Seriously, who needs the Caribbean when you can get heavenly beaches in Italy? In addition to impressive and historic cities such as Rome, Florence and Venice, there is of course one thing you can’t miss when visiting Italy: a trip to the beach! Here are some of the most beautiful and best beaches in Italy that are definitely worth a visit:

• Spiaggia dei Conigli, Sicily
• Cala Mariolu, Sardinia
• Tropea Beach, Calabria
• Baia delle Zagare, Apulia
• Spiaggia di San Fruttuoso, Liguria
• Cala del Gesso, Tuscany

Spiaggia dei Conigli (Rabbit Beach), Sicily

Located on the island of Lampedusa, part of the Pelagie Islands, Spiaggia dei Conigli is often ranked among the world’s top beaches. It features fine white sand and turquoise waters, creating a Caribbean-like paradise. It’s also known for its shallow, warm waters and as a nesting site for loggerhead sea turtles.

Special Features:

• Pristine Natural Beauty: The beach is renowned for its stunning natural scenery, featuring crystal-clear turquoise waters, fine white sand that creates a striking contrast with the blue sea, and a picturesque landscape. It’s perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
• Marine Life: The waters around Spiaggia dei Conigli are rich in marine biodiversity, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. Visitors can see a variety of fish, sea turtles, and other marine creatures.
• Sea Turtle Nesting: One of the most significant aspects of Spiaggia dei Conigli is its role as a nesting site for the endangered loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta). Every year, these turtles come ashore to lay their eggs, and conservation efforts are in place to protect the nests and ensure the hatchlings make it to the sea.

• Accessibility: The beach is located on the island of Lampedusa, part of the Pelagie Islands in Italy. It is relatively remote, requiring a trek down a rocky path, which adds to its appeal as a secluded and less crowded destination compared to more accessible beaches.
• Environmental Protection: The beach is part of a protected natural reserve, which helps maintain its pristine condition. It is also a nesting site for loggerhead sea turtles, offering visitors a chance to see these magnificent creatures. Strict regulations are in place to preserve the natural habitat and prevent environmental degradation.
• Popularity and Recognition: Spiaggia dei Conigli has received numerous accolades and has been featured in various travel magazines and websites as one of the top beaches in the world. Its popularity has grown internationally, attracting visitors from around the globe.

 

Cala Mariolu, Sardinia

A pearl of the Gulf of Orosei, on the coast of central-eastern Sardinia: a small hidden bay with white and pink pebbles that is well worth a walk through the wild nature or a boat trip.

Take a dip in a sea that looks like it was painted. The beach is also known as pùligi de nie (snow fleas) because of its round, white and pink pebbles mixed with sand. Cala Mariolu, in the Baunei area, owes its name to the monk seal that stole the catch from the fishermen of Ponza, hence mariolo (thief).

Its panorama is so impressive due to its infinite shades of blue, emerald green and mid-blue, and the snowflake-like pebbles. The 1.650-feet (500 meter)-high cliff that surrounds it drops steeply both to the north and to the south. For this reason, Cala Mariolu can only be reached by land via a difficult path (for experts) through dense Mediterranean forest.

Watch out: There is no more sun on this stretch of beach from around 4 pm. It therefore makes sense to arrive a little earlier in the day. In addition to being one of the most beautiful beaches in Italy, the bay of Cala Mariolu in Sardinia is even considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe! It is therefore definitely worth a visit.

Special Features:

• Crystal-Clear Waters: The waters at Cala Mariolu are exceptionally clear with a distinctive emerald hue which adds to its exotic appeal. It’s a perfect spot for snorkeling and swimming. The underwater visibility allows visitors to see a variety of marine life and colorful fish.
• Unique Pebble Beach: Unlike typical sandy beaches, Cala Mariolu is composed of small, rounded white pebbles mixed with sand, giving it a unique texture and appearance, and making the water appear even more vibrant.
• Dramatic Limestone Cliffs and Caves: The beach is surrounded by impressive towering limestone cliffs that provide a dramatic backdrop. These cliffs also feature numerous sea caves that can be explored by boat or while snorkeling. It is a snorkeler’s paradise with rich marine biodiversity.

