Mese: Luglio 2019

To experience an unforgettable Sicily luxury tour, you need the most exclusive and authentic activities this gorgeous island has to offer. With thousands of years of history, striking landscapes, active volcanoes and world renowned cuisine, there is certainly no shortage of opportunities. We have selected for you only the best things to do in Sicily.

A luxury tour of Baroque Sicily

Discover the magnificent Sicilian Baroque during a luxury tour of the most extraordinary architectures and cities. This word famous style is unique to this beautiful Italian island and can be admired in splendid churches, lavish palaces and sumptuous villas.

Start your tour from Ragusa, where your personal guide will drive you across the wonderful countryside to the small village of Scicli. This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts some of the most iconic baroque buildings, including the Church of St. Matthew, with its distinctive facade.

The next day, after a delicious breakfast Sicilian style, continue your baroque tour in Modica. Spend an afternoon walking through picturesque lanes and narrow streets, admiring old ceramic workshops and historic monuments such as the Church of St. George. But no Sicily luxury tour would be complete without a bit of indulgence. Stop by the Antica Dolceria Bonajuto to taste the famous chocolate of Modica.

Finally, enjoy a tour of Noto, the capital of Sicilian Baroque. Completely destroyed by an earthquake in 1693 and subsequently rebuilt, the town is known for its masterpieces of baroque architecture.

Be chef for one day at a Michelin restaurant

Get ready to experience the real meaning of Italy luxury travel with a cooking class at 2* Michelin starred restaurant. Quite simply the finest culinary experience that you can have in Sicily. Join Michelin starred chef Vincenzo Candiano at the prestigious Locanda Don Serafino in Ragusa Ibla for the ultimate gourmet cooking class.

In one of Sicily’s best restaurants, your cooking skills will be put to test as you learn the secrets of traditional Sicilian dishes revisited in the most creative and refined ways. Chef Candiano will guide you during the entire cooking lesson, illustrating his signature techniques and recipes. Mixing local products and gourmet cuisine as well as original Sicilian recipes and new concepts of food, his renowned kitchen will become your stage for an unforgettable day.

Experience a stunning Sicily luxury villa

Get comfortable with this island’s exclusive lifestyle in one of Sicily luxury villas for rent. Set in some of the most inspiring landscapes in Italy, these stunning homes feature all kinds of desirable amenities and services. Including swimming pool, private parking and easy access to the beach.

With villas that range from 2 to 14 bedrooms, you can choose between lovely and intimate homes and majestic mansions. One thing is for sure, all properties are selected to guarantee the highest standards and greatest experience.

Relax in an Italian garden full of Mediterranean fragrances and take in the view of the Sicilian coast from a panoramic terrace. Or just cool down in your private swimming pool before heading up to your next adventure.

Fly over a volcano by helicopter

Admire the beauty and power of Europe’s highest and most active volcano from above on an exclusive Mount Etna helicopter tour. After being picked up at your hotel by private jeep, you will be driven to the designated take-off area to fly over the Piano Provenzana and the whole district of Etna North. Once above the volcano, you will reach an altitude of almost 4000 meters to fully enjoy the most spectacular view of the fiery craters and Valle del Bove.

After the scenic helicopter tour, join a naturalistic guide for a special hike across breathtaking volcanic landscapes and stunning sea views. You will walk through the Linguaglossa pine forest, cross a corridor of lava flow and visit the summit craters by cable-car. Discovering Mount Etna is undoubtedly one of the greatest adventures in all Sicily luxury tours.

Ride a Vespa Dolce Vita style

You can’t design a luxury tour to Italy without a pinch of romance and folklore. And that’s exactly what you will get on a Vespa tour in Taormina! Famous for its charming streets and stunning panoramas, this glamourous resort town has inspired many artists.

Feel like a movie star as you travel on a vintage Vespa accompanied by a private driver. The wind blowing through your hair, the sun shining on the coast and the characteristic back roads of the historical center unwinding under your feet. This is a truly unique and stylish way to see Taormina and admire Sicily’s beauty.

