Posts Tagged ‘Italy Hotels’

Fall in Love with Amalfi: The Perfect Couples Getaway

Monday, March 8th, 2010

My boyfriend and I had reached October 2009 and were in desperate need of a holiday. After some research and conversations with friends – we agreed upon Amalfi in Italy for our autumn adventure. Leaving a cold and grey London in the distance, we arrived in sunny, vibrant Naples and took the short hydrofoil journey from the mainland over to the beautiful island of Ischia.

mezzatorre-resort-spa

Mezzatorre Resort & Spa was our first port of call. The approach to the property was long and winding, through the woods, with the Mediterranean Sea to our right. We checked in and were shown straight to our room – a Classic Suite in the tower. We entered with a large old style key into an entrance hall with the bedroom straight opposite through sliding doors. To the left, the bathroom had a bath with views out over the pool and then the sea. To the right of the entrance was a very comfortable lounge/dressing room with a plush sofa, desk unit and TV. The bed was extremely comfortable and there were some fabulously oversized chairs around the table in a bay window. All of the interior was tastefully decorated in neutral colours and fabrics. The next morning – we received a call from the wonderful General Manager, Giovanni Sirabella, to invite us to their famous thermal spa. After an hour or so doing the circuit in the pool, including Kneipp therapy, I was led off for a delightful full body massage that literally sent me to sleep.

We were sad to leave Ischia, but we had a boat to catch that would take us to Capri – I had never been before and it is a place I had always dreamed of visiting. I wasn’t to be disappointed! We arrived at Marina Grande and picked up one of the famous Capri taxis – an elongated, open top Fiat.

villa-marina-capri

Not even three minutes later, we reached Villa Marina Capri Hotel & Spa – a very discreet property, hidden off the road behind slate walls. We were taken to the Kate Perry Suite – there are twenty one individually designed rooms, themed around writers and personalities who were famous in Capri in a bygone era. We walked into a hallway with a rich purple chaise longue, writing desk and flat screen TV; patio windows led out out on to a very large terrace with views over Marina Grande and the sea beyond. On the right, our bedroom was regal gold and purple, with a mini library and more doors onto the terrace with table, chairs and sun loungers. This hotel has a very homely feel, as it is compact, although the layout really works – they have a great outdoor winding footpath that leads from the lobby to the pool and terrace area and then to the extremely cute spa area and bar. And throughout the resort, there are great chill out areas – outdoors sofas with comfy cushions or the dreamy hammocks that were dotted about the gardens. The trendy General Manager, Gaetano, has certainly injected the cool factor into the hotel with funky music and décor throughout.

jk-place-capri

Approximately 30 seconds around the corner, lay the next stop on our journey – the amazing J.K. Place, Capri. I had heard good things about this hotel, so my expectations were high and I was not let down. What makes this property so special? It is literally a home from home (although I could only wish that my home was as stylish!) – all of the team here from Samuel the GM to the two Lorenzos – in the restaurant and the concierge – are so friendly, always calling us by our first names and one of the things I loved was that you never sign for anything – they remember you and add your gin and tonic, for example, to your final bill. Room 9 was downstairs and the balcony was set into the cliff side, meaning we had uninterrupted views over the marina and the bay of Capri. The room was stunning; nautically themed with navy and crème stripes and a huge bed that was so inviting. The pièce de résistance, though was the bathroom – not only were the views also great – the room had the largest bath tub I have ever seen! It took an hour to fill and when I added the beautiful J.K. bubble bath, I was in heaven – glass of Prosecco in hand, from the welcome bottle that we were gifted upon arrival, reading a book – I could have spent all night there. The food is also wonderful at J.K. Place, Capri – from breakfast on the terrace to lunch by the pool and romantic dinners in the dining room – if you are a foodie – this place is for you. The sense of generosity was everywhere here from complimentary wi-fi to soft drinks in the mini bar.