• Marine Life: The rich marine environment makes Cala Mariolu a popular spot for divers and snorkelers. The clear waters and abundant sea life offer an exceptional underwater experience.
• Secluded Location: Cala Mariolu is relatively remote and not easily accessible by land, which adds to its charm and exclusivity. Most visitors reach the beach by boat, which can be rented from nearby towns such as Cala Gonone or Santa Maria Navarrese.
• Scenic Hiking Trails: For those who prefer land-based adventures, there are challenging hiking trails leading to Cala Mariolu, offering stunning views of the coastline and the Mediterranean Sea.

 

Tropea Beach, Calabria

In the far south, at the end of the Italian boot in Calabria, lies the small town of Tropea. With its well-preserved old town and its famous cathedral, Santa Maria dell’Isola, the town of 6,500 inhabitants is one of the most popular destinations for tourists, not only from Europe. It is not without reason that the town is also known as the “Pearl of Calabria”.

The special thing about Tropea: a picturesque sandy beach with azure blue water lies directly below the old town. And that’s not all. If you want a particularly quiet place, you can simply drive a little further along the coast. There are many more small bays to discover, which are a little more secluded. The rock formations and caves also invite you to go on a discovery tour.

Special Features:

• Stunning Scenery
  Tropea Beach is renowned for its breathtaking scenery. The beach is set against dramatic cliffs that rise from the crystal-clear waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. The picturesque town of Tropea, perched atop these cliffs, offers a stunning backdrop, with its charming historic buildings and narrow streets.
• Pristine Waters
  Pristine clear and turquoise waters make it a popular destination for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities. The clean and inviting sea is one of the main attractions for visitors.
• Soft, White Sand
  Tropea Beach features soft, white sand that contrasts beautifully with the blue of the sea. This fine sand makes it a comfortable place to relax, sunbathe, and enjoy the coastal beauty.
• Historic Charme
  One of the most iconic sights near Tropea Beach is Santa Maria dell’Isola, a historic monastery situated on a rocky promontory overlooking the beach. This picturesque church adds to the charm and historical significance of the area, providing a stunning vantage point for panoramic views of the coastline.

• Rich History and Culture
  The town of Tropea itself is rich in history and culture, dating back to ancient times. The blend of historical architecture, including medieval and baroque buildings, along with local traditions and cuisine, makes a visit to Tropea Beach a culturally enriching experience.
• Relaxed Atmosphere
  Tropea Beach is also known for its relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. It’s a popular destination for those seeking a peaceful and scenic coastal retreat away from the more crowded and commercialized beach destinations.

 

Baia delle Zagare, Apulia

Baia delle Zagare, located in the Gargano Peninsula of Apulia, is famous for its stunning natural beauty and unique geological formations. It is a hidden gem that offers a serene escape with its breathtaking natural scenery, making it a popular spot for photographers, nature lovers, and anyone looking to experience the unspoiled beauty of the Italian coast.

Baia delle Zagare has become one of the symbolic beaches of the Gargano, also thanks to the presence of the high white cliffs and 2 beautiful limestone stacks sculpted by the wind, the pine trees and the white pebble beach that, combined with the blue sea create an incredible spectacle.

Special features:

• Dramatic Sea Stacks: The bay is particularly famous for its distinctive sea stacks, which are towering rock formations that rise dramatically from the sea. These natural structures have been sculpted by erosion over thousands of years, creating an iconic and picturesque landscape.
• Pristine Beaches: Baia delle Zagare boasts beautiful, secluded beaches with fine white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The beaches are surrounded by steep limestone cliffs, adding to the sense of seclusion and natural beauty.
• Scenic Cliffs: The area is characterized by steep, white limestone cliffs that provide a stunning backdrop to the beaches. These cliffs are often covered with lush vegetation, adding to the scenic appeal.

• Secluded Location: The bay is relatively remote and not as heavily frequented as other tourist spots, which makes it a perfect destination for those seeking tranquility and a connection with nature.
• Mediterranean Flora: The surrounding area is rich in Mediterranean vegetation, including olive trees, aromatic herbs, and, as the name “Zagare” suggests, citrus trees. “Zagare” refers to the fragrant blossoms of citrus trees, which are common in the region.
• Protected Area: Baia delle Zagare is part of the Gargano National Park, which helps to preserve its natural beauty and biodiversity. The park is known for its diverse ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, and marine environments.

