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At the northern tip of Italy, the Lombardy region is known for its beautiful mountains, hills and plains. It’s also celebrated for its spectacular series of lakes, including the magnificent Lake Garda, Lake Maggiore and Lake Como. Dreamy Lake Maggiore (Italy’s second largest lake) can be found at the foothills of the Alps: take a boat tour to the famous Borromean Island, Isola Bella or try the mountain bucket lift at Laveno Monbello, a lakeside town on the western shore. Extend your time with a stay at the nearby Locanda dei Mai Intees, a four-star hotel in the medieval village of Azzate.
The magical town of Como and the adjoining lake (only 45 minutes away from Locanda dei Mai Intees by car) is another must-see Lombardy destination; explore the town’s charming historic centre with its marvellous cathedral and waterfront promenade and take in awe-inspiring lake views on the funicular.
A cosmos of culture awaits you in the city of Milan. You’ll need to allow enough time in this magical city, known the world over as an international fashion hub, but also famous for its wealth of museums, galleries and cultural attractions. A city centre hotel like the Grand Hotel et de Milan provides the perfect base for this part of your Italian adventure, with the Teatro alla Scala and the Duomo di Milano just a stone’s throw away.
While the Duomo di Milano (built largely in the Gothic style) is well-known as one of the largest cathedrals in the world, less well-known is its rooftop terrace, with panoramic views of the city. Climb to the terrace during sunset to capture some truly magical photos, then head to the trendy Brera district (a 10-minute walk from the Duomo) to explore the beautiful Botanical Gardens, the perfect space in which to relax and escape the crowds.
Next stop: Tuscany — one of Italy’s most celebrated regions. Head first to Borgo San Lorenzo (a 3.5 hour drive from Milan) a beautiful town famous for its ceramics and stoneware. You’ll find rest and relaxation at the nearby Villa Campestri, a luxurious olive oil resort in the heart of the Tuscan countryside.
After a good night’s sleep, you’ll be ready to move further into stunning Tuscany, home to green vineyards, golden hill slopes and picturesque villages. The ancient city of Florence is your next stop (just one hour from Villa Campestri by car): prepare yourself for a feast of culture, art and gourmet cuisine as you enter what some call the “cradle of the Renaissance”. From the Basilica di Santa Maria Novella to the Palazzo Vecchio, the Museo di San Marco to the Galleria dell’Accademia (home to Michelangelo’s David) you simply can’t go wrong in this city — unless it’s to make your visit too short.
Once you’ve had your fill of delicious food, culture and shopping, it’s time to continue south. Just one hour from Florence is Villa Le Barone, a stunning Renaissance property nestled in the Chianti hills and a wonderful place to rest after your city adventure. Make sure to allow time to visit the small town of San Gimignano, an enchanting UNESCO World Heritage Site that holds a surprise around every corner, as well as a variety of indulgent gelatos, local olive oils and regional wines.
Next you’ll move on to the medieval red-bricked city of Siena; break your journey with a stay at Palazzo Tiglio, an elegant 17th century hotel in the hamlet of San Pancrazio. Here you’re just 45 minutes away from Siena by car — before you know it, you’ll be basking in the wonder of the magnificent Piazza del Campo, one of the most impressive squares in Italy. Climb the 400 steps of the Pubblico Palace tower for panoramic city views, before rewarding yourself with a traditional Sienese ribollita. Conclude your Tuscan adventure with a stay at Castello di Gargonza, a medieval village that has been transformed into a stunning castle hotel.
You’ll finish off your Italian adventure in Umbria, known as the green heart of Italy. One of the highlights of the region is the postcard pretty city of Perugia, less than 1.5 hours by car from Castello di Gargonza. Perugia is home to one of the oldest universities in Italy and is dotted with palaces and historic landmarks, like the 16th century Paolina Fortress. The nearby Lake Trasimeno is worth exploring for its abundant wildlife, as is the lovely hilltop town of Assisi, birthplace of St Francis and home to a wealth of attractions, cafés and taverns.
Less than one hour from Perugia is Relais Monastero San Biagio, an ancient monastery and guesthouse on the slopes of Mount Subasio and in easy reach of the spa resort town of Nocera Umbra. Here you can unwind as you take in the majesty of the surrounding hills and savour the final days of your journey through Lombardy, Tuscany and finally, Umbria.
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Historic Hotels of Europe
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