capri-palace-hotel-spa

After leaving J.K. Place, we took the long and breathtaking road, high around the mountain from Capri to AnaCapri to stay at Capri Palace Hotel & Spa; one of the most established hotels on the island. This place is super cool inside with a fabulous bar, housing intriguing art – definitely not to be missed if you are in the area. L’Olivo is their 2 Michelin starred restaurant which has rave reviews, but we fancied being beach side and so took advantage of the complimentary shuttle bus down to their new beach club; Il Riccio. This was heaven, next to the sea, drinking great wine and eating fresh fish and seafood. Above the restaurant is an über cool bathing deck – all white with double day beds, it is the perfect way to spend the afternoon in the sunshine. Whilst you are down here, I would definitely recommend a visit to the famous Grotto Azzura. These are the spectacular blue caves in the cliff side, where you take a little boat, rowed by a local guy down into the grotto – once inside this magical lair, you are serenaded by the rowers, whilst marveling at the impossibly blue water.

hotel-punta-tragara

Our final home in Capri would be Punta Tragara; we were met in the main square of Capri by a member of their team who guided us past all of the designer boutiques off the Piazza Grande and down the walkways that led to the hotel. The first thing that hits you when you arrive is The Faraglioni, an amazing block of three rocks, rising up out of the sea and are the main landmark of Capri. These are on the doorstep of Punta Tragara – not a bad start. We were then shown to the Penthouse Suite and the views from here were even better than from down below – it was jaw dropping! And from the huge terrace, we just lay mesmerized by possibly one of the most beautiful views that I have seen. The great thing about this hotel is the location; not only is it overlooking the famous landmark of Capri but also it is walking distance to world class designer shops that Capri has become so renowned for.

When the time arrived to leave Capri, I was depressed to say the least – although we had not seen it in the height of the season, I couldn’t help but feel we had been lucky to be able to explore the island without navigating crowds and jostling for position in some of the loveliest restaurants. The last place we were visiting was Ravello; on the Amalfi Coast – just another short ferry trip from Capri. We stopped off along the way in picturesque Positano to offload some passengers and then continued on our way, only to be entertained by a family of dolphins!

palazzo-sasso

Last stop Palazzo Sasso; a beautiful little gem, hidden down the winding streets of Ravello. Our room had phenomenal views over the bay of Ravello and although it rained during our time here, the relaxing bar area made up for this and we idled away the afternoon reading and sampling cocktails. Upon recommendation, we sampled their Michelin starred restaurant Rosselinni’s – the food was to die for and the sommelier was so knowledgeable it was a delight to learn from him.

When we woke up on the final morning, I had a heavy heart as we packed up to leave and take the flight back to normality from the paradise that we had found.

It’s official – I had fallen in love with Amalfi.


Have a Valentine Fairytale in the Amalfi Coast

Thursday, January 28th, 2010

casa-angelina-hotel-coastCome spend this Valentine’s day perched above the tranquility of the Mediterranean sea along Italy’s Southern coast at Casa Angelina Hotel. Surrounded by the enchanting beauty the Amalfi Coast, this is one of Europe’s most extraordinary coast lines, perfect for a romantic holiday.

casa-angelina-hotel-bed

Casa Angelina’s aesthetic is calm and classic, balancing intelligent and articulate service with sleek clean-lined accommodation, paired with playful pieces of modern art. Exquisite and chic this five star luxury hotel will be more than you could ask for in one of the most beautiful areas on earth.

And if you want to have your own Valentine fairytale, Casa Angelina has a very special Valentine’s package for you and your loved one to indulge in pure romance. This package includes:

-A one night accommodation in a Double Room which offers panoramic vistas of the gulf of Salerno along with views of the charming village of Positano and the romantic Capri Island.

casa-angelina-hotel-A Valentine’s surprise for you and your loved one in your room upon your arrival.

-A delicious buffet breakfast for two

-A special four-course candlelit dinner for two at their “Un Piano Nel Cielo” restaurant along with Champaign and wines from their well-appointed wine cellar.  The meal will feature some of the most delectable Mediterranean cuisine imaginable with views of the coast line.

casa-angelina-hotel-italy-An in-room romantic bath with floral petals, essences and perfumed oils, perfect for relaxing as the sun goes down.

