italian portfolio

Transcription

italian portfolio

ITALIAN PORTFOLIO
C ONTENTS
WELCOME TO REAL HOLIDAYS
UMBRIA
CALABRIA & BASILICATA
La Locanda delle Donne Monache
La Casella
7
Villa di Monte Solare
8
Locanda Palazzone
9
56
Hotel Villa delle Meraviglie
41
Masseria Mandrascate
57
Villa Cheta Elite
41
L’Approdo delle Sirene
58
La Foresteria di San Leo
42
Royal Maniace Hotel
58
L’Hotel in Pietra
42
Relais Torre Marabino
59
La Conchiglia
43
Casa Talia
60
Hotel Panta Rei
44
Mandranova
61
La Foresteria Planeta Estate
62
Lama di Luna
48
Baglio Fontanasalsa
63
46-53
PUGLIA
9
Abate Masseria
48
Baglio Fontana
63
Borgo San Marco
49
Hotel Signum, Salina
64
Masseria Torre Coccaro
50
Hotel Villa Meligunis, Lipari
Masseria Torre Maizza
51
ITALIAN CITIES
Masseria Montelauro
52
10
Mazzaforte
11
Borgo il Poeta
12
Pieve di Comunaglia
13
Fondo le Teglie
14
Casa del Conte
15
Le Terrazze
16
Palazzo del Gastaldo
17
Agriturismo Sant’Illuminato
17
TUSCANY & EMILIA ROMAGNA
21
Bologna
Villa Fontalgozzo
22
Florence
Castello Banfi il Borgo
23
Villa Mazzino
24
EMILIA ROMAGNA
TUSCANY
LE MARCHE
UMBRIA
LE MARCHE
25
Adriatic Sea
26-31
Rome
Hotel Emilia
28
Il Biroccio
29
Casal dei Fichi
29
I Calanchi
30
Tenuta le Piane
31
CAMPANIA
Villa Spalletti Trivelli, Rome
68
Albergo Cesari, Rome
68
Hotel Flora, Venice
69
Ca’Nigra Lagoon Resort, Venice
69
Palazzo dal Borgo, Florence
70
Al Capello Rosso, Bologna
70
Costantinopoli 104, Naples
71
BB22, Palermo
71
20
Villa Montauto
I Vanzetti and La Chiesina
65
66-71
18-25
Venice
Villa Gonzola
54-65
Hotel Villa Belvedere
4-17
6
Casale de Lanci
SICILY & THE AEOLIAN ISLANDS
40
3
Le Silve di Armenzano
Castello di Montignano
38-45
Tyrrhenian Sea
CAMPANIA
Naples
PUGLIA
BASILICATA
32-37
CALABRIA
Villa Maria
34
Hotel Poseidon
35
Casa Angelina
36
Palazzo Belmonte
37
Palermo
Ionian Sea
SICILY
FURTHER INFORMATION
72-73
BOOKING CONDITIONS AND CREDITS
74-75
WELCOME
SELECTING THE RIGHT PLACE TO STAY
Our Italian Portfolio features properties ranging
from agriturismos to luxury hotels. The categories
below will help guide you towards the holiday
that best suits your requirements.
Offering a luxurious stay
for that special holiday.
EXCLUSIVE
Excellent for walkers or
simply for those looking
to get away from it all.
RURAL RETREAT
FAMILY FRIENDLY
Welcome to Real Holidays’ Italian Portfolio
We have been sending clients to Italy for many years
and we have taken care to ensure that the properties
we feature reflect what you, our customers, have told us
is important; namely small, independent or owner-run
hotels, villas and apartments offering excellent service
in a wonderful location.
This year we are delighted to add new properties to
established regions such as Puglia and Sicily and we are
really excited to include the relatively unexplored region
of Emilia Romagna, where you will find some of the best
food in Italy.
We understand that your holidays are precious and
strive to ensure you receive the most personal and
knowledgeable service. Each of our holidays is tailored
to your needs and as we have visited all of the
properties featured we are able to suggest the right
option for you, be that a luxurious honeymoon, a family
Ideal for holidaymakers
looking to explore more
than one centre.
FLY DRIVE
summer holiday or a stay in one of the great Italian cities
with private guides and restaurant recommendations.
Our package holidays are ABTA and ATOL bonded so
booking with Real Holidays offers financial protection
and peace of mind. Most of our properties in the
brochure are priced as a package with car hire as we
believe this is the best way to explore the country.
The prices do not include the cost of flights so please
contact us for an exact flight inclusive price.
I hope you enjoy reading our latest brochure and I
very much hope we are able to assist you with your
next holiday.
Most of our properties work well
for families with children, but
the ones we have highlighted
are particularly suitable for
holidaying with little ones.
Properties either on or a
short drive to a beach.
COASTAL
Perfect for honeymooners
or couples looking for a
romantic break.
ROMANTIC
Ideal for a relaxing
break with the option
of spa treatments.
WELLBEING
Offering excellent food and
wine with some offering
cookery courses.
Matt Fisher, Director
GASTRONOMIC
www.realholidays.co.uk
T: 020 7359 3938
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UMBRIA
CULTURAL CALENDAR
Spring:
•Easter is widely celebrated with processions in many of
the towns.
•Calendimaggio is a medieval festival of parades, music
and dancing held in Assisi at the beginning of May.
•Gubbio holds its famous Corso dei Ceri (Race of the
Candles) on the 15th May each year.
Città di Castello
Arezzo
Umbertide
ere
Tev
TUSCANY
Gubbio
er
Riv
L E M A RC H E
Lake
Trasimeno
Chiusi
Perugia
S.Martino
in Campo
Deruta
Assisi
Spello
Montefalco
Norcia Sibillini Mts
Todi
National Park
Spoleto
Orvieto
UMBRIA
UMBR IA
Autumn:
LAZIO
A B RU Z ZO
Rome
T: 020 7359 3938
Summer:
•Several of the Umbrian villages hold an ‘infiorata’,
carpeting the streets with flowers.
•Spoleto hosts the Festival of Two Worlds in June and
July, featuring ballet, opera, theatre, lectures and
contemporary art.
•The Umbria Film Festival is held in Montone with
outdoor film showings in July.
•Perugia hosts the Umbria Jazz Festival in July.
•Montefalco hosts a folk festival in August.
With medieval towns, sweeping pastures and
soaring mountains, Umbria has a wealth of
attractions. Bordered by Tuscany to the west,
Le Marche to the east and Lazio to the south,
this landlocked region includes some of Italy’s
most impressive historical sites, but its
smaller charms are also well worth exploring.
East of Perugia lies Assisi, famed for its magnificent
frescoes by Florentine artists Cimabue and Giotto in
the Basilica of San Francesco. The city commands an
impressive position from Mount Subasio over the
surrounding countryside and plays host to one of the
region’s many festivals, Calendimaggio, with medieval
processions and theatrical events during early May.
Umbria’s capital, Perugia, retains much of its Etruscan
and medieval past, with impressive stone archways
and narrow winding streets. It was an important
centre for Renaissance art, with many masterpieces
by local artist Perugino on display in the Galleria
Nazionale dell’Umbria. With a lively student
population it also has a more contemporary side and
hosts an excellent jazz festival each summer, drawing
well-known names from the music world. Don’t miss
the lively passeggiata along Corso Vannucci each
evening, best viewed from one of the enticing cafés
which line the street.
Umbria offers many wonderful smaller towns such as
hilltop Montefalco, known as the ‘balcony of Umbria’
for its impressive views. With its delicious Sagrantino
red, it is an excellent starting point for wine-lovers.
North of Montefalco, little Spello is well worth a visit
for its beautifully preserved medieval streets and
peaceful atmosphere.
In the south, Orvieto sits proudly on a tufa plateau
with its striking cathedral visible from afar. From here,
an enjoyable drive along forested roads next to Lake
Corbara brings one to the delightful town of Todi, with
its beautiful Piazza del Popolo. Northern Umbria sees
•Gastronomic festivals are popular in autumn, including
Orvieto con Gusto and Settimana Enologica in Montefalco
in September.
•Perugia’s streets are filled with chocolate stalls for
Eurochocolate in October.
UMBRIA
“ What makes Umbria special?
I could write reams about its
light and landscape but what
is so special is that its
pleasures are small scale.
It is Perugino rather than
Leonardo, it is Montefalco
rather than Siena, it is students
outnumbering tourists in
Perugia's Piazza Italia”
Philip
Director and Founder
fewer visitors so the pleasures of the charming town
of Città di Castello and the beautiful city of Gubbio,
with its imposing palazzos, can often be enjoyed in
relative seclusion.
Complementing Umbria’s history and culture are some
impressive rural diversions, most notably the Sibillini
Mountains. With many peaks above 2,000m, this
mountain range acts as a natural border with
neighbouring Le Marche and there are some
particularly stunning driving routes between the two
regions, taking in the towns of Norcia and Castelluccio.
A combination of dramatic valleys and, come early
summer, pastures rich in wild flowers makes this
an area not to be missed.
In the east of Umbria lies Lake Trasimeno, Italy’s fourth
largest lake. Offering beaches, water sports and some
delightful towns such as Castiglione del Lago,
Trasimeno is a popular spot in summertime.
GA ST RO NO MY
As with all areas of Italy, traditions in Umbria are strong.
The cuisine is simple but hearty and delicious. Truffles
feature on most menus in Umbria, in pasta and risotto
sauces, or sprinkled over meat dishes. Pork products
from Norcia (a pork butcher is called a norceria) are
renowned and game is also popular, particularly wild
boar (cinghiale). Near to Norcia is Castelluccio where
lentils are grown for use in soups.
There are good red wines produced around
Montefalco and Torgiano while Orvieto produces
excellent white wine.
MO R E T HA N O NE C E NT R E
Explore Umbria in depth by spending a week in
the north at the villa Casale de Lanci near Città di
Castello and a week near Todi at Casa del Conte in
the south. Alternatively, to enjoy Italy’s green heart,
stay at Le Silve in the hills above Assisi and then
take the scenic drive over the Sibillini Mountains to
Tenuta le Piane in Le Marche. Umbria also combines
well with neighbouring Tuscany or with a city break in
Rome, Florence or Bologna.
T R AV E L INFO R MAT ION:
We recommend hiring a car while in Umbria in order
to fully explore the region.
Flights: Rome is the main point of entry with a wide
selection of airlines; Perugia is served by low cost airlines,
while Bologna to the north or Pisa and Florence to the
west are also possibilities.
Rail: Travel overnight via Paris to Florence and then on
to Perugia. Alternatively, travel by high speed daytime
rail and stay overnight in Turin or Milan, before
continuing on the next day.
By car: Umbria can be comfortably reached with two
or three overnight stops en route from the UK. There
are some wonderful driving routes over the Alps.
Please contact us for suggestions.
T: 020 7359 3938
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UMBRIA
LE SILVE DI ARMENZANO
Le Silve is a beautifully restored 10th century inn, set in peaceful countryside in the wooded
hills near Assisi.
Le Silve is one of our favourite hotels, not least due
to its stunning location, equidistant from Assisi and
Spello, on top of a hill on the forested slopes of
Mount Subasio.
The inn has been restored to a high standard, while
retaining the features of its old stone walls, wooden
beams and terracotta tiled floors. The large bedrooms
are stylish, with antique furniture and well equipped
bathrooms. There are several lounge areas, which add
to the feeling of space and relaxation. A separate
building in the landscaped gardens is home to a large
comfortable bar and restaurant. The fine dining relies
on local produce with handmade pasta and traditional
Umbrian cooking.
www.realh o li days . c o . uk
T: 020 7359 3938
Guests staying at Le Silve have access to the
surrounding national park, which provides some lovely
walking terrain in natural parklands, where deer and
sheep roam. For days spent at the hotel, aside from
plenty of spots from which to enjoy the panoramic
views of the woodlands, there are also three swimming
pools and a tennis court. Horse riding and quad bikes
are available from the hotel, but the beautiful
countryside and accessible culture should keep
most people content.
RURAL RETREAT
ROMANTIC
FLY DRIVE
Facilities: 19 hotel rooms with mini bar, air-con & TV.
11 apartments (set away from the main hotel buildings),
restaurant, 3 swimming pools, tennis court, quad bikes,
walking trails, horse-riding close by
Location: Assisi 10km, Perugia airport 38km,
Rome airport 205km
Local interest: Assisi, Spello, Montefalco and Perugia are all
within easy reach
Price guide: from £480 mid season and £645 high season
per person based on 7 nights B&B with group B car hire
UMBRIA
LA CA SELLA
La Casella is set in the midst of beautiful Umbrian
countryside, six kilometres from the road, within
easy reach of Orvieto and Todi.
La Casella consists of several renovated farmhouses,
spread over a 400 hectare estate. La Quercia, the main
building, where the restaurant, reception and some of
the rooms are located, is probably the best choice for
families with young children as there are two sets of
interconnecting rooms. San Gregorio is the furthest
away from the main building and the views from its
hilltop position are breathtaking.
La Casella is popular all year round. There are two
swimming pools, a tennis court and mountain bike
rental can be arranged through a local company.
In addition there is a superb equestrian centre with
tuition for all levels. For children aged between four
and ten years, lessons are given on ponies and there
is a pony club which youngsters can join.
Great importance is placed on the food at La Casella
and the chefs pride themselves on providing local
Umbrian dishes accompanied by an endless supply of
Orvieto wines. The set dinner menu changes daily and
meals are served at long tables in the restaurant or on
the terrace in the warmer months, enabling guests to
socialise. Children can be catered for in the early
evening and vegetarians are well provided for.
RURAL RETREAT
FAMILY FRIENDLY
Facilities: 32 rooms in total, all with Wi-Fi, heating &
tea/coffee making facilities. 2 swimming pools, restaurant,
tennis, equestrian centre, mountain bikes for hire, walking
trails, wellness centre, billiards
Location: Parrano & Fabro 12km, Perugia airport 110km,
Rome airport 166km
Local interest: Orvieto, Todi, Spoleto, Perugia, Assisi, Florence
and Siena are all within easy reach
Price guide: from £680 low season and £840 high season
per person, 7 nights half board including group B car hire
T: 020 7359 3938
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UMBRIA
VILLA DI MONTE SOLARE
RURAL RETREAT
In a tranquil position near Lake Trasimeno, the Villa di Monte Solare is set in lovely walking country
within easy access of Perugia.
Set on a hilltop overlooking the Umbrian hills, the Villa
di Monte Solare provides a haven for those looking for
relaxation and an excellent base to discover Umbria
and neighbouring Tuscany. Offering exceptional
standards, the hotel is a member of Small Luxury
Hotels of the World.
Spread over five buildings, all of the rooms and suites
have individual character and are furnished in keeping
with the hotel’s 18th century origins. Lunch and dinner
are served in the main building and the Villa's homegrown produce is often used in the day’s fare.
The two swimming pools at the Villa di Monte Solare
offer stunning views over the countryside. There is also
an excellent spa and the hotel will be happy to arrange
various different activities such as walking, cycling or
wine tours. Alternatively, for guests wishing to combine
their holiday with learning a new skill, the resident chef
at the Villa di Monte Solare offers cookery courses of
varying lengths. Please ask us for more details.
T: 020 7359 3938
ROMANTIC
GASTRONOMIC
WELLBEING
Facilities: 25 rooms & suites with air-con, minibar, TV &
internet access. 2 restaurants, one smart & a casual grill in
summer, 2 swimming pools, spa, tennis courts, mountain
bikes, walking trails, cookery lessons, golf 21km away, horse
riding 15km away
Location: Tavernelle 5km, Perugia airport 26km, Rome
airport 176km, Pisa airport 224km
Local interest: Perugia, Assisi, Orvieto, Gubbio, Lake
Trasimeno, Todi and Città di Castello are all within easy reach
per person, 7 nights B&B including group B car hire
UMBRIA
LOCANDA PALAZZONE
This magnificent medieval building lies on a hill outside Orvieto and has been restored and converted into a luxurious hotel.
The property is part of a wine estate owned by the
Dubini family. Guests enter in to the large open space
of the vaulted hall with its luxurious sofas, glass lift, iron
central staircase and travertine stone floors and this
combination of historic monument and contemporary
design set the tone for the rest of the hotel. There are
wonderful views from the terrace, particularly at night,
of Orvieto’s Cathedral.
The large swimming pool is surrounded by delphiniums,
roses, chestnut trees and the estate’s vineyard. Many
guests choose to spend their days here, maybe driving
the short distance to Orvieto in the evening, or perhaps
staying in and enjoying the superb locally sourced food
accompanied by the Locanda’s own wine.
ROMANTIC
GASTRONOMIC
FLY DRIVE
RURAL RETREAT
Facilities: 7 suites with TV, minibar, air-con & Wi-Fi.
Swimming pool, wine tours & tastings on the estate, walking
trails from the hotel. Dinner is served at the hotel on several
evenings a week
Location: Sferracavallo 2km, Orvieto 4km, Perugia airport
80km, Rome airport 130km
Local interest: Orvieto, Todi and Lake Bolsena are all within
easy reach
There are seven rooms and suites, all of which are
spacious, light and elegant with oak floors, large
comfortable beds and luxurious bathrooms with
deliciously scented Bulgari bath products. Most of the
rooms are split level with the bed in a loft space and
the high windows looking out onto the wonderful
Umbrian landscape.
per person, 7 nights room only including group B car hire
CA STELLO DI MONTIGNANO
Dating back to the 10th century, Castello di Montignano is a magnificent building set in wonderful countryside near Massa Martana, a short drive from Todi.
The castle has been renovated to an exceptionally high
standard by the young owners, Giuseppe and Claudia.
It combines the sense of a medieval hamlet with avant
garde design and every conceivable comfort.
The hotel has 12 individually styled rooms and suites.
Stone walls and wooden floors provide a striking
contrast with the combination of simply coloured
fabrics and antique furniture. Two of the suites are
apartments with cooking facilities, one with two
bedrooms which is perfect for a family.
The former castle dungeons have been converted into
a luxury spa covering an area of 400m2. The spa has
a pool and offers a variety of treatments, from wine
baths to Ayurvedic massage. Outside there are
beautiful gardens and a large swimming pool.
Breakfast is served outside on the terrace or in the
courtyard. There is an excellent restaurant where the
chef cooks a variety of dishes, some traditional to the
area and some from further afield, but all using fresh,
locally sourced ingredients. The wine bar and
breakfast area are enhanced by regularly changing
exhibitions of contemporary art.
ROMANTIC
WELLBEING
FLY DRIVE
RURAL RETREAT
Facilities: 12 rooms & suites with satellite TV, air-con, mini
bar & safe. Swimming pool, restaurant, spa, Wi-Fi. Horse
riding & mountain bike tours can be arranged nearby &
cooking classes are available
Location: Massa Martana 4km, Perugia airport 36km,
Rome airport 100km
Local interest: Todi, Spoleto, Perugia and Assisi are all
within easy reach
T: 020 7359 3938
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UMBRIA
CA SALE DE LANCI
This magnificent villa is set in 28 hectares of
forested land and its hilltop position gives it the
most wonderful views over the northern Umbrian
countryside.
Casale de Lanci has been renovated to an exceptionally
high standard. The thick stone walls keep the house
cool in summer and much of the attractive furniture
comes from the local town of Città di Castello, which
is renowned throughout Italy for its craftsmanship.
The dining room, which has a substantial table seating
14, leads onto a large shaded terrace with a wooden
table and chairs for outside dining. Steps lead down
from the villa to the large swimming pool with Jacuzzi
as well as a tennis court.
On the first floor there are two bedrooms each with
their own outside access. Also on this floor is a billiard
room, which has proved extremely popular with our
guests. On the second floor is the master suite, with a
four-poster bed and a separate study with space for an
extra bed. The en suite bathroom in white marble is
particularly luxurious, and has a large walk-in shower.
The remaining two rooms, one with its own private
patio, are in Mezzatorre, a separate building across
the courtyard. Each of these en suite bedrooms has
its own living area with television and a small fridge.
FAMILY FRIENDLY
RURAL RETREAT
EXCLUSIVE
Facilities: 3 bedrooms in the main house, 2 bedrooms
in Mezzatorre (all en suite), together sleeping up to 10.
