Luxury has been redefined in recent years. No longer is a “luxury” trip defined by pricepoint alone, but moreso by the experience that a traveler will have. With each trip abroad, clients are looking for deeper experiences that will actually make them feel something. We’ve rounded up properties that maximize on value while delivering massive doses of cultural immersion.
Hotel Borgo Le Terrazze
Lake Como
Very few properties on Lake Como would qualify as both quality and affordable, but this property defies all odds and will knock you off your feet with panoramic views that are bucket-list worthy. The relaxing infinity pool, air conditioning (not as common as you think), Wi-Fi, and complimentary shuttle service to/from town will be the cherry on top of your dreamy stay.
Albergo Villa Marta
Lucca
You can bike the walls in between bites of pasta in this gorgeous Medieval town, and then rest your head in an authentic Tuscan villa. Villa Marta is an eighteenth century villa built for hunting reasons, and now you can benefit from the authenticity while enjoying a panoramic and gastronomic paradise.
Hotel Chiaia di Luna
Island of Ponza
There’s a reason that the Fendi family owns a villa on this untapped island. You may not have heard of this destination before this blog, but I promise that you won’t be able to forget it after Googling this place. Just a short train and ferry away from Rome is this cliff-riddled island. This hotel offers a nightly disco, so if you love a peaceful sleep- it may not be ideal for you. However, if you don’t mind a little noise in exchange for a breathtaking sunset terrace view, this property is perfect for you.
Locanda Palazzone
Umbria
Producing one of Umbria’s most celebrated labels, Locanda Palazzone is a medieval barn with a modern interior set on a wine-making farm high in the hills above Orvieto. Inside, the architecture jumps a few centuries – a glass-and-iron lift and loft-style living await among the ancient floors, mullioned windows and carved columns. The old stone building is edged with glorious grounds, planted with beds of lavender and roses.
A short train ride from Florence, you will find the historical town of Siena. This hotel enjoys a privileged location on the city’s main street, just a short walk from Piazza del Campo and the magnificent Duomo cathedral. Today the 17th-century palazzo continues to attract elite visitors with its Renaissance architecture adorned with original frescoes and priceless antiques.
Want a great base to explore the eternal city? Once a traditional townhouse, this city-center stay has been beautifully remodeled into a cozy hotel with 15 stylish rooms, each decorated in shades of blue or grey with modern minimalist furnishings. Take your morning feast (and coffee, of course) outside in the leafy inner courtyard when weather allows. There are plenty of lovely local spots nearby (staff know ‘em all…), and drinks run from dusk till dawn in the 24-hour blue-toned bar.
Turin Palace Hotel
Turin
If you know about great wine or truffles, the Piemonte region has already caught your eye. If you don’t know about this area- don’t overlook it.
The light-filled rooms in the recently remodeled, historic 1870 building exudes mystique and elegance to the guests with an ambience of pleasant relaxation. The hotel is in Turin city center, where you can enjoy a spectacular view from the wonderful terrace.
Villa Rosa
Positano
One word comes to mind when thinking of Villa Rosa: value. This property offers everything you could want from an Amalfi Coast stay at an unparalleled pricepoint. Villa Rosa is situated conveniently near the center of Positano (right across from the note-worthy Franco’s Bar) and just a few minutes’ walk away from the beach, restaurants and shops. From the spacious terraces, one can enjoy an unequalled and unforgettable view of the Mediterranean.
Grand Hotel Savoia
Genoa
Amongst the oldest hotels in Italy, the history of the Grand Hotel Savoia extends back 120 years, its ancient splendor having been restored thanks to a sophisticated restoration. During the warmer months, enjoy a rich breakfast on the terrace, backdropped by the roofs of Genoa glimmering in the morning light, merging with the blue of the sea.
Relais & Chateaux…they just get it right! What does that mean to you? Gastronomy, authenticity, and exceptional quality. From this wine-focused resort, you can take a day trip to float atop Lake Garda, explore the nearby town of Verona, or pop around the local vineyards. We say…why not do all three?!
Sardinia
Just Google “water in Sardinia” and tap on “Images.” We’ll wait. Drooling yet? We thought so.
Tucked away in the hills of San Pantaleo, overlooking the Costa Smeralda, Petra Segreta Resort & Spa offers five-star accommodation and cuisine immersed in Sardinia’s rugged countryside. You’ve found your new dream getaway that gives you all that you need: stunning coastlines nearby, wine & food experiences, and ultimate relaxation.