When celebrating your love, nothing says romance like the Casa Angelina Hotel.

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Get 10% off Your Summer Stay in the Amalfi Coast

Tuesday, December 29th, 2009
Casa Angelina Hotel in Italy

There is no better time to visit Italy’s beautiful Amalfi Coast than during the summer months, and if you’re the type of person who likes to book their vacation early, you’re in luck for getting a deal this year with one of the nicest resorts on the Amalfi Coast.

Hotel Casa Angelina, a 41-room boutique hotel, is offering 10% off stays between April and October 2010. Stays must be for a minimum of three nights, and must be booked before March 31, 2010.

The Amalfi Coast is one of Europe’s most beautiful coasts, and Hotel Casa Angelina is perched right on a cliff overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

Casa Angelina on the Amalfi CoastThis gorgeous hotel in Italy is perfect for anyone who enjoys the sea and a tranquil environment.

Rooms here are elegant and simple. Aside from the view, guests can expect to eat well and truly relax here. The restaurant, Un Piano nel Cielo is perfect if you want to try traditional Mediterranean cuisine with a local twist. We love the wine selection, and of course, the view.

After a great meal, be sure to head to the Cigar Room to enjoy a great selection of Cigars, rum and grappa.


Villa Mangiacane: The Ultimate Countryside Escape

Thursday, December 3rd, 2009

villa-mangiacane

If you are looking for an unforgettable holiday full of history, art, and an idyllic countryside setting, look no further then the Villa Mangiacane nestled in the heart of the winemaking region of Chianti Classico.

villa-mangiacane-suite

Originally built by the Machiavelli family in the 15th century and bearing the unmistakable hand of the legendary Renaissance master, Michelangelo, the classic beauty of this majestic villa will leave every guest full of unforgettable memories.

Set on a cypress shaded hill just south of Florence, this location is perfect for discovering the most fascinating attractions, museums and picturesque settings in the surrounding area.

The Villa Mangiacane offers 26 individually designed rooms and suites all with stunning views overlooking the country side, gardens or vineyard. Each space is full of original artwork and furniture collected from around the globe emulating the comforts of a private home.

villa-mangiacane-frescoes

As you wander the property you’ll soon discover the rich art and history that it holds from the beautifully resorted pastel-colored frescoes that ornament the Main Villa, the 220 original Shona sculptures throughout the property and works by Petter Hegre on display are all but a few of the Villa Mangiacane’s special touches waiting to be discovered.

villa-mangiacane-dining

Indulge your senses during your stay and savor the fabulous cuisine created by Villa Mangiacane’s private Chef Massimo Bocus. The food capitalizes on traditional Tuscan ingredients accompanied by their very own Oli d’Olivoil produced from handpicked olives from their olive grove on the property.  And for the chef in all of us, cooking classes with Chef Bocus are also available teaching you how to approach food and fully experience the heart and soul of Tuscany.

villa-mangiacane-mazzei

A visit to Italy is never complete without a great glass of wine and being that Villa Mangiacane Estate spans 306 hectares, an exceptional wine is easy to come by. Respecting the tradition of Tuscan winemaking, Villa Mangiacane also embraces modern techniques and tastes producing mainly Chianti classic DOCG wines.

villa-mangiacane-spa

After a long day of exploring the villa and surrounding area, take a dip in one of Villa Mangiacane’s three pools or relax with a treatment at their Nadushka Spa. Offering the ultimate experience in tranquility and pampering for the mind, body and spirit, Nadushka Spa has a large menu of treatments using only the finest natural, preservative-free products leaving you always feeling revitalized and blissful.

mangiacane-italy

And when you book your stay here exclusively though Kiwi Collection, the Villa Mangiacane will make your visit even more memorable with a bottle of Prosecco and fresh fruit upon arrival and of course a complementary upgrade when available.

mangiacane


I Casali di Monticchio: A Romantically Rural Italian Experience

Friday, October 2nd, 2009

Immerse yourself in Italy’s romantic hills and landscape with a stay at I Casali di Monticchio, located in some of the nicest countryside around.