Billiard table, swimming pool (6x12m) with Jacuzzi, tennis
court, Wi-Fi, meals can be ordered on request
Location: shops and restaurants within 3km, Umbertide 10km
Local interest: Perugia, Gubbio, Assisi, Bevagna, Spello, Città
di Castello, Sansepolcro and Spoleto are all within easy reach
Price guide: from £4,800 low season and £5,775 high
season total for property, 7 nights self-catering including 2
group B hire cars
T: 020 7359 3938
UMBRIA
MAZZAFORTE
In a stunning hillside position with wonderful views of the lush green Umbrian countryside, Mazzaforte
is situated near Città di Castello and Umbertide.
Casa Verde sleeps four. The ground floor is open plan
The property consists of three separate houses dating
with a large living room and adjoining kitchen. Two sets
back 400 years, set in beautiful gardens. The houses
can be rented separately or together for a large party.
The houses are freshly decorated in light colours with
simple but comfortable furnishings and terracotta tiled
or wooden floors. They all benefit from the extensive
and beautiful gardens and the large swimming pool
which is set in a lovely position with a stunning view.
Casa Mazzaforte sleeps eight and is a spacious and
comfortable property. There is a large open plan
sitting and dining room, leading on to a wide terrace.
The adjoining kitchen is exceptionally well equipped.
The four en suite bedrooms are set over two floors.
of double doors lead to the private garden. Upstairs
there are two double bedrooms, both en suite with
shower.
L’Essicatoio is an unusual but very attractive building
full of light which sleeps two. Inside the space has been
imaginatively designed with an open-plan sitting room
with a fitted kitchen and double doors leading onto the
outside portico. The mezzanine floor has a double
bedroom and en suite bathroom with shower.
FAMILY FRIENDLY
RURAL RETREAT
Facilities: 3 separate houses sleeping 2-8 all en suite
bedrooms & fully equipped kitchens. Shared swimming pool
(13x6m), Wi-Fi, cook on request, owners reside on site
Location: shops and restaurants within 3km, Umbertide
8km, Perugia airport 30km, Bologna airport 220km, Rome
airport 240km
Local interest: Città di Castello, Gubbio, Assisi, Perugia,
Arezzo, Montepulciano and Lake Trasimeno are all within
easy reach
season total for 2 bedroom Casa Verde, 7 nights self-catering
including group B car hire, please contact us for other
property prices
T: 020 7359 3938
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UMBRIA
BORGO IL POE TA
Originally a 16th century tower and hamlet, Borgo
Il Poeta is a collection of six elegant country houses
in the unspoilt countryside of northern Umbria.
Borgo Il Poeta is the perfect place for guests to get
away from it all and relax. The property overlooks the
Tiber Valley to the front and all the houses have views
of fields and forested hillsides, which come alive with
colour, particularly in the early summer when the
sunflowers are in bloom. The layout of the property is
such that if one wants privacy one can find it, but there
are also opportunities to socialise with fellow guests,
making it ideal for families or groups of friends.
At the heart of Borgo Il Poeta is a courtyard with
lovely views overlooking the countryside.
The swimming pool is just below the gardens.
There is also a tennis court and croquet lawn and
the surrounding countryside has many trails for
enthusiastic walkers.
All six houses have been furnished to a high standard,
with comfortable sofas and armchairs in the living
areas and antique furniture throughout. The houses
are stocked with wine and products which are made
at Borgo Il Poeta, and are paid for on consumption.
Please contact us for details of each property.
T: 020 7359 3938
FAMILY FRIENDLY
RURAL RETREAT
Facilities: 6 houses sleeping from 2 to 8 with fully equipped
kitchens, meals can be ordered on request, shared
swimming pool (6.4x13m), tennis court, croquet lawn,
walking trails, mountain bikes available for guest use
Location: shops and restaurants within 3km, Umbertide
10km, Perugia airport 40km, Bologna airport 220km,
Rome airport 240km
Local interest: Perugia, Gubbio, Assisi, Bevagna, Spello,
Città di Castello and Sansepolcro are all within easy reach
season total for 1 bedroom house Santa Lucia, 7 nights
self-catering including group B car hire. Please contact
us for other property prices
UMBRIA
PIEVE DI COMUNAGLIA
Dating back to 1050, Comunaglia is a converted medieval hamlet consisting of a collection of stone
buildings sitting on a small hill surrounded by the typical rolling green countryside of Umbria.
There are two villas to rent at Comunaglia, L’Olivo
sleeping six and Ca’ di Gatti sleeping four. Both houses
have their own sleek-looking swimming pools with
wonderful views, and from biomass energy to the
careful selection of every fitting, it is clear that a great
deal of care has been put into the architecture and
presentation of these villas.
The outside space of the hamlet has been creatively
designed, with a mixture of paved open spaces, olive
groves, grass areas, hillside vineyards and landscaped
gardens. A large communal swimming pool is set 200
metres from the hamlet.
The houses are beautifully restored with thick stone
walls, terracotta tiled open beamed ceilings and
terracotta floors. Both are comfortably furnished with a
mixture of antique and modern furniture. The houses
are in landscaped gardens and have a choice of outside
dining and sitting areas. L'Olivo’s outside stone walled
dining courtyard is particularly attractive.
FAMILY FRIENDLY
RURAL RETREAT
Facilities: L’Olivo: 3 bedroom villa sleeping up to 6, Ca' di
Gatti: 2 bedroom villa sleeping up to 4, all bedrooms en
suite in both houses. Internet access, TV, bath & pool towels,
central heating, private swimming pools (L’Olivo 8.6x3.6m,
Ca' di Gatti 8x3.2m). Communal swimming pool (7x18m)
with Jacuzzi, communal tennis courts, cleaning 3 times a
week, meals can be ordered on request
Location: walking distance to a restaurant (closed Monday),
Trestina 3km, Perugia airport 40km, Bologna airport 220km,
Rome airport 240km
Local interest: Umbertide, Città di Castello, Montone and
Monterchi all close by; Perugia, Gubbio, Assisi, Bevagna,
Spello, Sansepolcro and Spoleto are all within easy reach
season total for Ca’ di Gatti, from £2,482 low season and
£3,090 high season total for L’Olivo. 7 nights self-catering
including group B car hire
T: 020 7359 3938
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UMBRIA
FONDO LE TEGLIE
Fondo le Teglie, a meticulously restored 17th century
farmhouse and stables, lies 12 kilometres from Todi
in a wonderful position overlooking the rolling hills
and green fields of Umbria.
The property sleeps up to 10 in the main house and a
further two in the annexe. Living areas both inside and
outside are spacious, perfect for a group of friends to
congregate in after a day’s sightseeing. Outside in the
courtyard there is a dining table which seats 10 and a
wood burning grill and pizza oven.
The open-plan living area gives a lovely feeling of space
to the sitting room, kitchen and dining area. There are
terracotta tiled floors and wooden beams which,
together with the mixture of antique pieces and the
open fireplace, give the space great character and style.
Upstairs, which can be reached by an internal or an
external staircase, there is a common area for watching
TV and DVDs and a small loft which can sleep two
children. The four bedrooms and bathrooms are
luxurious, with comfortable beds and top quality
linens, towels and bathrobes.
The annexe has a combined living and dining room with
a galley kitchen and a double bedroom with en suite
bathroom. It has been carefully restored to reveal the
stone walls of the original stables and has its own
private garden as well as sharing the courtyard with
the main villa.
FAMILY FRIENDLY
RURAL RETREAT
Facilities: 4 bedroom villa plus sleeping area in loft suitable
for 2 children, with additional double bedroom & bathroom
in annexe, sleeping up to 12 (2 bedrooms are en suite).
Satellite TV, DVD, internet access, fully equipped kitchen with
microwave, oven, fridge/freezer, dishwasher & washing
machine, swimming pool (10x5m)
Location: shops and restaurants in Sismano 3km, Todi
12km, Perugia airport 46km, Rome airport 133km
Local interest: Todi, Assisi, Perugia, Spoleto and Orvieto are
all within easy reach
season total for property, 7 nights self-catering including
2 group B hire cars
T: 020 7359 3938
UMBRIA
CA SA DEL CONTE
Casa del Conte is a beautiful property which lies by
itself on a hill with wonderful views of Todi and the
Tiber Valley below.
The property dates back to the 15th century and the
remains of a medieval tower form the backdrop to the
swimming pool. The house provides an elegant,
luxurious and beautifully furnished home with spacious
living areas and comfortable and attractive bedrooms.
The lovely outside seating areas, in the midst of
fantastic gardens, are part of a 27 hectare estate with
olive groves, fruit orchards and wheat fields.
There are wooden beamed ceilings and terracotta tiled
floors throughout, as well as wonderful antique
furniture and artworks. The sitting room opens onto a
wisteria covered loggia with comfortable outside
furniture. The kitchen is large and well equipped. French
windows lead to a courtyard with a dining table and an
outside grill and oven, perfect for alfresco dining.
Upstairs there is a library with a further seating area and
the bedrooms lead off from here. The master bedroom
is large and light with a fireplace, a canopied king-size
bed and French windows leading to a private loggia
where guests can enjoy the lovely views.
The swimming pool is situated in a secluded position by
the tower ruins. Days can be spent under the shade of
the huge oak tree which overlooks the property’s small
chapel or perhaps playing bocce (similar to boules),
strolling in the gardens or just enjoying the view.
RURAL RETREAT
EXCLUSIVE
Facilities: 5 bedroom villa sleeping up to 10 with 4
bathrooms (2 en suite), internet access & satellite TV, well
equipped kitchen, cook on request, swimming pool (12x5m)
Location: shops & restaurants in Ponte Rio 8km or Todi
10km, Perugia airport 37km, Rome airport 150km
Local interest: Assisi, Gubbio, Perugia, Spoleto and Orvieto
are all within easy reach
2 group B hire cars
T: 020 7359 3938
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16
UMBRIA
LE TERRAZZE
Le Terrazze is an attractive stone built casale, originally forming part of a 16th century
group of farm buildings.
The English architect owner has restored the buildings
and created the gardens while his wife, an Italian
designer, is responsible for the interior, which has the
warmth and welcome of a real home. Umbrian
tradition has been followed throughout. The living
areas and bedrooms are paved with handmade floor
tiles and there are timber beams and open fireplaces.
The large sitting room opens on to a terrace and
includes a small kitchenette. Double doors lead to the
dining room and main kitchen which is fully equipped,
including a microwave and dishwasher. There is also a
separate laundry room.
T: 020 7359 3938
All of the bedrooms are en suite and the master
bedroom opens onto a terrace which overlooks the
swimming pool. In the garden, a gazebo with
barbecue adjoins the large terrace, which is a perfect
place for alfresco dining.
FAMILY FRIENDLY
RURAL RETREAT
Facilities: 5 bedroom villa sleeping up to 11 (all bedrooms
en suite). Swimming pool (12x6m), fully equipped kitchen
including dishwasher, TV, DVD & stereo, Wi-Fi
Location: shops and restaurants in Todi 7km, Perugia airport
35km, Rome airport 140km
Local interest: Assisi, Spoleto, Perugia, Bevagna and Orvieto
2 group B hire cars
UMBRIA
PALAZZO DEL GA STALDO
The Palazzo del Gastaldo was originally a fortified hamlet and has been exquisitely restored by its
present owners and converted into six apartments.
The buildings are on top of a hill and each
apartment has wonderful views of the completely
unspoilt Umbrian countryside.
There are four simple apartments in the main
building, in one of which the owners live. There are
two more apartments in a renovated outhouse.
Each has been individually and tastefully restored
using original Umbrian furnishings. Most of the
furniture is antique, but comfortable. All the
apartments have terraces for sitting out and eating.
The lovely swimming pool is surrounded by hedges,
which protects it from the gentle breeze. There is
a delightful restaurant run by the owners which is
open several evenings a week.
FAMILY FRIENDLY
RURAL RETREAT
Facilities: 5 apartments sleeping 4 to 6, shared swimming
pool, table tennis, laundry facilities (paid locally), restaurant
on site open several nights a week, tennis courts 9km away,
horse riding 15km away
Location: Umbertide 9km, Perugia airport 42km, Rome
airport 223km, Bologna airport 243km
Local interest: Gubbio, Perugia, Città di Castello, Assisi and
Lake Trasimeno are all within easy reach
Price guide: from £705 low season and £1,035 high season
total for 2 bedroom apartment La Torre, 7 nights selfcatering including group B car hire. Please contact us for
other property prices
Please contact us for details of each apartment.
AGRITURISMO SANT 'ILLUMINATO
Sant'Illuminato is a collection of five apartments set in 18 hectares of land with uninterrupted views from
the low hills overlooking the Tiber Valley.
FAMILY FRIENDLY
The original building dates from the late 17th century,
and has been painstakingly restored to preserve the
original architecture and to create five independent and
distinctive apartments. The thick stone walls keep the
apartments cool in summer and warm in winter. All have
wooden beams, terracotta tiles and stone fireplaces,
but each is individually decorated and furnished.
There is a large swimming pool protected by a fence,
plus a lake where one can row a boat, fish, swim, or just
picnic on the shores. This agriturismo is perfect for
families as the owners, who live on site, have children
themselves. Cots and high chairs are provided as well as
outside toys. Sant’Illuminato’s owner, Marco, will do his
best to make his guests’ stay as enjoyable as possible,
with advice on sights and restaurants.
RURAL RETREAT
Facilities: 5 apartments sleeping 2 to 8. Meals can be
arranged on request. Tulips & Sunflowers apartments can
interconnect & can be rented together. Satellite TV & Wi-Fi
throughout. Shared facilities include a swimming pool,
laundry facilities, a children’s play area & a small aircraft
landing facility
Location: there is a restaurant in Calzolaro 1.5km & shops at
Trestina 4km. Perugia airport 40km, Bologna airport 205km,
Rome airport 225km
Local interest: Montone, Città di Castello, Gubbio, Perugia
and Assisi are all within easy reach
total for 1 bedroom apartment The Grapes, 7 nights selfcatering including group B car hire. Please contact us for
other property prices
T: 020 7359 3938
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18
TUSCANY AND EMILIA ROM AG NA
LO M B A R D I A
V E N E TO
CULTURAL CALENDAR
Parma
Spring:
E M I L I A Modena
RO M A G N A Bologna
Reno
Brisighella
Ravenna
Faenza
Modigliana
Tredozio
Adriatic Sea
Rimini
•As with the rest of Italy, Easter is a special time in
Tuscany and Emilia Romagna with many of the towns
and villages holding carnivals and processions.
•The re-enactment of the classic car race Mille Miglia
passes through Pienza in May.
•Castiglione d’Orcia welcomes in the month of May
with its Maggiolata festival with music and dancing.
Lucca
TUSC ANY
AND EM IL IA
ROMAG NA
Summer:
Florence
Pisa
Arno
San
Gimignano
Tyrrhenian Sea
L E M A RC H E
Siena
T U S C A N Y Montepulciano
Montalcino
Pienza
Elba
Chiusi
e
on
br Mt Amiata
m
O
UMBRIA
LAZIO
Rome
Tuscany is well known for the Renaissance
glories of Florence, Siena and Lucca, but we
have concentrated our energies on finding
the ideal places to stay in the south east of
Tuscany, with the lesser known gems of
Pienza, Montepulciano and Etruscan Chiusi,
and the classic ‘English Patient’ scenery of
the Val d’Orcia.
This is Tuscany at its best: all the essential ingredients
– rolling hills, medieval towns, fine wines but without
the crowds and busy traffic. Pienza is one of Tuscany’s
most beautiful towns, illustrating the finest virtues of
Renaissance architecture by Pope Pius II who was born
here at the beginning of the 15th century. Its piazza,
whose four sides are lined with the Cathedral and
Palazzos Piccolomini, Borgia and Communale, exudes
serenity and is precisely where visitors would wish to
sit in contemplation after a stop at one of the town’s
restaurants.
T: 020 7359 3938
Montepulciano offers wine lovers its famous Vino
Nobile, a just reward for climbing its steep main street
up to the town square. Smaller and quieter, walled
Montalcino has a perfect tiny triangular piazza to
watch the world go by, and sample its prize winning
Brunello. The spa town of Bagni Vignoni is another
‘must visit’ for its antique pool in the main square.
Chiusi is a favourite because it is unpretentious and
unspoilt by tourism yet has just as interesting treasures
as its better known Etruscan neighbours. Similarly,
San Quirico d’Orcia is a delight for those who like
their medieval towns on the sleepy side.
Our properties in Emilia Romagna are located in the far
south west of the region on the border with Tuscany.
Locally known as Toscana Romagna, it was once part of
Tuscany and an area where Florentines built beautiful
farmhouses and palaces until Mussolini included it in
the province of Forlì.
•Siena’s famous Palio horse race takes place on 2nd
July and 16th August.
•Montalcino hosts its Jazz and Wine festival at the
end of July.
•La Foce Estate near Montalcino hosts a festival of
classical music in July.
•Palazzo Fantini in Tredozio hosts music concerts
throughout the summer.
TUSCANY AND EMILIA ROMAGNA
“ Emilia Romagna is so rich
in every sense – historical,
cultural, economic and
gastronomic, and nowhere
is it more beautiful than
on its Apennine border
with Tuscany.”
Philip
Director and Founder
Emilia Romagna is known for its string of Romanesque
and Renaissance cities: Bologna, Parma, Modena and
Ferrara and also for Ravenna which holds some of the
world’s finest Byzantine mosaics.
Many of those visiting Toscana Romagna will find it
difficult to leave the beautiful countryside of the
Apennine mountains but Faenza with its world-famous
ceramics museum and production house is well worth
a visit, particularly on market day. Brisighella is also
of interest being well known for its restaurants and
splendid medieval fortress. The historic towns of Porto
di Romagna and Comacchio, Emilia Romagna’s answer
to Venice with its three main canals, will delight the
more inquisitive traveller.
the Maremma. Game is also popular, particularly wild
boar and hare, often in a ragu sauce over papardelle
pasta. Emilia Romagna is famed for its Parmesan cheese,
balsamic vinegar and endless varieties of tortellini and
many other types of pasta. Although its Adriatic coast is
a major fishing area, meat is more common than fish,
particularly pork products such as salami and of course
Parma ham.
The wine of Tuscany needs no introduction but visitors
are recommended to seek out the Vino Nobile of
Montepulciano and the Brunello di Montalcino, made
with the same Sangiovese grape as more famous Chianti.
Emilia Romagna also makes excellent Sangiovese wines
but often at a fraction of the price of its neighbour.
GA STRONOMY
Tuscan cuisine is simple and hearty and reflects the
local produce of the land; tasty soups such as ribollita
made with bread, beans and vegetables; the famous
Florentine steak from cattle of the Chiana Valley and
Our villas in Tuscany combine very well with those
featured in neighbouring Umbria such as Casale de
Lanci and Casa del Conte. For wine enthusiasts,
a stay at Castello Banfi works well with the Locanda
Palazzone in Umbria, each set on a wine estate.
Alternatively, stay at one of our city hotels in Florence
or Bologna for a few days before continuing on to one
of our rural villas.
Car hire is essential for exploring these areas of Tuscany
and Emilia Romagna.
Flights: Florence is the closest airport for our Tuscan
properties but offers limited flights. Pisa and Rome are
a little further and offer a wide selection of scheduled
and low cost carriers. Bologna is ideal for our Emilia
Romagna properties.
Rail: Travel overnight via Paris to Florence or Bologna.
This journey can also be made by day with an overnight
stop in the north of Italy.
By car: Tuscany and Emilia Romagna can be
comfortably reached with two or three overnight stops
en route from the UK. There are some wonderful driving
routes over the Alps. Please contact us for suggestions.
T: 020 7359 3938
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20
VILLA GONZOLA
Gonzola is a large farmhouse sleeping up to 10.
It is built in the local stone, overgrown with roses,
honeysuckle and ivy.