And what better way to end such a memorable day than spending the night in one of the best luxury hotels in Sicily? Built in 1830 and located on a private beach, Belmond Villa Sant’Andrea offers timeless indulgence and romantic sophistication. Featuring an infinity pool, panoramic rooms and a fitness center, it’s the ideal gateway to dive into Taormina slow-paced and exclusive atmosphere.

Set sail to the Aeolian Islands

From Milazzo, embark on a morning boat tour to Salina, the lushest of the Aeolian Islands. After the scenic ride over the crystal Mediterranean waters, you will reach this beautiful island full of excellent opportunities for walking and exploring.

If you are feeling energetic, climb Monte Fossa delle Felci and reach the Aeolians’ highest point. With dramatic volcanic cliffs plunging into the sea and sleepy villages amidst verdant mountains, you will treat yourself with some breathtaking landscapes and jaw-dropping views. Need some rest? Make your way to the village of Santa Marina and sip a traditional aperitivo in one of the local cocktail bars.

Later in the days, make your way to the fascinating beach of Pollara, made famous by the Oscar winner movie “Il Postino”. This beach offers a privileged spot to admire one of the most spectacular sunsets in the world.

Begin you tailored Sicily luxury tour

Seat back and relax, while we design your Sicily luxury tour. We know every corner and hidden beauty of this magical island, and we’ll help you experiencing the most unique and exclusive activities that it offers.

Want to know more? Please contact us now.

The moment I set foot in our private luxury villa in Tuscany, I realized we had arrived in paradise. And it was all just for us!

Visiting Tuscany had always been a dream of mine. I got goose bumps every time I came across a picture of its rolling hills, ancient villages and picturesque stone houses. I felt that if poetry had a face, that would have been it. This past June, my family and I finally had a chance to spend a week there and, yes, sometimes reality is better than fantasy.

From our arrival, the Tuscan countryside seduced us with its striking beauty, welcoming atmosphere and timeless charm. Imagine cypress-tree lined roads and sinuous hills as far as the eye can see, medieval hamlets and lovely farmhouses scattered all around the breathtaking landscape. Now, top that with the most gorgeous villa you’ve ever seen.

Our luxury villa in Tuscany

While designing our trip, we were presented with different options of Tuscany villas for rent. They all looked stunning, but one in particular spoke to us. Pinkish stone walls, a big manicured garden with lots of aromatic plants and, of course, spectacular vistas. It looked exactly like I had pictured our Tuscan house.

As soon as our driver dropped us off, I knew we had made the right choice. Located in the extensive and exquisitely renovated estate of Castiglion del Bosco, the 7,000 square feet villa is perched on a ridge overlooking the entire property. It looks like it jumped right out of the cover of a luxury travel magazine featuring the top luxury villas in Tuscany.

Inside this luxury villa in Tuscany, you’re welcomed by the warmth of the stonework, wooden beams and traditional furnishings. Every single detail is curated to set the mood, from the elegant interiors to the Italian terracotta tiles. A typical Tuscany fireplace adds to the charm, although we never had the courage to use it. You know, been June and all.

It would be an understatement to say the house is spacious. Developed on two floors, it features living room, dining room, classic kitchen, home theater room, and five comfortable bedrooms, each one with its own bathroom. Mine even had a walk-in closet and a panoramic terrace.

But the real magic happens outside. Overlooking the golf course and the surrounding hills, the garden is one of the most incredible places I’ve ever been. With crops of aromatic herbs at every turn and rose bushes climbing skyward, it’s the ideal setting for diving into the sounds and smells of the Italian summer. The villa even has a private tennis court, where we clumsily attempted to play when it wasn’t too hot.

The infinity pool is where we spent most of our time. I know it’s a classic in many luxury villas in Tuscany, but this doesn’t make it any less expectational. Sunbathing, swimming (or in my case floating) or just chilling out in total relaxation. The air filled with the mesmerizing song of the cicadas and the scent of lavender and rosemary.