Ever wanted to live la dolce vita in supreme luxury and absolute style?

Imagine cruising along the panoramic roads of Umbria, Italy, behind the wheel of a true Italian beauty—a vintage Alfa Romeo perhaps.

While the wind softly flows through your hair, you take in the lush green chestnut groves and are awed by the rolling hills speckled with timeless castles. True perfection.

For people who want to be immersed in the romantic Italian hills, I Casali di Monticchio is the right place for you. With a City Escapes option, this chic rural delight can turn the aforementioned dream into reality; just one of the many reasons I Casali di Monticchio simply had to be included in the Kiwi Collection.

Consisting of four elegantly refurbished, traditional farmhouses, this luxury hotel in Italy offers an authentic taste of the Umbrian life.  Lodgings range from supreme and uniquely designed rooms to suites with kitchens as well as an independent farmhouse for those who rather more exclusivity: true rural living set in utmost luxury. I Casali di Monticchio

A part from its romantic location, I Casali di Montocchio also has an amazing cuisine where each dish is seasonally-oriented and spiced with herbs hand-picked from the hotel’s organic garden.

Guest’s who wish to rejuvenate their body and soul, and perhaps shed a couple of extra pounds, are welcome to take advantage of the real Medical Spa that offers personalized programs for detox, regeneration, or sliming treatments which are all supervised by medical staff.

With so many things to do, see, and experience in a country were laughter rings and Bacchus smiles, a stay at I Casali di Monticchio is guaranteed to make for a wonderful holiday.


Stay in Milan for the Moda Donna Spring/Summer 2010 Fashion Week!

Friday, August 21st, 2009

Fashion week in Milan is just around the corner! Organized by the National Chamber of Italian Fashion, you will see the best in Italian fashions for Spring/Summer 2010 from both young and established designers at one of the industry’s top events.

The Milan Moda Donna Spring/Summer Fashion Week takes place from September 20 to September 26.

If you’re planning on attending this fantastic event, be sure to stay in one of Milan’s best hotels! Our favorite hotel in the area is The Virtus Milan.

This large design hotel is located in the city’s Bovis district and features an excellent Asian-inspired design.  It’s about a 10 minute drive from the Milano Fashion Center where many of the events of the Moda Donna Fashion Week will be being held.

the-chedi-milan_5192_09If you’re a demanding diva, look no farther. Service and hospitality are this hotel’s specialty. We are also big fans of this hotel’s understated charm. With 78 suites, a penthouse suite and 124 guestrooms, you will find a room that’s the right fit for your needs during your stay.

For something unique to eat, head to the hotel’s restaurant. Serving world class Asian cuisine, you will really enjoy the setting (overlooking the gardens at the hotel).

The Virtus Milan is an excellent modern option for accommodation during Milan’s fashion week this fall, so be sure to check it out.

Other Excellent Hotels in Milan:

The Gray
Town House Galleria
Hotel Straf


Stay Three Nights for the Price of Two at La Posta Vecchia

Friday, August 14th, 2009

Come stay at the award-winning independent five-star luxury Italian hotel, La Posta Vecchia. As the summer slowly comes to a close, La Posta Vecchia has many exciting offers to make your stay even more extraordinary. As one of Europe’s top destinations for discerning travelers (and only forty minutes from Rome) guests are sure to have an unforgettable experience.

Originally built around 1640, La Posta Vecchia is an intimate hotel preserving the historic atmosphere of ancient Rome. Set in splendid parkland along the beautiful Tyrrhenian Sea, guests are treated with suites decorated with museum-class art and antiques. Most rooms have beautiful sea views or views of the hotel’s lovingly-maintained gardens.

As many of us know summer isn’t over yet and if you haven’t taken your chance to getaway, La Posta Vecchia’s Summer Getaway Offer may be just what you need to complete your season. From now until the end of August, book a two night stay in any room and your third night is on La Posta Vecchia!