 

Spiaggia di San Fruttuoso, Liguria

Spiaggia di San Fruttuoso is a picturesque beach located in a secluded bay on the Italian Riviera, between Camogli and Portofino in Liguria. It is renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, pebbled shoreline, and the historic Abbey of San Fruttuoso, which dates back to the 10th century. Accessible only by boat or via hiking trails through the Portofino Regional Park, the beach offers a serene and unspoiled atmosphere. The underwater statue, Christ of the Abyss, is a popular attraction for divers. This hidden gem combines natural beauty, historical significance, and a tranquil setting, making it a unique destination on the Ligurian coast.

Special features:

• The Christ of the Abyss: This submerged bronze statue of Jesus Christ, placed in the water in 1954, is a major attraction for scuba divers and snorkelers. It sits at a depth of about 56 feet (17 m) and is a symbol of protection for sailors and divers.
• The Abbey of San Fruttuoso: This historical Benedictine monastery dates back to the 10th century and is a significant cultural landmark. The abbey, with its picturesque architecture and serene setting, draws visitors interested in history and architecture.

• Scenic Beauty: The beach is located in a secluded cove within the Portofino Marine Protected Area, offering stunning natural scenery. The combination of crystal-clear waters, rugged coastline, and lush Mediterranean vegetation creates a breathtaking landscape.
• Accessibility: Spiaggia di San Fruttuoso is accessible only by boat or by hiking trails from Portofino or Camogli, adding to its charm and exclusivity. The journey itself, whether by sea or through scenic trails, is an adventure that enhances the overall experience.
• Tranquility: Due to its secluded location and limited accessibility, the beach tends to be less crowded compared to other tourist spots in the region, providing a peaceful retreat for visitors.

 

Cala del Gesso, Tuscany

Imposing cliffs and lush green vegetation. The hidden bay of Cala del Gesso is located on the Monte Argentario peninsula in Tuscany. The beach is considered a real insider tip, but it is not easy to reach Cala del Gesso. Sturdy shoes, plenty of water and sun cream are therefore essential when visiting the beach.

To reach the bay, you first have to walk for about 20 minutes. The short hike is worth it: you will reach an idyllic spot that is guaranteed to invite you to linger. However, it is also important to know that Cala del Gesso has no tourist infrastructure. This means: take plenty of food with you! There is also a very special secret in the bay: the Grotta delle Pumadorine is located under the surface of the water.

Special features:

• Crystal-Clear Waters:
  The beach is famous for its exceptionally clear and pristine waters, which are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. The visibility underwater is excellent, allowing visitors to explore the marine life and underwater landscapes.
• Scenic Beauty:
  Surrounded by rugged cliffs and lush Mediterranean vegetation, Cala del Gesso offers stunning natural scenery. The combination of the turquoise sea, white pebbles, and green surroundings creates a picturesque setting.
• Secluded Atmosphere:
  The beach is relatively secluded and less accessible than many other beaches, which helps to maintain a tranquil and peaceful environment. This seclusion makes it an attractive spot for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a more private beach experience.
• Pebble Beach:
  Cala del Gesso features a pebble beach. The pebbles are smooth and add to the unique charm of the area, providing a different texture and experience for beachgoers.

• Ideal for Boating:
  The clear waters and beautiful surroundings make Cala del Gesso a popular spot for boating. Many visitors arrive by boat, and it’s an excellent location for anchoring and enjoying the coastal views.
• Dramatic Cliffs:
  The beach is backed by dramatic cliffs that not only enhance the visual appeal but also provide opportunities for hiking and exploring. The cliffs offer vantage points with breathtaking views of the sea and the coastline.
• Rich Marine Life:
  The waters around Cala del Gesso are teeming with marine life, making it a great spot for snorkeling. Visitors can observe various fish species, sea urchins, and other marine organisms in their natural habitat.
• Sunset Views:
  Cala del Gesso is an excellent spot for watching the sunset. The western orientation of the beach allows for stunning sunset views over the Tyrrhenian Sea, creating a romantic and memorable experience.
• Historical Tower:
  Nearby, on the cliff overlooking the beach, stands the Torre di Cala del Gesso, an ancient watchtower that adds a historical element to the area. The tower is a remnant of the coastal defense system and offers a glimpse into the region’s past.

