Like the city itself, Siena’s top hotel is steeped in history. Sarah Lane enjoys a stay in sumptuous surroundings Siena is indisputably one of Italy’s most alluring cities. With its fabulous art and architecture, strong traditions, delicious food and seductive air, it’s an unforgettable place. Delightful medieval streets dotted with shops and trattorie twist around […]
Think of it as Italian firewater? An end-of-meal tipple to be feared as much as revered? Paul Pettengale explains why quality grappa should be sipped and savoured… You know the drill. You’ve enjoyed your welcoming glass of prosecco. You’ve sampled a glass of white, maybe a glass of red with your six-plus course meal at […]
High in the hills overlooking Varese is one of the most remarkable hidden treasures you could wish to behold – the rarely seen frescoes of the Sacro Monte de Varese As far as hidden secrets go, the Sacro Monte di Varese appears like the central plot focus in a sequel to The Da Vinci Code. Situated […]
The ancient hilltown of Ostuni, in Puglia, is a must-see for anyone visiting the high heel of Italy’s boot. Fleur Kinson leads you through the dazzling white maze of its streets You’ll probably have your first sight of it while driving along Puglia’s coastal motorway – a glorified dual carriageway, quaintly lined down its central […]
Francis Ford Coppola is one of the biggest names in movie-making history. Famed for his Godfather trilogy, which was based largely in Sicily as well as America, his family harks from Basilicata. In this issue of Italia! James Miller visits his palazzo in the region and gets to speak with the man himself… Throughout history […]
Fashion is the focus in this weekly round-up… Italian fashion is luxurious, flamboyant and glamourous. The likes of Valentino, Missoni and Gucci have be extremely influential in the world of style and craftsmanship. This week our fans have spotted this seamless style during their travels… 1. Photo by Elizabeth Hak My mum and I travelled to Tuscany in the […]
Seeking out peace and tranquillity, Catherine Sidwell experiences a thermal wellness tour in southern Tuscany… 1. Fonteverde Natural Spa Resort Location: Fonteverde Localita Terme, 1 53040 San Casciano dei Bagni Siena Tuscany www.fonteverdespa.com +39 0578 57241 info@fonteverdespa.com Fonteverde’s philosophy combines physical health, relaxation and beauty. A wide range of spa, massage, yoga, beauty, thermal mud, inhalation and […]
In the second part of our six-part series, Jon Palmer continues on the trail of the Grand Tourists by chasing after a few sedan chairs around 18th-century Turin, Genoa and Milan. Few considered Turin an important destination on their Grand Tour. It just happened to be the first city you came to. Back then, anyone […]
Famous for making some of the world’s best cars, Modena is also at the heart of Italy’s Food Valley and can boast one of the nation’s most beautiful cathedrals. Sarah Lane explores… The city of Modena has numerous claims to fame. It’s where the legendary Ferrari racing cars are made, it was the hometown of […]
Italy’s coastline offers an abundance of coastal escapes and it’s no secret that they are all beautiful. We’ve tried to help you out with a few of our favourites… San Vito Lo Capo Sicily San Vito Lo Capo in Sicily is often described as the best beach along Italy’s coastline with its zealous atmosphere, soft […]