesque and enjoyable for both adults and children. Immediate access to a small public sandy beach. Private garden on the granite cliffs of S. Andrea. Far away from the crowds of tourists, the hotel has been tailored made for individual travellers looking for the best of everything. The interior design of the hotel is cozy, with wood, ironwork and plants all around. The 27 rooms are homey and comfortable. Rate goes approximately EURO 37 - 54 (depending on the season), for B & B. Half board is good value for money, at about EURO 47 - 92. Larger "Osmunda" double bedrooms cost 20% more. Epicureans will love, indeed, the CERNIA ISOLA BOTANICA: where the nature meets the pleasure of the palate. The restaurant gets a solid reputation in the island. The delicious Mediterranean cuisine, accentuated by the herbs and vegetables cultivated with organic methods in the garden, comes with remarkable wines selected by the owner. Opened April 2 – October 17. A rare and fascinating hotel in a magic garden. HOTEL
CERNIA ISOLA BOTANICA: Capo S.Andrea - 57030 Marciana - Isola D'Elba
SOUTHERN ITALY (Bay of Naples): HOTEL
CORALLO (****L): Located
on the cliffs above the Marina of Sant’Agnello, overlooking the Bay of
Naples, this dreamed resort The private beach under the cliff on which the hotel stands is indeed attractive with its typical, warm, dark volcanic sands. There is also a solarium, right on the sea. The nearest town is 1 km away from the hotel, and it is possible to go on daily excursions to the ruins of Villa Pollio, Positano, Amalfi, Ravello, Vesuvius, “Regina Giovanna”, Pompeii, Capo Miseno, Ischia, and of course Naples & Capri. There are 60 rooms. All with private services, air conditioning, sat TV, IDD telephone, and minibar. Most of them have a terrace -or balcony- where the guest can spend a large part of their stay, admiring the flowers and Mediterranean vegetation, or gazing out the sea with the sensation to be on a cruise: only disturbed by the sounds of the seagulls. The hotel Corallo is also much reputed for the traditional Neapolitan specialities of Chef Antonio. His light and aromatic Epicurean cuisine is served on the garden terraces, and comes with Mr. Angelo's prestigious wine list, which changes seasonally. There is a private car park and a conference room for up to 150 people. A paradise for honeymooners, aesthetes and gastronomes alike. HOTEL
CORALLO: Rione Cappuccini, 12 - Sant'Agnello
OUR REVIEWS OF PALACE & GRAND HOTELS IN ROME OUR REVIEWS OF PALACE & GRAND HOTELS IN VENICE OUR
REVIEWS OF PALACE & GRAND HOTELS IN MILAN
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Spanish
Steps where you will find a magnificent arcade of elegant shops.
city,
this deluxe boutique hotel offers 85 elegant and welcoming 
wonderful,
quiet area, right in the heart of Venice: halfway between St. Mark's Square
and the Rialto Bridge, but away from the throngs. There is an easy access
to public transportation all over the city, as well as to the other islands
of the lagoon (Torcello, Burano, Murano, Chioggia, Lido, etc.).
quiet
residential area, a stone's throw from Campo SS. Giovanni e Paolo, St.
Mark's Square and the Rialto Bridge. From here you can reach some of the
oldest parts of the city: such as the island of San Pietro di Castello
-with its church that was the cathedral of Venice up to 1807-, and the
entire Castello quarter, -the area that is most populated by Venetians-.
Last but not least, the hotel has got a private landing place for water
taxi: making individual transportation quick and easy, anytime of the day.
in
three lovely typical Venetian palaces. The main building dates back to
the XVIth century: extremely well preserved due to its historical importance,
this landmark displays a warm, intimate and authentic Venetian atmosphere.
Its 19 personalized Standard Rooms are in Venetian Style. Only 30 meters
away is the CA' PEDROCCHI annex, which recently underwent a complete refurbishment.
This second palace is facing the Via XXII March. Some of the 13 Standard
Rooms have a view on this fashionable shopping street. Though new, the
furniture still maintains a classy Venetian style. Last but not least,
the third palace, CA' MINOTTO, as been also recently refurbished in the
immediate premise of the main hotel: its 5 Deluxe Rooms, furnished with
the most elegant and delicate baroque Venetian Style, will please travellers
looking for sophistication and upgraded comfort. All rooms are fully equipped
with private bathroom (shower/WC, hairdryer), air conditioning, safe box,
minibar, IDD telephone, and sat TV.
super
chic resort area. A 2 minutes walk from the Congress Palace, the
Casino and the wonderful sunny beach allowing its guests to enjoy both
the cultural and leisure aspects of this unique city. St. Mark's Square
is only 15 minutes by public boat line (Vaporetto), running every 5 minutes,
24 hours a day. Completely and tastefully refurbished, the 10 rooms
are comfortable and cozy, with a personal touch. They all feature private
bathroom and IDD telephone. Some have balcony.
The
Palace peaceful and luxurious atmosphere leads you all along ritzy lounges,
long corridors, vast rooms and a lush park. Franz Kafka favourite hotel
in Südtirol, it remains more than ever enveloped by an elegant and
aristocratic late XIX Century ambiance which suddenly erases the monotony
of everyday life.
wellness
business in 
silence
and relaxation to the adventurous traveler who discovered it by chance,
on his way to Perugia or Assisi: the closest cities. Life goes peacefully,
luxuriously and Epicuriously: far away from the hustles and troubles of
the rest of the world.
1800's
to a beautiful villa amazingly unaffected by changes of the last century.
Graceful columns in the entrance welcome the distinguished guests. A “pietra
serena” staircase entices to the quiet 7 rooms and suites with incentive
names (like “Camera degli Amanti”!). All have frescoed ceilings, parquets
or tiled floors, stuccoed walls, and display precious antiques: often dating
back from the origins of the villa. They all have a private bathroom: one
of the rare concessions of the 21st century in a property still visited
by the soul of the Count and Countess Donnini-Mancini.
intimate
boutique hotel. At ease… and at home. Cristiano and Francesca welcome their
guests with much warmth, kindness, and professionalism. Informal though
anticipating, they make you feel part of the family within a few days.
occupies
one of the most charming positions on the Amalfi Coast. It displays multi-level