 

These beaches are celebrated not only for their natural beauty but also for their unique characteristics that offer visitors a special and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking for secluded tranquility, historical charm, or vibrant marine life, they have something extraordinary to offer. The list of the best beaches, however, is by far not complete.

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Exploring Vallepicciola Winery, it’s vineyards, cellar, and art: featuring the Collectors’ Experience and Wine Safari tours as well as the new “Casa in bottiglia” installation by artist Clet Abraham.

Nestled in the wine tourism destination of Val di Picciola in the heart of Chianti Classico, the Vallepicciola Winery offers an array of experiences that immerse visitors in authentic Tuscan wine culture. Year-round, the Collectors’ Experience and Wine Safari tours take guests on a journey through the winemaking process: from the first flowers and berries in the vineyard to the bottling. Not to be missed at Vallepicciola is the recently installed contemporary artwork “Casa in bottiglia” by French artist Clet Abraham, who participated in the “A(Rt) Message in A (Chianti Classico) Bottle” project promoted by the Consorzio del Chianti Classico.

Set in Pievasciata, a small village just 15 km from Siena, Vallepicciola is the Bolfo family’s premier winery in the heart of Chianti Classico, crafting excellent wines and offering an array of outdoor and indoor activities. Year-round, tourists can stroll through the vineyards and visit the state-of-the-art winery, including the cellar. Collectors’ Experience and Wine Safari are two of the most appealing tours for wine lovers.

Collectors’ Experience

Guests at Vallepicciola can delve into the rich heritage and artistry of the winery through the exclusive Collectors’ Experience, a two-hour tour that unveils the secrets behind the estate’s world-renowned wines. The journey begins amidst the picturesque vineyards that grace the rolling hills of Chianti Classico. Guided by Vallepicciola’s knowledgeable hospitality team, visitors gain a deeper understanding of the terroir that nurtures exceptional grapes. This immersive tour includes tasting the exquisite flavours of Perlinetto 25° Anniversario (Metodo Classico), Vallepicciola Bianco IGT Toscana, Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG, Vallepicciola Rosso IGT Toscana, Parvadomus Cabernet Sauvignon IGT Toscana, Mordese Cabernet Franc IGT Toscana, and Migliorè IGT Toscana; each sip unveils the unique character and terroir expression that characterize Vallepicciola’s approach to winemaking. This exclusive experience is available by reservation only, starting at 3:00 PM, until January 2025. Rates are €60 per Person.

Wine Safari Experience

The exciting Wine Safari tour is tailored specifically for adventure enthusiasts. Guided by Vallepicciola’s drivers, guests traverse the estate’s breathtaking landscapes in a jeep, revelling in the panoramic vistas that define this iconic wine region. The adventure culminates in an intimate exploration of Vallepicciola’s winery and the meticulous craftsmanship that transforms grapes into exceptional wines: from the fermentation room, the heart of the winemaking process where the magical transformation unfolds, to the barrel cellar, where the wines patiently mature under the watchful eye of renowned winemaker Alessandro Cellai.

The grand finale is a tasting of Vallepicciola’s most celebrated wines: Perlinetto 25° Anniversario (Metodo Classico), Vallepicciola Bianco IGT Toscana, Chianti Classico Gran Selezione DOCG, Vallepicciola Rosso IGT Toscana, Quercegrosse Merlot IGT Toscana, and Migliorè IGT Toscana. An adventure for all – This exclusive two-hour experience is available by reservation only, starting at 11:00 AM and at 4:00 PM, until October 2024. Rates are €130 per Person.

A(rt) Message in a (Chianti Classico) Bottle

“Casa in bottiglia” by French artist Clet Abraham arrived at Vallepicciola by means of the “A(rt) message in a (Chianti Classico) bottle” project, promoted by the Consorzio del Chianti Classico, and celebrates not just wine, but also Chianti Classico, which has long inspired poets and artists. The bottle-sculpture made of polystyrene and standing 4 meters tall is a street art reinterpretation of the iconic bottle that has always defined Chianti Classico, featuring a whimsical house with a door, window, and a smoke cloud from the chimney, representing a unique visit for art lovers.