T: 020 7359 3938
Overlooking the wheat and sunflower fields of La Foce
estate, Gonzola has a real sense of seclusion and is
ideal for a group of friends or a family wanting a Tuscan
retreat. The house has enchanting gardens with
rosemary, sage and lavender and has views of the
clay hills and broom bushes typical of the region.
On the ground floor there is a large summer living
room decorated in pale soft colours with large
windows. This room stays cool and is ideal for the
daytime where one can read or play table tennis.
The fifth bedroom, en suite, is also located on the
ground floor.
There is an external staircase which leads to the first
floor with a large living room with an open fireplace,
beautifully painted cobalt kitchen and dining room.
Also located on this floor are four of the bedrooms,
all decorated in typical Tuscan colours.
Within the spacious grounds of the villa there is a large
swimming pool and a pool house with changing room,
shower and WC as well as a small kitchen. A pergola
with vine and wisteria stretches out from the pool
house creating a lovely shaded area for alfresco dining.
RURAL RETREAT
FAMILY FRIENDLY
Facilities: 5 bedroom villa sleeping up to 10 (3 bedrooms
are en suite). TV, stereo, Wi-Fi, telephone, washing machine,
dishwasher, gas hob, oven, microwave, cook on request,
swimming pool (10x5m), tennis within La Foce estate,
mountain bikes available for hire & walking trails
Location: Contignano 4km, La Foce estate restaurant 5km,
Perugia airport 110km, Florence airport 140km, Rome airport
195km, Pisa airport 230km
Local interest: Montepulciano, Pienza, Siena, Orvieto,
Perugia, Assisi and Florence are all within easy reach
2 group B hire cars
VILLA MONTAUTO
Montauto is a haven of tranquility and serenity,
set amid woods and fields, with spectacular views
of the surrounding Tuscan countryside.
Located on La Foce estate, the house is built in a
traditional local stone around a central courtyard with
roses, lavender and rosemary – a perfect spot for
alfresco dining. The garden has several different areas
for relaxing as well as two outside dining areas and
a barbeque terrace. Steps lead down to the large
swimming pool where there are several chairs and
sun loungers.
RURAL RETREAT
FAMILY FRIENDLY
Facilities: 6 bedroom villa sleeping up to 10 (1 bedroom
en suite). TV, stereo, washing machine, dishwasher, gas hob,
oven & microwave, cook on request, swimming pool
(10x5m), tennis within La Foce estate, mountain bikes
available for hire & walking trails
Location: La Foce estate restaurant 2.5km, Contignano
4km, Perugia airport 110km, Florence airport 140km,
Rome airport 195km, Pisa airport 230km
On the ground floor there is a beautiful open-plan
kitchen and dining room with exposed wooden beams
and terracotta stone floors. On this floor there is also
a double bedroom, a twin bedroom and a single
bedroom, as well as a bathroom with a bath. All the
ground floor bedrooms have French windows leading
out to the garden.
2 group B hire cars
On the first floor there is a large living room with an
antique stone fireplace and bookcase. There is also a
large double bedroom with en suite facilities, another
double bedroom leading through to a single bedroom
and separate bathroom with bath.
Nearby there are plenty of towns and cities to explore
including Montepulciano and Pienza, while Siena and
Orvieto are within easy reach.
T: 020 7359 3938
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22
VILLA FONTALGOZZO
This attractive yellow ochre farmhouse was built in the 1920s following a design by the English
architect Cecil Pinsent, and is the smallest of the villas we feature on La Foce Estate.
The rooms are decorated in pastel colours which
complement the lightness of the property and its
comfortable furniture. On the ground floor there is
a living room with a travertine fireplace, a large well
equipped kitchen leading out to the garden, a dining
room and a bathroom. A spiral staircase leads up to
the first floor where there are two double bedrooms
and one twin bedroom, each with en suite facilities.
There is also a second sitting area with a fire place
on this floor.
T: 020 7359 3938
The grounds of the villa are spacious with several
shaded areas for dining and relaxing alfresco. A stroll
down into the gardens leads to a second farmhouse
next to the large swimming pool. This farmhouse has
a twin bedroom and en suite bathroom with shower.
It is decorated in pale blue and green and has a very
peaceful ambience. These beautifully restored
buildings are surrounded by cypress trees and pergolas.
There are plenty of quiet places for reading and
relaxing, including a hammock by the swimming pool.
RURAL RETREAT
FAMILY FRIENDLY
Facilities: 4 bedroom property spread over 2 buildings
sleeping up to 8 (all bedrooms en suite). TV, stereo, washing
machine, dishwasher, gas hob, oven & microwave, cook on
request, swimming pool (11x4m), tennis within La Foce
estate, mountain bikes available for hire and walking trails
Location: La Foce estate restaurant 1.5km, Contignano
4km, Perugia airport 110km, Florence airport 140km,
Rome airport 195km, Pisa airport 230km
2 group B hire cars
CA STELLO BANFI IL BORGO
Castello Banfi is a renowned family-owned vineyard
estate and winery, set high on a hill, affording far
reaching views over the Tuscan countryside.
The estate was once an 18th century hamlet within the
walls of the castle. Along the former village streets are
14 rooms and suites elegantly furnished in classic
Tuscan country style.
Gastronomy is celebrated at Banfi and dining is a real
pleasure. Breakfast is a traditional Italian buffet on
a quiet terrace with beautiful vistas. For dinner La
Taverna offers a delectable three, four and five course
tasting menu, paired with the estates’ own wines,
under the vaulted ceilings of the Castello.
RURAL RETREAT
GASTRONOMIC
EXCLUSIVE
FLY DRIVE
Facilities: 14 rooms & suites with satellite TV, safe & mini
bar. Wi-Fi, 3 dining areas, wine tours & tasting room, cooking
& wine classes, reading room, museum, swimming pool
(please note there is now a small fence in front of the pool),
spa treatments can be arranged on request. Shop selling
wine, balsamic vinegar, local delicacies & crafts
Location: Montalcino 15km, Florence airport 118km, Perugia
airport 125km, Pisa airport 185km, Rome airport 214km
Local interest: Pienza, Montepulciano, Siena and Chiusi
season per person, 7 nights B&B including group B car hire
The tranquil swimming pool area laid into the hillside,
offers more spectacular views and is perfectly located
to enjoy the dramatic Tuscan sunsets. The lower
courtyard has a shady pergola, immaculate gardens
and is a beautiful quiet spot for guests to relax in.
T: 020 7359 3938
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24
VILLA MAZZINO
This former farmhouse, part of the Vespignani
family estate, La Collina, on the Tuscany and Emilia
Romagna border, offers fabulous views across the
Tuscan Apennines from its ridge top position.
The house is entered from the upper floor as it is set
into the side of a slope. The entrance leads into a
dining area with a well equipped kitchen off to the
right, and a large and pleasantly furnished living room
with an open fireplace on the left. Also on this floor
is the en suite master bedroom which has French
windows leading out to the garden.
T: 020 7359 3938
A circular flight of stairs leads to the ground floor level
where there are two twin bedrooms (beds can be put
together), one is en suite and there is a further
bathroom with a bath. Both bedrooms also have access
to the garden. On this floor there is a utility room with
washing machine and outside there is an outdoor
oven where guests can test their pizza baking skills.
On the rise above the house there is a large swimming
pool which has the best views of all, a wonderful
vantage point to spend much of the day. However,
guests may be tempted to visit the small valley town of
Tredozio three kilometres from the villa, where visitors
will find a good selection of restaurants including one
with a Michelin star whose chef, on request, will cook
meals for guests of the villa.
RURAL RETREAT
FAMILY FRIENDLY
Facilities: 3 bedroom villa sleeping up to 6 (2 bedrooms en
suite), satellite TV, microwave, dishwasher, washing machine,
swimming pool (10x5m), pizza oven, cook on request. Horse
riding & mountain bikes can be arranged through the owner,
tennis 3km away
Location: Tredozio 3km for shops and restaurants, Bologna
airport 92km, Florence airport 94km, Pisa airport 173km
Local interest: Modigliana, Brisighella, Faenza, Florence,
Ravenna and Bologna are all within easy reach
season total for property, 7 nights self-catering including 2
group B hire cars
I VANZE TTI AND
LA CHIESINA
These converted farmhouses are part of the
Vespignani family estate, La Collina, on the
Tuscany and Emilia Romagna border. The
views of the valleys, ridges and wooded
slopes are incomparable.
Although the whole of this country house can
be rented as one for a large family or a group
of friends, Vanzetti has been divided into two
spacious apartments with the upper first floor
apartment sleeping eight, and the lower ground
floor apartment sleeping six. Both share the large
swimming pool and outdoor pizza oven with
neighbouring apartment La Chiesina. The house
also has a large garden area with plenty of space
for sitting out and dining alfresco.
Vanzetti I on the ground floor has a light and open
central living room with a fireplace and French
windows leading out to the garden. A large kitchen
and dining area is to the left of that, along with the
en suite master double bedroom. On the right are
two twin bedrooms that share the second bathroom
and have doors leading out into the garden.
Vanzetti II on the first floor, has a large, comfortably
furnished and very pleasant living room with an
impressive fireplace. A dining room and kitchen lead
off to the left. On this side of the building there is a
twin bedded room and a bathroom. A small flight of
stairs gives access to a mezzanine floor with twin beds.
On the right hand side of the apartment is the en suite
master bedroom and also a small studio area with the
mezzanine floor above having two single beds.
La Chiesina 20 metres from Vanzetti, is a converted
chapel that is perfect for a couple although it can be
taken with either of the Vanzetti apartments. It shares
Vanzetti’s pool but has its own patio dining area and
barbecue. The nave of the chapel forms the living
room with a dining table and a narrow stairway leading
up to a mezzanine floor with a double bed. Both the
kitchen and bathroom are built into the apse below
this behind a wooden panelled facade.
RURAL RETREAT
FAMILY FRIENDLY
Vanzetti Facilities: Vanzetti I sleeping 8 & Vanzetti II
sleeping 6, satellite TV, cooker with oven, dishwasher,
washing machine, microwave, fridge and freezer, table &
chairs for alfresco dining, shared swimming pool (10x5m),
cook on request
La Chiesina Facilities: 1 bedroom apartment sleeping 2,
satellite TV, fridge, hob, microwave & washing machine,
outdoor patio with table & chairs, horse riding & mountain
bikes can be arranged through the owner, tennis courts
nearby, shared swimming pool (10x5m), cook on request
Location: Tredozio 3km for shops and restaurants, Bologna
airport 92km, Florence airport 94km, Pisa airport 173km
Local interest: Modigliana, Brisighella, Faenza, Florence,
Ravenna and Bologna are all within easy reach
total for Vanzetti I, 7 nights self-catering including group B
car hire, please contact us for other property prices
T: 020 7359 3938
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26
E M I L I A RO M A G N A
LE MARCHE
Rimini
San
Marino
San Leo
CULTURAL CALENDAR
Pesaro
Fano
Summer:
Adriatic Sea
Urbino
TUSCANY
Senigallia
Ancona
Portonovo
Sirolo
L E M A RC H E
Adriatic Sea
UMBRIA
Macerata
Autumn:
Tolentino
Perugia
San Ginesio
Porto San Giorgio
Sarnarno
L E MARC H E
Amandola
Sibillini Mts
National Park
San Benedetto
del Tronto
Ascoli Piceno
A B RU Z ZO
Pescara
Le Marche is a particularly diverse region,
characterised by soaring mountains in the
west and long stretches of sandy beach on
its Adriatic coast. In between visitors are
rewarded with gently undulating countryside
dotted with fascinating towns and villages
left mostly untouched by tourism.
Urbino in the north provides a perfect introduction to
the region with its rich artistic and cultural heritage
evident in its many splendid palazzos, most notably
the Palazzo Ducale which houses one of the most
important collections of Renaissance art in the world.
Heading south, Tolentino and Macerata offer
excellent examples of Le Marche hilltop towns, the
latter holding a delightful summer opera festival.
Ascoli Piceno, the region’s capital, lies in the south of
the province and has arguably one of the loveliest
squares in Italy, Piazza del Popolo.
T: 020 7359 3938
•Macerata holds an impressive open air opera festival
in July and August.
•The Rossini opera festival is held in Pesaro in
mid-August.
•Fano hosts its Jazz by the Sea festival in July.
•Urbino’s Early Music Festival celebrates music from
the medieval to the Baroque in July.
•Sarnano holds the Palio del Serafino festival in
August with parades and medieval banquets.
•Ascoli Piceno holds its Quintana (jousting competition)
in Piazza del Popolo at the beginning of August.
Many visitors come to Le Marche for the
spectacular mountain scenery of the Sibillini
Mountains with endless hiking opportunities,
beautiful lakes for summer swimming, delightful
flower-filled meadows and charming mountain
towns such as Sarnano and Amandola.
While much of Le Marche’s coastline is taken up
by beach clubs and lidos, there are pockets of wild
and rugged coast which offer a more peaceful
seaside experience. Near to Ancona is the stunning
Conero National Park with its white cliffs plunging
into the blue sea below. Here, visitors can explore
the many coves and beaches, some accessible
only by boat and others offering wonderful
seafood restaurants.
•Lu Vurgu fa Cantina is Francavilla d’Ete’s ‘the village
becomes a restaurant’, held in September with the
town square becoming a giant kitchen with music
and dancing.
•Cupramontana in the heart of Verdicchio wine
country holds a wine festival in October.
LE MARCHE
“ The best way of arriving
into Le Marche is by
taking the stunning
driving route from
Norcia in Umbria over
the Sibillini Mountains,
the scenery is simply
breathtaking.”
Annabel
Marketing Manager
GA STRONOMY
Meat and truffles feature widely in Le Marche cuisine
and the region is famous for its bread and olive oil.
Dishes often include mountain salt-cured ham and
soft, spreadable pork salami. Ascoli Piceno’s stuffed
fried olives are also particular to the region. Typical
primo or first course dishes include tagliatelle alla
papera (goose ragout) or other meat sauces. Ravioli
is also popular as is a local lasagna called vincisgrassi
which is traditionally made without tomatoes. Fish
soup and stew, brodetto, is popular around Ancona.
• Spend a week in both the north and south of the
region by combining a stay at Il Biroccio near
Urbino with Casal dei Fichi near Macerata.
• Enjoy a week at the luxurious Villa di Monte
Solare in Umbria followed by a visit to the
wonderful Hotel Emilia on the Marche coast
for a perfect combination of rural tranquility
and seaside serenity.
• Le Marche also combines well with a city break
in Bologna or Rome.
We recommend hiring a car in Le Marche in order
to fully explore the region.
The area around Ancona is best known for the
white Verdicchio wine. The best Marche reds are
Rosso Conero and Rosso Piceno, both of which
blend Montepulciano and Sangiovese grapes.
The region also produces a good sparkling wine,
Vernaccia di Serrapetrona.
Flights: low cost carriers fly to Ancona and also
Pescara in neighbouring Abruzzo. Slightly further
afield, Bologna and Rome offer scheduled flights
as well as low cost airlines.
Rail: travel overnight via Paris to Milan and then
take a connecting train to Ancona where car hire
can be arranged for onward travel. Alternatively,
travel by high speed daytime rail to Milan and
overnight there before continuing on the next day.
By car: Le Marche can be comfortably reached
with two or three overnight stops en route from
the UK. There are some wonderful driving routes
over the Alps, please contact us for suggestions.
T: 020 7359 3938
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28
LE MARCHE
HOTEL EMILIA
FAMILY FRIENDLY
This cliff top property is set in a stunning location
and is renowned for its cuisine.
The Hotel Emilia is set in large gardens, which sweep
down to the cliff edge, with wonderful views of the
Riviera del Conero and the small coastal village of
Portonovo.
Its location, only 10 kilometres south of Ancona, makes
the Hotel Emilia the ideal base from which to discover
this corner of Italy, which is becoming popular with
holidaymakers who come to discover the Renaissance
art of Urbino, or to explore the Conero National Park,
with its rolling hills and dramatic limestone cliffs which
plunge into the sea.
T: 020 7359 3938
Lazy days can be spent by the large swimming pool or
relaxing in the impressive cliff top gardens. Sporting
activities such as windsurfing and horse riding can be
arranged locally and for a spot of pure indulgence,
massages can be arranged by prior appointment.
The stylish modern rooms are all spacious and bright,
with either a patio or balcony and many have fabulous
sea views. Some rooms interconnect, making them
ideal for families.
The hotel restaurant has an excellent reputation,
specialising in seafood and local dishes. During the
warm summer months, meals are taken outside on the
terrace. The Emilia provides an excellent standard of
accommodation in a beautiful position and Rafaella
and her friendly staff will ensure guests receive a warm
welcome.
ROMANTIC
COASTAL
FLY DRIVE
Facilities: 30 rooms & suites (some interconnecting) with
air-con, minibar, safe, TV & internet access. Restaurant,
swimming pool, massages can be arranged by prior
appointment, complimentary shuttle bus to the beach,
jazz nights in June (please contact us for dates)
Location: Portonovo 2km, Ancona airport 30km, Perugia
airport 102km, Rimini airport 113km, Bologna airport 236km
Local interest: Conero National Park, beaches and Macerata
LE MARCHE
IL BIROCCIO
This charming country house is situated in the heart of the dramatic mountains
of the northern Marche region.
The property is set in 27 hectares of woodland,
approximately two kilometres from the main road,
and is the ideal spot for those wanting to get away
from it all. The surrounding countryside is full of
walking trails, while the more energetic can hire
mountain bikes and explore a little further afield.
Alternatively, guests may wish to spend days by the
lovely swimming pool.
There are, however, plenty of reasons for leaving
the haven of Il Biroccio. The perfectly preserved
Renaissance town of Urbino is 30 minutes away and
it is possible to reach the coast in less than an hour.
The hotel rooms are decorated in neutral colours
with brightly coloured soft furnishings and mountain
views. The apartments are simply furnished and
have one or two bedrooms.
There is a small bar and a comfortable living room
at Il Biroccio where guests can enjoy a pre-dinner
drink. The owners, Gianni and Antonella, can provide
dinner on request, otherwise there is a communal
outside seating area with a shared barbeque for
alfresco cooking.
RURAL RETREAT
FLY DRIVE
FAMILY FRIENDLY
Facilities: 4 hotel rooms & 5 apartments sleeping up to 6.
Wi-Fi, swimming pool, horse riding on site, mountain bikes
for hire, small bar & restaurant
Location: Urbino 10km, Rimini airport 50km, Ancona airport
105km, Perugia airport 120km, Bologna airport 134km,
Rome airport 214km
Local interest: Urbino, San Leo, Sant'Angelo and the coast
per person, 7 nights B&B hotel room including group B car
hire. Please contact us for apartment prices
CA SAL DEI FICHI
Casal dei Fichi is a splendidly positioned farmhouse with six tastefully restored
apartments in the picturesque hills of the central Marche.
RURAL RETREAT
Bob and Ian, the extremely hospitable owners
have carefully restored the property into luxury
accommodation. The dark wood of the Indonesian
beds and chests of drawers contrasts with the
colourful textiles and there is a light and open feel
to the rooms. The thick walls and window shutters
keep the apartments pleasantly cool in summer.
The garden and orchard are pretty and well cared
for, with a wonderful backdrop of the fields and
woodlands that are typical of this region. Below the
farmhouse the well-appointed swimming pool gets
the sun all day.
Besides its location, equidistant from the Adriatic
beaches and the striking Sibillini Mountains, Casal
dei Fichi has the great advantage of a characterful
village just two kilometres up the road, complete
with piazza, a variety of local shops, a restaurant
and a couple of bars. Hill towns rarely visited by
tourists are within easy driving distance, as well as
the better known towns of Macerata, Tolentino
and Ascoli Piceno.