Later in the evening, we all regrouped in the patio to wait for sundown. There are a few emotions as powerful as a Tuscany sunset, with its warm shades of orange and pink. Especially if accompanied by a good glass of local wine.

Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco: the perfect Italian gateway

As mentioned before, the villa is part of Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco, a renovated 800-year-old Italian estate located in Montalcino. Renowned for its beauty and premium location, it hosts some of the best luxury villas in Tuscany. Eleven of them, to be exact, each designed with classical Tuscan style and with plenty of space and privacy.

Located a few minutes from our luxury villa in Tuscany and surrounded by Sangiovese vineyards and dominated by the ruins of the medieval castle, the ancient Borgo is the historic heart of the property. Today, the village has been restored and features a relaxing spa, an organic kitchen garden, a fitness center and a cooking school, where you can challenge your fellow travelers to an Italian cooking competition.

Here you will also find two amazing restaurants. At Ristorante Campo del Drago, chef Matteo surprised us with upscale classical Italian dishes. While at Osteria La Canonica restaurant we enjoyed a much more homey and authentic feeling.

Finally, children can have fun at the Kids Club. This lets them access to hours and hours of entertainment and seasonal activities. Including Italian cake making and tours to the estate’s farm to feed horses, rabbits and chickens.

Activities around our luxury Tuscany villa

As great as it is to relax and enjoy yourself at Castiglion del Bosco’s Tuscany villas for rent, this area has much more to offer. The estate is located in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Val d’Orcia, a land of rare beauty as well as a strategic point from which you can easily reach many places of interest.

We loved walking around the estate, through vineyards, olive groves and fields. And to think that just a few days earlier I was admiring these landscapes on a display! Here, nature, history and tradition intertwine creating a timeless atmosphere. Almost dreamlike.

Not far, we visited some of the surrounding medieval villages and castles. From the stunning Rocca d’Orcia with its fourteenth-century tower, to the typical Italian gardens of San Quirico D’orcia, we had plenty of occasions to immerse ourselves in the historical and artistic heritage of this magical destination.

Experience your own luxury Tuscan House

Have you been dreaming of an exclusive trip to Italy? We can make it become a reality. Contact us, we’ll design the perfect customized luxury Italian tour, with some of the best luxury villas in Tuscany to choose from.

Are you looking for luxury honeymoon destinations in Italy?

Of course you are. As newlyweds, you deserve a dream vacation for the most important trip of your life.

Italy is unquestionably one of the most romantic places in the world. It boasts breathtaking landscapes, picturesque villages, amazing food and wine, rich art and history, and stunning luxury hotels and villas.

In this article, we have listed some of the most exclusive experiences and honeymoon destinations in Italy.

7 Italy honeymoon ideas for an unforgettable experience

Venice

You simply cannot create a list of Italy honeymoon destinations without mentioning this iconic northern city. Venice is the queen of romantic and elegant cities, with its masked balls, majestic palaces and charming narrow canals.

Couples have a variety of experiences to choose from. Starting with a customized exclusive tour after opening hours. Imagine having all Venice main attractions only for yourself. Accompanied by an experienced tour guide, you’ll have the privilege to join a bespoke tour to breathtaking sights such as the famous Clock Tower, Museo Correr, Ca’ Rezzonico, Cà Fortuny, Doge’s Palace, Saint Mark’s Basilica, and many others. The ideal solution to escape the crowds and experience Venice intimately and at your own pace.

Portofino

Once a humble fishermen’s village, today Portofino is one of Italy’s most glamorous destinations. European jetsetters and luxury travelers love to come to this magical location and experience an exclusive day cruise on a luxury charter boat.

You will be welcomed on board with warm croissants and espresso, and start your navigation to the most gorgeous locations of the Levante coast. After a brief stop near the Bay of Silence in Sestri Levante for a refreshing swim in the crystal waters, you’ll set sail to the Cinque Terre.