Hotel Le Fontanelle*****

It was siblings Bruno and Giuseppina Bolfo who discovered the wine-growing potential of the Val di Picciola Valley when they bought an abandoned 17th-century monastery in 1999 and renovated it into what is now the five-star Hotel Le Fontanelle.

It took seven years to carefully and respectfully renovate the structure, maintaining the energy in its massive stone exterior, building with wood from the region and delicately adding refined terracotta pavements aligned with the classic style of Chianti.

Thus in 2006 Hotel Le Fontanelle became a unique place, which, thanks to a refined and gentle welcome, offers a more authentic and immersive experience of Chianti. The 5-star accommodation offers a discreet elegance deep in the heart of Chianti. The luxury rooms and suites are furnished with terracotta floors and oak-beamed ceilings, some offer a private lounge or garden area.

The beautiful location offers a panoramic swimming pool, a heated indoor swimming pool, sauna, Turkish bath, Jacuzzi and relaxing area. Mountain bikes are free to use for guests.

Surrounding the property there was a piece of land of 3 hectares that became the starting point of the winemaking business. Five years later, the brothers bought and restored another ruin adjacent to the hotel, reaching 6 hectares of vineyards that would allow Vallepicciola to start a small wine production intended for the consumption and sale at the hotel only.

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Exclusively at Grotta Giusti Thermal Spa Resort you can try a new fitness experience combining Pilates and Yoga techniques: Piloga. Due to the warmth of the grotto, body temperature is raised, amplifying the body’s ability to heal naturally.

Grotta Giusti is a beautiful nineteenth-century villa in the heart of Tuscany, in Monsummano Terme, between Florence, Pisa, and Lucca. Originally a countryside residence for the family of poet Giuseppe Giusti, today it is a prestigious resort immersed in the greenery of its age-old park.

Grotta Giusti has the charm of history, with a special atmosphere created by its architecture, the surrounding nature, and the spectacular natural thermal grotto. Grotta Giusti reopens with a new spa that has been totally re-created in terms of facilities, services and style.

Today, after a meticulous and loving renovation, Grotta Giusti has a newfound elegance, inspired by the nature and art of Tuscany and its poetry. It’s the perfect finishing touch to a project that has turned Grotta Giusti into a wonderful 5-star resort.

Grotta Giusti belongs to the Italian Hospitality Collection, who owns a collection of some of the most beautiful hotels, resorts and spas in Italy.

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To mark the 70th anniversary, 100 years after Giacomo Puccini’s death, the Puccini Festival in Torre del Lago (Tuscany) is presenting an extraordinary edition in 2024 with six new productions of Puccini masterpieces: Le Willis-Edgar, Manon Lescaut, La Bohème, Tosca and Turandot.

18 opera evenings in the open-air Gran Teatro Puccini on the shores of Lake Massaciuccoli are on the program from July 12 to August 24, 2024. It will be rounded off by the special event Madame Butterfly on August 31st and September 7th, 2024. The Puccini Festival is an annual tribute to the world-famous Tuscan master, who was born in Lucca, lived in Torre del Lago and created some of his most famous works there.

Giacomo Puccini

Giacomo Puccini, one of the most important composers of all time, has always loved his homeland: Tuscany. He was born in Lucca, but was fascinated by Torre del Lago and never left this region, which inspired him to create his world-famous operas such as Bohème, Tosca, Madame Butterfly and Turandot.

The Puccini Festival is the most important opera festival in Italy and the only Puccini festival in the world. It takes place in the locations that inspired the maestro’s work. The festival offers the opportunity to listen to great stars of the international opera scene perform Puccini’s masterpieces in a large open-air theater on the shores of Lake Massaciuccoli, directly in front of Puccini’s house museum.

To mark the 100th anniversary of the maestro’s death, the festival that bears his name will celebrate his immortal works in the place where they were created.

The program:

Further information and online ticket sale available on the festival’s official website.