FLY DRIVE
Facilities: 6 one bedroom apartments (two of which
interconnect) sleeping up to 4 with well equipped kitchens
featuring oven, hob, microwave, fridge & freezer, dishwasher,
toaster, tea/coffee making facilities. Living areas have TV,
DVD player, stereo, central heating, Wi-Fi. Swimming pool
(pool towels provided), pizza evening once a week on site,
communal laundry room and BBQ, tennis court in the village
Location: Francavilla d'Ete 2km for shops and restaurant,
Ancona airport 71km, Pescara airport 138km, Rimini airport
160km, Rome airport 277km, Bologna airport 284km
Local interest: Macerata, Tolentino, beaches, Sibillini
Mountains and Ascoli Piceno are all within easy reach
total for a 1 bedroom apartment, 7 nights self-catering
including group B car hire
T: 020 7359 3938
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30
LE MARCHE
I CALANCHI
An old agricultural estate which has been renovated to provide a comfortable, light, modern hotel in a
spectacular position among olive groves and vineyards in the gently rolling hills of the southern Marche.
The main buildings of the hotel, including the
restaurant, are gathered round an attractive paved
courtyard where guests can sit and enjoy a drink and
eat out in the summer months. There are 32 rooms
in total, all comfortably furnished, some can sleep
up to four guests and others interconnect making
them ideal for families.
The restaurant at I Calanchi serves excellent food
typical of the region, such as homemade pasta with
truffles and locally produced cheeses and salami,
served with local wines including the excellent
Piceno Rosso.
From the large swimming pool there are
uninterrupted views of the southern Marche hills.
I Calanchi is in an ideal position for exploring the
wonderful unspoilt towns of the region, such as
Ascoli Piceno and Fermo, and also for the beaches
and seaside towns of San Benedetto del Tronto
and Grottammare.
T: 020 7359 3938
FAMILY FRIENDLY
FLY DRIVE
Facilities: 32 rooms & suites, some interconnecting,
with TV, minibar, air-con, telephone & Wi-Fi. Restaurant,
swimming pool, bicycle hire on request, basketball, table
tennis, limited gym equipment by the pool, horse trekking
nearby. Swimming pool & restaurant are also open to
the public
Location: Ripatransone 6km, Pescara airport 60km,
Ancona airport 90km
Local interest: Le Marche beaches, Ascoli Piceno and
the Sibillini Mountains are all within easy reach
LE MARCHE
TENUTA LE PIANE
Tenuta le Piane is located within the 700km2 Sibillini Mountain National Park with spectacular mountain
scenery, densely forested slopes and picturesque pastures which come alive with flowers in the spring.
The accommodation at Tenuta le Piane has been
converted from old farm buildings in a small hamlet
which dates back to the 16th century. There is a
mixture of apartments and independent houses,
but all the buildings retain such original features as
stone walls, fireplaces and exposed wooden beams.
There are extensive communal gardens with two
swimming pools and a play area for children. The
views from the gardens are stunning and there are
plenty of shady and sunny spots. Each property
has its own private space for relaxing and alfresco
dining. There is also one villa, Casale il Cerro, which
is set away from the rest of the buildings and
benefits from its own private pool.
Various activities can be arranged during a stay
at Tenuta le Piane. Wine tasting, truffle hunting,
walking and cycling tours are all available; please
contact us for more information.
The coast is little more than an hour away by car,
longer if driving the scenic routes over the mountain
range, stopping for a swim at Lake Fiastrone.
Alternatively, visit the less well known town of
Sarnano, famous for its thermal waters, or the walled
hilltop town of San Ginesio, which has some fine
4th century artwork. In the summer months, the
villages host numerous festivals and pageants.
FAMILY FRIENDLY
RURAL RETREAT
Facilities: 9 apartments & houses (1 with private swimming
pool) sleeping from 2 to 7 with fully equipped kitchens.
Shared laundry facilities, 2 shared swimming pools (11x5m),
mountain bikes & walking trails. Day tours such as truffle
hunting & cookery courses can be arranged
Location: Amandola 5km for shops and restaurants, Ancona
airport 120km, Perugia airport 120km, Rome airport 284km
Local interest: Sibillini National Park, Ascoli Piceno,
Amandola and Sarnano are all within easy reach
total for a one bedroom apartment, 7 nights self-catering
including group B car hire. Please contact us for other
propery prices
Please contact us for details of each property.
T: 020 7359 3938
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32
CAMPANIA
MOLISE
CULTURAL CALENDAR
LAZIO
Spring:
Vo
ltu
rn
PUGLIA
o
Garigliano
Tyrrhenian Sea
Procida
Summer:
C A M PA N I A
Naples
Pompeii
Ravello
Ischia
Sorrento
Capri
Positano
Salerno
B A S I L I C ATA
Amalfi
Praiano
Tyrrhenian Sea
Santa Maria di
Castellabate
Campania is a region of great contrasts, with
its gritty capital Naples watched over by the
foreboding Mount Vesuvius, at odds with the
impossibly pretty Amalfi Coast. There is
something for everyone here, from ancient
history to that perfect margherita pizza.
For keen historians, Pompeii and Herculaneum offer
some of the best preserved and most fascinating
Roman settlements, while Paestum further south
has some excellent Greek temples to explore. The
archaeology museum in Naples is a must for anyone
visiting these sites.
T: 020 7359 3938
•Classical theatre productions are held at Paestum
in July.
•Ravello hosts an impressive music festival from the
end of June to the end of September.
•Positano’s Sbarco dei Saraceni sees the re-enactment
of an historic battle on the beach.
Autumn:
Paestum
C AMPANIA
•The Bay of Naples is the setting for the Tre Golfi boat
race from Naples to Capri in May.
•Naples’ Festival of San Gennaro is held in May
celebrating the city’s patron saint.
Cilento & Vallo di
Diano National Park
The Amalfi Coast needs no introduction, with its
glorious towns tumbling down towards the turquoise
sea below. The road which winds along the coast
from Sorrento to Salerno is one of the most scenic
if hair-raising driving routes in Italy. In between,
highlights include Positano with its colourful villas,
churches and art galleries, while Ravello, perched
high up, is perhaps the most romantic town with
wonderful views over its botanical gardens towards
the coast below.
In the Bay of Naples lie the islands of Capri, Ischia
and Procida. Capri is the most visited of the islands
and rightly so with its breathtaking natural beauty
and charming piazzas and villas. Such is its
popularity, however, that we recommend visits in
spring or autumn to avoid some of the crowds.
Ischia, the largest of the islands, has some lovely
beaches and thermal spa towns while oft-forgotten
Procida rewards visitors with hidden swimming holes
and a delightful harbour ideal for a lunchtime treat.
•Salerno’s Festival of San Matteo celebrates the
city’s patron saint with parades and fireworks.
•Harvest festivals take place across the region
including the Festa della Vendemmia in Tramonti.
CAMPANIA
“ Heaven for me is having
a glass of wine at Casa
Angelina overlooking the
beautiful bay of Positano,
after a day spent exploring
this amazing coastline you
can just sink into a seat
and relax – pure bliss.”
Stephanie
Senior Travel Consultant
For those wishing to escape the crowds, the lesser
known Cilento coastline, a protected national park,
is the perfect place. Located south of the Amalfi
Coast, visitors will find wild, hilly and mountainous
countryside, sleepy fishing villages and lovely
sandy beaches.
Campania does not produce a huge amount of wine
and what it does produce tends to be drunk locally
rather than exported; the dry Taurasi is probably the
most notable red while the slopes of Mount Vesuvius
produce a good white, Lacrimi Christi.
GA STRONOMY
Campania is the birthplace of the pizza and is also
renowned for its mozzarella cheese made from
buffalo bred in Salerno and Caserta. Pasta is also
said to have its origins here and the variety of
shapes and sizes on offer would certainly attest
to this. The seafood is excellent and varied, and
deliciously fresh. Due to the rich soil in the region,
locally grown vegetables are widely used,
particularly salad leaves, tomatoes, aubergines
and capers. Campania is also famous for its citrus
fruits, particularly the lemons of Sorrento which
are used to make the liqueur limoncello.
Our Naples hotel, the Costantinopoli 104, works
perfectly with the Poseidon in Positano, allowing
visitors to experience the bustling capital as well as
the beauty of the Amalfi Coast. For those seeking a
more contemporary hotel from which to explore the
region, Casa Angelina in Praiano offers the perfect
retreat and combines very well with the Locanda
delle Donne Monache in Basilicata.
Naples and the Amalfi Coast can be visited without
a car; visitors to the Cilento coast will benefit from
car hire although it is not essential.
Flights: Naples is served by scheduled and low
cost carriers.
Rail: travel overnight from Paris to Milan and then
catch a fast service direct to Naples. Alternatively,
travel by day to northern Italy and stay there
overnight before continuing to Naples the next day.
From Naples there are local trains to Pompeii,
Herculaneum, Sorrento and Salerno as well as
further south to the Cilento.
T: 020 7359 3938
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CAMPANIA
VILLA MARIA
In the charming town of Ravello on the Amalfi
Coast, tucked away in a maze of steps and
alleyways is the welcoming Villa Maria.
Once a country mansion, Villa Maria has the feel of
staying in a very large home. The hotel's spacious
rooms, all with a balcony or terrace, are elegantly
furnished and have lovely views towards the sea or
over gardens and pleasant lemon or olive groves.
The large terrace area is a beautiful place to sit out
and enjoy a glass of wine, and sample food from
the Villa’s renowned kitchen.
Surrounding Villa Maria are terraced gardens where
most of the vegetables are grown, and the food is
so acclaimed that a number of well-known chefs
have filmed here. Villa Maria’s cookery courses
prove very popular.
T: 020 7359 3938
ROMANTIC
FLY DRIVE
COASTAL
Facilities: 23 rooms with air-con, TV & mini bar. Cooking
courses on request, restaurant & 2 bars. Use of swimming
pool & parking at sister hotel 5 minutes' walk away
Location: walking distance to the heart of Ravello, Naples
airport 61km
Local interest: Ravello and the towns of the Amalfi Coast
CAMPANIA
HOTEL POSEIDON
On the Amalfi Coast, between the popular towns of Sorrento and Ravello, the Poseidon is
positioned high on the cliffs with unrivalled views over picturesque Positano and across
the inviting Tyrrhenian Sea.
The hotel dates back over 100 years and has been
transformed from a large family villa to an elegant
hotel with 48 rooms set over four floors, while
maintaining a family feel and genuine Italian hospitality.
Most of the rooms boast views over the colourful villas
of Positano and across the bay and all have a balcony
or terrace.
The hotel is rare in central Positano in that it boasts a
good sized swimming pool which is located on one of
the hotel’s sunny terraces. This is the perfect spot for
settling down with a good book or enjoying a glass of
wine before venturing into town for dinner. If moving
seems like too much trouble, the hotel’s own
restaurant is renowned.
The hotel has an old VW Beetle which guests
without their own transport can use and there
are also complimentary boat trips available for
enjoying an idyllic day out at sea.
ROMANTIC
FLY DRIVE
COASTAL
Facilities: 48 rooms & suites with air-con, satellite TV,
minibar, Wi-Fi. Swimming pool, gym, restaurant & bar,
private parking available on request
Location: central Positano, Naples airport 59km
Local interest: Positano and the beach, Pompeii, Naples,
Ravello and the Amalfi Coast are all within easy reach
Price guide: from £925 low season and £1,060 high
season per person, 7 nights B&B including group B car hire.
Please contact us for airport transfer prices if preferred
T: 020 7359 3938
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36
CAMPANIA
CA SA ANGELINA
ROMANTIC
Casa Angelina, located in the picturesque village of Praiano, differs from other Amalfi Coast hotels
both in style and atmosphere.
With magnificent sea views across to Positano and
Capri the hotel elegantly combines its minimalist
white décor with playful pieces of modern art to
provide an elegant and calm base from which to
explore this beautiful coastline.
The contemporary bedrooms are divided into two
buildings and come in various categories but all
have access to ‘that’ view. Inside they are pure white
(with the exception of a plasma screen television),
well equipped with stylish furniture and contain
every amenity one could need.
T: 020 7359 3938
On the top floor is the restaurant with its panoramic
terrace, which offers fabulous Mediterranean
gastronomy. Additional facilities include two
swimming pools, indoor and outdoor, a small fitness
room with Jacuzzi and sauna and guests have access
to a secluded beach below the hotel.
The village of Praiano is much quieter than its more
established neighbours Positano and Amalfi, yet
there are several good restaurants within walking
distance and one can benefit from being able to
escape the crowds.
FLY DRIVE
COASTAL
EXCLUSIVE
Facilities: 39 rooms & suites plus 4 Eaudesea rooms below
the hotel near the water. All rooms have air-con, satellite TV,
Wi-Fi & safe. Restaurant, bar, indoor & outdoor swimming
pools, small wellness centre offering massage, sauna, Jacuzzi
& fitness room, complimentary parking, free shuttle to
Positano. Please note the beach is reached via a long flight
of steps
Location: Praiano is a short uphill walk away, Naples airport
60km
Local interest: Amalfi Coast, Positano, Sorrento, Pompeii
and Naples are all within easy reach
Price guide: from £915 low season and £1,175 high
season per person, 7 nights B&B including group B car hire.
CAMPANIA
PALAZZO BELMONTE
One of our most popular properties, the Palazzo Belmonte is an oasis of luxury hidden
away on a glorious stretch of the Cilento coastline.
Located in the small seaside town of Santa Maria di
Castellabate, the Palazzo Belmonte is only two hours
south of Naples and is so well located that day trips to
the beautiful Amalfi coast, Pompeii and Herculaneum,
or to the wonderfully preserved Greek temples at
nearby Paestum, can easily be arranged.
Dating back to the 17th century, this unique and
beautiful estate is made up of three main buildings;
the historic Palazzo itself, the former overseer’s house
next door, Edoardo’s, and the more modern Villa
Belmonte in the parkland.
The Palazzo offers apartments, suites and rooms with
high ceilings and plenty of space and the wonderful
feeling of living within thick castle-like walls only
metres from a beach.
Edoardo’s House offers some of the most private
and luxurious accommodation and is particularly
recommended for couples or groups of friends.
All of the rooms and suites are light and
contemporary in design yet utilise antique furniture.
The rooms in the Villa Belmonte are very bright and
fresh with wonderful garden and sea views where
guests can relax on the balcony or terrace to watch
the setting sun. Some of the rooms interconnect
making them perfect for families.
Lunch and dinner are both available at the outdoor
Belvedere Restaurant with its enviable position
overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea. Should guests prefer
a change of scenery, there are several restaurants
within walking distance in Santa Maria di Castellabate.
For the energetic, scuba courses can be arranged
in nearby San Marco di Castellabate and there are
some excellent wrecks in the local waters. Mountain
bikes can be hired at the Palazzo and there are
tennis courts in San Marco (it is advisable to bring
your own equipment).
FAMILY FRIENDLY
COASTAL
ROMANTIC
Facilities: 48 rooms & suites (some interconnecting) with
air-con, tea/coffee making facilities, telephone, satellite TV.
Swimming pool & direct beach access, pool & beach towels
supplied
Location: Santa Maria di Castellabate is a short walk away,
Naples airport 120km
Local interest: Paestum, Salerno, Pompeii and Herculaneum
per person, 7 nights B&B including group B car hire.
T: 020 7359 3938
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38
Bari
Naples
CALABRIA AND BA SILICATA
C A M PA N I A
Bra
da
no
Potenza
Trivigno
PUGLIA
Spring:
Matera
Regional Park of
Gallipoli Cognato &
Lucan Dolomites
B A S I L I C ATA
Pollino
National
Park
Maratea
Ionian Sea
C ALAB R IA
AND
B A SIL IC ATA
ti
Cra
Tyrrhenian Sea
CALABRIA
Capo Vaticano
Scilla
Reggio di
Calabria
Ionian Sea
Gerace
Locri
Aspromonte
National Park
Basilicata is Italy’s smallest region but its tiny stretch
of Tyrrhenian coastline offers an endless number of
little rocky coves and pebble beaches with invitingly
clear waters for swimming. Charming Maratea is the
centre of the action with its attractive historic centre
and dramatic backdrop of craggy hills. Behind the
town, the countryside is ideal for walking and the
neighbouring seaside villages such as Aquafredda
offer some good spots to enjoy lunch.
T: 020 7359 3938
•Matera holds an impressive Easter parade through
its old town.
•Potenza’s Turkish Parade in May commemorates
the town’s liberation from the Turks by angels.
•Accettura celebrates May with a three day festival of
Pagan and Christian origins, the Marriage of the Trees.
Summer:
•At the start of July Matera holds the Processione
della Madonna della Bruna beginning with parades
of shepherds and culminating with fireworks in
the evening.
•Rocella holds a jazz festival in August.
•Tropea hosts a film festival in August and also has
numerous gastronomic and musical celebrations.
Autumn:
Pizzo
Tropea
Snubbed by many Italians outside of August,
the deep south of the country can feel like a
forgotten land. While perhaps more famous
for their fabulous coastlines, Basilicata and
Calabria are predominantly rural in their
interiors with some spectacular landscapes.
The poverty of these regions is also apparent
but the warmth of the people and the more
simple and relaxed pace of life here make
this a wonderful area to explore.
Catanzaro
Lamezia Terme
CULTURAL CALENDAR
Inland, Basilicata and Calabria share Italy’s largest
national park, the Pollino, with its soaring peaks,
peaceful valleys and dense forests. This is ideal hiking
territory, particularly in autumn when the oak, maple
and beech trees put on a wonderful display. Wildlife
is also impressive with wild cats, wolves and birds of
prey such as the golden eagle all found here.
For those seeking further rural tranquillity, the Lucan
Dolomites offer sleepy mountain villages including
Aliano where the writer and painter Carlo Levi lived and
is buried. Moving east towards Puglia one reaches the
hilltop town of Matera, setting for Levi’s Christ Stopped
at Eboli. Its intriguing cave dwellings, or sassi as they
are known, were once evidence of the town’s acute
poverty but now reflect Matera’s evolution into a
desirable destination. Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the
Christ was filmed here. There are some wonderful cave
hotels as well as impressive churches and museums
which offer a fascinating account of the town’s history.
•There are numerous festivals celebrating the regions’
harvests.
“ I’m not sure what I love
most about Basilicata; the
long seafood lunches in
Aquafredda, the amazing
sea swimming or perhaps
just admiring the view from
the terrace of the Locanda
delle Donne Monache.”
Matt
Director
Calabria, along with Puglia, has some of Italy’s best
stretches of sandy coastline with Tropea the favourite
among holidaymakers with its delightful piazza and
pretty streets offering some great shops and cafés to
investigate. South of Tropea is Scilla, a lovely fishing
town with some excellent seafood restaurants and
a sandy beach.
Further south still, looking across the Straits of Messina
to Sicily, sits Calabria’s largest city Reggio. A must for
historians, Reggio’s superb Museo Nazionale traces the
region’s rich past, its ancient Greek bronzes a particular
highlight. Inland from Reggio is the Parco Nazionale
Aspromonte, one of the region’s three national parks
and home to Calabria’s highest mountain, Montealto,
where on a clear day hikers have a view towards Sicily’s
Mount Etna.
GA ST RO NO MY
MO R E T HA N O NE C ENTRE
Basilicata’s hearty cuisine reflects the region’s
mountainous landscape more so than its coast. Pork is
a regular feature on menus, particularly sausages; the
meat is relatively lean due to the steep grazing terrain.
Mountain cheeses are also popular. Both regions offer
spicy foods by Italian standards, Basilicatan dishes often
feature the Peperone di Senise (red chilli pepper)
while Calabria has the particularly fiery nduja sausage.
The poverty of the region is reflected in the range of
preserved foods from pickled aubergines to dried cod.
Given its location seafood features strongly in Calabria,
particularly tuna and swordfish. Calabria is also famous
for its red onions from Tropea.
Drive from the Tyrrhenian Sea to the Ionian starting with
a few nights on the Basilicatan coast at the Cheta Elite
followed by a stop at the San Leo in the Lucan
Dolomites for walkers or L’Hotel in Pietra in Matera for
some history. End at the Borgo San Marco to enjoy the
sights of Puglia. For beach lovers, spend a week at the
Locanda delle Donne Monache in Maratea followed
by a week at the luxurious Hotel Panta Rei in Calabria.
Wine from Calabria is predominantly red with the
Ciro region offering some good full bodied examples.
Basilicata also offers an excellent red wine from the
Aglianico grape, particularly around Mount Vulture.
