Exploring Italy: where to stay, see and experience

Stay at: Passalacqua

Once an 18th-century summer haunt of Count Passalacqua, this lakeside retreat revives the Italian tradition of la villeggiatura — the annual ritual of leaving the city for the calm of the countryside. And with cartwheels of space to roam in quiet solitude, it’d be easy to fall under the pretence that you own the place.  

Step out for: Kayaking Como

Become truly immersed in so magnificent a setting with a private kayaking experience on the waters of Lake Como. Guided by a private instructor, feel free as a bird to take to the lake for two hours, lapping up the landscape from its centre, complete with a complimentary aperitif. 

Stay at: Borgo Egnazia

Emanating the soul of southern Italy, the scents, flavours and lifestyle here are inextricably Mediterranean. Inspired by ancient masserie and rural villages, this marriage of high-end bliss and rural charm proves that opposites do, in fact, attract.  

Step out for:  Dancing to the beat of tradition

For centuries, the people of Puglia have performed the traditional Pizzica, and now is your chance to join them. Step by step, dance the simple and not-so-simple moves to the tune of live musicians, while learning of the culture and legends surrounding this longstanding tradition. 

Stay at: Borgo Pignano

Rolling olive groves, traditional terracotta tiles, and an ancient limestone infinity pool; this stone-hewn sanctuary is intrinsically linked to its Tuscan heritage. And while there are plenty of quiet outdoor spots to sit among blissfully bucolic views, villas provide that home-away-from-home feel to focus on the connections that really matter. 

Step out for: Touring Chianti Valley

Row upon row of verdant vineyards stand in line alongside chestnut forests in the Chianti Valley. This sublime natural scenery is the setting for a tour that ebbs and flows over its rolling hills. Begin with a visit to the medieval village of Greve, to peruse the boutique shops and artisan workshops at the Piazza Mateotti, before lunch at a local winery fuels a trip to Castellina — the home of the Chianti Classico DOCG. 

Stay at: Belmond Cipriani

Standing in mature gardens on Giudecca Island, just four minutes by private launch from Piazza San Marco, this is a destination hotel for the discerning and for the deeply romantic. A stunning showcase for the contemporary and heritage venetian craft, breathtaking views abound over the gardens, vineyard, the lagoon and overlooking St Mark’s Square. 

Step out for: Learning from the locals

Connect with those who know best on an excursion designed to embrace every aspect of local life. Journey through the venetian lagoon; take in the landscape as you sail through the streets, dine on local delicacies prepared by a professional chef, and learn of the traditional recipes reimagined to create the flavours on your plate. 

Stay at: Palazzo Avino

The height of sophistication in more ways than one, there’s an air of aristocratic refinement and feeling of timeless elegance at this 12th-century villa. Time a visit with the Ravello Dawn Festival in the summer, and you’re in for a spine-tingling experience watching an orchestra perform during a concert at sunrise. 

Step out for: Capturing Amalfi on canvas

Guided by an artist, tour Amalfi to find the perfect spot to paint. Whether you’re a budding Michealangelo or a first-time craftsman, commit so picturesque a setting to more than memory in your choice of either oil or watercolour. Once you’ve brushed up on your skills under the guidance of a professional artist, take your work away as your very own souvenir.