Explore bustling markets, inspirational island walks, and enjoy the bounty of autumn on a relaxing getaway to scenic Lake Orta. It’s October when I arrive at La Darbia, which lies tucked away in the midst of ancient forest between Lake Orta and Monte Rosa in northern Piedmont. The smell of chestnuts roasting fills the air, wafting […]
Revel in the ornate, flamboyant architecture of the Val di Noto as we pay a visit to the most enchanting Baroque towns in Sicily. Characterised by dramatic theatricality, intricate detailing and a sense of grandeur, the Sicilian Baroque is a distinctive architectural style that emerged at the end of the 17th century. Though clearly influenced […]
Stretching from Genoa to Ventimiglia, with charming towns and beautiful beaches, the Riviera di Ponente has so much to explore, whatever the season, says Jane Keightley. Though it is not as well known as the Riviera di Levante, where visitors flock to the Cinque Terre and Portofino, the Riviera di Ponente has a charm all […]
Explore beaches, castles, and thermal gardens as we spend 48 hours in Ischia, a perfect little gem in the glittering Gulf of Naples. Affectionately known as the Isola Verde, the ‘Green Island’, Ischia has so much to offer for a short getaway. The terrain is small enough to explore in just a few days and the […]
Explore Tropea town, the Coast of the Gods and the surrounding countryside with Kate Wickers. Sitting pretty on Italy’s Calabrian toe sits southern belle Tropea. This seaside resort town remains delightfully off the tourist map (compared to other coastal beauties such as Amalfi) and is still more popular with holidaying northern Italians than it is […]
From idyllic trails to picture-perfect towns, discover the most beautiful Venetian islands you won’t want to miss on your next Venice trip. 1. Burano: Best for postcard-perfect views A vibrant, picturesque island which, in the 16th century, began to flourish through the rise of its lace-making traditions, Burano is truly captivating for its colourful fishermen’s […]
Looking for things to do in Taranto? Val Nicastro introduces us to the hidden delights of Puglia’s second city… Despite being Puglia’s second-largest city, Taranto often slips under the radar of travellers, overshadowed by its industrial reputation. Yet it is a city rich in beauty and history. Dubbed the ‘City of the Two Seas’, it […]
Penny Wainwright steps back into Sardinia’s rich and fascinating past as she heads to the wilds of western Sardinia… With its beautiful sandy coves and turquoise sea, Sardinia is already well known as a beach destination. And yet, there is so much more to discover, not least around Oristano and the Sinis peninsula. Here, in […]
Heralded as one of the most romantic countries in the world, Italy has no end of date-worthy spots to choose from. So move over Venice, these are truly the most romantic destinations in Italy… 1. Florence It sometimes seems as though Florence’s magnificent architecture and piazze were designed to please enamoured couples. Not only does […]
Joe and Pat Gartman share the festive photos from their Christmas passeggiata in Locorotondo, Puglia. This village walk is perfect for catching some late-season sunshine and early Yuletide joy. Perhaps you’ve heard of Ostuni, the celebrated “ White City” of Puglia, with its gleaming hilltop presence. Locorotondo, though much smaller, can be considered the “White […]