We recommend hiring a car in Basilicata and Calabria
although visits to Maratea are possible without one.
Flights: Lamezia in Calabria is served by low cost
carriers or an indirect scheduled service from the UK
via Milan or Rome. Naples to the north or Bari to the
east, both served by scheduled and low cost airlines,
offer entry points into Basilicata.
Rail: There are good rail links from Naples to
Maratea and Lamezia and onwards south.
T: 020 7359 3938
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LA LOCANDA DELLE DONNE MONACHE
Located in the village of Maratea, La Locanda delle Donne Monache is a stunning hotel with amazing
views over the village and to the surrounding hills.
Formerly home to the Visitandine order of nuns, La
Locanda has now been turned into a charming and
intimate hotel with just 27 bright rooms and suites,
all decorated in a modern style with antique
Moroccan furniture.
La Locanda has a lovely swimming pool with great views
overlooking the rooftops of the village below. The fine
restaurant, Il Sacello, specialises in traditional regional
flavours of both the Basilicata and Campania regions.
T: 020 7359 3938
The centre of Maratea, with a few restaurants, shops
and bars, is less than a five minute walk and there are
several more restaurants at the port of Maratea, a short
drive away. With over 20 coves and beaches in the
vicinity, La Locanda is the perfect base from which
to explore this stunning region.
FLY DRIVE
COASTAL
ROMANTIC
Facilities: 27 rooms with minibar, air-con, Wi-Fi & room
service. Bar & restaurant, massage room, swimming pool,
fitness room, free shuttle to beach, access to walking trails
Location: the centre of Maratea is a short walk away,
Lamezia Terme airport 152km, Naples airport 207km
Local interest: the bays, beaches and seaside towns on
the Tyrrhenian coast and the Sirino Mountains rising
behind Maratea are all within easy reach
HOTEL VILLA DELLE MERAVIGLIE
The family-run Hotel Villa delle Meraviglie is strategically located between the villages of
Fiumicello and Acquafredda, only four kilometres from the pretty village of Maratea.
The light Mediterranean design of the building is
enhanced by the outside terraces and breakfast area,
which overlook the wooded hillside gardens and
pathways leading down to the sea and the hotel’s own
rocky cove below. Many guests do not move far from
the two swimming pools, one of which is for children.
The bedrooms are modern and light and some have
sea views. The hotel appeals to couples and families
alike and babysitting can be arranged. In high season,
snacks are served both by the pool and from the bar.
However, an inexpensive taxi will take guests up to the
old town of Maratea which has a number of excellent
restaurants, as well as those in the port, Fiumicello and
the hamlet of Cersuta, approximately one kilometre
away. The hotel offers a complimentary transfer service
from the railway station of Maratea and also to the
beach of Fiumicello.
FLY DRIVE
COASTAL
Facilities: 23 rooms with TV & minibar. Swimming pool &
children’s pool, snack service on request
Location: the small village of Cersuta 1km, Maratea 4km,
Lamezia airport 150km, Naples airport 210km
Local interest: the bays, beaches & seaside towns of
VILLA CHE TA ELITE
The Villa Cheta Elite is located in the coastal
village of Acquafredda, overlooking the coast,
just six kilometres from Maratea.
The cream and ochre Art Nouveau building stands at
the top of a terraced garden of tropical plants that
leads to the coastal road below and onward down a
relatively steep path to the small beach, where the
hotel runs a bar in the summer.
With just 24 rooms, the hotel retains the ambience of
a private villa, which is enhanced by the quite grand
turn-of-the-century furniture and the several private
sitting areas both inside and out, pride of place going
to the panoramic roof terrace with fabulous views of
the coastline below.
It is especially pleasant to sit out or drink on the
terrace where regional meals are served in fine
weather. The waiters are particularly friendly and it
is the attentive service from all the staff that makes
a stay here feel special.
FLY DRIVE
COASTAL
Facilities: 24 rooms with Wi-Fi. Restaurant & bar, boat
rental, shuttle service to beaches & Maratea in high season
Location: Acquafredda 1km, Maratea 6km, Lamezia Terme
airport 150km, Naples 250km
Local interest: the bays, beaches & seaside towns of
T: 020 7359 3938
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LA FORESTERIA DI SAN LEO
A two hour drive east from Naples through Campania
brings one to Potenza and on to the edge of the
uniquely beautiful area of the Lucan Dolomites
which share some of the spectacular colouring
and views of their more northerly namesake.
The accommodation is spread over the main building and
the attractive annexe. There is a mix of hotel rooms, suites
and self-catering apartments. No two rooms are alike but
all are nicely furnished and decorated in different colours.
Here Maria Giovanna and her husband Peppino have
spent the last 15 years developing their agriturismo from
the restoration of a 13th century Benedictine monastery.
The magnificent landscape of mountains and valleys
that surround this refuge from city life is striking.
If you can't relax here, you can't relax anywhere.
The owners are the epitome of kindness and hospitality.
Maria is a wonderful cook and provides a varied menu
of traditional Basilicatan dishes based on fresh seasonal
ingredients from the local area in the vaulted restaurant.
The large swimming pool below the accommodation
is perfect for that morning dip or as a reward when
guests return from visiting local towns and villages.
RURAL RETREAT
FLY DRIVE
Facilities: 2 self-catering apartments, 1 family suite with
double & twin bedroom, 4 double rooms (2 with extra space
for chair bed). Swimming pool, mountain bikes & cookery
classes available
Location: Trivigno 4km, Naples airport 170km, Bari airport
120km
Local interest: regional Park of Gallipoli Cognato and the
Lucan Dolomites, mountain villages and towns of the Melfi
area and the cave dwellings of Matera are all within easy reach
L’HOTEL IN PIE TRA
This beautiful small family run hotel is set in
historical Matera, a unique town known for
its cave dwellings or sassi.
T: 020 7359 3938
FLY DRIVE
L’Hotel in Pietra has been created after a three year
renovation and is housed in a converted 12th century
church. The high arches and cave features make this
a truly unique hotel to stay in.
Facilities: 6 rooms & 2 suites all with air-con, internet
access, mini bar, satellite TV. Lounge area, wine cellar,
parking nearby
The hotel has six rooms and two suites; each is
different and individually designed. The two suites are
very impressive and well worth the upgrade; both sleep
up to four and one suite has the original staircase
which led up to the old church tower but now leads
to a lovely terrace, while the other suite has its large
bathroom in a cave with a stone bath. From the hotel,
guests can easily walk through the Sassi area of Matera
and also to the newer part of town where there are
several restaurants and cafés.
Local interest: the cave dwellings of the Sassi area of
Matera are within easy reach
Location: central Matera, Bari airport 70km, Brindisi airport
150km, Naples airport 260km
Price guide: from £225 year round per person, 3 nights
B&B including group B car hire
A stop in Matera for a couple of nights is a great way
to combine Puglia and Basilicata in a longer itinerary.
LA CONCHIGLIA
La Conchiglia is located in southern Italy at Capo Vaticano, an area of Calabria known for its stunning
coastline and safe beaches. From here, the more adventurous can explore this unknown corner of Italy.
Small and family run, La Conchiglia is a collection of
simple villas, apartments and hotel rooms scattered
throughout the large grounds, from which a track
leads down to a sandy beach.
Self-catering at La Conchiglia is easy. The nearest shops
are a short drive away in the village of San Nicolò di
Ricadi which also has several bars and restaurants.
Alternatively guests can eat at the restaurant at La
Conchiglia which offers delicious traditional southern
Italian dishes and views towards Stromboli.
For the more active, tennis courts and horse riding are
close by, and bicycles can be hired to explore the area.
Alternatively, small harbour towns and secluded
beaches are waiting to be discovered by those wishing
to venture further afield. Capo Vaticano is particularly
lively during the peak months of July and August, with
many bars and restaurants offering a wide variety of
options should one wish to dine out.
La Conchiglia is ideal for families or couples looking
for value for money in a beautiful part of Italy.
COASTAL
FAMILY FRIENDLY
Facilities: 12 hotel rooms, 10 villas & 20 apartments.
Swimming pool & children’s pool, table football, tennis
courts & horse riding close by
Location: Tropea 15km, Lamezia Terme airport 80km
Local interest: Tropea, Capo Vaticano, Scilla and numerous
beaches are all within easy reach
total for a 2 bedroom apartment, 7 nights self-catering
including group B car hire, please contact us for other
property prices
There is a large swimming pool at La Conchiglia as
well as a small children’s pool. The beach, where motor
boats and windsurfers can be rented, is only a five to
ten minute walk and there is also a shuttle bus service
from the property in high season.
T: 020 7359 3938
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44
HOTEL PANTA REI
ROMANTIC
The Hotel Panta Rei is our favourite oasis of comfort
and luxury on this stretch of Tyrrhenian coast.
The hotel is positioned on a hillside of pine trees
sloping down towards the sea below. Half of the 21
rooms and suites have been placed harmoniously
in this wooded area, which gives them a feeling of
privacy. This is increased by the view to the coast
below from the large terraces. Above these rooms
is the large swimming pool with its own bar area,
and overlooking the pool is the second tier of guest
rooms, whose simple wooden exteriors, painted in
pastel colours, belie the comfort inside. All the
rooms have antique furnishings, beamed ceilings,
parquet flooring, luxurious bathrooms and a small
dressing room. The suites, which consist of a
bedroom and a separate living room with sofa
beds, can sleep up to five people.
T: 020 7359 3938
FAMILY FRIENDLY
COASTAL
EXCLUSIVE
The main building of the hotel is built on different
levels with its open air restaurant with spectacular
sea views at its core. The food is taken seriously here
with a menu that ranges from sophisticated dishes
that match the stunning setting to the best of simple
‘Cucina Calabrese’.
While a short hop into Tropea or longer drives to
other delightful coastal towns may be on the agenda,
many guests do not stray too far from the beach and
bar area, reached by a winding, downhill path through
the trees to the sea, where there is also a second
swimming pool.
Facilities: 21 rooms & suites with air-con, TV, mini bar &
safe. Games room, piano bar, 2 swimming pools (one salt
water), restaurant & bar
Location: Tropea 4km, Lamezia Terme airport 50km
Local interest: Tropea, Capo Vaticano, Scilla and numerous
beaches are all within easy reach
T: 020 7359 3938
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P UGLIA
Gargano
Peninsula
CULTURAL CALENDAR
MOLISE
Spring:
•Putignano holds an impressive carnival with elaborate
parades, many of the other towns hold Easter parades.
Summer:
Trani
Adriatic Sea
•Lecce stays open all night on the Notta Bianca in July
with museums, galleries, shops and restaurants all
taking part.
•Lecce commemorates its patron saint, Sant’Oronzo
at the end of August with light sculptures, food
and music.
•Martina Franca hosts the Festival della Valle d’Itria in
July and August celebrating rare operas.
Andria
Bari
C A M PA N I A
PUGLIA
Matera
B A S I L I C ATA
Polignano a Mare
Fasano
Ostuni
Noci
Alberobello
Locorotondo
Martina Franca
Brindisi
Taranto
Lecce
Galatina
P UGL IA
Otranto
Gallipoli
Ionian Sea
Leuca
Many tourists come to Puglia simply for
the fabulous beaches and they are not
disappointed. However, those straying
inland discover a region offering so much
more with the forested Gargano Peninsula
in the north, fascinating hill towns and
ports, and a rich Baroque heritage evident
throughout the region.
Bordering Basilicata, the Murge region of central
Puglia is characterised by gently rolling hills with
delightful whitewashed towns such as Alberobello
and Locorotondo with their conical trulli dwellings.
Martina Franca is a charming Baroque town which
hosts an excellent summer music festival while
neighbouring Ostuni is perhaps the finest ‘città
bianca’ in the area with an endless warren of
medieval streets and alleyways.
The 12th century emperor Frederick II left his mark
on Puglia with the impressive octagonal Castel del
Monte while the nearby port of Trani offers further
vestiges of the period with its famous Romanesque
cathedral.
T: 020 7359 3938
PUGLIA
“ My favourite place to
stay in Puglia has to be
the Borgo San Marco;
the staff are lovely, the
seafood is delicious and
the location close to all
those wonderful sandy
beaches is ideal.”
Annabel
Marketing Manager
Given Puglia’s long and narrow shape it is no
surprise that its most southern stretch, the Salentine
Peninsula, feels particularly remote. Home to one of
Italy’s most beautiful Baroque cities, Lecce, it is well
worth exploring this region.
South east of Lecce, the charming port town of
Otranto, boasting a lovely Romanesque cathedral
and imposing 15th century castle, is ideal for
holidaymakers looking to combine a spot of culture
with time at the beach. Further south still, Santa
Maria Leuca with its 19th century lighthouse marks
Italy’s most southerly point. Rounding the coast and
heading north west, the delightful fortified town of
Gallipoli makes for an appealing day out while
midway between Gallipoli and Otranto lies Galatina
with its wonderful frescoed Chiesa di Santa Caterina.
GA ST RO NO MY
Puglia’s cuisine is dominated by seafood. Of the
meat that is eaten, lamb is most common as the
dry rocky landscape provides ideal grazing; this also
means plenty of sheep’s cheese. Puglia’s vast olive
groves produce excellent oil and its wheat fields
excellent bread and pasta, most notably the little
orecchiette ‘ears’.
Given Puglia’s length, there are a number of twin
and multicentre itineraries which work well in the
region. Lama di Luna in the north combines well
with the Borgo San Marco in the centre and
Masseria Montelauro in the south allowing
visitors to explore the very diverse areas of Italy’s
heel. Puglia also combines well with Basilicata for
those seeking a road trip from Italy’s east to west.
Puglia makes more wine than any other Italian region
although it is only in recent years that it has started
to gain attention. The main grape is the Negroamaro
which produces some excellent reds such as the
robust Salice Salentino. Better known are the full
bodied reds from the Primitivo grape, cousin of
California’s Zinfandel.
We recommend hiring a car while in Puglia in order
to fully explore the region. Rail travel in Puglia is
quite limited.
Flights: There are scheduled and low cost flights
to Bari and low cost flights to Brindisi.
T: 020 7359 3938
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P UGLIA
LAMA DI LUNA
Located 20 kilometres from the coast in northern Puglia, Lama di Luna is an integrated organic farm
with just 11 rooms and suites run by charming owners Pietro and Beatrice.
Great thought has been given to using locally sourced
and ecological materials in the hotel’s renovation and
furnishing, with the local red and yellow clay used to
paint the walls and soaps made from the farm’s olives.
All of the rooms and suites are different. One suite
has a luxurious stone Jacuzzi in front of the fireplace
and there are two rooms which have a shared outside
door making them ideal for a family.
There is a large swimming pool in the gardens
overlooking the countryside to the sea. All the food
served in the restaurant is homemade, including
delicious organic jams for breakfast, and the owners
pride themselves on using ‘zero mileage’ produce
from their farm or local suppliers.
If guests can tear themselves away from the tranquility
of Lama di Luna, nearby is the Castel del Monte, a 13th
century castle built by Emperor Frederick II, and the
beautifully preserved port of Trani is within easy reach,
along with several beaches.
RURAL RETREAT
FLY DRIVE
Facilities: 11 rooms & suites, all with air-con, under floor
heating, minibar, TV, all but one with fireplace. Swimming
pool, mountain bikes, walking trails, restaurant (open 6 days
a week)
Location: Montegrosso 4km, Bari airport 70km, Brindisi
airport 199km, Naples airport 202km
Local interest: Castel del Monte, beaches at Barletta and
Trani are all within easy reach
ABATE MA SSERIA
Close to the town of Noci lies the Abate Masseria which has been beautifully and patiently restored
by the owner Mino and his family.
The eight rooms and suites at the Masseria are split
between the renovated stable buildings and the
conical trulli dwellings, a typical feature of the region.
All are comfortably furnished with attractive dark
wooden furniture contrasting with the exposed stone
walls. Each has a delightful outside area with a table
and chairs.
There is a large swimming pool and a tennis court
where private tuition can be arranged. The Masseria
has a very good restaurant, Il Briale, which is also
open to the public.
Mino and his wife are always on hand with suggestions
of places to visit and things to do. Noci is just two
kilometres away and Locorotondo, known as one of
Puglia’s most beautiful towns, is close by.
FAMILY FRIENDLY
FLY DRIVE
Facilities: 8 rooms with air-con, minibar. Internet access,
tennis courts, bicycles, swimming pool (only for guests),
restaurant (open also to the public so bookings
recommended at weekends)
Location: Noci 2km, Bari airport 67km, Brindisi airport 88km
Local interest: Alberobello, Locorotondo, Ostuni, Matera
and the beaches are all within easy reach
T: 020 7359 3938
PUGLIA
BORGO SAN MARCO
Borgo San Marco lies in the midst of 90 hectares of ancient olive, almond and carob trees
and is just a short drive to the sea.
The masseria was originally built in the 15th century
and has been owned by the Amati family for the last
200 years. They have restored the property simply
so that it has preserved a genuinely historic and
rustic atmosphere.
Set around a large central courtyard, the size of the
building and its grounds give the masseria an
unequalled sense of space and means that it never
feels crowded. There are rustic features such as the
old olive press and drinking troughs in the bar and
these together with the authentic restoration, plus
the fact that it is still a working farm, make Borgo
San Marco a unique place to stay.
COASTAL
FAMILY FRIENDLY
WELLBEING
There are 14 rooms and suites with exposed stone
walls colour washed in lovely shades of pale
terracotta, limestone floors, antique furniture
and wooden shutters.
Facilities: 14 rooms & suites (including 2 separate self
catering suites) with satellite TV, mini bar, air-con. Orangerie
with small spa & Jacuzzi, swimming pool, bicycles
The large attractive swimming pool set in the midst
of the lovely bougainvillea-filled gardens, a short
distance from the main buildings, has an artificial
beach at one side which makes it ideal for children.
Local interest: Locorotondo, Martina Franca, Alberobello,
Ostuni and many beaches are all within easy reach
Location: Fasano 5km, Brindisi airport 40km, Bari airport
60km
Meals are usually served outside in the courtyard, or
in the converted stable block, which also houses the
bar. The food is all locally sourced and the restaurant
specialises in local dishes, making use of the olive oil
produced on the farm.
T: 020 7359 3938
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50
P UGLIA
MA SSERIA TORRE COCCARO
This historic property with its 16th century watchtower has been beautifully renovated to make
the most of its original features while combining comfort and luxury with amazing facilities.
The Masseria is set deep in the countryside in five
hectares of ancient olive trees one kilometre from
the coast where the hotel has a private beach
club with a restaurant, bar and sun loungers.
A complimentary shuttle bus to the beach club
is operated by the Masseria.
There are 34 rooms and suites all with private
garden or terrace. All the rooms are different and
spacious, with comfortable beds, fine linen and
luxurious bathrooms. They have flagstone floors,
antique furniture and high ceilings, many of them
barrel vaulted. Two of the rooms, one a suite with
its own swimming pool and private walled garden,
are built into the caves below the Masseria.
The large Aveda spa is also built into the caves,
giving it a unique atmosphere in which to enjoy an
Ayurvedic massage, or one of the other treatments
on offer. The spa also has a heated indoor
swimming pool and a Turkish bath. The beautiful
outdoor swimming pool and the fitness centre
offer further opportunities for rejuvenation.
There are two restaurants serving regional
specialities cooked with local ingredients, many
grown in the hotel’s gardens, including the olive oil,
which is pressed from the Masseria’s own olive trees.
In addition, the hotel has its own cookery school.
For those guests looking for further activities, the hotel
has a nine hole golf course, a riding centre and a private
yacht available for hire.
The Torre Coccaro offers an exceptional combination of a
beautiful historic building with a very high level of service
and excellent facilities in a truly interesting location.
