Our team of travel experts, fuelled by their passion for Italy, has handpicked their favourite summer holiday hotel destinations and we're excited to share them with you!
Andy – Hotel Vis a Vis, Sestri Levante, Liguria
Picture this: waking up to the gentle sound of waves, opening your window to the breathtaking view of the Ligurian Sea, and realizing you're staying at Hotel Vis-a-vis. This boutique hotel, with incredible views, became my sanctuary during my time in Sestri Levante. The blend of modern comforts and traditional Italian charm was evident from the moment I stepped into the lobby.
My room at Vis-a-vis was a haven of tranquillity, adorned with coastal-inspired decor that perfectly complemented the surrounding seascape. The attention to detail and the thoughtfully designed spaces created an ambiance that felt like a true escape.
What truly sets Hotel Vis-a-vis apart is the warmth of its staff. From the friendly greetings at the reception to the personalised recommendations for local gems, their commitment to ensuring a memorable stay was evident.
The breathtaking panorama from the rooftop bar and restaurant extends across the Bay of Silence and Fairy Tale Bay. During my stay, a storm raged at sea, and observing it from the secure confines of the hotel provided an incredible spectacle. Just as Hans Christian Andersen did in 1833, you can now relish the enchantment of Sestri Levante and Hotel Vis a Vis.
Laura – Masseria Della Volpe, Sicily
Masseria della Volpe is quite simply an oasis!
Located in that oh so busy southeast bubble of Sicily. What better place to unwind and reflect on the day than in this very special place?
In my opinion, it is completely unique with regard to the level of exceptional service, value for money, environmental awareness and attention to detail which goes above and beyond.
I adore the mist that is there to walk through and refresh before going to swim in the pool, walking in the orchards and picking a fresh orange to eat while sitting in one of the shaded spots to relax and enjoy the views. The restaurant and spa make sure that body and soul are delighted by the time you depart and, on your way, home you will be thinking about including Masseria della Volpe in your next trip to Sicily.
Enjoy it for yourself.
Jani – Masseria Montenapoleone, Puglia
My first visit to Puglia exceeded all my expectations and I can say that thanks to my stay at Masseria Montenapoleone. It started with an entrance to their property via a fairytale gate. Everything afterwards just turned out to be a series of some of the best memories ever. At the reception, I was kindly greeted, as well as given a property tour and recommendations and tips about places and restaurants in Puglia.
The property was mesmerising, covering different Puglia-styled buildings and a large land area with vineyards, orange trees, olive trees other fruit trees and even some animals. It is exclusive and therefore perfect to rest your mind, really recommend making use of massage amenities as it makes a stay even more relaxing. The best thing was the food experience.
They have a dedicated chef that uses ingredients from the property. They even make their own wine which became one of my favourites. The waiters were paying so much attention to all their guests. Their restaurant is small, and they make sure that everyone’s experience is worthwhile.
But nothing beats their breakfast experience, as you get to their magical setting and there are fresh flowers everywhere, you get so much to choose from a person serving just hot beverages and somebody else just serving desserts to the waiter taking customized orders from their delightful menu.
Hayley – Donna Carmela, Sicily
Perfectly situated halfway between Taormina and the many sights of the south-east corner, Donna Carmela is the ideal base for exploring the eastern side of this vast Mediterranean island, including the mighty Mount Etna.
The setting of Donna Carmela is sublime, with the sea in the distance, framed by tropical plants and palm trees, you feel a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of Sicilian life.
But Sicilian hospitality is never far away though. The staff here ensure that every guest's needs are met from organising Etna tours to preparing the most outstanding cuisine to be found on the island with an added bonus of it being accompanied by their very own wine. Cin cin!