Once in Vernazza, you’ll be free to relax and dive into the local atmosphere. Lunch at Ristorante Teresa will be arranged for you, where you can taste Ligurian specialties accompanied by the exclusive wine of the abyss, aged at a depth of 60 meters under the sea. Last stop: Portovenere, a beautiful scenic village with where you will visit a small church perched on the rocks in front of Palmaria Island. On your way back to Portofino, you’ll have the chance to sunbath and enjoy some onboard fine cuisine.

Tuscany

Everything about Tuscany screams indulgence and romance. From its rolling cypress-lined hills and  medieval villages to the sumptuous food and world-famous wine. It’s difficult to think of a more fitted destination for you honeymoon.

Especially, when you have the privilege to stay in prestigious locations such as Castiglion Del Bosco. In this elite estate, you’ll be provided with your own private luxury villa in Tuscany. A stunning classical old stone house fully renovated with elegant furnishings, featuring an open-plan kitchen, comfortable bedrooms and a lovely panoramic outdoor area where you can enjoy the sunset over Val d’Orcia while sipping a glass of Chianti.

Rome

There are many reasons why Rome is one of most beautiful luxury honeymoon destinations in Italy. Symbol of the Italian Dolce Vita, the eternal city offers the most famous museums and monuments in the world, candlelit restaurants, luxury hotels and high fashion boutiques.

Do you love mystery? Explore the secrets of the Vatican on a special private tour. You’ll have exclusive access to two rooms closed to the rest of the public. First, the Bramante Staircase, an impressive helical stairway designed by the architect Donato Bramante as an entrance to the Papal apartments. Afterwards, your storyteller guide will lead you through the Niccolina Chapel, a private chapel of the Pope decorated with amazing frescoes. Your private Vatican Museum tour will continue with beautiful highlights like the Sistine Chapel, to admire its famous golden decorations and frescoes.

Langhe wine region honeymoon

The Langhe wine region in Piedmont is an off the beaten path – but equally stunning – alternative to Tuscany. It’s particularly renowned for its vineyards which produce some of the best Italian wines, which you can find all about during your customized wine tour.

Embark on a sensorial journey dedicated to Barolo, known as the “King of wines and wine of Kings”. Guided by your personal guide and qualified sommelier, you will travel through enchanting UNESCO hills and historic estates to taste different declinations of this noble wine. The selected wineries are all family-run businesses which combine tradition and innovation. Plus, during your private wine tour, you’ll enjoy a traditional lunch a’ la carte full of local specialties.

Lake Como

One of Italy’s best wedding destinations, Lake Como is the perfect scenery for a romantic getaway. A favorite among celebrities, this location is lined with glamorous villas and striking viewpoints.

If you’re looking for unique experiences, nothing beats a luxury Lake Como boat tour. On board of a premier wooden boat with private driver, you’ll explore the shores and branches of the most glamorous lake in the world. These classic vessels are the same used by celebrities and royals on vacation, giving you the chance to enjoy Lake Como sunbathing, swimming and taking in breathtaking views.

Amalfi Coast

The Amalfi Coast is undoubtedly one of the top luxury honeymoon destinations in Italy. The beautiful mountains that line the coast are sprinkled with characteristic towns and splendid historic centers plunging into the Mediterranean Sea.

One of Amalfi Coast best luxury hotels, Belmond Hotel Caruso is the perfect setting for a romantic  gateway. Entering this 11th century noble palace, you’ll feel like you have arrived in paradise. Set on a cliff over 300 meters above sea level, this hotel is a stunning location. Walk through its secular gardens, among rose bushes and aromatic herbs. Admire the frescoed halls and arched stone vaults, before diving into the spectacular infinity pool overlooking the Amalfi Coast.

If you feel in the mood to explore the surroundings, Belmond Hotel Caruso offers access to a beautiful mountain hike among lemon and olive groves. Or you can join a private tour of the fascinating Ravello, known as the “city of music”.

Discover the perfect Amalfi Coast luxury tour

Design your luxury honeymoon in Italy

Do you need help planning your honeymoon in Italy? At Luxo Italia we design custom luxury tours in Italy. According to your interests, we’ll tailor your unique and exclusive experience for an unforgettable honeymoon.