COASTAL
FAMILY FRIENDLY
WELLBEING
EXCLUSIVE
Facilities: 34 rooms & suites with air-con, TV, mini bar, safe
& telephone. Outdoor & indoor swimming pools, private
beach club with complimentary shuttle, 2 restaurants, Wi-Fi,
Aveda spa with fitness centre, babysitting, 9 hole golf course,
mountain bikes, beach volleyball, water sports
Location: Savelletri di Fasano 4km, Bari airport 60km,
Brindisi airport 76km
Local interest: Alberobello, Ostuni, Matera and Lecce are all
within easy reach
T: 020 7359 3938
PUGLIA
MA SSERIA TORRE MAIZZA
Next to the luxurious Torre Coccaro, near Fasano, lies the elegant Masseria Torre Maizza, owned by the
same family but even more sophisticated, ideal for couples or small groups of adults.
The old Masseria, with its central tower surrounded by
outhouses, has been converted into a stunning hotel
with gleaming white buildings housing 20 luxurious
rooms and eight suites, ranging from classic doubles
to two suites with private swimming pools. All the
rooms have luxurious bathrooms and private gardens
and overlook the hotel’s golf course or the surrounding
olive groves.
The landscaped gardens are full of colour and the
large, heated swimming pool, with its comfortable
sun beds, is set among fruit trees.
COASTAL
WELLBEING
EXCLUSIVE
Facilities: 28 rooms & suites (some with private swimming
pool), air-con, TV, CD player, Wi-Fi, mini bar, safe &
telephone. Heated swimming pool, private beach club with
complimentary shuttle, Aveda spa, 9 hole golf course
Location: Savelletri di Fasano 4km, Bari airport 60km,
Brindisi airport 76km
Local interest: Alberobello, Ostuni, Matera and Lecce are
The restaurant and bar area is particularly attractive,
the bar with polished wooden floors and the dining
room overlooking an orchard of 700 year old orange
and lemon trees. The restaurant serves delicious locally
sourced and organic food, mostly based on traditional
Puglian recipes.
There is a complimentary shuttle service to the hotel’s
private beach club where there is always space, even
in the height of summer. The hotel also has its own
luxurious Aveda spa offering a wide range of
treatments, and a nine hole golf course.
T: 020 7359 3938
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52
P UGLIA
MA SSERIA MONTELAURO
Masseria Montelauro is set in a lovely rural location on the Salentine peninsula two kilometres
from the historic port of Otranto with its narrow medieval lanes and imposing castle.
The Masseria was built in 1878 and has been restored
by its present owners, Elisabetta and her two daughters
Caterina and Mercedes, to create a beautiful hotel
which is both comfortable and elegant.
There are 29 bedrooms and suites, opening onto the
gardens surrounding the swimming pool. The ground
floor rooms feel exceptionally light and spacious as
a result of their vaulted ceilings. The rooms are all
furnished differently with a mix of antique and
contemporary furniture from Italy and further afield.
T: 020 7359 3938
COASTAL
ROMANTIC
FLY DRIVE
minibar & safe. Swimming pool, restaurant, Wi-Fi, spa.
Horse riding, cycling & boat trips all close by
The outside area is particularly attractive and relaxing,
with a lovely swimming pool set in gardens with flowers
and olive and fruit trees and a shaded pergola to
escape from the sun, as well as several other seating
areas. One of the outbuildings has been converted
into a small spa where guests can enjoy a massage
or other treatment.
Location: Otranto 2km, Brindisi airport 80km, Bari airport
190km
The restaurant specialises in local Salentine cuisine,
cooked with fresh ingredients and served in the dining
room or outside on the terrace. Alternatively guests
can enjoy eating at one of the seafood restaurants
in Otranto.
Masseria Montelauro is ideally situated for exploring this
area of Puglia with its sandy beaches and interesting
towns such as Lecce and Galatina. In addition, horse
riding, cycling and boat trips are all available close by.
Local interest: Salento towns and villages including Lecce
and the beach are all within easy reach
PUGLIA
T: 020 7359 3938
53
Stromboli
SICILY AND THE AEOLIAN ISLAND S
Tyrrhenian Sea
Panarea
Salina
AEOLIAN ISLANDS
San Vito
lo Capo
CULTURAL CALENDAR
Lipari
Vulcano
Milazzo
Messina
Spring:
CALABRIA
Scopello
Palermo
Erice
Cefalù
Segesta
Trapani
Taormina
e
lic
S I C I LY
SICILY
AND THE
AEOLIAN ISLANDS
Be
Selinunte
Menfi
Sciacca
Enna
Licata
Everyone returns to Sicily because there is
too much history, too much culture, too much
of a contrast between beauty and post war
development, to take in on one visit. The
succession of invaders have all left their mark
on both the landscape and the cuisine.
Romantic Taormina makes a good base for
experiencing many of these highlights with its cliff
top Greek amphitheatre and elegant palazzos.
Heading west from this seaside gem past rumbling
Mount Etna one reaches Villa Romana del Casale with
its astonishing collection of Roman mosaics. Not
many visitors stop to explore the pretty countryside
around this site but those who do are rewarded with
a string of delightful medieval hilltop towns.
The island’s capital, Palermo, has to be the most
exciting and atmospheric city in Italy. It is also the
gateway to western Sicily with its distinct landscape
and culture, and a coast of great beaches and
congenial port towns.
T: 020 7359 3938
Catania
Piazza Armerina
Agrigento
Syracuse
Ragusa
Scicli
•Lent and Easter are very traditional times in Sicily
with many of the towns holding processions and
festivals to mark this time in the religious calendar.
Sciacca hosts a notable carnival in February while
Trapani’s Easter parade is an impressive sight.
•Several towns including Noto and Caltagirone
hold ‘infiorate’ in late spring, carpeting their streets
with flowers.
Summer:
Ionian Sea
ini
Plat
Simeto
Marsala
Sals
o
54
Noto
Modica
•Taormina’s film festival is held in June with screenings
in the town’s amphitheatre.
•Festino di Santa Rosalia, one of Sicily’s most popular
festivals, is held in July in honour of Palermo’s patron
saint celebrated with processions, concerts and
street theatre.
Autumn:
Vendicari
Nature Reserve
Ispica
For walkers, nature lovers and beachcombers, the
Zingaro Nature Reserve near the seaside resort of
Scopello offers wonderful vistas, peaceful beaches and
an array of wildlife. For a more lively beach experience
San Vito Lo Capo is hard to beat, a justly popular spot
with Italians come August and well worth a visit in
September for its couscous festival. Further south and
west, the medieval hilltop town of Erice, set high above
Trapani, offers a breezy respite from the summer heat.
On the other side of the island, south east Sicily
rewards visitors with a particularly dense offering of
towns and cities to explore ranging from Syracuse’s
enchanting gem of Ortigia Island to the string of
Baroque towns including Noto and Ragusa which vie
with each other architecturally and gastronomically.
Lovely beaches make this an excellent family
destination too, not least the Vendicari Nature Reserve
which also offers great birdwatching in the autumn.
•Harvest festivals are held all over the island.
•San Vito Lo Capo hosts its annual couscous festival
in September.
SICILY AND THE AEOLIAN ISLANDS
55
“ One of my favourite places
in Sicily is Syracuse. Its Piazza
del Duomo has to be one of
the most photogenic squares
in Italy and L’Approdo delle
Sirene is the perfect little
bolthole from which to
explore the city.”
Sarah
Assistant Manager
For ancient Greek history, Sicily takes some beating.
Syracuse has a spectacular archaeological site rich in
Greek and Roman remains while Agrigento’s Valley of
the Temples has some of the best preserved Greek
architecture outside of Greece itself. Add to this the
beautifully positioned Selinunte on the south west
coast and the imposing temple at nearby Segesta
plus many other ancient cities to explore and visitors
could easily base a whole holiday around the Greek
history of Sicily.
To the north of Sicily, the Aeolian Islands offer a
peaceful retreat from the excesses of mainland Sicily.
Both Lipari and Salina give one the chance to spend
a few days in a charming harbour town and to visit
the other Aeolian Islands. Lipari is the largest of the
Aeolians but is still a small community and maintains
its island charm. Salina is more intimate still with a
number of small villages around the island to visit,
and some highly acclaimed restaurants.
GA ST RO NO MY
Sicily has a fabulously diverse cuisine, reflecting its
many foreign invaders. There is a strong Arab influence
with many dishes sweetened with raisins or apricots
while couscous, pine nuts and saffron also feature.
Certain dishes are popular throughout the island such
as pasta with sardines. Caponata (similar to ratatouille)
is cooked in a slightly different way in every village
on the island. Pasta alla Norma (pasta with tomato,
aubergine and ricotta) is also widely found on menus.
Desserts are justly renowned, such as cannoli, delicious
tubes of pastry filled with ricotta cream, and granita, a
crunchy sorbet, is the perfect refreshing treat in Sicily’s
hot climate.
Sicily lends itself perfectly to a fly drive holiday
although it will take several trips to do the island
justice. For starters we recommend splitting your time
between east and west with a stay at the Torre
Marabino near Modica in the Baroque south east and
the Foresteria Planeta Estate in the west. To break
the journey between the two, Mandranova is the
perfect place for a few days of relaxing by the sea with
visits to nearby Agrigento for a spot of ancient history.
Sicily produces some excellent red wines, most notably
the Nero d’Avola from the east of the island. Although
Marsala is the most well known, dessert wine is
produced throughout the island with an excellent
Moscato around Syracuse and Malvasia delle Lipari in
the Aeolian Islands.
Except for stays in Taormina, Palermo and the Aeolian
Islands, we recommend hiring a car while in Sicily in
order to fully explore the island.
Flights: there are scheduled and low cost flights to
Catania in the east and low cost carriers fly to Palermo
and Trapani in the west.
T: 020 7359 3938
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HOTEL VILLA BELVEDERE
The hotel is a beautiful ochre coloured villa in one of Taormina's best positions, with superb
uninterrupted views of the Bay of Naxos and Mount Etna in the distance.
The Villa Belvedere is situated on the edge of the town,
avoiding the noise of the centre, but it is within easy
walking distance of the many sophisticated shops and
restaurants, and close to the botanical gardens and
the amphitheatre.
The hotel is set in delightful terraced gardens filled with
flowers, shrubs and palm trees and has 47 simply but
attractively furnished rooms. The sea-facing rooms,
with either French balcony or terrace offer magnificent
views. Some of the rooms interconnect and there are
also four garden suites of varying size which are
suitable for families and have kitchen facilities.
T: 020 7359 3938
There is a large swimming pool in the gardens around
which excellent light lunches are served during the
summer months, leaving guests free in the evening
to choose from the many restaurants nearby.
The hotel is owned and run by the charming BambaraPécaut family whose warm welcome and helpfulness
mean that it is little wonder that so many of our clients
return to the Villa Belvedere.
COASTAL
ROMANTIC
FAMILY FRIENDLY
Facilities: 47 rooms including 4 spacious garden suites
suitable for families, air-con, TV, safe. Swimming pool, pool
bar, lift, internet access, free shuttle bus to the beach,
parking at additional charge
Location: 5 minute stroll to Taormina centre, Catania airport
70km
Local interest: Historical sights of Taormina within walking
distance, Mount Etna, Syracuse and Piazza Armerina are all
within easy reach
per person, 7 nights B&B including private airport transfers
MA SSERIA MANDRA SCATE
Located deep in the interior of central Sicily, the Masseria Mandrascate, owned and run by the delightful
Rosita Prato and her family, offers a wonderful base from which to explore this little-visited but fascinating
area of the island.
The Masseria is a typical fortified Sicilian farm dating
back to the 17th century and produces wheat, olives
and grapes as well as produce for the kitchen.
The swimming pool area is large and has views of
the neighbouring fields and Sicilian countryside
and there is also a pretty garden to explore.
The accommodation at the Masseria is set at ground
level with individual entrances leading out onto a
spacious communal terraced area, which is lovely for
an alfresco lunch or for evening drinks. The spacious
rooms are all immaculately appointed without
compromising the rural, traditional feel of the property.
Stone-built and decorated in natural earthy tones,
they are cool and airy and each has a kitchenette.
Just a short drive south from the Masseria brings
visitors to the impressive Roman mosaics of Villa
Romana del Casale near Piazza Armerina. To the
north, winding mountain roads take one on a tour
through the remote medieval hilltop towns of the
region including Enna, Leonforte and Nicosia, with
fine scenery all around.
FAMILY FRIENDLY
RURAL RETREAT
FLY DRIVE
Facilities: 6 rooms (including one apartment), with air-con
& kitchenette. Swimming pool, cookery lessons, bicycles,
archery, bocce, walking trails, farm museum
Location: Valguarnera 2km, Catania airport 76km, Palermo
airport 130km
Local interest: Villa Romana del Casale, Enna, Leonforte and
Nicosia are all within easy reach
T: 020 7359 3938
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58
L’APPRODO DELLE SIRENE
L’Approdo calls itself a B&B, but it is really more than that. The eight stylish rooms are on the top two floors
of a beautiful old palazzo overlooking the harbour on the waterfront in Ortigia, the old part of Syracuse.
The building is full of light and the white walls, polished
wooden floors and brightly striped upholstery all help
to accentuate this. Breakfast is taken outside on a
lovely terrace overlooking the harbour, surrounded by
jasmine and bougainvillea. The quality is outstanding –
delicious pastries and cakes too tempting to resist, as
well as fresh bread, fruit and cereals.
Friedrich and his mother Fiora are charming hosts, who
will be only too happy to help and advise guests on
everything from arranging scuba-diving to a tour of
nearby sights. Fiora is also a fantastic cook, and guests
can enjoy a wonderful dinner or a cookery
demonstration if arranged in advance.
ROYAL MANIACE HOTEL
With dazzling views over the Ionian Sea, this graceful hotel is situated in an enviable location on the
sea front of charming Ortigia.
Dating back to the 12th century this elegantly restored
palazzo mixes original stone features and high ceilings
with modern wood floors and contemporary furniture
to create bright and stylish interiors.
There are 21 spacious rooms and suites with courtyard,
garden or sea views, some with a balcony or terrace.
Sea view rooms are recommended to fully appreciate
the glorious views over the sparkling Ionian Sea. For
dinner, guests have the choice of dining in the hotel’s
excellent restaurant, Modus, or exploring some of
Ortigia’s delightful bars and eateries.
Ideally positioned just a few minutes’ walk through
narrow streets to the striking Piazza Duomo the hotel is
a perfect choice for those requiring style and comfort.
FLY DRIVE
Facilities: 21 rooms & suites, Wi-Fi, satellite TV, mini bar,
air-con, lift, garden
Location: In the heart of Syracuse, Catania airport 65km
Local interest: Noto, Vendicari Nature Reserve, Modica and
Ragusa are all within easy reach
T: 020 7359 3938
L’Approdo delle Sirene is a gem; comfortable and
stylish yet inexpensive, and in a perfect position to
explore Syracuse and its environs.
FLY DRIVE
Facilities: 8 rooms with air-con, TV, Wi-Fi. Cookery classes
available
Location: In the heart of Syracuse, Catania airport 65km
Local interest: Noto, Vendicari Nature Reserve, Modica and
Ragusa are all within easy reach
RELAIS TORRE MARABINO
In an enviable location in south eastern Sicily, the elegantly restored Torre Marabino
offers the perfect base from which to explore this fascinating part of the island.
Part of a winery and organic farming estate, the
Marabino is located in the countryside just outside
Ispica and a short drive from the sandy beaches of
the south coast.
Moresca, the hotel’s excellent restaurant, offers a
contemporary take on traditional Sicilian cuisine,
with meals served outside on the terrace in
summer months.
Converted from a fortified grain store, the hotel offers
seven elegantly furnished rooms and suites, each
named after one of the wines produced by the estate.
The standard room and three superior rooms on the
first floor have views over the countryside or towards
the sea. The three suites on the ground floor are
particularly spacious, composed of a living room
with a mezzanine sleeping area, sleeping up to five.
All but the standard room feature a kitchenette.
The grounds of the Torre Marabino are well
tended with spacious lawns dotted with olive
trees; there are shaded areas and an enticing
swimming pool with separate whirlpool and a
small children’s play area.
FAMILY FRIENDLY
GASTRONOMIC
RURAL RETREAT
FLY DRIVE
Facilities: 7 rooms & suites, most with self catering facilities,
air-con, Wi-Fi. Swimming pool & whirlpool, restaurant,
mountain bikes, children’s play area
Location: Ispica 4km, Catania airport 110km
Local interest: Pozzalo, Modica, Noto, Scicli, Vendicari
Nature Reserve, Ragusa, Syracuse and beaches are all within
easy reach
T: 020 7359 3938
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60
CA SA TALIA
Hidden along one of the many winding lanes of Modica, lies this collection of enchanting stone cottages.
‘Talia’ means ‘Look! Admire!’ in Sicilian dialect and
indeed the striking views of the city do not disappoint.
The architect owners, Marco and Viviana, have given
great thought to their on-going restoration project
with the use of natural and traditional Sicilian materials,
creating a charming guesthouse and a delightful
garden dotted with fruit trees.
Modica is reached via a pathway which twists its way
down to the heart of the city. Here guests can explore
the many excellent restaurants and traditional
chocolate shops which are putting Modica on the
map for more than just its Baroque history.
Breakfast is served in the garden or on cooler mornings
in the light-filled lounge area which has large windows
and colourful antique tiles. The 10 bedrooms and
suites, each with their own entrance and terrace area,
are all individually furnished with keen attention to
detail, blending old and new furnishings.
Facilities: 10 rooms & suites with Wi-Fi, satellite TV, mini bar,
air-con. Garden and breakfast / lounge area
FLY DRIVE
Location: a short downhill walk from the heart of Modica,
Catania airport 102km
Local interest: Scicli, Ragusa, Vendicari Nature Reserve,
Noto, Syracuse, Caltagirone and beaches are all within
easy reach
Price guide: from £220 year round per person, 3 nights
B&B including group B car hire
T: 020 7359 3938
MANDRANOVA
This working olive farm, owned by charming hosts Silvia and Giuseppe, offers a peaceful oasis of warm
hospitality in southern Sicily.
The main house, the casale, offers elegant lounge
areas with plenty of beautiful books on the history,
landscapes and people of Sicily. Silvia’s delicious
cooking, served out on the terrace in the summer
months, means that most guests do not stray far
from the azienda come dinner time.
There are extensive gardens dotted with exotic
plants and the farm’s friendly dogs can often be
found snoozing under one of the many palm trees.
The swimming pool offers views over the farm
towards the sea.
The converted farm buildings and old railway station
house the 15 spacious bedrooms and suites. All are
individually furnished, some with beautiful antiques
and others with flashes of modern art on the walls.
300 metres from the main farmhouse is Robazza,
a three bedroom self-catering cottage with its own
infinity pool and a terrace with views towards the sea.
Agrigento, with its Greek temples, is the obvious
attraction in the area along with the miles of fabulous
sandy beaches. Soak up the sun at nearby Marina di
Palma or head further afield on a day trip in the
Mandranova’s own speedboat.
FLY DRIVE
RURAL RETREAT
GASTRONOMIC
Facilities: 15 rooms & suites plus 1 villa (with private
swimming pool). Restaurant, cookery lessons and swimming
pool (no shallow end), sandy beaches 15 minutes’ drive,
boat trips
Location: Palma di Montechiaro 6km, Catania airport
173km, Palermo airport 185km, Trapani airport 205km
Local interest: Agrigento, Scala dei Turchi, Eraclea Minoa,
Caltanissetta and Piazza Armerina are all within easy reach
T: 020 7359 3938
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62
LA FORESTERIA PLANE TA ESTATE
Owned and run by the Planeta family who produce some of Sicily’s most well renowned wines, ‘La Foresteria’
means ‘the home of the guest’ which perfectly sums up the warm atmosphere at this beautifully appointed hotel.
The 14 elegant rooms are furnished in a refreshing
country house style with warm Mediterranean
colours. Each leads on to a terrace overlooking the
vineyards with the sea sparkling in the distance.
There are many spacious lounges within La Foresteria
where guests can relax and plenty of sunny terraces
from which to admire the stunning views. However,
most guests will be drawn to the infinity swimming
pool surrounded by fragrant herb-filled flowerbeds
and with views towards the sea.
The surrounding countryside is surprisingly green and
there are some fantastic sandy beaches to explore as
T: 020 7359 3938
well as the ancient archaeological sites of nearby
Selinunte and further afield at Segesta and Agrigento.