This offer includes buffet breakfast for two as well as a 20% discount at their beauty center. Traditional Ayurvedic massages are available both indoors and outdoors as well as body treatments, facials, manicures and pedicures using entirely natural, chemical free products. Ah, luxury never felt so good!

la-posta-vecchia-italyIf your idea of a luxury Italian hotel includes glamour, La Posta Vecchia has their Diamonds & Champagne offer that is just for you. Running till September 12, 2009 celebrate 125 years of Italian jewels. This offer includes a two night stay, two tickets to the Maison Bulgari exhibition in Rome as well as a four course dinner created by their Chef accompanied by a special selection of Champagne suggested by their Sommelier. Divine!

Whenever you decide to visit La Posta Vecchia be sure to indulge in their elegant dining room, The Cesar, featuring refined regional cuisine using fresh organic fruits and vegetables from their onsite garden.

Rich in history, La Posta Vecchia’s favored location has been attracting distinguished visitors since Ancient Roman times. Complete with every modern comfort and amenity, this 17th century jewel is one that shouldn’t be overlooked.


Treat Yourself with a Tuscan Spa at Fonteverde Natural Spa Resort

Wednesday, August 12th, 2009

Immerse yourself in the beautiful Tuscan countryside near the majestic mount Amiata. Any time is the perfect time to let yourself go and relax, and from now until November 15th, 2009, the luxury hotel in Siena, Fonteverde Natural Spa Resort will help you do just that with their Gourmet and Spa package.

Treat your body with gifts discovered by the ancient Etruscans with a bath in warm, restorative pools and feel the massage of water jets that generate both tone and energy. This is what it is like at Fonteverde Natural Resort and spa. Offering wonderful vies of the surrounding valley, with its charming medieval villages, vineyards and olive groves.

The exclusive resort was built in the 17th century by the Grand Duke Ferdinando I de’ Medici amid precious hot springs whose therapeutic properties were known since ancient times. The atmosphere is reminiscent of a Tuscan villa in former times and suites are richly decorates with terraces overlooking the majestic fields and verdant hills.

The resort is an ideal starting point to explore nearby wineries of Brunello di Montalcino and for shopping at famous Italian stylist outlets. There are also many outdoor activities to take part in such as horseback riding, walking tours or golf at one of the nearby courses.

As a special gift, from now until November 15th (Sunday to Thursday) guests can take advantage of Hotel Fonteverde’s Gourmet and Spa Package. When you book your two night stay in a double deluxe room, you will enjoy a complementary welcome drink at their ‘Il Falconiere’ café, which features a gorgeous panoramic valley view. You will also receive daily access to their therapeutic thermal pools, fitness centers and enjoy an energizing morning hike.

fonteverde-terme-hotel-tuscanyTo help combat stress and re-balance your energy, the package also gives you a chance to indulge by floating in the salt-laden Thalaquam and also a Salidarium which is an exclusive bed of sea salt crystals that will help eliminate toxins and absorb excess liquids.

And if you think that was enough the Gourmet and Spa Package doesn’t end there. You will also receive dinner for two at the restaurant Ferdinando I. The restaurant specializes in traditional Tuscan cuisine with regional ingredients like olive oil, Porcini mushrooms, Pienza cheese, Brunello wine and Chianina meat.

Let Fonteverde Natural Spa and Resort pamper you and allow you to fully experience a getaway like no other.


Cristallo Hotel and Spa Reopens and Launches New Spa Treatment for Men

Monday, July 20th, 2009

Situated in Valle D’Ampezzo in the Dolomites mountain range in Italy, Cortina, famous for its alpine scenery and après-ski scene, is home to some of the most prestigious names in fashion and, of course, world-class accommodation.

If you haven’t put this place on the agenda as you tour around Europe for leisure or business, the re-opening of Cristallo Hotel & Spa might be an added incentive.

Set on a quiet, panoramic hill, Cristallo Hotel & Spa is an ideal place for those of you who wish to experience Italy at its most luxurious. Together with its Transvital Swiss Beauty Center, the La Veranda restaurant and exquisite cocktails, this luxury hotel in Italy has thought of everything to ensure a unique and perfect stay.

