Venice (Lido, San Marco) & region Veneto Rome Northern (Südtirol) Central (Tuscany, Umbria, Isola d'Elba) Southern Italy Updated 24/01/2011 CASA
SANTA MARIA FORMOSA (***L): An
aristocratic house of exquisite neo-gothic design hosts this gem of hospitality,
located in a wonderful, quiet area, right in the heart of Venice: halfway
between St. Mark's Square and the Rialto Bridge, but away from the throngs. 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 sister hotel is also located
in the heart of the old city of Venice: in a 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 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 in three lovely typical
Venetian palaces. The main building dates back to the 16th century: extremely
well preserved due to its historical importance, this landmark displays
a warm, intimate 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 EUR 120 until 150. A double Deluxe Room stands in the EUR 150 - 230 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:
Venicesuper 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 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 EUR 40 to 90. Double use is about EUR
65 - 105. The fine Casanova Suite goes for EUR 80 - 130 on a double occupancy
basis; for the same room, four people will pay approximately EUR 100 -
160. 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
ALBERGO
AL SOLE (****): A quiet, refreshing
retreat located
only 66 kilometers from Venice and Marco Polo International Airport,
Asolo
is known as "The Pearl of province of Treviso", and also as "The City of
a Hundred Horizons" for its mountain settings. One of the favorite The Albergo al Sole settled in one of them a couple of decades ago, after a careful restoration which brought back its essence and former glory to this historic landmark, strategically located right on the square of Asolo. Harmony, refinement and a high notion of hospitality make the "albergo" a fascinating hotel with excellent references in Tripadvisor and many travel medias in Italy and around the world. This is a place where comfort and luxury are balancing with moderation: involved by a faultless notion of good taste, and the preservation of the building in its original look. A boutique hotel, with only 22 rooms and one "Mansard Suite", the Albergo al Sole offers stacks of atmosphere. An oasis of tranquillity and comfort, each bedroom is different from the other: lovingly designed with fine furniture and beautiful fabrics, featuring exclusive personalized bathroom with a jacuzzi shower, all the rooms are equipped with Sat TV and complimentary high-speed Internet connection (WiFi is available in the common areas). One of the hotel highlight is the generous breakfast served on the terrace, overlooking the animated Piazza Garibaldi and the relaxing greenery of the Treviso plain. The place is so romantic for a sunset dinner! The multi-awarded restaurant "La Terrazza", managed by Chef Cristian Mometti, promotes only fresh, seasonal products on periodically updated menus. Well balanced prices (one plate is EUR 10 – EUR 24 maximum; a three course menu costs EUR 35) for a light interpretation of a tasty regional cuisine, make it one of the most popular tables in the whole Veneto: attracting gourmets who like to come here again and again, just to enjoy the mouth watering "Duck Breast with Black Figs & Bitter Chocolate Sauce", or the "Wild Canadian Lobster Spaghetti with Sherry Tomatoes"... Note that the restaurant is open at lunch from March till October. Closed on Wednesday. Open at dinner only from November till February. Closed on Sunday. Private suppers can be served on special request in The Cave of Bacco: the hotel 16th century frescoed grotto. Cooking lessons are regularly organized by the chef. Many facilities and services make the Albergo al Sole a very enjoyable hotel: "Technogym" fitness room, massages, excursions and a great 27-hole Golf Club nearby are available. As far as plenty of cultural resources, designer shops, enotecas, cafes and restaurants in the village and its surroundings. Asolo is an ideal base for exploring nearby towns such as Treviso, Bassano di Grappa, Cisan de Valmarino, or hiking the footpaths up Montegrappa. Room rates start from EUR 110 for a single room in the low season, up to EUR 280 for a suite in the high season. Including buffet breakfast, private parking, WiFi, vat (10%) and service. Attractive last minute offers are available. Warmly recommended for a romantic escape in Italy. ALBERGO
AL SOLE: Via Collegio, 33 - 31011 Asolo (TV)
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 city, this deluxe boutique hotel offers 85
elegant and welcoming rooms
and suites: all equipped with 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
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 Spanish Steps where you will find a magnificent arcade of elegant shops.
Note that
a rich buffet breakfast is included in the room rate. Many money saving
promotions available.
BAILEY'S:
Via Flavia, 39 - 00187 Roma
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DELUXE & PALACE HOTELS IN ROME
GRAND
HOTEL PALACE-SCHLOSS MAUR (****L): It
takes few words to describe this legendary hotel: magnificent and enchanting!
The Palace peaceful and luxurious atmosphere leads you all along ritzy
lounges, long corridors, vast rooms and a lush park. Franz Kafka 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.
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 wellness business in South
Tyrol, motivated by the residents’ well-being, the scientific advisory
council of the Villa Eden is always looking 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 Meran.
Favourite holiday destination of Emperor Franz Josef and his legendary
wife Sissi, it nestles among vine-covered slopes and 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 (Tuscany, Umbria, Isola d'Elba) LOCANDA DEL LOGGIATO (***L): Located in the picturesque mediaeval hamlet of Bagno Vignoni, close to Siena and Florence (60 kms / less than 1 hour by car), this 14th Century locanda, overlooking a lovely square, bustles with all the charm and hospitality characterizing the deep Tuscany.