FLY DRIVE
RURAL RETREAT
ROMANTIC
GASTRONOMIC
Food and wine are taken seriously here. La Foresteria’s
beautiful kitchen serves up delicious Sicilian dishes
using some of the Planeta family’s traditional recipes
with mainly locally sourced ingredients. ‘Wine routes’
of 3, 5 or 7 wines to match each course prove popular
with guests as do the cookery courses which take place
in the glass fronted kitchen during the day.
With its tranquil position and superb hospitality, La
Foresteria works perfectly for a long weekend or as
part of a longer itinerary with other parts of Sicily.
Facilities: 14 rooms with air-con, minibar, TV. Internet
access, swimming pool, mountain bikes, restaurant, cookery
school, beach 10 minutes’ drive, complimentary beach club
for hotel guests
Location: Menfi 4km, Trapani airport 105km, Palermo
airport 108km
Local interest: Porto Palo beach, Selinunte, Sciacca, Mazara
del Vallo, Eraclea Minoa, Marsala, Segesta, Agrigento and
Erice are all within reach
BAGLIO FONTANA SAL SA
Baglio Fontanasalsa is a working agriturismo
situated in the countryside eight kilometres
from Trapani in western Sicily.
The owner, Maria Caterina Burgarella, has restored this
family property to provide the perfect combination of
hospitality and authentic agricultural production. The
nine rooms are in the restored farmhouse, overlooking
the very attractive central courtyard or the pretty
orange grove. Named after varieties of olives, the
rooms are traditionally furnished but comfortable.
The large swimming pool is set among the olive and
orange trees and there are several outside seating
areas. Baglio Fontanasalsa is famous for its award
winning olive oil, but it also produces its own wine,
and the food is delicious, much of it home grown or
sourced locally.
BAGLIO FONTANA
RURAL RETREAT
FAMILY FRIENDLY
Facilities: 9 rooms with air-con. Swimming pool, wine & oil
tasting room, bicycle hire on request, table tennis
Location: Trapani 8km, Trapani airport 10km, Palermo
airport 84km
Local interest: Trapani, Egadi Islands, Erice, Castellammare
del Golfo, Segesta, Scopello, Selinunte and beaches are all
within easy reach
The agriturismo is in an ideal position for visiting the
archaeological sites of Segesta and Selinunte, Erice,
Trapani, the Egadi Islands and the lovely beach at San
Vito Lo Capo.
RURAL RETREAT
FAMILY FRIENDLY
The Baglio Fontana is a lovely family-run agriturismo
in western Sicily dating back to the 18th century.
Facilities: 11 rooms with air-con & TV. Restaurant,
swimming pool, small wellness centre with sauna & massage,
bicycle hire on request, horse riding close by
The owners of the Baglio Fontana pride themselves on
their restaurant which specialises in local cuisine using
the products of the farm's vineyards, olive trees and
fruit orchards. The restaurant is only open in the
evenings, but cold snacks are available by the pool
during the day. Should guests prefer to explore the
surroundings in the evening, there are alternative
restaurants all within easy reach, including a pizzeria
in Buseto Palizzolo, about a 10 minute walk away.
Location: walking distance to the village of Buseto Palizzolo,
Trapani airport 20km, Palermo airport 70km
The Baglio has 11 rooms, including a two room suite
with a double room and a separate room with bunk
beds which is ideal for families. There is a large
swimming pool, a tennis court, and a small area for
massages which uses the natural products of the
farm such as almond oil and honey.
Local interest: Trapani, Segesta, Egadi Islands,
Castellammare del Golfo, Scopello and San Vito Lo Capo are
Along with its impeccable hospitality and family
atmosphere, the strategic position of the Baglio
Fontana, a short distance from the major tourist sites of
the province such as Erice, San Vito Lo Capo, Segesta
and the Egadi Islands, makes this agriturismo an ideal
place from which to explore this lovely area of Sicily.
T: 020 7359 3938
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64
HOTEL SIGNUM, SALINA
The Hotel Signum is a delightful family-run property set on the Aeolian Island of Salina.
The hotel is crammed with antiques that the owner,
Clara, has picked up on her travels around Italy and
Europe. The style is traditional Sicilian with beautiful
spaces to sit, read and take in the views towards the
island of Stromboli.
The spa offers a range of treatments including thermal
stove steam baths and geothermic mineral pools. The
hotel’s restaurant, run by father and daughter team
Michele and Martina, is renowned on the islands for
its high standards.
T: 020 7359 3938
The rooms are all different and are named after flowers
found on the island. Views are of the lovely gardens or
towards the sea and many have a balcony or terrace.
The Signum is a great retreat from which to explore
some of the other Aeolian Islands or to simply relax and
enjoy the immediate surroundings of Salina with its
little harbours and villages, hiking trails and beautiful
crystal clear waters.
ROMANTIC
COASTAL
WELLBEING
Facilities: 30 rooms with air-con. Internet access, swimming
pool, spa, restaurant
Location: 5 minutes’ walk to the village of Malfa, 10 minutes’
walk to the beach, 130km from Catania airport to Milazzo
port and then 1.5 hour hydrofoil to Salina
Local interest: walking trails, boats to hire locally, day trips
to the other Aeolian Islands are all within easy reach
per person, 7 nights B&B including group transfer to Milazzo
port from Catania (ferry and island transfer paid locally),
please contact us for private transfer rates
HOTEL VILLA MELIGUNIS
The Hotel Villa Meligunis is set just up the hill from the centre of the town of Lipari with lovely views
of the sea and the port.
Lipari is the largest and in our opinion the most
interesting of the Aeolian Islands, and the town
provides a very good base for exploring the rest of the
island. The town is totally unspoilt and very attractive,
with narrow alleys, small piazzas and courtyards full of
flowers, a great place to join the evening passeggiata
or people watch from a café on the waterfront. There
are also plenty of shops and restaurants serving
delicious pasta, fish and local specialities.
In the middle of the old fishermen's quarter, Villa
Meligunis is a lovely 18th century building in a beautiful
courtyard. The building has been restored to offer
32 comfortable and elegant rooms and suites, some
of which interconnect and most have sea views.
The bar and swimming pool are on the rooftop terrace
with a wonderful view of the sea and the port. In the
summer months, music is played on the terrace. There
is a small local beach 200 metres from the hotel, and
a more comfortable one about 10 minutes' drive away
which the hotel provides a shuttle service to. All the
beaches have pebbles rather than sand, and the sea
is wonderfully clear for swimming.
From the port there are trips every day to different
beaches and islands. The boatmen are particularly
friendly and proud of their own and neighbouring
islands such as Panarea and Stromboli. It is also possible
to explore the island by road, either by hiring scooters
or using the local bus service. The hotel also has a
couple of bicycles which guests can hire.
COASTAL
Facilities: 32 rooms & suites with air-con, minibar, satellite
TV, telephone, internet access. Swimming pool, bicycle hire
on request, walking distance to town beach, shuttle bus to
another beach
Location: walking distance to Lipari town, an hour’s
hydrofoil from Milazzo and then 130km to Catania airport
Local interest: Lipari town with its archaeological museum,
day trips to the other Aeolian Islands are all within easy reach
per person, 7 nights B&B including group transfer to Milazzo
port from Catania (ferry and island transfer paid locally),
please contact us for private transfer rates
T: 020 7359 3938
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66
ITALIAN CITIES
Venice
Bologna
EMILIA ROMAGNA
Florence
TUSCANY
LE MARCHE
UMBRIA
Adriatic Sea
ROME
Whether wandering at night through the Centro
Storico, tracking down Caravaggio's paintings in
the church of Santa Maria del Popolo, indulging
in some chic shopping in Via dei Condotti or
imagining gladiatorial contests in the Colosseum,
Rome offers countless diversions.
Rome
Tyrrhenian Sea
CAMPANIA
Naples
PUGLIA
BASILICATA
CALABRIA
Palermo
Ionian Sea
SICILY
ITALIAN
C ITIES
T: 020 7359 3938
Italy has perhaps the greatest
concentration of artistic and culturally
rich cities of any country in Europe.
On the following pages we detail the city hotels
we work with in Rome, Florence, Venice, Bologna,
Naples and Palermo. As well as accommodation,
Real Holidays can also arrange private guided
tours, pre-book museum and gallery tickets and
make restaurant recommendations. We can also
arrange hotel accommodation in other Italian
cities, please contact us for further information.
VENICE
Beautiful Venice, set across 118 islands, lends itself
better than anywhere to idle wandering, with visitors
easily able to escape the tourist throngs down a narrow
side street and discover a peaceful spot to enjoy a glass
of wine overlooking one of the canals. Add to this
wonderful art galleries, beautiful palazzos and an
amazing carnival and it is no wonder that Venice is
still one of the most popular destinations in Europe.
ITALIAN CITIES
F LO R E NC E
NAPLE S
As one walks down its narrow streets and
emerges into another piazza, no other city has
the effect of transporting one back to the
Renaissance like Florence does. Whether it's a
famous Michelangelo statue or a less well known
Masaccio fresco, a medieval market place or an
Oltrarno restaurant, one quickly becomes
immersed both in the art and the life of Florence.
Italy’s third largest city has a brooding façade but
behind it Naples is a city rich in history, culture and
cuisine. Birthplace of the pizza, eating here is a
real pleasure with an excellent selection of cafés
and restaurants. Naples’ archaeological museum
with its many artefacts from Pompeii and
Herculaneum, is a must for even the most
reluctant historian.
B O LOGNA
PALERMO
Home to the oldest university in Europe, vibrant
Bologna offers a brilliantly preserved historical centre
with porticoed streets and impressive towers. It is
famed for its cuisine and acts as an excellent base
for exploring the many fascinating towns of Emilia
Romagna such as Ravenna and Ferrara. Racing car
enthusiasts will enjoy visiting the nearby museums
of Ferrari and Lamborghini.
Palermo is a fascinating city, incredibly lively and noisy
yet with its own very distinct style, which comes from
a combination of impressive churches, elegant
palazzos and stately piazzas, with narrow streets and
alleys as in a half-remembered film, bustling markets
and an undisciplined rush of life.
T: 020 7359 3938
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ITALIAN CITIES
VILLA SPALLE TTI TRIVELLI, ROME
An historic and exclusive private residence with just 12 guest rooms and suites, Villa Spalletti Trivelli
is a lavish city retreat in the heart of Rome.
The sumptuous rooms and suites, named after the
historical neighbourhoods of Rome, are beautifully
furnished with handmade linen sheets and original
works of art. The marble bathrooms are large and
spacious. For families, two self-contained two bedroom
apartments with kitchens and a charming terrace area,
overlooking a typical narrow Roman street are
accessible through the private garden.
The spacious and immaculate garden affords guests
a tranquil hideaway from the busy streets of Rome,
perfect in summer months. Occupying the entire lower
ground floor, the wellness centre is a delight with its
tepidarium, steam room and relaxation room. A fully
equipped fitness area is open 24 hours a day, with a
personal trainer available on request. There are also
private treatment rooms for additional pampering.
Villa Spalletti Trivelli’s ground floor is large and airy,
made up of elegant drawing rooms furnished with rich
tapestries and hand-picked antiques from the family’s
collection. The library is recognised by the Ministry of
National Heritage and Culture, an ideal spot to enjoy a
quiet hour with a good book and a glass of wine, from
the generously hosted bar in the Salone degli Arazzi.
Villa Spalletti Trivelli is also available on a private and
exclusive use basis.
ALBERGO CESARI, ROME
The Albergo Cesari has to be one of the oldest hotels in Real Holidays’ Italian Portfolio, having
first been given its papal licence to be a hotel in 1787.
The hotel is family-owned and its ownership has been
passed down through the Palumbo family since 1899.
It is almost impossible to beat the location of the
Cesari, situated on a small pedestrian side street in the
old part of Rome. The hotel is a five minute walk to
both the Pantheon and the Trevi Fountain and 15
minutes to the Forum and Colosseum.
There are 47 rooms, most of them extremely spacious
and some with views over the neighbouring piazza.
A delicious buffet breakfast is served daily, on the roof
terrace in the warmer months where guests can also
enjoy a drink in the evening. After a day of sightseeing
there is no shortage of choice when it comes to finding
a restaurant close by.
T: 020 7359 3938
Facilities: 47 rooms with air-con, Wi-Fi, tea/coffee making
facilities. Roof terrace
Location: in the heart of Rome, Rome Fiumicino airport
32km, Rome Ciampino airport 16km
Local interest: walking distance to all of the city’s main sights
Facilities: 12 rooms and suites with satellite TV, air-con, mini
bar & safe, 2 self-contained 2 bedroom apartments with
kitchen and living room. Wellness Centre, private gardens,
library, restaurant serving breakfast & lunch, drawing room
with bar, afternoon tea also served
Location: in the heart of Rome, Rome Fiumicino airport
33km, Rome Ciampino airport 16km
ITALIAN CITIES
HOTEL FLORA , VENICE
The Hotel Flora is situated in a secluded position on an elegant street full of excellent boutiques,
near St Mark’s Square and a five minute walk to the Accademia Bridge.
The interior is comfortable and attractive, with an
inviting bar and a particularly beautiful stairwell with
original ceilings and a lovely cast iron banister. Outside
there is a delightful shaded courtyard where guests
can have breakfast and drinks in the summer months.
Facilities: 44 rooms, including one family suite, all with aircon, internet access. Bar, Technogym with variety of fitness
machines and Turkish bath
Location: centrally located in Venice, Venice Marco Polo
airport 15km
The rooms are all different in size and they are
individually furnished with antiques and richly
coloured fabrics.
per person, 3 nights B&B including airport transfers
The Hotel Flora is relatively inexpensive and in an
excellent position, but what makes guests return year
after year is its warm hospitality. The hotel has been
owned and managed by the Romanelli family for over
30 years and some of the staff have been with them as
long. Their belief that service comes above everything
is borne out by clients’ unfailingly positive comments.
CA'NIGRA LAGO ON RESORT, VENICE
The Ca’Nigra Lagoon Resort is situated on the Campo di San Simeon Grande, a lovely
square with the 12th century San Simeon church.
The hotel is in a beautiful setting overlooking the Grand
Canal on the northern reaches of Santa Croce which,
while quieter than the San Marco neighbourhood, has
plenty of restaurants and shops and is still only a 20
minute walk, or an enjoyable vaparetto ride to the
famous Piazza.
The rooms and common areas are an elegant
mixture of antique furniture, richly coloured fabrics
and traditional features such as lead paned windows.
The rooms are both comfortable and luxurious, our
favourite is the Loggia Suite with its private terrace.
Having two lovely garden areas is an unusual treat in
Venice. The garden terrace overlooking the Grand
Canal provides the perfect setting for breakfast or
drinks in the summer months.
Facilities: 22 rooms, some interconnecting, with air-con,
Wi-Fi. Garden overlooking the Grand Canal
Location: centrally located, Venice Marco Polo airport 15km
per person, 3 nights B&B including airport transfers
T: 020 7359 3938
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ITALIAN CITIES
PALAZZO DAL BORGO, FLORENCE
Palazzo dal Borgo is an attractive hotel with 34 rooms, centrally located in Florence and
owned by the Cantini Zucconi family.
The hotel was formerly a 15th century Medici palazzo
and it retains the feel of the old house it used to be.
It lies near the Piazza Santa Maria Novella, whose
church bells one can hear at regular intervals
throughout the day.
Most of the bedrooms have views across the redtiled rooftops of medieval Florence. The rooms are
traditionally furnished, with iron beds and painted
furniture. In contrast, the bathrooms are modern
and well-equipped. There is an attractive bar and
breakfast area downstairs, but in summer months
breakfast is served in the lovely shaded courtyard.
AL CAPELLO ROSSO, BOLOGNA
City hotels don’t come much better located than the Al Capello Rosso. The hotel is perfectly placed for the
Centro Storico, just 50 metres from the Piazza Maggiore which is flanked by imposing Renaissance palazzos
and the city’s Basilica di San Petronio.
The ‘Red Hat’ in the hotel’s name refers to the
headgear of the tradesmen who stayed there back in
the 14th century. Now, the hotel has a contemporary
feel with the 32 rooms decorated to reflect modern
artistic themes associated with the city ranging from
fashion to dance. The hotel also has five apartments
in another building close by, each with a kitchenette,
although guests of these apartments can take
breakfast at the hotel’s restaurant, La Farina Living.
The hotel also has a library with fascinating books on
the city’s history and gastronomy, the ideal place to
relax before heading out for dinner.
T: 020 7359 3938
Facilities: 33 rooms with air-con, Wi-Fi & tea/coffee making
facilities
Location: in the heart of Bologna, Bologna airport 10km
Facilities: 34 rooms with air-con, Wi-Fi, tea/coffee making
facilities. Courtyard garden, bar
Location: centrally located in Florence, Florence airport
10km, Pisa airport 85km
ITALIAN CITIES
COSTANTINOPOLI 10 4, NAPLES
The Costantinopoli 104 in the heart of Naples provides a rare haven of relaxation and tranquillity
a stone's throw from all the action of the city.
Once owned by the Marchese Spinelli, this 19th
century villa has 19 rooms and suites and a small
sun-drenched pool in its courtyard. Some suites
are split level with a terrace, perfect for relaxing
and enjoying the sun. Several rooms lead out to
the courtyard and pool area, and a number lead
onto the roof terrace.
minibar. Swimming pool, garage with parking & collection
service (additional charge)
Location: In the heart of Naples, Naples airport 8km
Breakfast is buffet style and served in the dining
room. Room service is available at all other times;
however, the hotel is in the heart of the city, close
to Piazza Bellini with a number of good restaurants
to sample. A real treat comes from a stroll down
Via dei Tribunali to Pizzeria Sorbillo where Italians
and tourists alike queue outside one of the most
popular pizzerias in Naples.
BB2 2 , PALERMO
Owners Patti and Max have created what visitors to Palermo have long been waiting for; a peaceful
and welcoming retreat in the centre of this fascinating but chaotic city.
This formerly crumbling palazzo now houses seven
spacious guestrooms and suites, all individually
furnished and reflecting Patti’s sense of style with a
mix of old and new features. Some of the bedrooms
have a private balcony and there is one suite with
a kitchenette making it ideal for families; there are
also two bedrooms which interconnect.
Facilities: 7 rooms & suites, (2 interconnecting &
1 with kitchenette) with air-con, minibar & Wi-Fi
Location: in the heart of Palermo, Palermo airport 35km,
Trapani airport 112km
The lounge, where a delightful breakfast is served,
has a small bar and leads on to an inviting terrace
with retractable roof, perfect for a lazy afternoon
when the chaos of the city becomes too much.
Here, guests can help themselves to drinks in the
evening before heading out to one of Palermo’s
many nearby restaurants for dinner.
T: 020 7359 3938
71
72
FURTHER INFORMATION
FURTH ER
INFOR M ATION
HOW TO GET THERE
WHEN TO GO
RURAL LIFE
There are a number of ways to reach our destinations
in Italy: scheduled, low cost and charter flights, train,
ferry crossing and self-drive, all of which we can
arrange. The variety of flight options has increased
enormously to Italy and the network of low cost
airlines is now enabling us to book flights from many
UK regional airports.
The peak season falls during the months of July and
August but all of our properties are well worth visiting
in the spring and autumn when the heat is less intense
and the places of interest less crowded. Being further
south, Sicily has a milder climate and it is feasible to
visit it year-round if you are planning to see the
historical sights rather than have a beach holiday. Many
of our mainland destinations are also suitable for visits
year-round, please contact us for more information.
Many older buildings in Italy do not have air
conditioning but generally they are built with thick
stone walls to keep them cool in the summer.
Rail travel is becoming increasingly popular as a way
to reduce one’s carbon footprint. It is easy to travel
to Italy by train, using the Eurostar from London to
Paris and then a direct overnight sleeper to an everexpanding number of cities including Venice, Bologna,
Florence and Rome, with onward connections or car
hire from the main stations.
SWIMMING POOLS
ITALIAN LIFE
The Italian way of life is very different to that in the UK
and this should be remembered when selecting your
destination and type of property. Great importance is
placed on family life in Italy and this tends to centre
on meal times which are often later than in the UK.