Spa at Cristallo Hotel and SpaAfter a complete restoration of the historical buildings, The Cristallo Hotel & Spa takes on a refreshed hue and has become the first choice for international and Italian guests wanting to relax in the intimate atmosphere in Cortina D-ampezzo.

In addition to the luxury hotels own reinvention, Cristallo Hotel & Spa is proud to announce a new, anti-ageing spa treatment exclusively for men.

The De-Ageing Experience for Men face was created to fight against and correct facial and eye imperfections.  Why not enjoy such pure sumptuousness whilst sipping on the Cocktail Cristallo, crafted by Cristallo’s award-winning bar lady?


Check Out Donna Summer and Craig David at Hotel Cala di Volpe this Summer

Friday, July 10th, 2009

donna-summer-and-craig-davidIf you’re a fan of either Donna Summer or Craig David, you’re in luck this summer. Donna Summer is performing live on July 25, and Craig David is performing live on August 13 at Cala di Volpe in Sardinia!

Costa Smerelda on Sardinia is home to exquisite white sand beaches, lush rolling hills and the hub of luxury hotels within the Starwood Luxury Collection. No wonder celebrities flock to this region to explore the aquamarine waters and congregate at grand-scale Gala celebrations.

It’s no surprise then that the queen of disco, Donna Summer, will woo her audience with an array of R&B, rock and gospel on July 25th, 2009 in this stunning region at Hotel Cala di Volpe – one of the best hotels in Sardinia.

Book your stay and you can enjoy the natural views of the bay, while soaking up the sounds of Donna Summer’s hits, such as “Bad Girls” and “Love to Love You Baby,” and partying in-style alongside a glamorous elite crowd.

On August 13th, 2009, Britain’s very own Craig David will perform at the same location and take Costa Smeralda by storm with his sultry R&B and pop chart-topping singles.

“This year we selected a soundtrack that would exude dynamic energy and cool,” explains Franco Mulas, Area Manager for Starwood Costa Smeralda. “Costa Smeralada has long been associated with glamour, sea, sun, and untouched nature, but also for lighthearted fun. Donna Summer and Craig David compliment this beautiful setting adding to the enchanted atmosphere and experience of our valued guests.”

Located alongside Cala di Volpe Bay, Hotel Cala di Volpe embodies the coastline’s perfect fusion of discreet elegance and glamour. Breathtaking vistas of Sardinia’s coast, mountains, and clear seas blend with a display of colored tiles and traditional architecture to showcase this country’s enchanting allure.

Established by prince Karim Aga Khan IV, this luxury hotel in Sardinia has played host to many extravagant events, including Princess Maragret’s birthday, and was featured in the 1977 James Bond action flick “The Spy who loved me.”

If you don’t want to miss either one, or both, of these special performances, book your stay at Hotel Casa di Volpe and indulge in supreme luxury and style this July and August!


Forbes Traveler Ranks Italy’s Villa d’Este ‘World’s Best Hotel’

Monday, June 29th, 2009

Found in scenic Lake Como, Villa d’Este just learned that Forbes Traveler has ranked it as the world’s best hotel! Perfect for a romantic getaway, a golf vacation, foodies and people who just love staying in historical buildings, this hotel in Italy truly earns its reputation.

Italy's Best Hotel: Villa d'Este

People search long and hard for the world’s best hotels to stay at. Thankfully, the editors of Forbes Traveler have made our jobs a whole lot easier by conducting a poll to settle it once and for all!

The Forbes Traveler team asked their top travel connoisseurs (including celebrities, travel industry executives, journalists and business leaders) to rate nearly 800 of the best hotels in the world and, of course, to dub the cream of the crop the world’s best hotel.

Each of these affluent travellers had stayed in at least 20 five-star hotels during the past year.

Using criterion such as room quality, service, decor and cuisine, we’re so proud to learn that Italy’s Villa d’Este stood out among the crowd, coming in at the top of the list.

Villa d'Este in Lake Como, ItalyThe Grand Hotel Villa d’Este is located on the western shore of Italy’s Lake Como. Surrounded by 25 acres of gardens, the hotel has 152 rooms housed in two equally beautiful buildings, the Cardinal Building (1568) and the Queen’s Pavillion (1861).