The Locanda del Loggiato is actually cozy and intimate, with only six double rooms: each one with its own character. One room has a tester bed; another displays a splendid view over the mysterious and mystic water-filled square of Bagno Vignoni. Though you might feel like travelling back through time, the locanda is equipped with some discreet concept of the modern comfort: featuring air conditioning and private bathrooms. The stylish living room lounge is the place for conviviality. Ideal to read a book, have a chat with the other guests, or simply relax by the fireplace, enjoying high tea -or a glass of regional wine- with homemade sweets. There is even a grand-piano, for the virtuosos: don't forget that Tuscany is also the birthplace of so many musicians.. Though the hamlet has got only 30 inhabitants, visitors won't get bored in Bagno Vignoni and its close surroundings. The place is reputed for its thermal baths, beneficial to bones and skin. There are a number of spas in the vicinity: each noted for a different curative property. Bagni San Filippo and San Casciano dei Bagni are both within half an hour's drive. The locanda can advise -or even fully organize- excursions throughout the Montalcino and Montepulciano vineyards, providing fine Tuscan wines based on the Sangiovese grape. Oil and dairy farms (producing the delicious “pecorino”) are also well worth the visit; though you don't need to leave the Locanda del Loggiato to enjoy wine and oil tasting, or to attend cooking classes taught upon request by your guests and their staff. Typical Tuscan products can be enjoyed each morning at breakfast, and all day long at the bar. Note that the region is ideal for trekking and golfing. Rates for a double room, including breakfast, go from EUR 130 to 180 (high season); the low season is also particularly lovely in Tuscany, and the price is actually very attractive (EUR 90 to 120, only from January 15 to March 11, and from June 21 to August 5). Packages and promotions available. A great
place to enjoy the authentic Tuscany.
LOCANDA
DEL LOGGIATO: Piazza del Moretto, 30, Bagno Vignoni - Siena
VILLA
PIENZA (****): In the heart of the picturesque
and lovely Val D'Orcia, a highly prized conservation area and one of the
richest part of Tuscany, enriched with a multitude of landmarks (castles,
monasteries and other Renaissance cultural treasures), surrounded by spas
and Restored in its original splendor, using only antique stones, tiles and beams, this 19th Century farmhouse is really an upscale product, tailored made for spoiled travellers looking for off the beaten tracks holiday. Not a hotel nor a guest house, the whole house is ideally leased to families or groups of friends. Large, with 6 double bedrooms skillfully decorated with antiques, and 6 bathrooms, it sleeps 12 people at ease. Divided into three, it displays a common living room that has a large fireplace with very comfortable couches (featuring satellite TV and stereo), and three smart kitchens fully equipped with washing machine, dishwasher, stove, and a large fridge with freezer. Some rooms on the first floor, oriented to the South, have a terrace and/or panoramic view overlooking the Monte Amiata, and the magic scenery of the Val d’Orcia The elegantly furnished living areas open out to the yard, surrounded by small climbing roses and vines, extending to stunning views over the valley and the gently rolling hills around Pienza. "The Winter Garden", with plants, a pool table, and three windows, offers a great panorama also. The villa is air-conditioned, well heated in winter (guests can even use the fireplaces, which is so romantic and relaxing!), and equipped with a high-speed WiFi Internet connection. One bedroom is equipped with a 180x180 Jacuzzi. Shiatsu or ayurveda massages can be ordered upon reservation, and enjoyed in the room or in the garden. Outdoors is a long and thin shaped pool (open from 01/05 until 15/10 to the 15th). The adjoining banks are prettily planted with agapanthus, lavender and white roses. Sport, cultural and gastronomic activities can be enjoyed with the kind and efficient assistance of the staff of the Locanda Del Logiatto, managing the villa. Rate is calculated on individual request, depending on the season and length of the stay. It always includes maid service twice per week, and pool cleanings thrice per week. A cook and extra staff can be hired via the Locanda Del Loggiatto. A paradise
for honeymooners, aesthetes and gastronomes alike.
VILLA
PIENZA: Via Provinciale, 53026 Pienza
RELAIS
IL CANALICCHIO (****): Divinely
nested in the heart of the verdant Umbrian countryside, eyrie atop a hill,
this relais provides silence and relaxation to the adventurous traveler
who discovered it by chance, on his way to Perugia or Assisi: the closest
cities. Life goes 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 EUR 149 / 179 (low/high season) for a Double Room, and EUR 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 (*** L): Former
summer residence of the noble Perugian family, this late 17th century farm
was converted in the 1800's to a beautiful villa amazingly unaffected by
changes of the last century. Graceful columns in the entrance welcome the
distinguished 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 (*** L): Making you feel at your ease is the strong desire of the family owning this small, 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.
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 EUR 37 - 54 (depending on the season), for B & B. Half board is good value for money, at about EUR 47 - 92. Larger "Osmunda" double bedrooms cost 20% more. Epicureans will love, indeed, the hotel 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 occupies one of the most charming positions
on the Amalfi Coast. It displays multi-level terraces,
right on the sea, with a to-kill-for view on the magic Bay of Naples and
the whole Sorrentine Peninsula. Built on the 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.
REVIEWS
OF PALACE & GRAND HOTELS IN ROME
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