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An exclusive oasis in one of the most exclusive Italian location – Forte dei Marmi, the magic place where the Dolce Vita has never faded. Andrea Boccelli’s Alpemare Beach Club was just nominated the “Best Beach Club in Italy 2024”.

At the entrance of Alpemare, guests are greeted by a lush and unique pine forest. The Beach Club offers 120 splendid tents, each with a cabin equipped with a safe, USB ports, and a courtesy kit. Iconic, historical cabins were rebuilt with high attention to aesthetics and functionality. With the addition of modern elegance, the cabins have been restructured to feature a stunning view of the sea.

Chef Mirko Caldino favors an utterly genuine cuisine at the Alpemare Ristorante —spontaneous, simple yet not predictable, traditional yet experimental. His dishes feature unique, refined, and creative combinations that elevate the guests’ five senses.

You will also have the opportunity to enjoy Nobu Forte dei Marmi, the newest addition to the world-renowned Japanese restaurant empire founded by Nobu Matsuhisa and Hollywood actor Robert De Niro.

Happy Hour or Aperitivo with a view. Celebrate life by the sea from 5pm to 8pm with a typical aperitivo: the unmistakable color, covered by the memory of the foam of the sea and decorated with a small orchid: this cocktail could only be called “Alpemare”!

The Alpemare Beach Club can be enjoyed by membership, annually or lifetime, with an extensive list of benefits.

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And so even in the city you can feel a little bit of vacation, sipping a drink at sunset or daring the last swims in the pool, strictly with a view. For those who do not resign themselves to the end of summer, here are some of the most interesting and best rooftops in Italy where you can enjoy the view and relax.

Merano, wellness and panoramas

Those who are planning a mountain getaway to take advantage of the last mild days can make a reservation at Hotel Therme Merano, South Tyrol’s only spa hotel, which on the top floor counts on the Sky Spa’s panoramic terrace with breathtaking views of the city’s rooftops and the surrounding mountains. Here, after relaxing in the infinity pool or with a massage, you can try the cocktails offered by the barman such as the Sky Aperitif made with limoncello produced directly by the hotel, Prosecco and Bio Lemon. Or, choose the non-alcoholic Healthy with apple, ginger, cucumber and lemon.

Milan, drinks with a skyline view

The atmosphere becomes decidedly more metropolitan and contemporary in Milan, where there are several spots from which to admire the Milanese skyline with a cocktail in hand.

Going up to the 13th floor of the Hyatt Centric Milan Centrale there is a terrace, 131 feet high, where you will find the Organics SkyGarden, a project that aims to mix art, music, fashion, flavor and design, born from the organic and non-alcoholic beverages The Organics by Red Bull. The terrace is open daily from 6pm to midnight and also hosts live music and DJ sets. The Organics SkyGarden rooftop is also present in Rome at the Aleph Hotel and in Courmayeur at the intermediate station of Skyway Monte Bianco, Pavillon The Mountain.

Also in Milan, one of the scenic novelties is Vertigo, the new rooftop of the nhow Milano hotel in the Tortona District, a district now with a focus on fashion and design among its revamped industrial architecture. The terrace with its 8.000 square feet of space, houses 3 circular pools, a lounge area with cocktail bar, a solarium area and an Infinity Pool.

Casa Baglioni Milan, the latest address from the Baglioni Hotels & Resorts collection, has officially launched its new Milanese rooftop bar: Casa Baglioni Rooftop by Sadler. Nestled within the iconic Brera district – the only local rooftop serving Michelin-starred gastronomy – Rooftop by Sadler offers breathtaking, 360-degree panoramic views of Milan’s most iconic landmarks, including the Duomo Cathedral and the skyline of Porta Nuova. It is open daily from 6pm to 1am and offers guests some of the Chef’ Claudio Sadler’s iconic dishes as well as a selection of signature cocktails.

Tuscan rooftop in Lucca

An aperitif overlooking the Tuscan skyline is the experience offered by the historic hotel Grand Universe Lucca. Nestled in the heart of this vibrant city, Grand Universe Lucca offers breathtaking views of Saint Martino’s Cathedral, all the churches, monuments, and towers. Take in sweeping views of Lucca’s historic city center and the majestic Piazza del Giglio as you enjoy a glass of champagne under the open sky at our luxurious hotel’s rooftop bar. The Sommità Martin Orsyn Champagne rooftop overlooks Piazza Napoleone and is an ideal place to relax after a tour of the city.