Please call us to discuss your exact travel requirements.
We are able to arrange your car rental and ensure
we get you the most appropriate car at the most
competitive prices. It is important to check with us
at the time of booking any extras such as insurance
excesses that may not be covered.
T: 020 7359 3938
As most of our properties are found in rural locations
the existence of mosquitoes, flies, ants and mice is not
unusual. Insect repellent can be bought in local stores.
Many of our rural properties have dogs.
Some of our more rustic self-catering properties do
not have appliances in the kitchens which we would
take for granted in the UK such as microwaves, toasters
and kettles. Please ask for further information on
particular properties.
Swimming pools are normally unheated and are
usually open from around mid-May until
mid-September or October.
ROADS
Italy has an excellent network of roads enabling you to
travel easily between major towns and cities. In more
rural areas many of the roads are winding and one
should allow plenty of time for journeys. Certain roads,
especially on the approach to some of our properties,
are best described as gravel tracks. In these rural areas,
your satellite navigation will not necessarily direct you
to the right place so we include detailed driving
instructions in your travel documents.
FURTHER INFORMATION
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
PRICE & BROCHURE ACCURACY
PASSPORTS, HEALTH & TRAVEL ADVICE
Shops, banks and many petrol stations normally
close at lunchtime and open again late afternoon.
Please note that every effort has been made to
ensure the accuracy of the information contained in
this brochure. However, from time to time changes
can occur and if this should be the case, you will
be informed of any such changes as soon as is
reasonably possible. Hotel prices are per person
based on two sharing and self catering properties
are a total weekly price for the property.
A full UK or EC passport is required for travel to Italy.
Visas are not needed for EC citizens. All children,
including babies, also require their own passport. Non
EC nationals should inform us at the time of booking
and check with the Italian Embassy as to whether they
require a visa. If you require a visa for return entry into
the UK, this is your responsibility.
Credit cards are widely accepted in major towns and
cities. However, family run establishments in rural
areas do not necessarily accept them and it is always
advisable to check first.
The current is 220v – the same as in the UK but you
will need an adaptor plug.
At most of our properties you will find someone who
speaks some English but this will not necessarily be
the case in the surrounding area. If so, sign language
and a good phrase book should suffice!
REAL HOLIDAYS TRAVEL DOCUMENTS
Client documents are sent out approximately two
weeks prior to departure and with these we will send
a map of the region or city you are visiting, property
directions and trip notes or a guide book to enable
you to make the most of your holiday.
The prices apply at the time of the brochure going
to print (January 2013). These prices are in sterling
and are calculated based on exchange rates at the
time. However, prices may fluctuate and you will be
given a final costing by your travel consultant before
confirming your booking. The price will then be
confirmed on your invoice. At the time of booking,
we will require that you sign a copy of our booking
form and return it to us with a deposit as advised
plus full payment for any flights or trains that we
have booked for you.
There are currently no compulsory health requirements
for travel to Italy from the UK.
UK residents are entitled to free, or reduced cost,
state health care in Italy, but you must be in possession
of an EHIC card, which can be applied for online at
www.ehic.org.uk or you can obtain a form from the
post office. However, it is also important that you take
out comprehensive travel insurance for the duration of
your holiday.
We also advise you to refer to the British Foreign and
Commonwealth Office (FCO) website before you travel
as it contains up to date travel information enabling
British travellers to make informed decisions about
travelling abroad, www.fco.gov.uk/knowbeforeyougo
ITALIAN NATIONAL HOLIDAYS
1st January: New Year's Day
6th January: Epiphany
Easter Monday
25th April: Liberation Day
1st May: Labour Day
2nd June: Anniversary of the Founding of the Republic
15th August: Feast of the Assumption
(also known as Ferragosto): the biggest holiday of all!
1st November: All Saints (Ognissanti)
8th December: Feast of the Immaculate Conception
25th December: Christmas Day
26th December: Boxing Day (Santo Stefano)
Real Holidays is the trading name of
Real Holidays Travel Agency Limited,
Registered No.02333231
Registered Office: The Courtyard, 25 High Street,
Hungerford, Berkshire RG17 0NF, England
T: 020 7359 3938
73
74
BO OKING CONDITIONS
1.
Real Holidays Travel Agency Limited
It is very important to check the details on the itinerary and invoice when you get
them. This is because they set out the details of the holiday RH believes you have
booked. If you think there is an error you should contact RH immediately so that RH
can sort out any problems surrounding what RH or you are expected to do. Changes
can only be made by the persons signing the booking form or by someone they
authorise in writing. Some changes may incur charges as set out in paragraph 6.
Real Holidays is a trading name for Real Holidays Travel Agency Limited (RH). (Registered
No. 2333231, Registered Office: The Courtyard, 25 High Street, Hungerford, Berkshire.
RG17 0NF). RH acts in this circumstance as the principal / tour operator, although
in other circumstances it may operate as an agent to the principal / tour operator.
2.
Your Financial Protection
4.
RH is a fully bonded tour operator, protected by the Civil Aviation Authority, ATOL
number 4607. When you buy an ATOL protected flight or flight inclusive holiday from
RH you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists what is financially protected, where
you can get information on what this means for you and who to contact if things go
wrong. RH, or the suppliers identified on the ATOL Certificate, will provide you with the
services listed on the ATOL Certificate (or a suitable alternative). In some cases, where
neither RH nor the supplier are able to do so for reasons of insolvency, an alternative
ATOL holder may provide you with the services you have bought or a suitable alternative
(at no extra cost to you). You agree to accept that in those circumstances the
alternative ATOL holder will perform those obligations and you agree to pay any money
outstanding to be paid by you under your contract to that alternative ATOL holder.
However, you also agree that in some cases it will not be possible to appoint an
alternative ATOL holder, in which case you will be entitled to make a claim under the
ATOL scheme (or your credit card issuer where applicable). For further information visit
the ATOL website at www.atol.org.uk. The price of RH's air holiday packages includes
an amount per person as part of the ATOL Protection Contribution (APC) RH pay to the
CAA. This charge is included in RH prices. Not all holiday or travel services offered and
sold by RH will be protected by the ATOL scheme. Please ask RH to confirm what
protection may apply to your booking.
3.
4.2 RH guarantees that up until 30 days before your departure date the price of your
holiday will not be subject to surcharges except for:
- variations in transportation costs, including the cost of the fuel
- variations in duties, taxes or fees chargeable for services such as landing taxes or
embarkation or disembarkation fees at ports and airports
- the exchange rates applied to the holiday booking and that within 30 days of your
departure date the price of your holiday will not be subject to any surcharges.
4.3 Should the above price variations result in the cost of your holiday going up:
- RH will absorb and you will not be charged for any increase equal to up to 2%
on your holiday price (that is, you will only have to pay the increase over and above
2% of the holiday price)
3.2 The holiday contract is made by RH with the person who signs the booking form, even
though payments may be made by others, and every person signing the booking form
is fully responsible for the holiday contract.
3.3 Your holiday contract with RH is made up of the following:
- These conditions.
- The relevant information provided in the brochure / website. Any changes to the
particulars will be set out in the itinerary or advised in writing. RH makes checks to
ensure that the descriptions, information and opinions given in brochures used by
RH concerning the airlines, hotels, facilities and suppliers are correct, and based on
the latest information available at the time of going to press. However, because
brochures are necessarily prepared some time in advance, such matters may change
by the time you are ready to book your holiday. Your holiday contract is made on
the basis of the changes notified in the itinerary or in writing.
- The booking form. This will provide RH with information needed to make the holiday
arrangements. Please note names should be provided as stated in the relevant
passport. Although RH always informs suppliers of your special requests and does
what it can to encourage suppliers to accommodate them, it is the suppliers who
control whether the request is met and RH cannot guarantee this. This is especially
true of dietary requirements.
- The invoice.
4.4 RH often receives contract rates from suppliers including hotels and airlines which are
confidential and under agreement with the suppliers cannot be divulged to third
parties and nor can the individual components be sold or priced individually but must
be packaged together. RH will not give any breakdowns whatsoever of the price of
a holiday.
4.5 If you are booking through an agent of RH, when you buy a flight-based holiday, all
monies you pay to the travel agent are held by him on behalf and for the benefit of
the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust at all times. This is subject to the agent’s obligation
to pay it to us for so long as we do not fail. If we fail, any money held at that time by
the agent, or subsequently accepted from you by him, is and continues to be held on
behalf of and for the benefit of the Trustees of the Air Travel Trust without any
obligation to pay that money to us. When you buy a holiday not including a flight, all
monies you pay to the travel agent are held by him on our behalf at all times.
5.
T: 020 7359 3938
Payment
5.1 Note the surcharge in clause 4.1 if you are paying by credit card, which must be paid
in addition to the invoiced amount.
5.2 If you are booking within 10 weeks of the departure date, then full payment is required
from you at the time of booking.
5.3 If you are booking more than 10 weeks before the departure date, then you need only
pay the deposit shown on the invoice at the time of booking, and you must pay the
balance at least 8 weeks prior to departure. RH will send a reminder approximately
10 weeks before the departure date.
6.
- The itinerary. This will identify if a holiday service is dependent on participation by a
minimum number of people. If so the service may be cancelled by RH in writing
within the period indicated in the itinerary without compensation if the minimum
take-up is not achieved and if the service has been paid for then the sum paid will
be refunded by RH.
By RH:
6.4 It is unlikely that RH will have to change your booking but holiday arrangements are
made many months in advance and RH is dependent upon a number of essential
suppliers. RH therefore reserves the right to do so. In some destinations travel schedules
or holiday services can be changed, delayed or cancelled because of circumstances
outside our control. This can cause you to miss travel connections, cause
disappointment and impose further cost, which RH reserves the right to charge to you.
6.5 If RH makes a significant change to an essential term of the holiday contract before
departure then RH will notify you as soon as possible. You can either:
- have a full refund; or
- accept a substitute package from RH of equivalent or closely similar standard and
price if one is available; or
- If the holiday price increases by more than 10%, you will have the right to cancel
within 14 days without liability (see clause 7.1)
Your holiday contract
3.1 There will be no binding contract for your holiday until RH has received a signed
booking form and/or payment of the deposit/sum shown on the invoice.
Price
4.1 Payments made by credit card (including Visa, MasterCard and American Express) will
result in a surcharge of 2% to cover the charges by your credit card company. This
does not apply to payments by debit card.
6.3 RH will assist you if you wish to make changes to your booked holiday but cannot
guarantee that the relevant suppliers will agree to your changes. There will be a
minimum administration charge of £50 plus VAT per person in your party affected,
and you will also have to pay the total costs associated with the change. Changes may
include (by way of example only) travel or accommodation and in addition to the
administration charge above BR reserves the right to render cancellation charges where
the relevant supplier treats the change as a cancellation. Please note that the
administration charges are payable whether or not BR is successful in making the
change and that where you wish to transfer a booking in circumstances where clause
6.2 does not apply then the supplier may insist that this is treated as a cancellation
and rebooking and BR reserves the right to pass on the cancellation charges to you
that arise as a result.
Changes to the holiday or persons taking the holiday
By you:
6.1 A change must be requested in writing by the person who signed the booking form.
6.2 If you or any person on the holiday is prevented from travelling, RH will agree to that
person's booking being transferred to another person who satisfies all the booking
terms, subject to both persons accepting joint and several liability for full payment of
the price and RH’s charge for confirming the transfer and any additional costs arising
from the transfer. RH must be given reasonable notice of the transfer request, which
is considered to be at least 14 days prior to the outward departure date.
- choose a substitute package of a lower standard to the travel arrangements booked
together with a refund of the difference in price.
RH will, if appropriate, pay you compensation as provided in clause 8 below.
6.6 If after departure RH is unable to provide a significant proportion of the services it had
agreed to provide as part of the holiday contract, RH will notify you as soon as possible
and do its best to make suitable alternative arrangements at no extra cost to you. If
RH cannot do so or you refuse to accept these for good reasons, RH will arrange to fly
you back to your UK departure airport (if the arrangements RH agreed to provide
included flights) or to transport you to the point RH’s contracted services commenced
(if elsewhere than your hotel) as soon as it reasonably can. RH will, if appropriate, also
pay you compensation as provided in clause 8 below.
7.
Cancellation
By you:
7.1 Should surcharges result in the total cost of your holiday increasing by more than 10%,
then you may cancel the booking within 14 days of issue of the revised invoice and
receive a full refund of all payments made to RH less amendment charges and
insurance premiums where the policy can be re-used or re-transferred without penalty.
7.2 If you cancel the holiday for any other reason RH will be entitled to retain a percentage
of the payment made by you as compensation. You must be aware that cancellation
relates not only to the whole holiday booking but may extend to any component of
the holiday such as (by way of example only) individual travel or accommodation
components. In certain circumstances cancellation of travel or accommodation
arrangements may result in up to 100% of the cancellation charges being levied in
respect of the relevant individual component of the holiday irrespective of the notice
period given to RH and RH will always take reasonable steps to try to reduce its losses.
The compensation amount will differ according to whether the holiday period is during
peak times or off-peak times and the compensation will always be subject to the
amounts set out in the tables below. A cancellation must be in writing signed by the
person who signed the booking form / paid the deposit.
CREDITS
Off-peak:
Period between notification of
cancellation and departure date
health certificate, or to check in early enough to catch the flight or to turn up in time
for an excursion/activity for whatever reason, or mislays or loses holiday documentation,
or is reasonably excluded by a supplier because of misconduct or medical reasons, or
is not provided with a holiday service because of an error in the information given by
you.
Amount of cancellation charge
More than 56 days
Amount of deposit paid
Less than 56 days
The higher of the deposit paid or the
relevant sum as below:
56 – 43 days
40% of holiday price plus amendment
charges paid
42 – 28 days
charges paid
27 – 14 days
charges paid
13 – 0 days
charges paid
8.3 RH will have no liability to pay compensation to you for any failure to properly perform
the holiday contract, where the failure is:
- attributable to a third party unconnected with the provision of the holiday services,
and which was unforeseeable or unavoidable
- due to unusual and unforeseeable circumstances beyond RH’s control, the
consequences of which could not have been avoided even if all due care had been
exercised
- due to an event which RH, even with all due care, could not foresee or forestall.
Examples of the above circumstances would be war, riot, civil strife, industrial dispute,
terrorist activity, actions of governments or other state bodies, unavoidable technical
problems with transport, machinery or equipment, power failure, natural or nuclear
disaster, avalanche, fire, adverse weather conditions or levels of water in rivers, or that
any of the above are threatened.
Peak period:
Period between notification of
cancellation and departure date
Amount of cancellation charge
More than 56 days
Amount of deposit paid
Less than 56 days
The higher of the deposit paid or the
relevant sum as below:
56 – 43 days
charges paid
- a maximum of three times the price of the holiday, except as regards any liability in
respect of death, injury and illness
42 – 0 days
charges paid
- for air, sea or rail travel and the provision of accommodation to the extent permissible
under relevant international conventions (e.g. the Montreal Convention for travel by
air, the Athens Convention for travel by sea, the Berne Convention for travel by rail
and the Paris Convention in relation to the provision of accommodation) or the
transport companies’ contractual terms. The transport companies’ contractual terms
are incorporated into these booking terms. Copies of relevant international
conventions and transport companies’ contractual terms are available on request.
Transport companies’ contractual terms often prohibit you from changing the
schedule, do not allow refunds, allow the carrier to change schedules without prior
notice, restrict free luggage and restrict or deny compensation for delays and
cancellation.
8.4 Where RH is required to pay you compensation, whether as provided in these booking
terms or otherwise, RH will pay £100 per person. RH may in appropriate circumstances
increase the sum but RH’s liability to pay compensation shall be limited in all
circumstances to the lesser of:
By RH:
7.3 RH will notify you as quickly as possible of any cancellation.
7.4 RH may cancel the holiday if you do not pay the balance of the price on time and RH
may retain the deposit you have paid.
7.5 It is unlikely that RH will have to cancel your holiday in any other circumstances but
holiday arrangements are made many months in advance and RH is dependent upon
a number of essential suppliers. Therefore RH reserves the right to do so, but you will
be entitled to either:
- You should note that under EU Regulation 261/2004 where you have been denied
boarding, suffered a cancellation or delay to your flights you may have a right to a
refund or compensation under the Regulation. Details of your rights will be available
from airlines and EU airports. If you are reimbursed under the Regulation you will
not be automatically entitled to a refund of your holiday cost from RH under this
clause. Should any payments be due to you from RH, RH will be entitled to deduct
from such payment any payment made to you by an airline.
- have a full refund; or
- accept a substitute package from RH of equivalent or closely similar standard, if one
is available; or
- choose a substitute package of a lower standard to the travel arrangements booked
together with a refund of the difference in price.
RH will, if appropriate, pay you compensation as provided in clause 8 below.
8.
Liability, limits on liability and compensation
8.1 RH accepts responsibility, subject as limited by these booking conditions, for supplying
to you all holiday services booked by you, even though RH will have engaged
independent suppliers to provide certain of these services. For the avoidance of doubt
RH is not responsible for and has no liability for the acts or omissions of persons who
are not acting as its employees or suppliers (such as for excursions or other activities
which you do not book through RH, since these are contracts by you with the local
supplier and not with RH).
8.2 RH will have no liability to pay compensation to you for any failure to properly perform
the holiday contract, where the failure is attributable to you. Examples would be that
any member of your party is unable to travel for medical reasons, or fails to take his/her
passport with him/her or a passport which meets the requirements of the country(ies)
of the holiday (some countries require you to have at least 6 months validity on your
passport from the date on which you leave that country), or to get a required visa or
9.
Complaints
If you have a complaint about your holiday then you should immediately contact RH’s
representative, even while on holiday, because matters are most easily resolved on the
spot where RH’s representative can see and understand the exact nature of the
problem you have. It is unreasonable to take no action while you are on holiday, then
complain afterwards. If RH’s representative cannot sort out your problem before you
return home then you should contact RH within 28 days of returning home. If you do
not complain within that period then this may affect RH’s ability to investigate your
complaint and may impact on the way that your complaint is dealt with. If the matter
cannot be resolved and it involves us or another ABTA Member then it can be referred
to the arbitration scheme arranged by ABTA. See www.abta.co.uk
10. Law and jurisdiction
Your Financial Protection
If we sell you a flight inclusive holiday you will be financially
protected by the ATOL scheme. When you buy an ATOL
protected flight or flight inclusive holiday from Real Holidays
you will receive an ATOL Certificate. This lists what is financially
protected, where you can get information on what this means
for you and who to contact if things go wrong.
Please see our booking conditions for further information or
for more information about financial protection and the ATOL
Certificate please go to www.atol.org.uk/ATOLCertificate.
Real Holidays is a member of ABTA - A7208/W212X
Real Holidays is a member of IATA - 91-2 2998 3
CREDITS
Photography:
Dan Brady
Steffen Brinkmann
Daniel Clauzier
Dreamstime
Olivia Elliot
Istock
Mammaoca2008
Shutterstock
Print:
Pureprint Group using their pureprint® environmental
print technology. All inks are 100% vegetable oil based.
Pureprint Group is a CarbonNeutral® company, accredited
with Environmental Management System, ISO 14001 and
registered to EMAS the Eco Management and Audit Scheme.
The paper is certified by
The Forest Stewardship Council®.
Design & Production:
C&C Design Limited T: 020 7351 4157 www.candc-design.com
Any dispute between you and RH will be governed by the laws of England. Any legal
action concerning your holiday or these booking terms shall be brought in the English
Courts, unless you live outside England when your local court will also have jurisdiction.
w ww. re alho li days.c o.uk
T: 020 7359 3938
75
Real Holidays is an independent travel agency.
We are experts in bespoke and luxury holidays across the world.
66-68 Essex Road, London N1 8LR
T: +44 (0)20 7359 3938 F: +44 (0)20 7226 5800
[email protected] www.realholidays.co.uk
4607
A7208 / W212X
ACCREDITED AGENT
91-22998-3

italian portfolio

Transcription

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Coco de Mer Hotel