Botania Relais & Spa
Island of Ischia
Mark our words: Ischia is the next Capri. It’s coming…get ahead of it! There are more and more boutique properties that are coming to this island, and Botania Relais & Spa is no exception. With typical Mediterranean architecture, the 10 villas are strategically located amongst quiet nature, representing refuges for privacy and intimacy. Here, the holiday flows by to the rhythm of your dreams.
Ca’ P’a Casa Privata
Praiano
Ca’ P’a is situated in Praiano, a little town between Amalfi and Positano, on one of the most beautiful coasts in the world – the Amalfi Coast. Set within this inspiring vantage point of surrounding valleys, the extensive grounds at Ca’ P’a include tranquil lawns, organic fruit and vegetable gardens as well as a private beach while enjoying the most fabulous view of the Mediterranean sea.
With only seven rooms Casa Privata offers an exclusive opportunity to savour the good things in life with a limited few, in complete privacy and seclusion.
Hotel Ai Reali
Venice
This hotel is located in an ancient aristocratic Venetian palace, in the historical center of the city, between Rialto and Piazza San Marco. The hotel, that also hosts the “Alle Corone” Restaurant, the lounge bar, the “Reali Wellness & Spa” wellness center and a conference center, stands out for its highly refined elegance and for the attention of its staff to the slightest detail, wishing its guests to feel like they have a second house in Venice.
Antica Torre di Via Tornabuoni
Florence
Antica Torre di Via Tornabuoni 1 is a medieval tower from 1200, transformed into an exclusive historical mansion where guests are involved in luxury and Renaissance art everywhere and where they can enjoy a fascinating scenario, with the best view of Florence from its terrace and its delightful restaurant “The Tower” and nestled in the best location of the city, in Via Tornabuoni, which hosts luxury brands like Gucci, Salvatore Ferragamo, Ermenegildo Zegna, Tiffany, Montblanc, Giorgio Armani, Dior, among others. Just a few steps of Ponte Santa Trinita, Ponte Vecchio, the Duomo and the train station Santa Maria Novella, Antica Torre di Via Tornabuoni is certainly one of the best places to stay in Florence.
Hotel Villa Carlotta
Taormina
Villa Carlotta is an independent Luxury Boutique Hotel in Taormina located in a unique historic setting overlooking the Ionian Sea. Recently renovated Carlotta provides a secret refuge for guests who are looking for high quality with personality and style. Enjoy impeccable personal service in a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere surrounded by people who genuinely care. The must visit space? Their rooftop restaurant.
Masseria Cervarolo
Puglia
Masseria Cervarolo is a farm with trulli (typical Apulian rural houses) built in the XVI century. It stands on a 250 meters hillock that dominates a large and fertile plain, just 6 km away from the town of Ostuni. They have created an amazing and elegant countryside house where the family looks forward to hosting you.
Villa Brunella
Capri
As soon as you arrive in the famous Piazzetta, you are immediately taken by the festive air.
You stroll down Via Camerelle and window shop its luxurious boutiques until, by just turning a corner, you find yourself in the quiet Via Tragara, bright with sunlight.
Walking slowly and breathing in the sweet sea breezes of Capri, you arrive at Villa Brunella: a boutique hotel with a panoramic view over Marina Piccola. Not only can you lay your head here…but their restaurant will have you swooning over more than the views.
Dolomites
The brand new 5-star Hotel Montchalet boasts elegant suites, an excellent restaurant and an impeccable service.
Built in 2016 in the town of Ortisei, in the renowned Val Gardena, the 5-star Hotel Montchalet was designed and created to be a work of art, where every element contributes to the overall mountain-chalet style.
Therasia Resort Sea and Spa
Aeolian Islands
Have you ever wanted to see a live volcano eruption while enjoying your evening apertivo? We’ve found your version of heaven.
The sunset inflames the air, the soft silhouette of the Aeolian Islands emerging on the horizon and the wild charm of an island, Vulcano. Holding this breathtaking stage is Therasia Resort Sea & Spa, nesting on the cliff of Vulcanello.
Villa di Piazzano
Tuscany
Set on the border between Umbria and Tuscany, the Villa di Piazzano is an elegant historic estate dating back to 1464.
The Villa was built as the hunting manor of Cardinal Silvio Passerini. It is located in close proximity to Cortona, in a protected natural reserve
and dominates over some incredibly beautiful countryside.