Rome, dinner with the Eternal City

Fall is sweet in Rome and you can savor it even after shopping in Rinascente on Via del Tritone. Going up to the top floor at Maio Restaurant & Rooftop, you can taste among the different specialties brand new dishes such as Cacio e Pepe Risotto with lime and chopped purple prawn, crispy egg Carbonara with Falisco pecorino cream, four peppers and crispy bacon.
The new menu features different options from morning to evening, for experiences to be associated with different moments of the day. Between contemporary design and city views, the restaurant is located on the 6th and 7th floors of Rinascente Roma and is open from 10 am until dinner.

Immerse in your personal Dolce Vita at the rooftop of Rome Marriott Grand Hotel Flora, right on top of the noble, iconic Via Veneto and next door to the Villa Borghese gardens and the 2000-year-old historic Roman walls. The Flora Roof Restaurant & Cocktail Bar is the terrace of a palace that was once the Ludovisi family’s hunting lodge. It has reopened its verandas to guests. There are at least three ways to experience this rooftop in the heart of the capital: a breakfast with the lights of the Roman sunrise, an unusual aperitif on the rooftops of the historic center or a dinner with the backdrop of the ‘Dome. 
The new open-air tasting and mixology ‘living room’ has a lounge area on one side and a restaurant area on the other, with a menu curated by the Neapolitan chef Massimo Piccolo.

Palazzo Ripetta, the new 5-star hotel in the center of Rome, inaugurates the Etere rooftop. Located between Piazza del Popolo and Piazza di Spagna, the hotel is inside a building which housed the Conservatorio della Divina Provvidenza in the 17th century; became a hotel in the 1960s after its renovation by architect Luigi Moretti and in 2020 jumped into the luxury segment thanks to a major redevelopment desired by the owners, the Ginobbi Group. The structure and the 78 rooms and suites were redesigned according to the standards of luxury hospitality: design, comfort and refined materials.

Now, with the inauguration of the terrace, Palazzo Ripetta Etere offers its customers a location with a view of the city’s history. Hidden on the fourth floor of Palazzo Ripetta, Etere, the new rooftop of the hotel is a mix of flair and design that concretizes the expression of the wine bar par excellence in shapes, structures and furnishings that in shades of red and gray run along the terrace, characterizing it and making it unique. Deliberately informal, Etere is an open-air cellar, where the selection of the bar is the master and the proposal of Executive Chef Marco Ciccotelli is an absolute certainty.

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According to Lemos, “This experience complements all we do at Casetta from collecting rain water, composting food, implementing natural energy resources, and using organic fertilizers to grow olives to produce our own extra-virgin olive oil.”

This new “Secret Sustainable Food Tour” takes guests on a delicious journey. The experience, curated by Xenia, focuses on organic ingredients and sustainable farming methods.

The “Secret Sustainable Food Tour” is available for those who book the whole house, which includes five bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms. The experience includes arriving at Casetta and being welcomed with a chilled glass of prosecco. In the late afternoon join Casetta’s cook Patrizia Vaggioli for a pasta-making session using ancient flour and organic produce from the garden followed by dinner. The next day, guests can relish a farm-to-table breakfast followed by a seasonal foraging experience in Casetta’s woods. Guests will then be driven to Corzano & Paterno for a winery and cheese tour and tasting with a light lunch. The next stop is local organic and bio-dynamic farm Camporbiano that also harvests ancient grains. Guests will have the opportunity to learn about the importance of sustainable farming. They can also make cheese from the milk of goats and cows at the farm.

Following a ride to the hilltop town of San Miniato, guests can stop for a cocktail and mixology session at Ethan’s Bar. They can taste Casetta’s signature cocktail, Roveta Dodici, and have dinner at the vegetarian restaurant Maggese, where chef Fabrizio Marino provides a welcoming and lively atmosphere.

Prices start at approximately $5,281 for a group of seven including transportation. Dinner at Maggese is not included in the price. Hybrid cars are available upon request for an additional fee.

For more information, visit www.casetta.net

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