In addition, two private villas are available for short-term tenancies, Villa Malakoff (3200sf) and Villa Cima (7000sf).

We know guests will love this hotel’s gorgeous setting, delicious cuisine (prepared by the King of Risotto himself, Executive Chef Luciano Parolari) and the wide array of outdoor facilities either on the grounds or nearby. Think about having six 18-hole golf courses at your fingertips!

Now that’s a hotel.


Enchanted at Hotel Lungarno in Florence, Italy

Sunday, January 11th, 2009

Susan Field is the Founder and Managing Director of Impact Asia, an independent communications and events agency in Hong Kong.  Over the years, she has provided strategic counsel to many prestigious brands especially in the travel, lodging, hospitality and luxury goods sectors.

The enchanting city of Florence never loses its magic, and on a recent visit, I was once again captivated by its special beauty and history.

Hotel Lungarno Italy Luxury Hotels

I was lucky enough to stay at the wonderful Ferragamo-owned Hotel Lungarno, one of a small selection of luxury hotels that belongs to the famous family.

The location of Lungarno Suites and its sister hotels, Hotel Art and the uber-chic Continental, is perfect, being just a few steps from the Ponte Vecchio and the Uffizi – and within walking distance of the major sights.  The 44 luxurious suites (comprising either studios, one or two-bedrooms) offer guests the privacy of an independent apartment together with hotel services and exclusive room service supplied by The Fusion Bar Shozan-Gallery.

As with all Lungarno hotels, the interiors are of a very high standard. I especially loved the dramatic powder blue velvet curtains which frame the view over the Arno and the stunning black and white contemporary photographs of some of the city’s most historic sculptures. (Many items can be bought at the elegant Ferragamo-owned shop, which is just downstairs).
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Journey: Glamour and History of Northern Italy (14 nights)

Monday, November 17th, 2008


Kiwi Collection CEO Erik Haugen offers journey suggestions to travellers based upon his own personal experiences travelling around the globe. The journey below is meant to provide and idea of what is possible based on our experience and does not represent an endorsement of the particular properties chosen. All the properties in the Kiwi Collection have been chosen based on their ability to provide an outstanding guest experience and are recommended by Kiwi Collection.

Fly to Rome, hire car

Stay for 2 nights at the Posta Vecchia just outside of Rome

Stay for 2 nights in Rome at the Portrait Suites, situated by the beautiful Spanish Steps and close to great shopping and the historic splendour of the coliseum and Roman Forum

Stay for 2 nights at the Hotel Brufani Palace, in the historic Tuscan town of Perugia:

Stay for 2 nights in romantic Florence, staying at the Hotel Savoy, close to the Uffizi Gallery and Ponte Vecchio:

Stay for 2 nights in Grossetto a town in Tuscany and only 12 miles from the sea at the Terme di Saturnia Resort and Spa

Stay for 2 nights at the Hotel Splendido in Portofino, stunningly perched on a cliff overlooking the sea:

Stay for 2 nights in Milan at the Hotel Principe di Savoia, a landmark building overlooking the central Piazza and next to the famous shops of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele:

Fly out of Milan


Journey: Glamour and History of Northern Italy (14 nights)

Friday, September 26th, 2008


Kiwi Collection CEO Erik Haugen offers journey suggestions to travellers based upon his own personal experiences travelling around the globe.

Fly to Rome, hire car

Stay 3 nights in Rome at the Portrait Suites, situated by the beautiful Spanish Steps and close to great shopping and the historic splendour of the coliseum and Roman Forum

Stay 2 nights at the Hotel Brufani Palace, in the historic Tuscan town of Perugia

Stay 3 nights in romantic Florence, staying at the Hotel Savoy, close to the Uffizi Gallery and Ponte Vecchio

Stay 4 nights at the Hotel Splendido in Portofino, stunningly perched on a cliff overlooking the sea

Stay 2 nights in Milan at the Hotel Principe di Savoia, a landmark building overlooking the central Piazza and next to the famous shops of the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele