italy - Kirker Holidays

Transcription

I TA LY
I T A L Y
F O R
D I S C E R N I N G
N O V E M B E R
2 0 1 2
–
T R A V E L L E R S
D E C E M B E R
2 0 1 3
s hort b r e a k s & ta i l or – m a de hol i d ay s
2012 - 2013
CITIES: VENICE • FLORENCE • ROME • MILAN • ASSISI • PERUGIA • PIETRASANTA • VIAREGGIO • PISA • SIENA • turin • BOLOGNA • VERONA • padua
mantua • parma • lucca • NAPLEs • ravenna • MODENA • FERRARA • LAKES: COMO • GARDA • MAGGIORE • iseo • ORTA • LUGANO
COUNTRYSIDE: PIEMONTE • PUGLIA • TUSCANY • UMBRIA • veneto • FRASCATI • COAST: AMALFI COAST • BASILICATA • LIGURIAN RIVIERA
santa maria di castellabate • ISLANDS: CAPRi • aeolian islands • ISCHIA • SICILY • SARDINIA
DESTINATIONS
CITIES
COAST
Assisi
35
Amalfi Coast
40
Bologna
24
Amalfi
42
Ferrara
25
Positano
41
Florence
28
Ravello
42
Lucca
32
Sorrento
40
Mantua
25
Basilicata
44
Milan
21
Ligurian Riviera
22
Modena
25
Camogli
23
Montecatini Terme
32
Portofino
22
Naples
41
Rapallo
23
Padua
12
San Remo
22
Parma
24
Santa Margherita Ligure
22
Perugia
35
Santa Maria di Castellabate
44
Pietrasanta
32
Venice Lido
10
Pisa
31
ISLANDS
Ravenna
24
Capri
43
Rome
37
Ischia
43
Siena
31
Sardinia
50
Turin
26
Sicily
46
Venice
6
Verona
Viareggio
Aeolian Islands
49
13
Agrigento
48
32
Falconara
47
Palermo
48
LAKES
Lake Como
17
Sciacca
47
Bellagio
18
Syracuse
47
Como & Cernobbio
17
Taormina
46
Tremezzo
17
Trapani
48
Lake Garda
14
LUXURY RAIL
Gardone Riviera
14
Venice Simplon-Orient-Express
Malcesine
16
Punta San Vigilio
16
Riva Del Garda
16
Sirmione
15
Salo
16
Torri Del Benaco
11
15
Lake Iseo
16
Lake Orta
20
Lake Lugano
20
Lake Maggiore
19
Ascona
19
Pallanza
19
Stresa
19
COUNTRYSIDE
Piemont
26
Puglia
45
Frascati
39
Tuscany
33
Umbria
35
Veneto
12
2
Alberobello, Puglia
FOR DISCERNING TRAVELLERS
4 WATERLOO COURT • 10 THEED STREET • LONDON SE1 8ST
Tel: 020 7593 2288 • Fax: 020 4593 1461 • travel@kirkerholidays.com • www.kirkerholidays.com
Thank you for your interest in our holidays to Italy. Since we launched the very first Kirker Italy
brochure in 1986 we have spent some 25 years fine-tuning the range of recommended hotels and can honestly
say that our passion and enthusiasm for this wonderful country remains as strong as ever. It is, without question,
one of our favourite destinations and we are delighted to recommend over 150 properties that have met our very
strict criteria for style, comfort and location.Whether you are looking for a charming pensione, a stylish palazzo,
or a grand villa in the heart of the countryside, our team of expert consultants would be delighted to help you to
create a tailor-made itinerary using just the right combination of travel by air, rail, private transfers; together with
advice from the Kirker Concierge to assist with bookings for a delicious dinner at a recommended restaurant,
opera tickets or perhaps a private walking tour with an expert local guide. A quick call to 020 7593 2286 or
email to concierge@kirkerholidays.com will ensure that all these vital extra elements are taken care of well in
advance of your holiday departure.
Even to the uninitiated, it is easy to see from a map that Italy is a rather elegant, stylish place – and as
all discerning travellers are aware, it can be tricky to know exactly which part to head for next. Our job is to
make sure that every Kirker holiday is tailor-made to suit your exact requirements and we look forward to using
our first-hand knowledge to create a holiday that achieves exactly the right balance between contemporary
comfort, faded elegance and the perfect location.
We thoroughly recommend rail travel in Italy and the new high speed train between Rome and Florence
has cut the journey time to just over 90 minutes – times between Bologna, Milan and Turin have also been
substantially reduced.Whether you wish to stay in two cities with first class rail between destinations, or you
prefer to combine a stay in a city with a few nights in a relaxing countryside hotel, all our holidays include
transfers by private car, water taxi or car hire if you wish.
If you are planning a holiday to mark a special birthday or anniversary, life is far too short not to celebrate
in style – in particular, don’t forget the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express train which glides majestically through
the Alps and remains the ultimate indulgence for those who wish to celebrate a special occasion in style. If you
enjoy visiting museums and art galleries, all our holidays to Venice, Rome or Florence include complimentary
museum entrance tickets for the Doge’s Palace, Borghese Gallery and the Uffizi respectively (or a selection of
other choices if you prefer), to ensure that you avoid the lengthy queues.
Whatever your travel plans for the coming months, we would be delighted to hear from you – please
telephone 020 7593 2288 or visit www.kirkerholidays.com.Whether or not you are planning to celebrate a
birthday or anniversary, you really do deserve a Kirker holiday – and we shall do our utmost to exceed your best
expectations every time you book.
Ted Wake
Andrew Layard
DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING
COMMERCIAL & PRODUCT DIRECTOR
ASSOCIATION OF INDEPENDENT TOUR OPERATORS – OUTSTANDING SERVICE AWARD 2010, 2011, 2012
ADVANTAGE INDEPENDENT TRAVEL AGENTS – BEST SPECIALIST TOUR OPERATOR 2012
3
KIRKER – HOLIDAYS FOR
DISCERNING TRAVELLERS
Opera and concerts
The Kirker Concierge is able to book tickets for your chosen performance or
provide information on performances in any Kirker destination. All prices
include a local ticket agency handling fee and so will not reflect the face value
of your ticket. We charge you the price we pay plus £10 per ticket.
Call 020 7593 2286 or email concierge@kirkerholidays.com
A responsible holiday company
kirker hotels
Our featured properties cover a range of styles, from family-run pensione to the
finest luxury hotels. For each hotel description we retain editorial control and
are therefore able to provide you with a balanced and unbiased view. To help
you choose the hotel best suited to your needs, please speak to one of our
expert consultants who would be delighted to share their first hand experience
of the hotels and destinations. If you would like to view photographs of our
hotels, please visit www.kirkerholidays.com. However, please remember that
website photographs can sometimes provide a seductive picture that may have
been taken through rose-tinted spectacles – speaking to one of our experts is a
better way to help you find the hotel that perfectly suits your needs.
Spas are a great way to relax and unwind whilst away on holiday.
A number of our recommended hotels offer exceptional spa facilities –
look out for the blue icon.
The green icon indicates that the hotel has its own golf course, or
a recommended course nearby which can be pre-booked.
Private transfers & personal service
Our holidays always include transfers by private vehicle with assistance on
arrival and departure – instantly removing the anxiety that many experience
when arriving in unfamiliar destinations. No taxi queues, no fare negotiation –
just a warm welcome and a smooth journey to your chosen hotel. We aim to
offer a service that is complete from start to finish, whether you would like us
to recommend and book a restaurant for a celebration dinner, arrange private
guided tours, organise wine-tasting or cookery courses, we will take full
responsibility for the smooth running of every aspect of your holiday.
Kirker tailor-made
You may choose to visit two or more destinations in one holiday. Fly into one
airport and back from another – why not include a mixture of air travel with
rail? We thoroughly recommend longer itineraries combining a few days in a
city followed by a stay in one of our countryside properties. We take immense
pride in creating carefully crafted holidays and although we are not necessarily
the cheapest, we do aim to offer exceptional value for money and rely on our
clients for repeat business and recommendations for our future success.
Kirker guide notes
We have prepared some useful Guide Notes giving invaluable information on
restaurants, bars, museums, shopping, markets and sightseeing which will be
sent to you with your travel documentation – please do ask us if you would
like a personal restaurant recommendation, our Kirker Concierge would be
delighted to book a table on your behalf.
Added value
Many of our destinations include pre-booked tickets to popular museums
including the Uffizi in Florence, the Brughese Gallery in Rome and the Doge’s
Palace in Venice.You will find details of special offers at many of our hotels
throughout the brochure, giving you complimentary nights or room upgrades.
We speak to our contacts to negotiate the very best offers and prices every time
we receive an enquiry.
4
As a member of ABTA and AITO we conform fully to Government legislation
regarding the protection of clients’ money. Air holidays are protected under our
ATOL licence, all other holidays are bonded by ABTA. In addition, in the event
that your holiday is adversely affected by something beyond our control, we
shall always endeavour to advise you in advance and take the appropriate action
to minimise any disruption to your holiday. Booking your own flights and hotel
on-line may appear to be cheaper, but what you might have planned as a
holiday can quickly become an endurance test! We take full responsibility for
every element of your holiday and provide you with a telephone number to
contact us 24 hours a day in the event of a problem.
DEPOSITS & FULL PAYMENT
If you are booking more than eight weeks prior to departure, a deposit will
be required to secure your reservation. The amount of the deposit (a
minimum of £200 per person) will be confirmed at the time of booking.
Full payment is required no later than eight weeks before departure. We
accept payment by debit/credit/charge card or cheque. No fee is chargeable
for payment of deposits by any method, and no fee is chargeable for full
payment or settlement of balance by debit card or cheque. However, if it is
more convenient for you to settle full payment or balance payment by credit
or charge card we charge a fee that contributes towards the costs imposed by
the card companies: most Mastercard or Visa 1%; American Express and
premium or corporate cards 2%.
CANCELLATION CHARGES
Cancellations made more than 56 days prior to departure: deposits forfeited.
56-43 days: 25% of the holiday cost or £200 (whichever is the greater).
42-15 days: 50% of the holiday cost.
14-8 days: 75% of the holiday cost.
Within 7 days of the departure, on the departure date or after the holiday has
commenced: all holiday costs forfeited.
Any client choosing to curtail their holiday will not receive a refund for unused
accommodation, transportation or other services.
general information
See your Independent Travel Agent – there is no better way to obtain
unbiased advice.
Hotel renovations – all good hotels maintain their properties and bad hotels
don’t! Occasionally, some necessary work may be taking place during your stay;
whenever possible, we shall advise you prior to your departure.
Hotel star ratings – these are based on our opinion of each property and may
differ from official categories.
Holiday prices – All quotes are tailor-made for your specific requirements and
may vary depending upon availability, exchange rate and demands. Prices quoted
in this brochure are per person (based on two sharing a double room) and include
flight, transfers, accommodation and breakfast.
Please note that local councils throughout Italy have now imposed a new tourist
tax (‘Tassa di Soggiorno’) which guests are obliged to pay directly to the hotel
upon check-out.The charge ranges from 2€ to 5€ per person per day, depending
on destination and hotel star rating and will be added to your hotel extras bill.
TAILOR–MADE ITALY
Italy’s extraordinarily diverse culture has evolved over
several thousand years with influences from many
other Mediterranean civilisations who found the
country’s natural resources, strategic location and
spectacular landscape irresistible. Over the last five
years, the popularity of our two and three centre
holidays has grown significantly as clients welcome
the opportunity to experience contrasting
destinations within one holiday. In particular, we
are enthusiastic promoters of holidays that combine
a city with a visit to a countryside, lakeside or
seaside hotel.The right balance of culture and
relaxation in one itinerary makes a unique
holiday experience.With a carefully crafted
tailor-made itinerary, we can offer Kirker
clients an opportunity to explore Italy’s finest
cultural and natural resources by making
best use of the local rail network, car hire
where appropriate, and combining the
right balance of city centre and
countryside accommodation to
ensure that you get the most
out of your holiday.
Typical rail journey times:Venice – Verona
Venice – Bologna
Venice – Milan
Venice – Florence
Venice – Rome
Florence – Bologna
Florence – Perugia
1
1
2
2
3
hr 10 mins
hr 30 mins
hrs 25 mins
hrs 10 mins
hrs 50 mins
40 mins
2 hrs 10 mins
Florence – Siena
Florence – Rome
Florence – Milan
Florence – Naples
Bologna – Ravenna
Milan – Turin
Rome – Bari
1
1
1
2
1
hr 30 mins
hr 30 mins
hr 45 mins
hrs 40 mins
hr 20 mins
45 mins
4 hrs
Rome – Lecce
Rome – Naples
Rome – Bologna
Rome – Milan
Rome – Bari
Genoa – Milan
Bari – Lecce
5
1
2
3
4
1
1
hrs 30 mins
hr 10 mins
hrs 15 mins
hrs
hrs
hr 30 mins
hr 30 mins
5
VENICE
Venice is an unfathomable
experience.This glorious city, built
on an archipelago of more than 100
islands, traversed by 200 canals,
spanned by 400 bridges, continues to
rise above the waters of the lagoon
and the flowing tide of visitors.With
over 30 hotels, from the traditional
favourites to smaller family-run
discoveries, no one offers a wider
choice than us. Our unique Kirker
Guide Notes will lead you to some of
the best fish restaurants in the world.
1
The Cipriani
Deluxe
4
Bauer Il Palazzo
Deluxe
The most famous hotel in Venice, The Cipriani is part of the exclusive OrientExpress Hotel group. It has beautiful gardens, terraces, a tennis court and an
enormous heated open-air sea water swimming pool with poolside bar
and restaurant. Located on the Giudecca island, which is five minutes’ from
St. Mark’s Square by the hotel’s private launch (24 hour service). The hotel has
a gastronomic restaurant (jackets required for gentlemen at dinner) with tables
outside in the summer, the less formal and extremely popular ‘Cips’ restaurant,
a piano bar, and a fitness centre with sauna, Turkish bath and massage. The hotel
also has two separate buildings in the grounds, the Palazzo Vendramin and the
Palazetto, which offer accommodation in suites or junior suites. There are 98
beautifully furnished bedrooms. Hotel open 16 March – 11 November.
3 night price from £1,759 per person low season, £1,998 per person high season.
This is Venice’s most luxurious hotel. It is an authentic 18th Century
palazzo with the most spectacular vantage point in Venice – close to St.
Mark’s Square and overlooking the Grand Canal and St. Mark’s basin. The 82
luxurious rooms, many with balconies or terraces, have been recently restored
with the finest fabrics, gilt mirrors, carved stucco ceilings and Murano glass
chandeliers. Innovative cuisine is served in the award-winning gastronomic
restaurant, ‘De Pisis’, with a terrace set against the spectacular backdrop of the
Grand Canal. Breakfast is served at ‘Settimo Cielo’, Bauer Il Palazzo’s exclusive
terrace and lounge with magical views over Venice and the lagoon. There is also
a rooftop jacuzzi and health spa. Supplement for room with a side view or with
frontal view of the Grand Canal available on request.
3 night price from £829 per person low season, £1,439 per person high season.
SPECIAL OFFER 21 March – 26 April, 29 September – 10 November:
4 nights for the price of 3, saving £398.
SPECIAL OFFER 1 December – 28 February: 3 nights for the price of 2 for
arrivals on a Sunday, Monday or Tuesday, saving up to £160.
2
Gritti Palace
Deluxe
5
This is a stunning 15th Century palace with magnificent antique furnishings,
extensive lounges decorated in the Grand Venetian style, a wonderful restaurant
with terrace on the Grand Canal and an atmospheric bar. A luxurious haven
yet only 10 minutes’ walk from St. Mark’s Square.The Gritti reopens in
February 2013 following a 15 month restoration.
SPECIAL OFFER 10 February – 30 April, 14 July – 31 August,
13 – 31 October: 3 nights for the price of 2 for arrivals on a Sunday, Monday or
Tuesday, saving up to £255; 1 – 13 July, 1 – 12 October: 4 nights for the price of
3 for arrivals on a Sunday or Monday, saving £270.
3
Palladio Hotel & Spa
Deluxe
The newest property of Francesca Bortoletto Possati, owner of the
Bauer hotels. Designed by the Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio, the
building dates from 1500; it was originally a convent and had been abandoned
for over 100 years before Sigra Possati began the restoration. The hotel frames
the church of Zitelle on three sides and is located on Giudecca Island with
exceptional views back across the basin to St. Mark’s Square. There are 50
bedrooms and the majority have views over the lagoon or the Palladio’s
attractive gardens. All rooms are beautifully decorated with fine tapestries and
frescoes and have interesting architectural details that reflect the building’s
history. There is a restaurant with a terrace leading on to the beautiful garden
and an impressive wellness spa. One of the great attractions of the Palladio is
that you can enjoy the tranquillity of the hotel and its location, yet Venice is just
a stones’ throw away – a vaparetto stop is steps from the entrance and there is a
private solar-powered shuttle operating to and from the Bauer Il Palazzo, a
journey of five minutes. Hotel open 2 April – 31 October.
6
Danieli
Deluxe
This famous and beautifully restored palace dates back to the 14th Century
and is located right on the waterfront; just a few steps from St. Mark’s Square it
overlooks the lagoon and the island of San Giorgio. Many rooms have
a lagoon view as does the spectacular rooftop terrace restaurant where buffet
breakfast, lunch and dinner are served. There are 221 bedrooms and
magnificent public rooms on the ground floor. Rooms in the Excelsior wing
were renovated in 2008 and are sumptuously furnished. Lagoon view
supplement available on request.
SPECIAL OFFER 1 November – 30 April, 14 July – 31 August,
13 – 31 October: 3 nights for the price of 2 for arrivals on a Sunday, Monday or
Tuesday, saving £145; 1 – 13 July, 1 – 12 October: 4 nights for the price of 3 for
arrivals on a Sunday, Monday or Tuesday, saving up to £170.
all kirker clients receive
guaranteed entrance tickets to
the doge’s palace
The stunning ‘Palazzo Ducale’ was the residence of the Doges and is
the richest symbol of Venetian cultural, military, political and
economic history.The tickets will allow you to avoid the lengthy
queues and gain access to the Museo Correr and the National
Archaeological Museum. If you have visited the Doge’s Palace before,
we would be delighted to provide tickets to the Guggenheim or
Accademia Galleries instead.
VENICE
6
Ca’ Sagredo
Deluxe
This historic palazzo on the Grand Canal dates from the 15th Century.
It opened in 2007 after a restoration that uncovered an extraordinary collection
of architectural features. These, together with some magnificent works from
important artists, give guests a fascinating glimpse of five centuries of Venetian
history. With only 42 bedrooms, a large proportion of the hotel is made up of
wonderful public spaces including grand marble staircases and beautiful
frescoed halls. The rooms combine traditional Venetian decoration with some
contemporary touches and overlook the Grand Canal, the rooftops or the small
‘campi’. There is an excellent restaurant, ‘L’Alcova’, with a panoramic terrace on
the canal and an atmospheric bar. The location is good – opposite the famous
Rialto market and the service, under the watchful eye of renowned hotelier
Stefano Baccara, is excellent. Supplement for room with Grand Canal view
available on request.
SPECIAL OFFER 1 November – 28 February: 3 nights for the price of
2 saving £130; 1 – 31 March, 8 July – 25 August: 3 nights for the price of
2 excluding Friday and Saturday nights, saving £172; 1 April – 7 July,
26 August onwards: 4 nights for the price of 3 excluding Friday and Saturday
nights, saving £230.
7
Luna Baglioni
Deluxe
Almost next door to the famous Harry’s Bar, 100 metres from the Grand Canal
and two minutes from St. Mark’s Square, the Luna Baglioni is Venice’s oldest
hotel. Totally renovated, it now offers 118 luxurious bedrooms, a sumptuous
bar, very comfortable lounges and a wonderful gastronomic restaurant,
‘Canova’, serving excellent Venetian dishes. Buffet breakfast is served in the
magnificent former ballroom. Special prices for suites and junior suites available
on request.
SPECIAL OFFER 1 November – 21 March, 28 July – 22 August: 3 nights for
the price of 2, saving £164; 22 March – 27 July, 23 August onwards: 4 nights for
the price of 3, saving up to £210.
8
Londra Palace
Deluxe
Small, luxurious and located almost next door to the Danieli, the Londra is
managed by our great friends Mauro Zanotti and Alain Bullo. It is one of our
favourite hotels in Venice and Kirker clients have always been especially well
looked after. It has a bar, a comfortable lounge, a restaurant, the ‘Do Leoni’ with
a terrace overlooking the lagoon and 53 bedrooms which are amongst the
finest in the city. All Kirker rooms have spectacular lagoon views at no extra
charge. Supplement for junior suite with lagoon view from £80 per room, per
night. All the public areas of the hotel were completely renovated in 2009 and
it is looking better than ever. Highly recommended.
SPECIAL OFFER 1 December – 28 February: 3 nights for the price of 2,
saving £136; 29 February onwards: 4 nights for the price of 3, saving up
to £195.
9
Metropole
Deluxe
Overlooking the lagoon and just a few minutes’ walk from St. Mark’s Square,
the Metropole is a famous and atmospheric hotel decorated and furnished in
traditional style with over 2,000 antiques. Facilities include a beautiful lounge
where afternoon tea is served, an intimate bar, a delightful garden and ‘Met’,
Venice’s only Michelin two-star restaurant (tables must be booked well in
advance). There are 74 individually furnished and extremely comfortable
bedrooms. Supplements for rooms with lagoon view available on request.
3 night price from £638 per person low season, £893 per person high season.
10 Monaco & Grand Canal
Deluxe
The Monaco is one of Venice’s most famous hotels. The entrance leads into a
stylish lobby from where a grand staircase takes you up to the beautiful restored
18th Century former Venetian theatre, complete with original fresco ceilings.
The décor is contemporary and comfortable and combines traditional Venetian
elegance with modern design. Located Just 50 yards from St. Mark’s Square and
almost opposite Harry’s Bar; the Grand Canal flows directly in front of the
adjoining original wing of the Monaco, which reopened in April 2004.
Breakfast and dinner are served in the hotel’s canal-side restaurant or on the
terrace in fine weather. There are 99 comfortable bedrooms.
SPECIAL OFFER 1 November – 28 March, 30 June – 29 August: 3 nights for
the price of 2, saving £110; 29 March – 29 June, 30 August onwards: 4 nights
for the price of 3, saving up to £210.
11 Splendid
Deluxe
Ideally located between St. Mark’s Square and the Rialto Bridge, the
Splendid’s contemporary design offers clients an alternative to the traditional
Venetian decoration found at other hotels in the city. Although large (165
bedrooms) the personal service and cosy public areas give it the feel of a much
smaller boutique property. All rooms are decorated with expensive fabrics and
have extremely comfortable beds and luxurious bathrooms; many overlook a
small side canal (supplements on request). The restaurant ‘Le Maschere’ is
highly regarded and offers a modern take on traditional Venetian recipes at
reasonable prices.
12 Ai Reali
Deluxe
Located overlooking the pretty Campo della Fava and a small canal
between Rialto and San Marco, Ai Reali opens in December 2012.
Surprisingly for such a grand palazzo there are only 32 bedrooms and they are
some of the largest and most elegant in Venice with original features such as
wooden floors, ornate ceilings and fireplaces, combining with sumptuous
furnishings and subtle lighting (many have canal views). Ai Reali also has large
and inviting public spaces including a courtyard garden where drinks are served
in summer and a gastronomic restaurant offering a unique adjoining
‘kindergarden’ where parents can leave their children to be fed and entertained
whilst enjoying a romantic dinner for two. There is a spa on the top floor
(charges apply) which has several treatment rooms and a large jacuzzi. Our
good friend Andrea Doria is the manager and he will ensure Kirker clients are
especially well looked after.
SPECIAL OFFER 6 January – 14 March, 3 November – 26 December:
what’s included
Return flights to Venice
Return water taxi transfers
Accommodation including breakfast
Guaranteed entrance ticket to the Doge’s Palace (Guggenheim or
Accademia tickets if preferred)
Kirker’s Guide Notes to restaurants, museums and sightseeing
The services of the Kirker Concierge to book opera tickets, expert
local guides or a table for dinner
Prices are based on sharing a double room (supplements for single rooms and
suites on request). All quotations are tailor-made and fluctuate depending
on date availability – speak to an expert in our reservations department on
020 7593 2288 for advice and the latest prices.
SPECIAL OFFER 4 November – 14 March, 1 – 28 August: 3 nights for the
price of 2, saving £122.
Venice hotels continued overleaf
7
VENICE
13 Liassidi Palace
Superior
Recently, the trend amongst Venice hoteliers has been to lovingly restore
derelict Palaces to their former glory and open them as luxury boutique hotels;
and the Liassidi Palace is a fine example of this. Located in the authentic
Castello district of Venice, a short walk from St. Mark’s Square and the lagoon,
the entrance is from the pretty Calle della Madonna (one of our favourite
restaurants ‘Oliva Nera’ is located just around the corner), through a courtyard
filled with lemon and jasmine trees where drinks are served in summer. Each of
the 26 bedrooms combines traditional Venetian style with some modern twists.
Buffet breakfast is served in a room overlooking the San Lorenzo canal.
SPECIAL OFFER 4 November – 28 March: 3 nights for the price of 2, saving
£60; 1 – 30 April, 1 July – 30 August: 4 nights for the price of 3, saving £80.
14 Colombina
Superior
This small, boutique hotel is managed by our good friend, Andrea Doria. It has
a wonderful location on a side canal, set back from the lagoon, about five
minutes’ walk from St. Mark’s Square; look to the left from the hotel’s private
landing stage and you will see the famous Bridge of Sighs. There is a very
attractive bar and lounge, plus a separate breakfast room where buffet breakfast
is served. There are just 33 bedrooms and all are beautifully decorated with
expensive fabric wall-coverings and classical Venetian furnishings.
SPECIAL OFFER 1 November – 14 March: 4 nights for the price of 3, saving
£54; 15 – 28 March, 30 June – 29 August: 4 nights for the price of 3 if Friday
and Saturday nights excluded, saving £68.
15 Palazzo Stern
Superior
Opened in 2008, this is a beautiful 19th Century Moorish palazzo directly on
the Grand Canal. It is the sister hotel of the Locanda Vivaldi and is owned by
the Dazzo family who have overseen an intricate process that has restored some
beautiful architectural features including an ornate staircase, stained glass
windows and a former chapel decorated with mosaics and frescoes.There are
just 24 bedrooms and all are well furnished in Venetian style – the six junior
suites have either full frontal views or side views of the Grand Canal. Unusually
for a Venetian 4 star hotel, there is a garden terrace overlooking the water – this
is the perfect place to take breakfast or to relax with a drink whilst life on the
Grand Canal passes by.There is also a rooftop terrace with an outdoor Jacuzzi
which can be reserved privately.The hotel is located opposite the Palazzo
Grassi and close to the Accademia Bridge; the Ca’ Rezzonico vaparetto stop is
next door.
what’s included
A guaranteed entrance ticket to the Doge’s Palace (Guggenheim or
Prices are based on sharing a double room (supplements for single rooms
and suites on request). All quotations are tailor-made and fluctuate
depending on date, departure airport and availability – speak to an expert
in our reservations department on 020 7593 2288 or see your travel agent
for an immediate availability check and the very latest prices.
16 Locanda Vivaldi
Superior
This former palazzo of the composer Antonio Vivaldi is now restored as a
beautiful boutique hotel, right on the waterfront just five minutes’ walk from
St. Mark’s Square. The 28 bedrooms are very well furnished, bathrooms have
either a special jacuzzi shower or bath. There is a small bar, a breakfast room
and a large roof terrace with magnificent views of the lagoon – light meals are
served here in fine weather.
17 Palazzo Sant’Angelo
Superior
The Sant’Angelo, with its excellent location between the Rialto and
Accademia Bridges, is housed in a grand Venetian palazzo. The building has
been lovingly transformed into a charming boutique-style hotel with just
28 bedrooms, some of which overlook the Grand Canal. All the rooms are
decorated in a rich, traditional Venetian style and have luxurious Italian
Carrara marble bathrooms with hydromassage baths. The hotel has a small
lobby and a cosy bar.
SPECIAL OFFER 1 November – 28 March: 3 nights for the price of 2 saving
£98; 1 July – 28 August: 3 nights for the price of 2 excluding Friday and
Saturday nights, saving £116; 29 March – 30 June, 29 August onwards: 4 nights
for the price of 3 excluding Friday and Saturday nights, saving £130.
18 Ruzzini Palace
Superior
This fine boutique hotel is ideally situated on the grand square of Campo Santa
Maria Formosa and 350 metres from the Rialto and St. Mark’s Square. It is an
attractive 16th Century residence that offers personal service and combines
historical architectural characteristics with stylish, contemporary furnishings.
There are just 28 bedrooms and the deluxe and suite categories are particularly
impressive – high ceilings, frescoes, exposed beams, original Venetian mosaic
floors and great views of a small canal or the Campo are some of the features
that create a lasting impression on visitors.
SPECIAL OFFER 3 November – 26 February: 3 nights for the price of 2,
saving £65; 1 – 28 March, 1 July – 29 August: 4 nights for the price of 3 if
Friday and Saturday nights excluded, saving £92.
19 Ca’ dei Conti
Superior
This attractive hotel opened in 2001 and is located in the heart of Venice,
just a five minute stroll from St. Mark’s Square. The entrance is by private
footbridge across a small canal, not far from the Bridge of Sighs. Formerly
a patrician Venetian palace, the Ca’ dei Conti has been transformed into a
boutique hotel with 35 rooms. All bedrooms are decorated in rich fabrics with
elegant Venetian furniture in the classic 18th Century style. Public areas include
a breakfast room, two halls for relaxing or enjoying a drink, plus a small
outdoor terrace.
SPECIAL OFFER all year: 4 nights for the price of 3, saving up to £126.
8
VENICE
20 Al Ponte Antico
Superior
This remarkable former 14th Century palazzo has one of the most stunning
locations in Venice, right on the Grand Canal, next to the Rialto Bridge. It has
five good sized traditional rooms and three luxurious junior suites with
spectacular Grand Canal views. Furniture and wall fabrics are of the highest
quality, using materials designed in traditional Louis XV style. The hotel
entrance is via a tiny reception area which leads upstairs to the beautiful hall
with its imposing 15 metre fresco and Sansovino ceiling and small terrace
overlooking the Grand Canal; a perfect place to take breakfast, to unwind or to
enjoy a bottle of local Veneto wine. For bureaucratic reasons, because there is
no lift, the Ponte Antico is officially a 3 star hotel.
SPECIAL OFFER 4 November – 7 March: 4 nights for the price of 3,
saving £136.
21 American Dinesen
Superior
Located in one of the most atmospheric parts of old Venice, just two minutes’
walk from the Accademia Bridge, the American Dinesen is a beautiful hotel
with 27 bedrooms decorated in the traditional Venetian manner. Built on three
floors (no lift), there is a comfortable lounge and an attractive breakfast room.
The hotel overlooks a picturesque canal and is next door to one of our
favourite trattorias, ‘Cantinone Storico’.
SPECIAL OFFER 4 November – 21 March: 4 nights for the price of 3 if
Friday and Saturday nights excluded, saving £52.
22 Pensione Accademia
Superior
This famous pensione is located in one of the quietest areas of Venice, a few
steps from the Grand Canal and only five minutes’ walk from the Accademia
Bridge and Gallery. Delightful garden and courtyard together with lounge bar
and 29 recently renovated bedrooms. Early booking essential. No lift.
23 Flora
Superior
A truly delightful hotel, located about five minutes’ walk from St. Mark’s
Square. Many of the rooms overlook the enchanting, secluded garden where
breakfast and drinks can be enjoyed in summer.There is a small lounge/bar
and all 44 bedrooms are furnished with original antiques. Owned and run by
the same Venetian family for over 30 years, this is one of the city’s most sought
after hotels.
24 Locanda La Corte
Superior
A hotel of great character and charm, Locanda la Corte dates back to the 16th
Century and is set around a delightful courtyard where breakfast and drinks are
served in summer. Owned and managed by the Frascoli family, the La Corte
has just 16 attractive and spacious rooms, decorated with Venetian fabrics and
furniture, set on two floors (no lift). It is located in the Castello district of
central Venice, close to the beautiful square of San Giovanni e Paolo and the
Church of Miracles, a seven minute walk from the Rialto or St. Mark’s Square.
the price of 3 if Friday and Saturday nights excluded, saving £56.
25 Do Pozzi
Seven minutes’ walk from St. Mark’s Square, close to the Grand Canal. Simply
furnished and attractive with a delightful flowered courtyard where breakfast is
served in summer and a small lounge/breakfast room. It has 42 rooms divided
between the main hotel and new dependenze nearby. Hotel closed 16
December – 27 January.
saving £58.
transfer arrangements
PRIVATE WATER TAXI TRANSFERS
(Included for 5 star hotels): On arrival at
Venice Marco Polo airport you will be met
and taken by car to your private water taxi
which will whisk you across the lagoon to
your hotel or to the nearest landing stage.
At the end of your stay you will be taken
back across the lagoon to the airport by
private water taxi.
SHARED WATER TAXI TRANSFERS
(Included for 4 and 3 star hotels): On arrival
you will be met by our representative and
escorted with other Kirker clients to the
water taxi departure point which is a five
minute walk away. The water taxi will take
you across the lagoon to your hotel or to the
nearest landing stage. At the end of your stay
the transfer will operate in reverse. Please
note that this service operates between
08.00hrs and 18.00hrs, so if you are arriving
or departing outside these times then you
will be charged the supplement for a private
transfer. Supplement for private water taxi
transfer on arrival or departure: £36 per
person each way.
Venice hotels continued overleaf
9
VENICE
OPERA at LA FENICE
San Clemente Palace
San Clemente Palace
Superior
Formerly an abandoned island with a rich and varied history, the San
Clemente Palace is located in the Venetian lagoon with wonderful views of
the city.The main building dates from the 17th Century when it was a thriving
monastery but the beautiful church with its frescoed walls can be charted as far
back as 1131. The imposing main building surrounds four large courtyards and
has vast corridors, several restaurants including ‘Ca’ dei Frati’ with panoramic
views and 205 spacious bedrooms furnished in a contemporary style.There is
also an elegant bar and a beauty centre with sauna, massage and a fitness room.
The beautiful tree-filled park has a large summer swimming pool, two
tennis courts, a three hole golf course and plenty of space to relax and unwind.
The island is 15 minutes from St. Mark’s Square from where the hotel operates a
complimentary shuttle service. Hotel open 1 April – 30 October.
SPECIAL OFFER 1 April – 31 October: 4 nights for the price of 3, saving up
to £220.
La Fenice is one of the world’s most historic opera houses. Originally
built in 1790 it has twice burned down, in 1836 and again in 1996.
It reopened in 2003 and has been sensitively restored to retain its original
appearance.Tickets are hard to come by as most are sold to subscribers.
We source ours from a number of local agents which does mean that
the price we charge you will be higher than face value.
We will, however, charge you the price we pay plus a £10 administration
charge per ticket. Please contact the Kirker Concierge on 020 7593 2286
for details of the performances, prices and availability.
We operate a series of escorted tours throughout the year to include
performances at La Fenice and three guided walking tours in the
company of our tour lecturer, including visits to the Accademia and the
Peggy Guggenheim collection.
For further details, please call 020 7593 2284.
F L I G H T
I N F O R M A T I O N
Direct flights from the UK to Venice Marco Polo:
Heathrow: British Airways
Gatwick: British Airways, Easyjet
Edinburgh, Leeds Bradford, Manchester: Jet 2
East Midlands: bmiBaby
Dublin: Aer Lingus
Bristol, East Midlands, Leeds Bradford and Stansted: Ryanair
Ryanair operate services from East Midlands, Leeds Bradford and
Stansted to Treviso – further details on request
Business Class Supplement:
British Airways Club Europe from £280 return
VENICE LIDO
Excelsior
what’s included
Unveiled in 1908, the Excelsior quickly became one of the most eminent
hotels of Europe, welcoming such distinguished names as Errol Flynn and
Winston Churchill. To this day, the Excelsior maintains an air of sophistication,
though perhaps a little faded, compared to bygone years. However, with its own
extensive private beach, swimming pool and large terraces, it is a good family
option for those wanting a seaside location with the attractions of Venice a
short boat ride away. All 197 rooms either overlook the sea or towards the
distant sights of Venice and are furnished in a Moorish style. Sea view
supplement from £98 per room per night. Hotel open 1 April – 31 October.
A guaranteed entrance ticket to The Doge’s Palace (Guggenheim or
Kirker’s Guide Notes
SPECIAL OFFER 1 April – 30 June, 1 September – 31 October: 3 nights for
the price of 2 for arrivals on a Sunday, Monday or Tuesday, saving up to £176.
in our reservations department on 020 7593 2288.
VENETIAN CULTURAL EVENTS
Why not plan your holiday to coincide with one of the fascinating and spectacular festivals that take place in Venice each year? For more
information, please call the Kirker Concierge on 020 7593 2286 or email concierge@kirkerholidays.com
CARNIVAL
2 – 12 February
This is one of the most celebrated
events of Europe and is the feast
that marks the start of Lent. It
revives the traditional masked balls
and elaborate costumes of the 18th
Century with processions,
masquerades, music and festivities
that create a fabulous atmosphere
throughout the city.
10
FESTA DELLA SENSA
11 – 12 May
The Ascension Day Festival is one of
the city’s best known and celebrates
Venice’s unique relationship with the
sea. Highlights include the Doge's
procession in St. Mark’s Square, the
Sensa Market at the Church of San
Nicolò on the Lido,Venetian style
boat races and a water parade by the
local rowing clubs.
FESTA DEL REDENTORE
20 – 21 July
For the last 400 years Venetians have
met on the third Sunday in July to
give thanks for their survival of a
16th Century plague. The gondolas
make up a spectacular procession
that culminates in a sensational
firework display that lights up the
spires, domes and bell towers of
the city.
REGATA STORICA
1 September
This vibrant and colourful festival is
the annual test of strength and skill
for the city’s oarsmen. It starts with a
procession of elaborately carved
boats followed by a competition
between racing gondolas decorated
in the colours of the various districts
of the city. The day ends with a
musical fireworks display.
VENICE SIMPLON– ORIENT–EXPRESS
Here is the opportunity of a lifetime and the perfect way to
celebrate a special occasion in style.Travel in sumptuous
style on the legendary Orient-Express train between
London and Venice.Your holiday will include a luxurious
private cabin on the Orient-Express between London and
Venice, all meals on board served in the stylish gourmet
dining car, a transfer to your hotel by water taxi on arrival,
accommodation with breakfast at the hotel of your choice in
Venice, a water taxi transfer to Venice airport at the end of
your stay and a scheduled flight back to the UK. Immediate
quotations for Orient-Express are available on request,
simply telephone one of our experts on 020 7593 2288.
Day One: As you board the gleaming carriages of the British Pullman train at
London Victoria station, your steward will show you to your reserved seat.
Sit back and enjoy a three-course lunch with wine and a glass of champagne as
you make your way to Folkestone. On arrival, transfer by coach to the
Eurotunnel. At Calais, the immaculate Wagons-Lits carriages of the Continental
train await you, and you will be shown to your private cabin. Throughout the
journey you will be attended by your own personal steward. After you have
settled into your compartment it will soon be time to dress for dinner. Why not
sip a pre-dinner cocktail before making your way to one of the magnificent
restaurant cars. Here you will be served a delicious four-course dinner.
Afterwards you may wish to linger in the bar car, listening to the sound of the
baby grand piano.
Day Two: You awake to the magnificent scenery of the Swiss Alps as breakfast
is served in your compartment. Spend the morning in the Bar Car chatting to
fellow guests over coffee. Enjoy a leisurely three-course lunch served in another
of the beautiful restaurant cars. While away the afternoon in your compartment
and admire the passing scenery as the train travels through the Italian
Dolomites. Later, afternoon tea is served in your compartment as you travel
through the Brenner Pass. All too soon it is time to prepare to disembark as the
train crosses the Venetian Lagoon and pulls into Venice Santa Lucia station.
CABIN OPTIONS:
Double cabins: A private lounge by day with banquette sofa, footstall and
small table converting to a night configuration with an upper or lower bed
(all cabins include wash basins with hot and cold water).
Single cabins: Slightly smaller cabins with a night configuration of
a single bed.
Cabin suites: Two interconnecting cabins create a private lounge in the
first cabin and a separate sleeping cabin with upper and lower bed. Cabin
suites can also be made up as two sleeping cabins.
Venice simplon-orient-express
2013 departure dates
client testimonials
“The service in the elegant dining car and the excellent cuisine on the
Orient-Express exceeded our wildest expectations.”
“Thank you for suggesting that we return from our Silver Wedding
Anniversary in Venice by the Orient-Express train – we were thrilled
with the experience and it gave us something to look forward to.
We felt we had saved almost the best part until last!”
“Our Venice short break with the Orient-Express is an excellent
combination, particularly for a special anniversary or birthday –
elegant and tasteful.”
For tailor-made quotations on any of the Orient-Express routes highlighted
opposite, please speak to one of the experts in the Kirker Reservations Team
on 020 7593 2283.
London to Venice:
28 March; 4, 18, 25 April; 9, 16, 30
May; 13, 20, 27 June; 18, 25 July; 15,
22 August; 19, 26 September; 10, 17,
31 October; 7 November.
Venice to London:
27 March; 3, 17, 24 April; 8, 15, 29
May; 12, 19, 26 June; 17, 24 July;
14, 21, 28 August (to Paris only);
18, 25 September; 9, 16, 30 October;
6 November.
Orient-Express also operates the following additional routes –
prices available on request.
Venice to Prague:
1 May; 5 June; 2 October
Prague to London:
4 May; 8 June; 5 October
Venice to Budapest via Vienna:
22 May; 23 October
Budapest to London via Vienna: 25 May; 26 October
Venice to Krakow:
7 July
Krakow to Dresden:
10 July
Dresden to London:
11 July
Paris to Istanbul:
30 August
Istanbul to Venice:
6 September
Venice to Copenhagen:
8 April
Copenhagen to Venice:
14 April
Stockholm to Copenhagen:
12 April
Copenhagen to Stockholm:
10 April
11
THE VENETO
Venice so dominates the province of the Veneto that it is often
forgotten just what a treasure trove of historic cities and beautiful
landscapes are waiting to be discovered – Padua,Vicenza, Bassano
del Grappa and Treviso are all richly rewarding for the inquisitive
traveller.The flat, rural landscape around Venice quickly gives way
to a range of verdant, undulating hills and within this relatively
small area there are many delightful little towns, each with their
own important art gallery and historic quarter. Follina is a great
example and it is here that you will find one of our chosen hotels, the
Villa la Rotunda
Villa Abbazia – a perfect base from which to explore the area.
Other hotels include the Villa Michelangelo outside Vicenza, a major cultural centre and one of Italy’s loveliest small
towns, thanks to Andrea Palladio whose works dominate the cityscape. Padua is home to Italy’s second oldest university
and is a fascinating centre of art and culture. Scrovegni Chapel, home to Giotto’s 13th Century frescoes is not to be missed.
Villa Michelangelo
Superior
Majestic Toscanelli, Padua
This 18th Century stately residence is set in the beautiful natural
environment of Colli Berici, yet only a 10 minute drive from Vicenza,
the city of Palladio. The renowned restaurant, ‘La Loggia’, with its portico
opening onto the garden, serves delicious cuisine, based on the superb cooking
traditions of the Veneto region. There is a large indoor swimming pool,
52 comfortable bedrooms, many antiques and a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.
This is a great location for wine enthusiasts – the Colli Berici is a range of hills
that rise above the plains south of Vicenza, between the Colli Euganei to the
east and the Vicenza Pre-Alps to the northwest. The barrier effect of the
surrounding highlands gives the Berici area a mild climate that is ideally
suited to the vine. For golfers, the idyllic Colli Berici Golf Club is nearby.
Villa Michelangelo is a member of ‘Small Luxury Hotels of the World’.
SPECIAL OFFER 1 November – 28 March, 1 – 29 August: 3 nights for the
price of 2, saving £62, 29 March – 31 July, 30 August onwards: 4 nights for the
price of 3, saving £98.
Villa Abbazia, Follina
Deluxe
One of the most distinctive attractions of the Veneto region is its country villas
which were used by Venetian noblemen during the 17th Century as their
summer homes.Villa Abbazia is a great example and meticulous restoration has
returned this residence to its former glory so that visitors can discover the true
‘art of living’ as envisaged by noble Venetian families. It is situated in the
historic centre of Follina, facing the abbey and is surrounded by Prosecco
vineyards and the lush green of the foothills of the Veneto Alps, an area of
outstanding beauty that has inspired numerous artists and writers. It comprises
of a 17th Century palazzetto with 14 bedrooms and a Liberty style annexe,
with four large suites. The property is family-owned and managed and has a
friendly and intimate atmosphere – a true ‘home from home’. The restaurant is
one of the best in the region.
3 night price from £729 per person.
SPECIAL OFFER: 7 nights for the price of 6 all year OR 4 nights for the price
of 3 in March, April & August, saving £120.
Set in the heart of Centro Storico, the old part of Padua, this hotel is unique in
its location, adjacent to the remarkable Renaissance squares of Piazza Delle
Erbe, Dei Signori and Della Frutta where the market is held. The 32 bedrooms
are comfortably furnished in either Baroque Venetian or a more quaint 19th
Century English style. Breakfast is a lavish array of pastries, cakes and cured
meats and cheeses in a bright and airy environment – a perfect start for a day’s
sightseeing in this fascinating city.There are plenty of local restaurants to
choose from in the area and the Morosi family, who run the hotel, will be
happy to recommend establishments specialising in the local Veneto cuisine.
what’s included
Return flights
Car hire (private transfers available at additional cost)
Prices are based on sharing a double room (single on request).
All quotations are tailor-made and fluctuate depending on departure date;
speak to an expert in our reservations department on 020 7593 2288 or see
your travel agent for an immediate availability check and the latest prices.
F L I G H T
Direct flights from the UK to Venice Marco Polo:
Edinburgh, Leeds Bradford, Manchester: Jet 2
East Midlands: bmibaby
Dublin: Aer Lingus
Bristol, East Midlands, Leeds Bradford and Stansted: Ryanair
Ryanair operate services from East Midlands, Leeds Bradford and
Stansted to Treviso – further details on request.
Direct flights from the UK to Verona:
Stansted: Ryanair
Manchester: Thomson Fly
East Midlands: bmibaby (Wednesday/Saturdays 25 May – 28 September)
Direct flights from the UK to Brescia or Bergamo:
Bristol, Dublin, East Midlands, Glasgow Prestwick, Manchester and
Liverpool: Ryanair
Leeds Bradford: Jet2
British Airways Club Europe from £280 return (Venice)
£269 (Verona)
Follina Abbey
12
VERONA
Verona was a flourishing outpost of the Roman
Empire and important monuments and buildings from
this period survive in fine condition.The best known is
the magnificent Roman Arena, which hosts the famous
annual opera festival in the summer months.We
suggest that you combine a stay in Verona with a few
days on the shores of nearby Lake Garda.The Kirker
reservations team are also able to recommend longer
tailor-made itineraries combining some of the other
Italian Lakes.
Palazzo Victoria
Deluxe
This restored 14th Century palace opened in 2012 and is located a short walk
from the Arena and close to the main shopping street,Via Mazzini. Behind an
ornate façade you will find contemporary furnishings alongside original
frescoes and Roman ruins in the public areas. There are 70 classically-furnished
bedrooms, a fine restaurant and an atmospheric bar.
3 night price from £498 per person low season, £768 per person during opera season.
SPECIAL OFFER 1 January – 30 April, 28 October – 21 December: 3 nights
for the price of 2, saving £116; 1 May – 13 June, 9 September – 27 October: 4
nights for the price of 3, saving £138.
Due Torri
Near the Piazza delle Erbe and the Roman Arena, the Due Torri is a fine
example of a traditional hotel. It has a spectacular collection of antique
porcelain, silverware, fans, glassware and Chinese lacquer work. A 14th Century
former palace, there is a magnificent spacious lobby with plenty of comfortable
armchairs, a bar and a restaurant.
3 night price from £698 per person low season, £1,148 per person during opera season.
Accademia
Superior
Located in a 17th Century building facing the pedestrian via Mazzini, a few
minutes’ walk from the Arena. Pleasantly furnished throughout, the Accademia
has just 21 modern and comfortable bedrooms. Public areas are decorated with
antique furniture and tapestries. There is an elegant lounge, a comfortable bar
and a good restaurant.
SPECIAL OFFER 1 November - 28 March: 4 nights for the price of 3,
saving £92.
Escalus Suites
Deluxe
This lovely 16th Century villa is a member of Relais & Châteaux and is
located seven kilometres from the centre of Verona. The seven hectares of land
include a large private garden, with a magnificent summer swimming pool,
and the hotel’s own vineyards – reputed to produce some of the region’s finest
Valpolicella wines. The Villa del Quar is a typical patrician house, comprising
several lovely buildings; the main house accommodates the lounge and a
gastronomic Michelin-starred restaurant, ‘Arquade’. The 21 bedrooms are all
different, some small and cosy, others large and impressive; all are stylish and
individually decorated with antique furniture.
SPECIAL OFFER 15 March – 15 June, 16 September – 30 October: 4 nights
for the price of 3, saving £178.
verona opera festival 2013
14 June – 8 September
Prices range from £52 for unnumbered steps to £235 for the best stall
seats.We charge the price we pay plus a reservation fee of
£10 per ticket. For further information on the various ticket categories,
please call us on 020 7593 2288.
‘Aida’ by Verdi:
14, 23, 27 Jun; 3, 7, 9, 14,
18, 21, 28 Jul; 3 Aug
‘Nabucco’ by Verdi:
15, 21, 29 Jun; 4, 11, 25 Jul;
1, 4, 10, 11, 14, 17, 18, 21,
24, 29 Aug; 1, 3, 5, 8 Sep
‘La Traviata’ by Verdi:
22, 28 Jun; 5, 12, 19, 23, 26
Jul; 2, 8 Aug
‘Il Trovatore’ by Verdi:
6, 10, 20, 24, 27 Jul
Superior
Located right in the heart of beautiful Verona, only a few steps from the Arena,
Escalus has just ten extremely spacious suites which create the atmosphere of
stylish private apartments, some with a small kitchenette. The suites have a
luxurious contemporary feel with polished wooden floors, cream and white
fabrics and modern designer furniture as well as a selection of the owner’s
collection of paintings and photographs. Breakfast is served in your room.
SPECIAL OFFER 2 January – 5 April: 3 nights for the price of 2;
6 April – 13 June: 4 nights for the price of 3,saving up to £105.
Verona
Villa Del Quar
Superior
Located on the Corso Porta Nuova, ten minutes’ walking distance from the
Arena, this is a family-run property which has been renovated in a
contemporary style and has a good collection of modern art. The 27 rooms are
furnished to a high standard and have designer bathrooms (shower only).
SPECIAL OFFER 1 November – 13 June, 9 September – 31 October: 4 nights
Verdi Gala – ‘La Traviata’ 1st Act,
‘Rigoletto’ 2nd Act, ‘Il Trovatore’ 3rd Act: 17 Jul
‘Rigoletto’ by Verdi:
9, 13, 16, 23, 30 Aug; 6 Sep
‘Romeo et Juliette’ by Godunov:
31 Aug; 4, 7 Sep
what’s included
Return flights to Verona (see opposite page for flight information)
Return private car transfers
Prices are based on sharing a double room (single on request).
All quotations are tailor-made; speak to an expert in our reservations
department on 020 7593 2288 for the latest prices.
13
ITALIAN LAKES
The Italian Lake District covers a large area of the Alpine foothills in northern Italy.The landscape is dotted with a
series of spectacular glacial lakes, which are framed by steep mountains and picturesque villages, all within a short
distance of the great cities of Milan and Verona.The four largest lakes are Garda, Como, Lugano and Maggiore, and the
great number of smaller, but no less beautiful lakes include Orta and Iseo, with their own lesser known charms. Each
offers a slightly different experience and we would be happy to recommend a tailor-made itinerary which includes two or
more lakes, perhaps a few days on Lake Como combined with a stay in the Swiss-Italian city of Lugano or a stay on
Lake Maggiore, followed by a couple of days by tranquil Lake Orta which is a little over half an hour away by car.
lake garda
The largest of the Italian Lakes, Garda is popular with visitors from all over Europe who come to swim in the
clear waters and enjoy the atmosphere. Our hotels include a selection in the beautiful towns of Sirmione,
Gardone Riviera and Torri del Benaco and a delightful property on the quiet eastern shores.
GARDONE RIVIERA
This pretty town is situated on the western shores of the
lake. Sheltered by the mountains, it is blessed with a
wonderful, subtropical climate. As well as cafés and
boutiques, there are attractive parks and botanical gardens.
Gardone Riviera has been popular since the 19th Century
and it has retained much of its original character.
Villa del Sogno
This charming hotel has a splendid location on the hillside above the resort of
Gardone which is 15 minutes’ walk away. From its elevated position, it has
wonderful views of Lake Garda through cypress, lemon and olive trees.
The superb terrace is the best place to take in this majestic view – perhaps over
a morning coffee or a pre-dinner aperitif. The Villa was built in 1904 in a
neo-classical style by a Viennese silk manufacturer and the rich woods, antiques
and paintings give it a distinctly Austrian flavour. The 31 bedrooms retain much
of the original character and some have terraces overlooking the lake and the
gardens – home to a summer swimming pool and a tennis court. There is a
delightful bar and a good restaurant which opens out onto the terrace.
Supplement for double room with lake view from £38 per room, per night.
Grand Hotel Fasano and Villa Principe
Originally built as a hunting lodge for the Austrian Imperial family
the Grand Fasano is situated directly on the lake shore in a beautiful
private park. The elegant public rooms are furnished in the original style; there is
a restaurant, ‘Il Fagiano’, and breakfast and lunch can be taken outside on the
terrace. Facilities include a new Spa and Wellness centre with indoor
swimming pool, a clay tennis court, water sports and a golf driving range (the
hotel can arrange green fees at two excellent courses nearby). There is an
outdoor swimming pool in the gardens and a small pebble beach 200 metres
away (there is a 9 Euro charge for sunbeds – payable locally). The 75 bedrooms,
many with balconies or terraces, are located either in the main building or in the
Villa Principe. The town of Gardone and its ferry port are 15 minutes’ walk away.
Grand Hotel Gardone
Superior
Built in 1881, this iconic landmark is the grand dame of Gardone Riviera.
Over the years, distinguished guests have included Winston Churchill who
painted the surrounding landscapes, and many writers and poets who sought
inspiration from the wonderful lakeside setting. The elegant building stretches
along the lake shore and has 167 bedrooms which are furnished in classical
style; all have balconies and wonderful lake views which can also be enjoyed
from the swimming pool and restaurant terrace. Prices include half-board.
SPECIAL OFFER 27 March – 18 May, 18 September – 13 October: 7 nights
14
ITALIAN LAKES
SIRMIONE
The Mediaeval town of Sirmione is situated at the end of a long peninsula at the southern end of Lake Garda. It is made
up of a maze of narrow streets that are limited to traffic and has good restaurants, cafés, elegant boutiques, villas and a
wealth of historical interests. Especially the impressive 13th Century Scaliger Castle which stands at the entrance to the
town, the church of San Pietro in Mavino with origins dating back to the
11th Century and the Santa Maria Maggiore with its beautiful 15th
Century frescoes. Also worth a visit are the nearby Roman ruins of
the Grotto of Catullus.
Villa Cortine
Superior
This splendid villa, with its neoclassical Palladian-style façade, stands in an
extensive park at the tip of the Sirmione peninsula, on the southern shores of
Lake Garda. The hotel is reached through the tiny, narrow streets of Sirmione.
The Villa Cortine is a luxurious haven; an imposing gateway leads you through
the private grounds to the villa, built at the beginning of the last century. Here
you will find spacious lounges with stunning frescoes, mosaics and decorated
ceilings, a bar and an elegant dining room. There is a summer swimming
pool, a tennis court bordered by tall cypress trees and exotic gardens and a
private bathing platform on the lake with an attractive alfresco restaurant. There
are 47 bedrooms (minimum 3 night stay during Verona Opera Festival).
Sirmione
Continental
This comfortable hotel has a peaceful location on the Sirmione peninsula. It
overlooks the western shore of Lake Garda and is a short stroll from the hustle
and bustle of the town centre.The waterfront sun terrace is the perfect place to
relax – there is a private jetty with sun loungers and the uninterrupted lake
views are superb. There is a swimming pool, or you may prefer to swim off
the jetty. The 57 bedrooms are spacious and simply furnished; many have
balconies with views over the garden or the lake.The 1960’s architectural style
of the building is not to everyone’s taste, however, the service is excellent and
the relaxed atmosphere makes this a pleasant place to stay.The restaurant is
open for lunch or dinner and opens out on to a terrace in fine weather.
3 night price from £698 per person low season, £748 per person high season..
TORRI DEL BENACO
Villa Cortine
Olivi
This attractive hotel is set amongst ancient olive trees and a wooded garden in a
quiet residential area, five minutes’ walk from the bustling centre of Sirmione
and some 100 metres from Lake Garda. At the front of the hotel there are trees
and gardens and a large outdoor swimming pool with sun terrace. There is
a lobby bar, a breakfast room and an elegant restaurant. In summer, dinner is
also served outside on the terrace and light snacks are also served at lunchtime
at the poolside bar. It has 50 bedrooms; those reserved for Kirker clients are the
Olivi’s recently renovated ‘Quality’ rooms, each with a balcony overlooking the
gardens with views through the trees towards the lake. The Olivi is closed until
April 2013 when it will reopen with a brand new spa with a thermal
swimming pool.
A quieter alternative to some of the busier resorts
further south, this pretty town sits on the eastern
shore of Lake Garda, about 45 minutes from Verona.
A 14th Century castle built by the powerful
Scalinger family from Verona overlooks the neat,
cobbled streets of the historic old town and the small
harbour with its colourful fishing boats.Torri is most
famous for the Bronze Age rock carvings in caves
nearby, and also makes an excellent base for
exploring the lake as ferries head south to Sirmione
and north to Malcesine and Riva del Garda.
Gardesana
what’s included
Return flights
and suites on request). All quotations are tailor-made; speak to an expert
Superior
This privately-owned hotel occupies a prime spot in the centre of town,
opposite the castle and overlooking the Mediaeval harbour. The 34 comfortable
rooms are clean and furnished in traditional style with views of the harbour
and some have small private balconies. The hotel has two restaurants; the
‘Ristorante Torri’ with a terrace on the harbour front, and the first floor
‘Lounge Bar’ where breakfast is served. Both offer a range of regional cuisine in
the evenings with fresh fish from the lake a speciality. In the summer months,
open-air concerts are sometimes held in the small piazza by the hotel.
F L I G H T I N F O R M AT I O N – S E E P A G E 1 2
Italian Lakes hotels continued overleaf
15
ITALIAN LAKES
MALCESINE
SALO
On the northeast shore of the lake, where the dramatic
mountain scenery is at its most spectacular, Malcesine is a
popular destination for sailing and windsurfing due to the
reliable wind, channelled by the cliffs on either side of the
lake.The well preserved old town boasts a Venetian fortress
and a maze of cobbled streets, and a rotating cable car
which takes passengers up to the panoramic peak of Mount
Baldo from where the lake stretches out below.
A five minute drive along the lake from Gardone Riviera is
the smart harbour town of Salo.The town flourished under
Venetian rule in the 1500’s, but it came back into the
spotlight in the 20th Century when it served as the capital
of Mussolini’s short-lived Italian Social Republic from
1943 to 1945.Today it is a sophisticated resort town with
fashionable boutiques, cafés and an array of popular
restaurants, which line the lakefront promenade.
Bellevue San Lorenzo
Bellerive
Superior
Set high on the hillside above the town in its own private park, the
Bellevue San Lorenzo is a boutique, privately-owned hotel. The original
house was built at the end of the 19th Century and is now complemented by
a couple of additional villas housing a selection of rooms; some decorated in a
traditional style and others more modern. There is a highly recommended
restaurant, a state-of-the-art spa and an outdoor infinity swimming pool
with panoramic views of the cliffs opposite dropping sharply into the lake.
This is the perfect location for a relaxing break away from the bustle of the
town below.
PUNTA SAN VIGILIO
An hour’s drive from Sirmione, along the eastern
shore, brings you to the headland of Punta San Vigilio
which is perhaps the most romantic setting on
Lake Garda. It is home to one of our favourite
Italian hotels, Locanda San Vigilio.
Locanda San Vigilio
Superior
Entered through a line of ancient cypress trees, the Locanda has been a hotel
since the 16th Century and has just 14 atmospheric bedrooms in the main
building, each decorated with antique furniture and paintings.There are peaceful
lounges, a bar and the large terrace and excellent á la carte restaurant have
wonderful views of the lake. A cobbled lane leads to the hotel’s tiny private
harbour and their trattoria where light meals are served at lunchtime under the
shade of parasols and where aperitifs are offered in the evenings.There is a
swimming pool and guests can bath in some of the lake’s clearest water at the
beautiful Baia delle Sirene just a short walk away. Car hire included.
Superior
The elegant Bellerive is located just a few minutes’ walk from the centre of
Salo and overlooks the small marina. The spacious rooms are simply furnished
in a contemporary style and there are six apartments in the adjacent villa,
which are perfect for families. A delicious breakfast including freshly baked
cakes and pastries is served in the restaurant ‘100km’, which is also open for
lunch and dinner. The restaurant terrace opens directly onto a small garden and
there is a wonderful outdoor swimming pool for the summer months.
RIVA DEL GARDA
The small town of Riva, with distinctive Austrian and
Venetian architecture and dramatic cliffs is in the
northernmost shore of Lake Garda. It is one and a half
hours from Verona by road and linked by ferries to the
rest of the Lake.
Du Lac et Du Parc
This extensive resort occupies a prime location on the lake shore with a
private beach, both indoor and outdoor swimming pools and
spectacular views. There are 159 rooms in the main Hotel Du Lac, as well as 45
suites in a new annex and a number of bungalows which are perfect for
families. This is a great place to enjoy activities from sailing to tennis and there
is a year-round kids’ club, plus a spa and several restaurants.
LAKE ISEO
A lovely small lake between Como and Garda with
mountains that sweep straight down to the water’s edge.
The town of Iseo is very attractive, and other parts
of the lake may be accessed by local steamer.
L’Albereta, Erbusco-Franciacorta
Deluxe
A 15 minute drive from Lake Iseo into the Franciacorta wine
growing region will take you to L’Albereta, the former country
residence of a noble family.The accommodation is luxurious, however, for
many, the main draw is the wonderful restaurant where celebrated chef
Gualtiero Marchesi prepares superb dishes.The restaurant is closed on Sunday
evenings and all day Monday and advanced reservations are essential. Set in
beautiful gardens surrounded by vineyards, the hotel has an indoor
swimming pool, a beautiful spa, a tennis court and the area is excellent for
walking and sightseeing. Wine-tasting and tours of local vineyards can be
arranged as well as green fees at the nearby Franciacorta golf club.The hotel is
conveniently located for a short break – Verona is 50 miles away.
Locanda SanVigilio
16
SPECIAL OFFER 1 March – 31 August: 3 nights for the price of 2,
saving £160. Kirker clients receive a complimentary wine-tasting tour (not
possible in September) and a one day pass to the spa.
ITALIAN LAKES
lake como
The most beautiful and dramatic of the Italian lakes, Como
has inspired poets and composers for centuries.Tranquil, still
and timeless, the mountains that fringe the crystal waters
provide a dramatic backdrop as do the many villas that
stretch up the hillside from the lake shores.We offer some
luxurious hotels, with food and comfort to match the
wonderful views, as well as delightful family-run properties.
COMO & CERNOBBIO
The charming town of Como is the meeting place for the
whole lake community with regular ferry and hydrofoil
departures to the romantic towns of Tremezzo, Menaggio
and Bellagio and yet is only one hour by train from
Milan. Cernobbio, a village just five kilometres away, is
the home of one of Europe’s greatest hotels.
TREMEZZO
Tremezzo has an unrivalled location on the shores of
Lake Como with fine views across its calm waters to
Bellagio. It is an attractive, small resort with a good
selection of cafés and restaurants and is well served by the
frequent ferries which travel up and down the lake.
The grand 17th Century Villa Carlotta, with its collection
of decorative arts, has one of the finest gardens in Italy.
Grand Hotel Tremezzo
Villa d’Este
Villa d’Este, Cernobbio
Deluxe
One of the greatest hotels in Europe, the Villa D’Este comes very highly
recommended. Consisting of two magnificent villas – the Cardinal’s Building
and the Queen’s Pavilion – set 150 yards apart in spectacular gardens with
fountains and terraces at the water’s edge. All the luxurious bedrooms have
marble bathrooms and a blend of classical and antique furnishings. Public rooms
include the ‘Veranda’ restaurant (jacket and tie required for gentlemen at
dinner), the Grill Restaurant (smart casual) and a sun deck as well as a
magnificent lounge and piano bar. Sports facilities include eight tennis courts, a
squash court, jogging track, windsurfing, sailing, canoeing, water skiing, a golf
simulator, a beauty centre plus both indoor and outdoor swimming pools.
It has 152 rooms including 67 junior suites (special prices available on request).
Buffet breakfast included. Supplement for double room with lake view available
on request. Hotel open March to November.
This famous hotel adjoins the beautiful Villa Carlotta with its museum
and botanical gardens, and offers some of the best views on Lake Como.
For over 100 years it has welcomed guests from around the world, who today
enjoy this spectacular location. Just a few steps from the lake, the hotel offers a
relaxing private park plus sports facilities which include two outdoor
swimming pools (one floating on the lake), private beach, clay tennis court,
fitness and beauty centre. The exclusive T spa has a panoramic indoor infinity
pool with Jacuzzi and wonderful lake views. The 90 bedrooms are furnished in
classic style with parquet flooring. Elegant public rooms include a panoramic
bar, a billiard room, lounge, three snack bars (including the T Pizza) and two
restaurants, ‘La Terrazza’, the gastronomic restaurant with its spectacular
mountain and lake views, and ‘L’Escale Fondue & Wine Bar’ for more informal
dining. Hotel open 1 March – 31 October.
SPECIAL OFFER 1 March – 30 May, 29 September – 2 November: 7 nights
SPECIAL OFFER: Kirker clients staying from 1 March – 30 April,
14 October – 17 November receive a guaranteed room upgrade.
Albergo Terminus, Como
Superior
A delightful, small, privately-owned property located on the waterfront in the
heart of the fine town of Como. Ferries depart from close by to all parts of the
lake making this an excellent place to stay for those looking to explore.
Recently refurbished, the hotel has a lounge and a large hall (with painted
ceiling and antique furniture). The most attractive bar, where delicious caféstyle meals are served, leads on to a terrace with views of the lake and the
surrounding hills. The 40 bedrooms are all well furnished. Recommended.
SPECIAL OFFER 1 November – 30 April, 1 – 28 August, 1 – 31 October:
4 nights for the price of 3, saving up to £98.
Grand Hotel Tremezzo
17
ITALIAN LAKES
BELLAGIO
We believe that everyone ought to visit Bellagio at least once in a lifetime. It is that perfect small town which has just the
most wonderful views across the lake to the beautiful gardens of the Villa Carlotta and spectacular mountains that sweep
down to the water’s edge. It sits on a fork in the lake and has an air of quiet dignity.
Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni
Deluxe
To enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner on the terrace of the Villa Serbelloni,
admiring the spectacular panoramic views of Lake Como with its
picturesque villages and distant snow-capped mountains, is simply one of life’s
greatest experiences. Situated in the beautiful town of Bellagio and surrounded
by woods and splendid gardens, the Villa Serbelloni is a privately-owned,
traditional luxury hotel. There is a bar, a large lounge and the food is excellent
(jackets required for gentlemen for dinner in the main restaurant). A separate
building houses the comprehensive spa and there are two tennis courts,
a squash court and a large open air swimming pool – the hotel’s tiny
private beach is close to the pool. In addition there is an attractive indoor
swimming pool. There are 85 bedrooms; supplement for deluxe room with
lake view available on request. Hotel open 12 April – 3 November.
Florence, Bellagio
Hotel Du Lac, Bellagio
On the waterfront in the heart of Bellagio, the Hotel Du Lac has, for 50 years,
been owned by the same charming English lady – Signora Leoni who now
runs it with her son. The hotel’s restaurant, with its open air terrace overlooking
the lake, serves interesting Italian specialities. The 45 air-conditioned rooms are
simply but comfortably furnished. Drinks are served in the bar, or throughout
the day on the ground floor terrace, whilst sun worshippers can admire the
spectacular mountain and lake views from the roof garden. Supplement for
superior room with lake view available on request. The Du Lac runs a shuttle
service to the Bellagio Sporting Club one kilometre outside the town. The club
has a swimming pool, tennis courts, a bar and a restaurant and hotel guests have
free access to the club. Hotel open 1 April – 31 October.
F L I G H T
Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni
what’s included
Return flights
Superior
Owned and run by the fourth generation of the Ketzlar family, the Florence is
the oldest hotel in Bellagio and is located in the heart of this small town –
directly overlooking the lake. There is a bar, an excellent restaurant (tables
outside under the trees at the water’s edge in summer – restaurant closed in
October) plus a large and very comfortable lounge and a small spa. The 33
bedrooms are delightfully furnished with considerable style, and many have fine
lake views. Supplement for room with lake view available on request. Buffet
breakfast. No air-conditioning. Hotel open on 1 April – 31 October.
Direct flights from the UK to Milan Malpensa airport:
Luton, Gatwick, Edinburgh: Easyjet
Birmingham, Manchester: Flybe
Direct flights from the UK to Milan Linate airport:
Heathrow: British Airways, Alitalia
London City: Alitalia
Gatwick: Easyjet
Dublin: Aer Lingus
Direct flights from the UK to Milan Bergamo airport
(additional transfer costs apply):
Leeds Bradford: Jet2
Bristol, East Midlands, Glasgow, Manchester and Liverpool: Ryanair.
Alitalia from £320 return
THE GARDENS & VILLAS OF LAKE COMO & LAKE MAGGIORE
A SIX NIGHT KIRKER CULTURAL TOUR
Our Cultural Tours programme is designed to appeal to clients who enjoy travelling with like-minded companions and will be of particular interest to anyone
who is curious about art, architecture and history.The number of participants will usually be between 15 and 22 accompanied by an expert Kirker lecturer.
One has to go far to find a more perfect and peaceful landscape than the shores of Lake Como, where this tour is based.Tranquil, serene and timeless, the
mountains that fringe the crystal waters provide a dramatic backdrop as do the countless pristine villas that stretch up the hillsides from the lake shores.
These villas that have been built over the centuries by wealthy Milanese families have superb gardens which we will visit during the tour. A visit to the shores of
Lake Maggiore, quite different in atmosphere from Lake Como, completes this discovery of one of the most beautiful regions of Italy.
This tour will be led by Christopher Monkton and costs £1,879 per person. Departures are 3 April and 5 June. For further details or to request a copy of our
Cultural Tours & Music Holidays brochure, call 020 7593 2284.
18
ITALIAN LAKES
Regina Palace
The Borromeo Islands, viewed from Stresa
lake maggiore
Framed by soaring Alpine peaks, Lake Maggiore sweeps
majestically from northern Italy into southern Switzerland.
Stresa and Pallanza, on the Italian western shore are
recognised as two of the most beautiful towns on the lake,
with lush gardens and fine old villas. From both towns you
can take a steamer to visit the famous formal gardens on
the Borromeo islands or travel north to Ascona.
STRESA
Grand Hotel Des Isles Borromees
Superior
This grand, imposing hotel has a great position in the centre of Stresa, set
in its own extensive park and overlooking the lake. Since 1861 it has
welcomed distinguished guests from around the world; George Bernard Shaw,
Clark Gable and Ernest Hemingway were all regular visitors. Now travellers
come to appreciate the Belle Epoque atmosphere and style, the magic of a past
rich in tradition and history, whilst at the same time enjoying modern facilities.
The hotel has subtropical gardens, a large summer swimming pool, a tennis
court, a tennis court, water sports and a spa with a small indoor pool.
There is a bar, a lounge and an excellent restaurant; meals are served both in the
‘Il Borromeo’ (jacket and tie recommended for gentlemen at dinner) or on the
lakeside terrace. All 153 bedrooms are comfortably furnished (Kirker clients
will be allocated rooms with balconies). Supplement for room with lake view
available on request. Hotel open 28 March – 13 October.
SPECIAL OFFER valid all year: 7 nights for the price of 5, saving
up to £280.
Villa Aminta
Superior
We consider the Villa Aminta to be the most charming of all Stresa’s luxury
hotels. Privately-owned and run, this is a very personal ‘boutique’ style property,
built in the 19th Century. Located a few steps from the water’s edge and about
two miles along the main road from the centre of town (a free minibus operates
during the daytime) the hotel has wonderful views of the Borromeo islands.
The Villa Aminta is impeccably furnished in classical style, with a beautiful salon
which leads to the gastronomic restaurant, ‘Le Isole’, which offers delicious
dishes, and has a superb view of the surrounding mountains and the lake.
Kirker guests staying three nights or more are invited to one complimentary
candlelit dinner during their stay (excluding drinks).You will also find a private
tennis court, and outdoor summer swimming pool (although lake
swimming is possible) and sun terraces. The 68 bedrooms are decorated with
great taste; many have wonderful views of Lake Maggiore and of the islands.
Supplement for room with lake view available on request. Hotel open
28 March – 24 November.
Superior
As with all Kirker hotels in Stresa, the Regina has a wonderful lakeside location
and is 100 yards from the town centre. The ground floor décor is grand, Belle
Epoque style, with spacious public rooms, Empire furnishings, high ceilings
(with intricate carvings) and elaborate chandeliers. Dinner is served in the main
dining room or in the gastronomic ‘Charleston’ restaurant and a piano is played
in the more contemporary bar on most evenings. The 165 bedrooms are
comfortably furnished, and many have lake views. On the top floor there is a
small fitness centre and a jacuzzi. The hotel’s beautiful garden has a tennis court,
squash and an open-air summer swimming pool. Buffet breakfast.
Supplement for room with lake view available on request. Hotel open
28 February – 20 November.
PALLANZA
Grand Hotel Majestic
Deluxe
This delightful hotel has a majestic setting on a private promontory on the
shores of the lake, close to the pretty town of Pallanza and is a real haven of
peace and tranquillity. Built in 1870 as one of the private residences of the
noble Borromeo family and still privately-owned, it is set in beautiful formal
gardens and has wonderful views of the mountains, the water and the
picturesque island of San Giovanni. Recently completely renovated, the hotel
has 80 bedrooms, many with lake views and balconies. Light meals and drinks
are served on the panoramic terrace that runs the entire length of the hotel and
the ‘La Beola’ gastronomic restaurant offers freshly caught fish and other
delicious dishes.There is an indoor swimming pool, a tennis court and a
small private beach.The town and ferry port are ten minutes’ walk away.
A member of The ‘Small Luxury Hotels of the World’. Hotel open 19 April –
8 October. Our prices are based on superior rooms.
SPECIAL OFFER 19 April – 11 July, 30 August – 5 October: 5 nights for the
price of 4, saving £118; 12 July – 29 August: 7 nights for the price of 6,
saving £130.
ASCONA
Located on the Swiss north shore, this is one of the most
picturesque towns on Lake Maggiore, with a pretty
promenade and an attractive cobbled old town.There is a
sophisticated and relaxed atmosphere with refined
restaurants and cafés which combine Swiss efficiency with
Italian style.There are ferries from Ascona to Stresa and the
Italian towns to the south, and it can easily be combined
with a stay in Italy or on Lake Lugano to the east.
Eden Roc
Deluxe
The exclusive Eden Roc occupies a prestigious location at the head
of the bay. Created from three adjacent hotels, the resort now
includes 95 bright and luxurious rooms decorated in three slightly different
styles, ranging from classic to more colourful and modern. All rooms have a
private balcony looking over the lake or the surrounding mountains. There is
an extensive new spa and four restaurants which offer a variety of Italian
inspired cuisine. This part of the lake is also a haven for outdoor sports and
activities; there are many hiking trails in the nearby countryside, water sports
and boat charters are available from the hotel’s private marina and there are
several golf courses within a short drive.
SPECIAL OFFER 18 April – 16 May, 30 September – 24 November: 4 nights
19
ITALIAN LAKES
LAKE ORTA
LAKE LUGANO
Just eight miles long and two miles wide, Orta is among
the most picturesque of the Italian Lakes. Camilias,
azaleas, rhododendrons, wisteria, hydrangea and gardenia
decorate the water’s edge whilst snow-capped mountains
offer a dramatic backdrop.The spires and towers of
numerous churches and the atmospheric morning mist add
a sense of romance and mystery to the views.
Lugano is the largest city in the Italian speaking Swiss
canton of Ticino and enjoys a wonderful lakeside location.
It is a city of parks and flowers, with a historic, traffic-free
centre and a culture and cuisine that combines Swiss
sophistication with Mediterranean flair. Lake Lugano is
nestled between Lake Como and Lake Maggiore and can be
easily combined as part of a multi-centre itinerary. Swiss
operates flights via Zurich to Lugano airport, just 15
minutes’ drive from the centre, while Milan Malpensa
airport is just 50 minutes away.
Villa Crespi
Deluxe
Built in 1879, this is a unique villa in Moorish style with a dramatic and
distinctive minaret. It was built by a successful and somewhat eccentric cotton
trader who was inspired by his travels to the Orient. The elaborate stonework,
soaring galleried lobby, intricately patterned floors and frescoed ceilings make
this a truly palatial residence. The flamboyant character is also evident in the
14 bedrooms which are decorated with antiques and have four poster beds.
The acclaimed restaurant has two Michelin stars (closed all day Monday and
for lunch on Tuesday) and serves beautifully presented Mediterranean dishes.
There are flower-filled gardens that lead to the lake shore – if you would like
to swim, direct access to the lake is three minutes’ walk, alternatively, there is
a swimming pool at their sister hotel which is one kilometre away.Villa Crespi
has a convenient location, just 45 minutes drive from Milan Malpensa airport
and from Stresa, five minutes from the pretty lakeside town of Orta San Giulio
and 10 minutes from Omegna, famous for its fashion factory outlets.
SPECIAL OFFER for all departures: 4 nights for the price of 3 all week OR
3 nights for the price of 2 (excluding Saturday night) in April, May, September &
October, saving up to £180.
Principe Leopoldo and Residence
Deluxe
Formally a private villa, this fine hotel opened in 1986 and was the
country’s first Relais & Châteaux property. It is located in a quiet
residential area and has a gastronomic restaurant with a summer terrace offering
spectacular views of Lake Lugano and the mountains. The property has its own
small vineyard, 37 bedrooms, a tennis court, a small spa and a swimming
pool. A second swimming pool is located at the modern, four star
Residence which is located 200 metres from the villa. It has 38 bedrooms and
is ideal for families. Hotel open 1 April – 31 October.
Splendide Royal
The Grande Dame of Lugano for over a century, the Splendide Royal is still
the best hotel in the centre of town. The spacious public areas retain a slightly
faded elegance from the golden era of travel at the end of the 19th Century.
There are 93 large and classically furnished rooms which reflect the history of
the building and many have wonderful views of the lake. The restaurant ‘La
Veranda’ has a lovely terrace overlooking the water and head chef Alessio Rossi
prepares both modern Italian dishes and his signature Flambes, which are set
alight in front of diners.
International au Lac
Superior
This excellent property has been welcoming guests since 1906 and is now run
by the fourth generation of the Schmidt family. It has a great location in the
centre of the city, a couple of steps from the lakeside promenade. It has 86
simply furnished bedrooms, a lounge bar, a restaurant and a peaceful terrace
with steps leading up to a garden and a small summer swimming pool.
what’s included
Villa Crespi
San Rocco
Superior
Located in the centre of the mediaeval village of Orta San Giulio and directly
on the lake shore, the San Rocco is a perfect base for exploring Lake Orta. The
hotel consists of 80 bedrooms in two adjoining buildings. The main building
was completely renovated in 2009 to create a number of rooms with a striking
modern design, whilst the Baroque Villa Gippini has been more sensitively
preserved and is home to traditional rooms with some original features. The
romantic restaurant has great views of the lake from its arched windows, whilst
in the summer, guests can dine on the terrace by the outdoor swimming
pool. There is also a small wellness centre with sauna and treatment roomss.
20
Return flights
FLIGHT INFORMATION – SEE OPPOSITE PAGE
MILAN
Rome may be the official capital of Italy but any Italian will tell you that the
really serious decisions are taken in Milan.What will be the fashionable colour
this year? How high or low will hemlines go? For Milan is the style capital of the
world with designer shops (at designer prices), elegant boutiques and bustling
markets.The food, the cathedral, Leonardo’s Last Supper and the museums are
pretty stylish, too. Milan’s famous opera house, La Scala, is now open again,
demand is high but we would be delighted to try to obtain tickets for you.
Park Hyatt Milano
Deluxe
The Park Hyatt is set in a palatial building dating back to 1870. The
original façade remains, but the interiors have been beautifully redesigned
to create a stylish and luxurious hotel. It borders the famous Galleria Vittorio
Emanuele arcade and is a short walk to the Duomo. The 117 bedrooms
combine the contemporary with the classical with their high ceilings, rich
fabrics and sumptuous furnishings. The ‘Park’ restaurant serves Italian cuisine in
modern surroundings and guests can also enjoy lighter meals in the lobby
under the magnificent glass cupola. There is a small spa.
3 night price from £1,138 per person.
SPECIAL OFFER all year (excluding trade fairs): Stay Friday & Satruday, the
Sunday night is half price, saving £130.
Four Seasons
Deluxe
A former 15th Century monastery has been converted into a stylish hotel
that complements the fashionable location on the Via Gesu. The 118
bedrooms reflect the elegance that is the hallmark of Four Seasons hotels.
Each has fine fabrics and opulent marble bathrooms. Delicious breakfasts
plus light meals are served in the ‘La Veranda’ restaurant, whilst
outstanding seasonal dishes are prepared in the intimate ‘Il Teatro’.
Carlton Baglioni
Deluxe
Very well located on the Via Senato, the Carlton Baglioni is only 10
minutes’ walk from the cathedral and La Scala. Milan’s most famous
shopping street,Via della Spiga is right on the doorstep.The hotel has an
attractive lounge and café bar furnished with antiques, a famous gastronomic
restaurant and 92 classically decorated bedrooms. The Guerlain spa offers a
comprehensive range of restorative treatments.
SPECIAL OFFER 1 November – 2 January, 1 – 30 April, 2 August –
1 September: 3 nights for the price of 2, saving £140.
F L I G H T
Direct flights from the UK to Milan Malpensa airport:
Luton, Gatwick, Edinburgh: Easyjet
Birmingham, Manchester: Flybe
Direct flights from the UK to Milan Linate airport:
Heathrow: British Airways, Alitalia
London City: Alitalia
Gatwick: Easyjet
Dublin: Aer Lingus
escorted holidays to milan
We will be operating a series of escorted holidays to Milan in 2013 as
part of our Cultural Tours & Music Holidays programme.
They will include tickets to La Scala, visits to te Brera Gallery and
Santa Maria delle Grazie to see Leonardo’s ‘The Last Supper’.
For further details call 020 7593 2284.
De La Ville
Superior
With its position midway between the Duomo and La Scala, the De La Ville
has the perfect location for a comfortable short break to Milan. The 109
bedrooms have been fully renovated, yet retain the charm of being in a private
home. The restaurant ‘L’Opera’ serves delicious Mediterranean cuisine, while
the new ‘Champagnerie’ bar and the ‘Visconteo’ are two popular Milan
meeting spots. There is also a glass-covered swimming pool.
La scala OPERA
‘Lohengrin’ by Wagner
‘Falstaff’ by Verdi
‘Nabucco’ by Verdi
‘The Flying Dutchman’
by Wagner
‘A Dog's Heart’ by Raskatov
‘Macbeth’ by Verdi
‘Oberto conte di San Bonifacio’
by Verdi
‘Götterdämmerung’ by Wagner
Wagner's Ring Cycle:
- ‘Das Rheingold’:
- ‘Die Walküre’:
- ‘Siegfried’:
- ‘Götterdämmerung’:
‘Un ballo in maschera’ by Verdi
‘La scala di seta’ by Rossini
‘Don Carlo’ by Verdi
‘Aida’ by Verdi
7, 11, 14, 18, 21, 27 Dec 2012
15, 20, 23, 26, 29, 31 Jan;
2, 6, 8, 12 Feb
1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 13, 15, 17, 20 Feb
28 Feb; 3, 6, 9, 12, 15 Mar
13, 16, 21, 27 Mar; 3 Apr
28 Mar; 2, 4, 7, 9, 13, 16, 18, 21 Apr
17, 20, 23 Apr; 2, 5, 10, 14 May
18, 22, 26, 30 May; 3, 7 Jun
17, 24 Jun
18, 25 Jun
20, 27 Jun
22, 29 Jun
9, 12, 15, 16, 19, 20, 22, 25 Jul
20, 21, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 29, 30 Sep
12, 16, 19, 23, 26, 29 Oct
25, 28, 31 Oct 3, 5, 14, 16, 17, 19 Nov
opera ticket prices
Byzantine procedures and a substantial subscription scheme
means that tickets are hard to come by. We source ours through local
agents which does mean that the price will be much higher than the
face value of the ticket. We will, however,
charge you the amount we pay plus £10 per ticket.
what’s included
Return flights
Kirker’s Guide Notes to restaurants and sightseeing
single rooms on request). All quotations are tailor-made; speak to an
expert in our reservations department on 020 7593 2288 for the very
latest prices.
21
LIGURIAN RIVIERA
SAN REMO
PORTOFINO
Located at the heart of Riviera dei Fiori, on the western
end of Liguria, San Remo is one hour from Nice
airport and under two hours from Genoa. It has been a
popular seaside resort since the 1800’s. As you would
expect, there is a long sandy beach and plenty of
fashionable restaurants and shops, but it also has a
fascinating old town made up of steep streets, covered
alleys and atmospheric squares.
On Italy’s pine and flower-filled rugged northwest
coastline lies Portofino, the prettiest port on the
Mediterranean. The Splendido, on the hillside above the
village, is our favourite hotel in Europe; its charming
sister, the Splendido Mare, has a prime harbour location.
Not for the faint-hearted, these hotels are expensive but
when you are sitting on the terrace enjoying your dinner
in Michael Winner’s favourite restaurant, blending in
with the other beautiful people, you will appreciate why
the good things in life don’t always come cheap!
Royal
Deluxe
The privately-owned Royal is the Grand Dame of San Remo and has
been a favourite of the aristocracy and celebrities since 1872. It sits in
a private, subtropical park, a short walk from the casino. Clients have
complimentary use of a private beach which is located across the road.
Classically furnished throughout, there are grand public rooms and 126
bedrooms, many with balconies and sea views. The main restaurant, ‘Fiori di
Murano’, also has lovely sea views and is open for lunch and dinner (gentlemen
are required to wear a jacket for dinner). There is an additional summer
restaurant for alfresco candlelit dining in the park and a pool bar where light
lunches are served. There is a large heated seawater swimming pool open
from April to October and a luxurious spa. Golf, tennis and horse riding are
also available nearby. Hotel open 8 February – 3 November.
SPECIAL OFFER all year except public holidays and 13 July – 18 August:
Splendido
Deluxe
Perched high on a hillside above Portofino, one of the Mediterranean’s most
picturesque and unspoilt villages, the Splendido, a member of the OrientExpress Group, is one of the world’s greatest hotels. Lovely terraced gardens are
filled with pine trees and olive groves; there is a tennis court, a large open-air
heated seawater pool and a sauna. The restaurant, with its outdoor terrace,
must be one of the most beautiful in the world with delicious food and
spectacular views across the bay to the castle of St. George. The 66 bedrooms
are decorated in modern Mediterranean style, with many overlooking the sea.
Impeccable service and a relaxed and informal atmosphere. The pretty fishing
village of Portofino is just 10 minutes’ walk away. Hotel open 29 March –
10 November.
SPECIAL OFFER 29 March – 13 June, 16 September – 10 November: 4 nights
SANTA MARGHERITA LIGURE
Santa Margherita is a lively, little known resort with an
elegant piazza and harbour. It is dominated by its castle
which overlooks the port. A train journey in either direction
is a must – west to Genoa itself, a city of immense style and
great beauty, its streets lined by grand, patrician town
houses; travelling east will take you to Rapallo and the
magnificent scenery of the cinque terre. Portofino, one of the
world’s most stylish resorts, is a short taxi ride away.
Grand Hotel Miramare
Deluxe
Grand Miramare stands in a wonderful position in an attractive park
that looks out over the Gulf of Tigullio. The distinctive, white,
Liberty-style façade is decorated with frescoes and overlooks the promenade
that leads in to Santa Margherita. In 1903, the Miramare became one of the
first hotels on the Ligurian Riviera. Today, old fashioned service and traditional
style blend with some contemporary touches. The doors open onto the gardens
and the seawater swimming pool from where you can enjoy the wonderful
views under the shade of date palms. There are 75 attractive bedrooms and
many have balconies and sea views. The views from the restaurant ‘Les
Bougainvillées’ are also memorable. Additional facilities include
a health spa, a small private beach across the road from the hotel, and a summer
children’s club; the hotel can arrange tee off times at the nearby Rapallo Golf
Club, cookery courses, and tennis. The Grand Miramare is a less expensive
alternative to the hotels in Portofino and is a great base from which to explore
the Ligurian Riviera. Supplement for sea view available on request.
SPECIAL OFFER 6 January – 27 March, 1 – 23 April, 13 October –
22 December: 4 nights for the price of 3, saving £120; 24 April – 20 June,
1 September – 12 October: 7 nights for the price of 6, saving £160.
22
Splendido
Splendido Mare, Portofino
Deluxe
Enjoying the prime location in Portofino, right on the colourful Piazzetta, the
Splendido Mare overlooks the famous harbour with its luxury yachts, fishing
boats, cafés, restaurants and boutiques. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served
either in the ‘Chuflay’ restaurant or outside on the waterside terrace.
The 16 bedrooms range from superior double rooms to deluxe spacious suites
– many with glorious sea views; all are beautifully furnished and decorated in
light, Mediterranean colours. All the facilities of the Splendido Hotel are
available to guests staying at the Splendido Mare at no extra charge. In addition,
a 5-seater electric car ferries clients between the two hotels every half hour or
so (journey time five minutes). Hotel open 19 April – 13 October.
SPECIAL OFFER 19 April – 13 June, 16 September – 13 October: 4 nights for
the price of 3, saving £290.
LIGURIAN RIVIERA
RAPALLO
CAMOGLI
Five miles along the coast from Portofino, Rapallo is a
pretty harbour town with a distinctive castle on a rocky
outcrop in the sea, popular for its great swimming,
shopping bars and seafood restaurants and has a distinctly
Italian atmosphere.The furnicular ride up the hill to the
large Sanctuary of Montallegro with its marble façade and
wonderful views is a must and there are also a number of
churches and museums to discover.
This pretty seaside village lies at the base of Monte
di Portofino, 30 minutes east of Genoa and is similar in
style to ones found further south in Cinque Terre.
Tall, pastel coloured houses front the harbour and beach
and there are plenty of pleasant restaurants where you can
sample the local speciality, cheese focaccia.The town
benefits from a preservation order that helps to protect its
heritage – it remains under the main tourist radar and
makes a pleasant alternative to the more glamorous resorts
on the Ligurian Riviera.
Cenobio dei Dogi
Superior
This lovely hotel is the former summer home of the Genovese Doges and
there is no doubt that they used their influence when deciding on its
wonderful position. It stands at one end of Camogli’s small bay and the views
across to the village and out to sea are spectacular. Although renovated, the
hotel has a refreshingly old fashioned charm. There are 106 simply furnished
bedrooms that overlook the sea or the gardens and a restaurant that offers
good food and splendid views. There is an additional summer restaurant
overlooking the small private pebble beach. The snorkelling is excellent and
there is a really attractive seawater swimming pool. The hotel is located in a
beautiful nature reserve, the park of Mount Portofino, and there are a number
of walking trails from gentle to more strenuous. Ferries operate to Portofino,
Santa Margherita or Cinque Terre in the summer months. Supplement for sea
view available on request.
Excelsior Palace
Excelsior Palace
Overlooking the colourful marina and just 500 metres from the centre
of picturesque Rapallo and its beach, the Excelsior Palace is the grandest
hotel in town. The 130 bedrooms are comfortably furnished and decorated in
warm Mediterranean colours. The ‘Lord Byron’ restaurant offers panoramic
coastal views and serves excellent Ligurian dishes. There are spacious lounges;
cocktails and after dinner drinks can be enjoyed in the ‘Yachting Bar’. Across
the road from the hotel (connected by pedestrian tunnel) is the private Beach
Club with its cabanas, parasols and entrance to the sea by swimming pool style
steps, here you’ll find the ‘Eden Roc’ summer restaurant and ‘Sporting Bar’. The
Hotel offers health and beauty treatments and has a fitness club with a gym,
sauna and steam bath, together with two swimming pools – one outdoor
(open June to September) and one indoor. Supplements for deluxe room with
sea view available on request.
Cenobio dei Dogi
SPECIAL OFFER all year: 7 nights for the price of 6, saving up to £150.
F L I G H T
what’s included
Return flights to Genoa
The services of the Kirker Concierge to book expert local guides or a
table for dinner
Direct flights from the UK to Genoa:
Gatwick: British Airways
Stansted: Ryanair
Direct flights from the UK to Pisa (additional transfer costs apply):
Heathrow, Gatwick: British Airways
East Midlands, Leeds Bradford, Manchester, Newcastle,
Belfast: Jet 2
Gatwick, Luton, Bristol: Easyjet
Bournemouth, Dublin, East Midlands, Edinburgh, Glasgow
Prestwick, Leeds Bradford, Liverpool and Stansted: Ryanair
British Airways Club Europe Genoa from £235 return
Pisa from £260 return
23
BOLOGNA,RAVENNA & PARMA
PARMA
Parma was one of the many ‘city states’ in
northern Italy, each ruled by a different, powerful
dynasty. It was the seat of the Farnese family and
today visitors can enjoy the great cultural legacy left
by them.Their former palace houses the great
Teatro Farnese and the art gallery renowned for its
paintings by Corregio are all memorable. Giuseppe
Verdi is one of the city’s famous sons and the 19th
Century Teatro Regio hosts the annual Verdi
Festival in October. Fly to Bologna, return private
car transfers to/from your hotel are included.
Palace Maria Luigia
A member of the privately-owned Sina Hotel Group, the Palace Maria Luigia
is located in the historic centre of the city with a wide range of monuments
and churches, all within easy walking distance. The hotel has 101 comfortable
bedrooms, decorated in a classical style and a central lounge and bar which are
pleasant places to relax. In the summer, the outdoor patio is a charming place
to have an aperitif before dining in the hotel’s restaurant ‘Maxim’s’. The
restaurant is well reputed in this, the gastronomic heartland of Italy, and serves
seafood, fish and home made pasta based on traditional Emilian recipes.
the price of 2, saving £68; 30 March – 30 June, 30 August – 30 September:
4 nights for the price of 3 for Thursday or Friday arrivals, saving £80.
RAVENNA
This fascinating city is a haven for historians and art
lovers and was the last capital of the Western Roman
Empire. It has the best collection of Early Christian
and Byzantine mosaics to be found anywhere.They
adorn the mausoleums of the Emperors and the city’s
basilicas and churches. Fly to Bologna, return private
car transfers to/from your hotel are included.
Santa Maria Foris
Superior
This privately-owned hotel is situated just a few minutes’ walk from the main
historic monuments in Ravenna. A recent renovation has transformed it from a
simple guesthouse into a stylish property offering comfortable, contemporary
furnishings and excellent service. It has 13 luxurious bedrooms, all with the latest
technology; some suites can accommodate a family of four, or two couples.
There is a terrace where breakfast is served in fine weather, a garden, a library
and several lounges – perfect places to relax after a day exploring Ravenna.
what’s included
Return flights
Accommodation including breakfast;
Kirker’s Guide Notes to restaurants, museums & sightseeing (Bologna only)
The services of the Kirker Concierge to book opera tickets, expert local
guides or a table for dinner
Prices are based on sharing a double room (supplements for single rooms and
suites on request). All quotations are tailor-made; speak to an expert in our
reservations department on 020 7593 2288 for advice and the latest prices.
24
BOLOGNA
This characterful city, home to Europe’s oldest university,
has gravity-defying towers, 23 miles of colonnaded arcades,
rich art, wonderful food and the beautiful Teatro
Communale. Fly to Bologna, return private car transfers
to/from your hotel are included.
Baglioni
Deluxe
This is the best hotel in town; grand, traditional and located just two minutes’
walk from the Piazza Maggiore and the Basilica di San Petronio. Set in an
historical building and splendidly furnished throughout with antiques and
original works of art, the Majestic has an excellent gastronomic restaurant,
‘1 Carracci’, with a stunning frescoed ceiling, a piano bar and spacious lounges.
The 109 bedrooms are beautifully furnished and all have linen sheets.
SPECIAL OFFER 1 December – 28 February, 1 July – 31 August: 3 nights for
the price of 2, saving £115; 1 March – 30 June, 1 September – 31 October:
Corona d’Oro
Superior
Parts of this historical inn date back to the 14th Century. The Corona d’Oro
offers comfort and elegance in the very centre of Bologna, and has a bar and
a beautiful atrium lounge where a delicious breakfast is served. The 35
bedrooms are very comfortable, all equipped with a ‘power shower’.
The owners, Dr and Mrs Orsi, are charming hosts.
Novecento
Superior
Also owned by Mauro Orsi, the Novecento is located on Piazza Gallilei,
a pretty square near to the Palazzo Maggiore and the Basilica di San Petronio
and is ideally placed for exploring the beautiful old town. Behind the
traditional Mediaeval façade lies a strikingly modern interior with a beautifully
light reception, lounge and bar and just 25 bedrooms furnished in a
contemporary style.
RAVENNA, URBINO & THE COURTS OF
NORTHERN ITALY
AN EIGHT NIGHT KIRKER CULTURAL TOUR
Our Cultural Tours programme is designed to appeal to clients who enjoy
travelling with like-minded companions and will be of particular interest
to anyone who is curious about art, architecture and history.
Accompanied by an expert Kirker lecturer, this tour will depart on
21 April and 8 September and will explore the riches of some of Italy’s
smaller art cities including Modena, Ferrara, Parma and Mantua.
Price from £1,885 per person. For further details or to request a copy of
our Cultural Tours & Music Holidays brochure, call 020 7593 2284
MANTUA, MODENA
& FERRARA
MANTUA
Surrounded by three lakes, Mantua was the seat of the
Gonzaga family from the 14th Century.The impressive
architecture reflects the ambitions of the family, in particular
the Palazzo Ducale and the Palazzo Te.The Gonzagas were
patrons to a number of well known artists including Andrea
Mantegna and the architect Giulio Romano. Mantua is an
impressive example of how Italian cities evolved from the
13th Century through to the unification of Italy in the late
19th Century. Fly to Verona, return private car transfers
to/from your hotel are included.
Mantua
Casa Poli
An elegant hotel furnished in a modern, minimalist style, the Casa Polis’ central
location, near to the Piazza Bordoli, is ideal for exploring this fascinating city.
The 27 bedrooms are individually furnished and the hotel is unusual in that it
has an internal ‘garden’ or patio area where you can have breakfast or an aperitif
in the summer months. Alternatively, there is a lounge bar. Mantua provides a
wide selection of restaurants serving local specialities and a stroll through the
Mediaeval streets at dusk is a lovely way to build up an appetite.
SPECIAL OFFER for all departures: 4 nights for the price of 3, saving £110.
FERRARA
A picture-perfect walled city that came to prominence
between the 13th and 15th Centuries. It has more bicycles
than people because of its flat terrain – you may wish to join
the locals on the nine kilometre cycle ride around the city’s
Mediaeval walls. Highlights include the magnificent Castello
Estense; the fine picture collection of Palazzo Diamanti; the
Mediaeval cathedral; the allegorical frescoes at the Palazzo
Schiafanoia and the Casa Romei. Fly to Bologna, return
private car transfers to/from your hotel are included.
MODENA
Despite being a thriving commercial centre, Modena
remains a quiet town with a rich architectural and artistic
heritage.The atmospheric old quarter with its pretty
squares and arcades is dominated by the magnificent
Romanesque cathedral. No visit to Modena is complete
without a visit to The Palazzo Ducale, the old royal palace
of the Estensi family or the 18th Century Palazzo dei
Mesei. Fly to Bologna, return private car transfers to/from
your hotel are included.
Canalgrande
Superior
Housed in a wonderful neo-classical building, dating from the 16th Century,
the Canalgrande was originally the convent of the Holy Trinity. It exudes old
world charm and elegance and is decorated with frescoes, stucco work,
gilt-framed portraits and impressive chandeliers. Many of the 68 rooms are also
decorated with an impressive array of antiques. The leafy terrace is the perfect
spot for an alfresco breakfast and it leads to a tranquil, flower-filled garden.
The location is perfect – just 400 metres from the Duomo.
Principessa Leonora
A characterful bed and breakfast, the Principessa Leonara, located in the heart
of the old city, is just 300 metres from the Duomo. Dating from the 16th
Century, it is decorated with antique furniture and French tapestries and has 22
spacious, simply furnished bedrooms and a restful garden.
F L I G H T
Direct flights from the UK to Bologna (for Bologna, Ferrara, Modena & Ravenna):
Edinburgh, Stansted: Ryanair
Dublin: Aer Lingus
Direct flights from the UK to Verona (for Padua & Mantua):
Stansted: Ryanair
Manchester: Thomson Fly
East Midlands: bmibaby (Wednesday/Saturdays 25 May – 28 September)
Direct flights from the UK to Parma:
Stansted: Ryanair
Rail journey times:Bologna – Ravenna 1 hr 20 mins
Bologna – Modena
30 mins
Bologna – Ferrara
30 mins
Bologna – Parma
55 mins
Verona – Mantua
Venice – Ferrara
Parma – Modena
Mantua – Modena
45 mins
1 hr
30 mins
1 hr 15 mins
25
TURIN
Turin is known as a vibrant commercial centre, however, it offers a
richly rewarding short break experience and deserves much more
attention. It is home to one of Italy’s most beautiful cathedrals
and, of course, the famous Turin Shroud.This was the seat of the
House of Savoy, the Italian Royal Family and is a city of opulent
palaces, piazzas, churches and colonnaded streets. It has a
wonderful setting on the banks of the River Po, surrounded by
green hills with the Italian Alps in the distance.Turin has over
Basilica di Superga
40 museums including Museo Egizio, home to the most important
collection of Egyptian antiquities outside Cairo.The city has
PIEMONTESE COUNTRYSIDE
Europe’s largest outdoor food and vegetable market and some
great restaurants.There are a number of direct flights to
Locanda Sant Uffizio
Deluxe
Turin and it is also easily accessible by rail – it is on the
This attractive, country hotel is located in a tranquil hilltop location close to
TGV main line from Paris to Milan.
the village on Montcalvo, 20 minutes from Asti and one hour from Turin.The
Golden Palace
Deluxe
Turin’s first deluxe hotel opened in 2006 in time for the Winter Olympics
and boasts an excellent location, close to the Piazza San Carlo with its
Belle Epoque grand cafés. Behind a modern stone façade, the hotel tastefully
combines contemporary design with Art Deco furnishings and also celebrates
Turin’s Olympic links. The ‘Winner’ restaurant offers delicious Piemontese and
Italian cuisine, while the ‘Time’ bar is the perfect venue for cocktails and a light
snack which are served outside on the terrace in fine weather. The 195
bedrooms are comfortable, furnished with light, contemporary colours.
The hotels spa offers an extensive range of treatments, a fitness area and a small
indoor swimming pool.
Grand Hotel Sitea
Superior
Opened in 1925, this traditional 4 star hotel is located in the historical centre,
a few minutes from the Via Roma and close to Piazza San Carlo and Piazza
Castello. It is proud of its long history of providing excellent service and
hospitality and the atmosphere is calm and relaxed. The restaurant ‘Carignano’
with its Empire-style decoration is famous for traditional Piemontese cuisine.
Guests can enjoy a cocktail in the ‘American’ bar or in the small courtyard
garden during the summer. There are 114 bedrooms decorated in classical style.
Locanda is conveniently located for discovering the rolling countryside, cuisine
and wines of the Montferrato and Le Langhe regions. Set within a 100 year old
estate and overlooking Italian gardens and a large outdoor swimming pool,
the property, which dates from the 17th Century, has been carefully restored.
There are 40 bedrooms, tastefully decorated in traditional style with stone
floors and antiques; some have balconies. A gastronomic restaurant serves
delicious local specialities, there is a cosy lounge bar with a fireplace, whilst in
the summer, breakfast, light lunches and drinks are served on the hotel’s terrace,
sheltered by lemon and orange trees. Mountain bikes are available, and the hotel
can recommend walks in the surrounding countryside.
what’s included
Return flights
The ‘Torino Card’
Accommodation including breakfast and the services of the
Kirker Concierge
on request). All quotations are tailor-made; speak to an expert in our
reservations department on 020 7593 2288 for the very latest prices.
OPERA in turin
NH Santo Stefano
Superior
This modern hotel was completed in time for the Winter Olympics and has an
excellent location in the fashionable Quadrilatero Romano quarter, within
walking distance of Piazza Castello, the 14th Century Cathedral of San
Giovanni Batista and the Egyptian Museum. There is a comfortable lounge bar
which serve light snacks, a restaurant (closed Friday evening and at the
weekend – we can recommend local restaurants) and a large courtyard where
drinks can be served. There are some superb views of the surrounding Alpine
landscape from the 5th floor terrace. The 135 bedrooms have wooden floors
and are decorated in light colours. There is a small beauty centre and hammam.
torino card
For all our clients travelling to Turin, we are delighted to include a 72
hour Torino Card which gives complimentary entrance to over 160
cultural sites including museums, monuments, fortresses and Royal
Residences in Turin and Piedmont.The card also gives free use of the
city’s overground public transport system and reductions on the prices
of guided tours, theatre, concerts, and the famous ‘ChocoPass’.
26
The first performance of Puccini’s ‘La Boheme’ took place at the Teatro
Regio in Turin in 1896 thus consolidating the status of the city's opera
house as one of the most important in Italy. Almost one hundred and
twenty years later it is enjoying a Golden Age under its musical director,
Gianandrea Noseda. It is now considered to be one of the best organised
and musically rich houses in Europe.
Highlights for 2013 include two glorious Italian comic operas, ‘L'elisir
d'amore’ by Donizetti and Rossini's ‘L'Italiana in Algeri’ (May and June).
Barbara Frittoli sings Elisabetta de Valois in Verdi's ‘Don Carlo’ in April
and the year opens with Giordano's verismo masterpiece, ‘Andrea Chenier’.
Call the Kirker Concierge on 020 7593 2286 for schedules and ticket prices.
F L I G H T
Direct flights from the UK to Turin:
Dublin, Stansted: Ryanair
Additional regional departures via Paris, Frankfurt and Brussels with Air France,
Lufthansa and SN Brussels Airlines are available on request
AN ITALIAN TRILOGY
a unique three-centre holiday combining rome, florence and siena
We are delighted to offer this exclusive, week long holiday which combines all three of the beautiful Royal Demeure Hotels; the D’Inghilterra
in Rome; the Grand Continental in Siena; and the Helvetia e Bristol in Florence.These are three of our favourite properties in Italy and each
offers superb service, style and comfort in beautiful locations.We have been working with them for over 20 years and over this period Kirker
customers have always been especially well looked after. Prices for different durations are available on request.
The package will include the following:
Scheduled flight from the UK to Rome.
•
• Return private car transfers in Rome.
• Three nights’ accommodation with breakfast at the Hotel D’Inghilterra.
• Guaranteed entrance tickets to the Vatican Museum or Borghese Gallery.
• First class rail from Rome to Florence.
• Return private car transfers in Florence.
• Two nights’ accommodation with breakfast at the Hotel Helvetia e Bristol.
• Guaranteed entrance tickets to the Uffizi Gallery.
• Private return car transfer Florence to Siena.
• Two nights’ accommodation with breakfast at the Grand Continental.
• Scheduled flight from Florence to the UK.
Grand Hotel Continental, Siena
Deluxe
Located in the heart of Siena, close to Piazza del Campo, this 17th Century
palace is home to many magnificent frescoes. Rooms are beautifully
furnished with elegant antiques and service is exemplary.
For additional hotel information see page 31 or visit our website:
www.kirkerholidays.com
SPECIAL OFFER: 1 November – 30 April, 1 July – 31 August, a third
night in Siena can be added free of charge.
Clients booking the above package will receive the following exclusive
complimentary benefits:
A three course dinner at the D’Inghilterra’s stylish ‘Café Romano’.
•
• A complimentary lunch at ‘Hostaria Bibendum’ in the Helvetia e Bristol.
• A wine-tasting at the Grand Hotel Continental.
Price per person for departures from 1 November – 20 March,
1 – 31 August: £1,748 per person.
Price per person for departures from 21 March – 31 July,
1 September – 31 October: £2,398 per person.
If you would like to combine this package with other locations in Italy, or if
you would like a price for longer durations in each destination, please do not
hesitate to call us.
Ballroom of the Grand Continental, Siena
D’Inghilterra, Rome
Helvetia e Bristol, Florence
Deluxe
Deluxe
Our most popular hotel in Rome, D’Inghilterra has its origins in an elegant
period in Rome’s history when monarchs, artists and screen idols made it
their home, attracted by warm hospitality and an ideal location near the
Spanish Steps and the exclusive shops of the via Condotti.
SPECIAL OFFER: In high season, if you arrive in Rome on a Sunday we
can reduce the package price from £2,398 to £2,138.
The hotel Helvetia e Bristol is a magnificent palazzo which has been
welcoming guests since the mid 19th Century. It offers charm, superb
service and an unrivalled location in the centre of Florence, just steps from
the Duomo and Piazza Repubblica.
SPECIAL OFFER: 1 November – 28 March, 1 – 31 August, a third night in
Florence can be added free of charge.
D’Inghilterra
Helvetia e Bristol
27
FLORENCE
There could be no better setting, on the banks of the River Arno,
for the birthplace of the Renaissance than Florence, the city of
Michelangelo, Da Vinci, Giotto, Dante and their patrons, the
Medici family.The list of works of art is almost overpowering,
but our Kirker Guide Notes will help you find quieter secrets,
and some special trattoria and restaurants, not found in other
‘official’ handbooks. All holidays include a guaranteed timed
entrance to the Uffizi so you can avoid the lengthy queues.
1
Villa San Michele
Deluxe
Owned by the Orient-Express Group. The Villa San Michele is nestled on the
hillside below the small town of Fiesole and is one of our favourite hotels in Italy.
Under the watchful eye of the charming manager, Marco Novella, service is
sublime and its location overlooking the city below is breathtaking. The 15th
Century former monastery has a famous façade attributed to Michelangelo and a
beautiful loggia terrace – dinner here is one of life’s great pleasures (jackets
required for gentlemen). There are 46 bedrooms located either in the main
building or amid roses and lemon trees of the terraced gardens and a beautiful
heated outdoor summer swimming pool. A courtesy shuttle bus runs
regularly to and from the Duomo. No lift. Hotel open 21 March – 10 November.
3 night price from £1,498 per person in low season, £1,698 per person in high season.
SPECIAL OFFER 21 March – 16 May, 14 July – 5 September, 6 October –
10 November: 4 nights for the price of 3, saving £350.
2
Helvetia e Bristol
Deluxe
This is our favourite hotel in the centre of Florence. It is run by our good
friend Stefano Venturi and is a member of Royal Demeure who also own the
Grand Continental in Siena and the D’Inghilterra in Rome. The location is
perfect – in the very heart of Florence, just steps from the Duomo and Piazza
della Signoria. It is small, characterful and beautifully furnished and has a
fashionable bar and a fine restaurant, ‘Hostaria Bibendum’. Breakfast, lunch and
dinner can all be enjoyed outside on the street-side terrace in fine weather.
There are just 67 bedrooms including some beautiful suites and each is stylishly
furnished in traditional Florentine style. Service is exemplary and Kirker clients
have always been especially well looked after. See page 27 for details of a
unique three-centre holiday combining the Helvetia e Bristol with sister
hotels in Siena and Rome.
SPECIAL OFFER 1 November – 28 March, 1 August – 4 September: 3 nights
for the price of 2, saving £148; 29 March – 31 July, 5 September onwards:
3
Relais Santa Croce
Deluxe
We were instantly captivated by this beautiful hotel when we first visited in the
summer of 2008. We knew immediately that the elegant furnishings, unique
atmosphere, classical features and superb, personal service would greatly appeal
to our most discerning clients. The Palazzo was built in the early 1700’s by
Marquis Baldinucci who was the treasurer to the Pope, and a recent restoration
has returned it to its original splendour – the frescoes are spectacular. It has a
quiet location, close to the Arno and just 50 metres from Santa Croce Basilica.
The Duomo is less than 10 minutes’ walk away. All 24 bedrooms are extremely
comfortable and are beautifully decorated with a combination of period
furniture and designer elements; many overlook the Florence skyline. The
elegant ‘Guelfi e Ghibellini’ restaurant combines traditional Tuscan recipies with
modern flair.
the price of 2, saving £162; 8 March – 24 April, 30 June – 27 July: 4 nights for
the price of 3, saving up to £198.
28
4
Four Seasons
Deluxe
The long awaited Four Seasons Florence, opened its doors in the summer
of 2008. It is made up of two palazzos, either side of a wonderful, eight
acre park, filled with mature trees. The restoration was a painstaking business –
spectacular frescoes were unearthed and returned to their former glory. As you
would expect, the quality of the accommodation, cuisine and service is
exceptional. It is located 15 minutes’ walk from the Duomo and has 117
beautiful bedrooms, many with views out over the gardens, it has an outdoor
swimming pool and a luxurious spa.
3 night price from £996 per person in low season, £1,498 per person in high season.
5
Savoy
Deluxe
The Savoy stands on the Piazza della Repubblica in the centre of Florence and
has been completely refurbished. Its traditional Italian exterior reflects the turnof-the-century period in which it was built – but there are many Rocco Forte
individual touches to lift this hotel above the norm. The public rooms and the
107 bedrooms have been beautifully decorated in a modern, contemporary
style with typically Florentine colours. Fine meals are served both in the hotel
restaurant ‘I’Incontro’, and alfresco on the terrace; there is also a bar.
for the price of 2 and a guaranteed room upgrade, saving £280.
6
Villa La Massa
Deluxe
Sister hotel of the Villa d’Este on Lake Como, this noble Renaissance 16th
Century residence is located on the banks of the River Arno at Candeli, some
15 minutes’ drive from Florence and stands in extensive gardens with an openair summer swimming pool and a riverside restaurant. A free shuttle bus
operates to the Ponte Vecchio in Florence during the day. The 37 bedrooms are
located in three classical Tuscan villas and are furnished with antiques. The hotel
has complimentary bicycles for exploring the beautiful surroundings. Hotel
open from 22 March – 3 November.
SPECIAL OFFER 22 March – 30 May, 29 July – 3 November: 3 nights for
the price of 2, saving £195; 31 May – 28 July: 4 nights for the price of 3,
saving £240.
ALL KIRKER HOLIDAYS TO FLORENCE INCLUDE
A TIMED ENTRANCE TICKET TO THE UFFIZI
MUSEUM (CLOSED MONDAYS). WE CAN INCLUDE
ENTRANCE TICKETS FOR THE ACCADEMIA OR
BARGELLO GALLERIES IF YOU PREFER.
FLORENCE
7
Grand Hotel Villa Cora
Deluxe
This elegant villa was built in 1868 and converted into a hotel in 1960.
It closed in 2006 and after four years of extensive restoration, reopened in
December 2010 as a wonderful property combining elegant furnishings with
personal service. It has a peaceful setting in its own grounds behind the Boboli
Gardens, a 20 minute walk down the hill to the Ponte Vecchio. There are 30
rooms in the main villa and 14 in the ‘villino’ Eugenia which also houses the
spa. Rooms overlook the large heated swimming pool or the gardens and
are beautifully furnished with restored period furniture and works of art from
the family’s eclectic private collection (rooms on the third floor have balconies).
There are two more rooms in a small ‘folies’ by the entrance gates – ideal for a
family. The roof terrace (10 steps lead up from the lift) has wonderful
panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills and is the perfect spot for an
aperitif prior to dining in the restaurant. A free shuttle operates from 9am to
8pm, stopping at key points in the city centre (guests can leave shopping at
sister property the Santa Maria Novella if they wish, prior to returning to Villa
Cora at the end of the day).
SPECIAL OFFER 1 December – 31 January, 1 – 28 March, 1 – 30 April, 14
October onwards: 3 nights for the price of 2, saving £136; 22 July – 31 August:
8
Villa Medici
Superior
This patrician 18th Century palace is located three minutes from the River
Arno and about 15 minutes’ walk from the cathedral, with several
restaurants and fashionable boutiques close by. Our four favourite trattorie
are within five minutes’ walk. Furnishings and décor are an attractive mix of
classical Florentine and contemporary style, and complement the fine
lounge, bar and excellent restaurant. The 100 Bedrooms have all been
renovated; some overlook the hotel’s private garden and small swimming
pool (open June – September). Kirker guests have free entrance to the
hotel’s health club.
SPECIAL OFFER 1 November – 21 April, 22 July – 4 September,
7 – 31 October: 3 nights for the price of 2, saving £130; 22 April – 21 July,
5 September – 6 October: 4 nights for the price of 3, saving £198.
9
Lungarno
Deluxe
Shelley described the view of the River Arno from the Ponte Vecchio as “the
most vibrant and elegant that I have ever seen”, and you have the same
breathtaking view if you book a riverside room at the Lungarno – one of the
top first class hotels in Florence and now a member of the ‘Small Luxury
Hotels of the World’. Refurbished to a very high standard, it offers 73
beautifully furnished bedrooms plus several public rooms, all featuring original
paintings and works of art. The ‘Ristorante Lungarno’ (closed on Tuesdays) has
local specialities and fresh fish dishes. Supplement for deluxe room with river
view available on request.
11
Antica Torre di via Tornabuoni 1
(a boutique private residence)
We are delighted to introduce this beautiful property which dates from the
13th Century and stands on via Tornabuoni, a few minutes’ walk from the
Duomo. It is considered to be one of Mediaeval Florence’s most historic ‘tower
houses’ and has preserved many architectural characteristics, including two
magnificent roof terraces where you can enjoy breakfast or an evening aperitif
whilst taking in the panoramic views of the city. The seven renovated rooms in
the Palazzo Gianfigliazzi, where Kirker clients will be accommodated, are some
of the most stylish and comfortable in Florence (supplement for Arno view on
request). Our great friend Maria Rita Bellini and her team offer exceptional
personal service and a ‘home-from-home’ atmosphere. Highly recommend.
SPECIAL OFFER 3 November – 28 March, 16 July – 31 August: 3 nights for the
price of 2, saving up to £122. Kirker clients staying 3 nights or more during other
periods receive a complimentary two course lunch with wine in a local trattoria.
All Kirker clients staying at Antica Torre receive guaranteed entrance tickets to the
Strozzi Museum.
12 Santa Maria Novella
Superior
After an extensive renovation, this fine hotel opened its doors early in 2004 and
is, we think, the city’s best 4 star. It is located on one of Florence’s main squares,
the Piazza Santa Maria Novella, and is only five minutes’ walk from the Duomo
and the prestigious Via Tornabuoni shopping street. All 71 bedrooms are
impeccable and beautifully furnished using fine fabrics and rich colours; all
have very impressive marble bathrooms. The hotel has a roof terrace and a bar
overlooking the piazza.
SPECIAL OFFER 1 December – 25 March: 3 nights for the price of 2, saving
£108; 1 – 31 August: 4 nights for the price of 3, saving £132.
13 Degli Orafi
Superior
Although this beautiful hotel only opened in the summer of 2002, it is housed
in one of Florence’s most attractive ancient residences, with parts dating back to
the 12th Century Holy Agostino Padri Convent. It is located a few steps from
the Uffizi Museum overlooking the River Arno, just 100 metres from the
Ponte Vecchio in the heart of the historical centre. All 42 rooms are delightfully
furnished in the grand, Florentine style, many with wonderful river and city
views. A full buffet breakfast is served in a spectacular first floor room, which
has a marvellous hand-painted ceiling dating from the 18th Century. On the
fifth floor there is an attractive bar and terrace with panoramic views of the city
and Florentine hills across the river. Supplement for executive room with river
view from £38 per room, per night.
SPECIAL OFFER 1 November – 28 December, 6 January – 20 March;
7 July – 31 August: 4 nights for the price of 3, saving £108.
what’s included
10 Continentale
Deluxe
The latest addition to the Salvatore Ferragamo Group, the Continentale, is
a wonderful example of Italian imagination and creativity. It is a design
hotel with ultra modern furnishings and décor but with an atmosphere of
1950’s inspired ‘Dolce Vita’ style and glamour. The location is one of the
best in the city – overlooking the Ponte Vecchio on the banks of the Arno
and there are 43 comfortable bedrooms decorated with pale woods and
cream fabrics, a light and relaxing lounge and a wonderful rooftop terrace
bar with spectacular views.
Return flights to Florence
A guaranteed entrance ticket to the Uffizi Gallery
and suites on request). All quotations are tailor-made – speak to an expert
in our reservations department on 020 7593 2288 for advice and the very
latest prices.
Florence hotels continued overleaf
29
FLORENCE
14 Plaza Lucchesi
Superior
One of the few hotels to overlook the River Arno, just eight minutes from the
Uffizi Gallery and the Ponte Vecchio. Stylish, comfortable and very well
furnished, the Plaza Lucchesi has a large lounge and a good restaurant.
Supplement for deluxe room with balcony from £30 per room, per night.
Duplex suite from £40 per room, per night. There are 97 spacious and
comfortable rooms.
15 Brunelleschi
Superior
One of the oldest buildings in Florence (parts date back to the 6th Century,
there are Roman and Byzantine remains on display) the Brunelleschi stands in
a courtyard in the centre of Florence, a few steps from the Duomo and the
Uffizi Museum. There is a bar and a restaurant and 96 bedrooms. Rooms
have recently been renovated to a very high standard using expensive fabrics
and furniture.
16 Marignolle (a superior, privately-owned country hotel)
18 Rosso 23
Superior
Over the last three years, the Piazza Santa Maria Novella has undergone
significant change. Many of the buildings, including the beautiful church have
been restored and the square itself is now virtually traffic free. Rosso 23 opened
in 2009 and, with its frescoed façade, is one of the most attractive of the
buildings that overlook the square. Public areas include a stylish entrance hall,
lounge and breakfast room and a grand stone staircase that leads to 42
comfortable and well furnished bedrooms. Our prices are based on superior
rooms overlooking Piazza Santa Maria Novella. This is one of the best 3 star
hotels in Florence.
SPECIAL OFFER 1 December – 25 March: 3 nights for the price of 2,
saving £63; 1 – 31 August: 4 nights for the price of 3, saving £72.
19 Pitti Palace
Superior
Located just a few steps from the Ponte Vecchio, this famous little hotel was
totally rebuilt inside in 1992. Spacious lounges, rooftop bar/breakfast room and
two open air terraces with spectacular views of the city. There are 72
comfortable bedrooms.
saving £54; 7 July – 1 Septembr: 4 nights for the price of 3, saving £68.
This charming hotel is located in the rolling hills just four kilometres from
Florence and is perfect for those seeking a relaxing environment with easy
access to the historical centre. The atmosphere is friendly and offers guests a
haven of peace and tranquillity away from the city centre. The Bulleri family
have lived here for 30 years and are keen to share their lifestyle with their
guests and make them feel as comfortable as possible. Lorenzo can help you
plan your local itineraries and Paola gives regular cooking lessons. There are just
nine immaculate bedrooms, all decorated in a Provençale style with antique
furnishings and 19th Century prints. Breakfast is served in the elegant sitting
room or under the gazebo in the garden in fine weather and there is a lovely
summer swimming pool. The Bulleri’s serve a light lunch and will
recommend local restaurants for dinner.
17 Tornabuoni Beacci
Superior
The closest pensione we could find to the one immortalised in the film
‘A Room with a View’, this is a Kirker favourite. Occupying the third and
fourth floors of a 14th Century palace, the Tornabuoni Beacci has 34 bedrooms
and is furnished in the style of a traditional and very comfortable Florentine
residence. It has a bar, lounge, restaurant (open for dinner on Monday,
Wednesday and Friday from May to October only), and a beautiful rooftop
terrace. Lift service to the third floor. Supplement for larger, deluxe rooms
what’s included
Return flights
A guaranteed entrance ticket to the Uffizi Gallery
The services of the Kirker Concierge
in our reservations department on 020 7593 2288 for the latest prices
30
F L I G H T
Direct flights from the UK to Florence:
Gatwick: Meridiana
London City: City Jet (Air France)
Direct flights from the UK to Pisa (additional transfer costs apply):
Heathrow, Gatwick: British Airways
East Midlands, Leeds Bradford, Manchester, Newcastle,
Belfast: Jet 2
Gatwick, Luton, Bristol: Easyjet
Bournemouth, Dublin, East Midlands, Edinburgh, Glasgow,
Prestwick, Leeds Bradford, Liverpool and Stansted: Ryanair
Direct flights from the UK to Bologna (additional transfer costs apply):
Edinburgh, Stansted: Ryanair
Dublin: Aer Lingus
British Airways Club Europe £260 return
Bologna from £235
TUSCANY & UMBRIA
The rustic charm and beauty of Tuscany and Umbria has to be seen to be
believed; ancient, gravity defying hilltop towns merge with fertile valleys
– slender cypress trees, vineyards and olive groves as far as the eye can see.
Combined with mouth-watering wine and fabulous food, this really is
one of the most spectacular regions in Italy. Our hotels range from
delightful, privately-owned havens that are too small to be found in larger
tour operators’ brochures, to a luxurious spa hotel, offering state-of-theart pampering in very comfortable surroundings.We include a hire car
and strongly recommend combining a stay in one of our countryside
retreats with a few nights in Florence or Rome. Immediate quotations
Villa Milani
towns of tuscany
SIENA
Siena, a Mediaeval oasis steeped in history, art,
mystery and tradition, is our favourite town in Tuscany.
The competitive spirit of the ‘Palio’ horse races held in
the wonderful Piazza del Campo in July and August
has ensured that young Siennese stay on in their
beautiful city.Tickets and prices available from the
Kirker concierge.We can include a hire car if you wish
to visit the vineyards of Chianti, the towers of San
Gimignano and Pisa and the walled city of Lucca.
Pensione Palazzo Ravizza
Superior
A Renaissance Palazzo located in a quiet square only five minutes’ walk from
the cathedral. Transformed into a pensione in the 1920’s, it has remained in the
same family ever since. Antique furnishings and frescoed ceilings help to create
an atmosphere of simple elegance. Attractive public rooms include a bar and
a lounge and the hotel has a delightful shady garden with lovely views of the
Tuscan hills. All 38 characterful bedrooms have air-conditioning. (No TV).
siena & the gardens of tuscany
A five NIGHT KIRKER CULTURAL TOUR
Our Cultural Tours programme is designed to appeal to a broad range
of clients who enjoy travelling with like-minded companions and will
be of particular interest to anyone who is curious about art,
architecture and history.
Based at the Borgo Scopeto Relais, the tour, led by Caroline Howard
will explore the finest of Tuscany’s gardens and spend time in Siena.
Tours depart on 24 April and 25 September.
Prices from £1,669 per person.
For further details or to request a copy of our
PISA
Grand Hotel Continental
Deluxe
Opened in early 2002, the Grand Hotel Continental is not only the best in
Siena, it is arguably one of the top hotels in Italy. The palazzo was built in 1600
by Pope Alexander Vll as a wedding gift to nobleman Giulio de’ Gori, and is
the grandest palace to be found in the historical centre of Siena, situated a few
steps from the famous Piazza del Campo and the cathedral. An impressive,
traditional lobby leads to a covered courtyard, now a stylish and contemporary
bar/restaurant serving delicious light dishes. There is a stunning first floor salon
with outstanding 17th Century hand-painted ceilings and walls. Many of the
69 spacious bedrooms and suites also have original frescoes, combined with the
latest comforts. See page 27 for details of a unique three-centre holiday
combining Siena with Florence and Rome.
SPECIAL OFFER 1 November – 30 April, 1 July – 31 August, 21 October
onwards: 3 nights for the price of 2, saving up to £160; 1 May – 30 June,
1 September – 20 October: 4 nights for the price of 3 all week OR 3 nights for
the price of 2 for Sunday arrivals, saving £190.
Kirker clients staying 1 November – 28 March receive a guaranteed room upgrade.
Pisa is one of Italy’s great, aristocratic cities with
its handsome Duomo and elegant Baptistry.
Although the city is best known for the astonishing
Leaning Tower, most visitors remember a stylish
university town with a vibrant atmosphere,
excellent restaurants and a refreshing absence of
mass market tourists.We thoroughly recommend
spending at least one night here.
NH Cavalieri
Superior
Located in the city centre, just ten minutes’ walk from the heart of the old
town, this comfortable 4 star hotel is an excellent base for a short stay in Pisa.
It is less than two minutes from the station and very convenient for train
connections to Florence and other destinations in Tuscany. There are 100
bedrooms. There is also a good restaurant offering excellent local cuisine.
Tuscany & Umbria hotels continued overleaf
31
TUSCANY & UMBRIA
VIAREGGIO
LUCCA
A popular seaside resort since the late 19th Century
when wealthy travellers visited as part of their ‘Grand
Tour’,Viareggio has great beaches and an elegant
promenade flanked by Art Nouveau architecture.
Lucca is one the most charming of all the smaller cities in
Italy. Its historic quarter is still encircled by Renaissance
city walls with the elegant Piazza San Michele at its heart,
dominated by the Church of San Michele in Foro.
Principe di Piemonte, Viareggio
Noblesse
Fully refurbished in 2004, this grand hotel has a great seafront location,
close to many boutique shops and family-run restaurants. The public areas
are decorated in exquisite detail with Art Deco features, such as mosaic tiled
floors, stained glass feature panelling and Murano glass chandeliers. The 106
bedrooms are themed in five different categories; Empire, Modern,
International, Deco and Colonial. The acclaimed, Michelin star restaurant,
‘Picolo Principe’ is on the fifth floor. The ‘Regina’ restaurant offers less formal
dining and is on the ground floor with a veranda overlooking the sea. The
hotel has a rooftop heated swimming pool, gym and spa facilities.
The best hotel within the Mediaeval city walls of Lucca, the Noblesse is small
and attractive and combines a great location with plenty of character and
comfort. It is housed in an ancient palace dating from the 1700s and the recent
restoration has preserved many original features whilst adding all the modern
facilities you would expect to find in a 5 star hotel. There are just eight double
rooms and five suites and each is individually furnished and has an interesting
view of the streets of Lucca. The restaurant has a great reputation for offering
authentic Tuscan cuisine and it is possible to enjoy lunch or dinner outside in
fine weather. The ‘American Bar’ faces one of the most important streets of
Lucca and leads to a peaceful garden.
PIETRASANTA
The picturesque town of Pietrasanta has attracted
artists and sculptors for centuries. It is just 20 minutes’
drive from Pisa and is close to the beaches of Versilia
and Forte dei Marmi.
Palazzo Guiscardo
Superior
Palazzo Guiscardo occupies an elegant, Liberty style town house that dates back
to the 1800’s and is situated next to the town hall square. The hotel has the
intimate atmosphere of a private house and there are only nine bedrooms.
Breakfast is a treat – jams and honey from the Borgo dei Medici farm and
pastries and a rich selection of Tuscan cured meats and cheeses. The hotel has a
beach club in Forte dei Marani (10 minutes’ drive) a minibus shuttle is
available. Kirker clients staying in April, May and September receive
complimentary parasols and towels.
MONTECATINI TERME
Famous for its thermal, restorative waters, this was one of
the most fashionable destinations in Europe at the start of
the 20th Century. It still has an elegant atmosphere with
grand, well preserved architecture and beautiful thermal
spas still housed in the original buildings. It is half way
between Pisa and Florence and makes a good stopover for
clients heading into rural Tuscany.
Deluxe
SPECIAL OFFER 1 November – 30 April: 3 nights for the price of 2, saving
£130; 1 May onwards: 4 nights for the price of 3, saving £198.
San Luca Palace
Superior
A wonderfully welcoming 4 star hotel, located in a Mediaeval square dating
from 1540, at one end of via San Paolino. This is a great base from which to
explore Lucca – The Duomo di San Martino, Piazza dell’Antifeatro, Piazza
Napoleone, Piazza San Michele, the Museo Nazionale di Villa Guinigi and the
train station are all within easy walking distance. The manager, Claudio
Tongiorgi and his team provide attentive service designed to make guests feel
very much at home. There are 26 modern, spacious and comfortable bedrooms
including suites and junior suites and a popular bar lounge. An excellent buffet
breakfast is served every morning and snacks are available on request
throughout the day.
THE PUCCINI OPERA FESTIVAL
The annual Puccini Opera Festival takes place in July and August in the
beautiful surroundings of Torre del Lago, close to Lucca. If you would like
to visit the festival as part of an independent holiday, the Kirker
Concierge is available to book tickets as well as transfers from your hotel.
Tickets range in price from £92 for second category up to £154 for ‘gold’
tickets and include a local agency handling fee.We charge the price we pay
plus a reservation fee of £10 per ticket.
For those who prefer an escorted holiday, we will be operating two five
night tours to the festival as part of our 2013 programme of escorted music
holidays. Accommodation will be in Lucca and the holiday will include
tickets for three operas, a series of excursions and the services of the Kirker
tour leader. For further details or for a copy of our Cultural Tours & Music
Holidays brochure, please call us on 020 7593 2284.
Torretta
The Simoncini family own and run this excellent 4 star hotel and take great
pride in offering warm hospitality and excellent service. They are experts in
giving guests the right advice when it comes to choosing from the myriad of
treatments available at the Terme di Montecatini. The hotel is located in a
tranquil part of the town, a short walk from the Parco del Terme and has a
lovely swimming pool and jacuzzi in a shady, walled garden. There are 59
comfortable bedrooms, a relaxing lounge and a restaurant serving tasty local
cuisine with lighter options for the health conscious. Snacks and drinks are
available by the pool during the day.
32
what’s included for the
towns of tuscany
Flights to Florence
Prices are based on sharing a double room (single rooms on request).
All quotations are tailor-made; speak to an expert in our reservations
department on 020 7593 2288 for the latest prices.
TUSCANY & UMBRIA
TUSCANY COUNTRYSIDE
1
Castello di Casole
Deluxe
3
This is Tuscany’s most luxurious rural retreat and finally opened in June
2012 after seven years of restoration. It is located close to the hill towns of
Mensano and Casole d’Elsa and is 25 minutes from Siena and 45 from Florence;
Montalcino,Volterra and the coast can be reached in an hour. The hotel stands
at the top of a 4,000 acre estate and has wonderful views of the surrounding
countryside and the distant towers of San Gimignano. Parts of the original castle
date back to the 10th Century and the renovations have carefully preserved the
sense of history and tradition. Although the 41 spacious suites are sumptuously
furnished and have the latest state-of-the-art technology, their wrought iron
beds and white linen give them a touch of rustic simplicity. Dining options
include the formal ‘Tosca’ restaurant and the low-key ‘Pazzia Pizzeria’. There is a
magnificent infinity swimming pool cut into the hillside, an extensive spa
and a wide range of activities available including hiking, mountain biking,
riding, guided vineyard and wildlife tours. Hotel open all year.
SPECIAL OFFER 1 November – 30 April: 4 nights for the price of 3, saving
£240; 1 May onwards: 7 nights for the price of 6, saving £340.
2
Relais La Suvera ‘Dimora Storica’
This beautiful relais dates back to the Middle Ages and for the past 40 years has
been the summer home to the Marquis Giuseppe Ricci and his wife. By the
time of its opening the owners had gathered together the most extraordinary
collection of antiques which are now on dispaly including vases from Versailles,
ancient manuscripts, tapestries and paintings by Ingres. The 25 bedrooms are set
around a peaceful courtyard shaded by chestnut trees. The most opulent rooms
are in the main papal building and there are further rooms in a 16th Century
church and 17th Century farm buildings. The heated swimming pool and
tennis court are set in beautiful landscaped grounds with statues, fountains and
cypress trees. There are two restaurants and a health centre. Located on a hillside
above the hamlet of Pievescola, La Suvera is 18 miles west of Siena and close to
the towns of Volterra and San Gimignano. Highly recommended. Hotel open
19 April – 4 November.
SPECIAL OFFER 19 April – 19 May, 1 October – 4 November: 4 nights for
the price of 3, saving £160; 20 May – 30 September: 5 nights for the price of 4,
saving £180.
Kirker clients staying a minimum of 2 nights in the main villa receive a
complimentary dinner (excluding drinks) and a free massage.
Le Fontanelle
Deluxe
The position of Le Fontanelle on a hillside overlooking one of the most
peaceful and unspoilt valleys in Chianti is wonderful – it is one of the most
serene environments that we have come across and is the perfect place to
unwind and to experience exceptional service. The restoration of this estate
lasted seven years and the result is an understated and hugely appealing hotel.
The botanical gardens offer plenty of space and with just 25 bedrooms, the
property never feels crowded. Rooms are spacious and comfortable; some have
private gardens that make the most of the valley views. There is a super
gastronomic restaurant and an alfresco restaurant serving light lunches.
Additional facilities include indoor and outdoor swimming pools.
The hotel is located just 15 miles north of Siena and 70 miles from Florence.
SPECIAL OFFER 30 March – 31 October: 7 nights for the price of 6, saving
£198. Clients staying 4, 5 or 6 nights receive a complimentary 3-course welcome
dinner (drinks excluded).
4
L’Andana
Deluxe
Owned by Alain Ducasse and Terra Moretti, L’Andana is located in
the Maremma region of southern Tuscany near the beaches of
Castiglione della Pescaia. Pisa airport is one and a half hours away and Rome
Fiumicino can be reached in two hours. Set at the foot of lush green hills with
views out towards the island of Elba, this tranquil oasis which has been restored
and renovated to palatial charm was once the hunting lodge of the Duke
Leopold in the 16th Century and is set in 1,200 acres of olive groves, vineyards
and fruit orchards. L’Andana boasts Alain Ducasse’s first restaurant in Italy. All 41
rooms are beautifully decorated and have plenty of rustic charm. Facilities include
an ESPA spa, a swimming pool, tennis court and a pitch and put golf course.
3 night price from £998 per person low season.
SPECIAL OFFER: 3 nights for the price of 2 (excluding Friday arrivals and
July and August); 4 nights for the price of 3 (valid all week excluding August).
4
Casa Badiola
Superior
Alain Ducasse’s luxurious L’Andana hotel, located in the unspoilt
Maremma region of southern Tuscany has opened an attractive and more
affordable property next door. Casa Badiola shares facilities with L’Andana and
is a great option for families. There are 14 rooms, each with a kitchenette and a
balcony or garden and some can sleep up to five guests. It has a swimming
pool, a kids’ club (charges payable locally), a golf practice course and is just
seven miles from the sandy beaches of Castiglione della Pescaia.
SPECIAL OFFER: all year (except July & August): 4 nights for the price of 3,
saving up to £108.
5
Relais La Suvera
MAP & FLIGHT INFORMATION – SEE PAGE 36
Il Pellicano
Deluxe
The highlight of the Tuscan coastline that stretches south from Pisa is
undoubtedly the Argentario Peninsula. It is a dramatic rocky outcrop with
lush vegetation and crystal clear waters and is home to one of Europe’s best
loved luxury hotels. This glamorous hideaway sits in terraced grounds and has
50 bedrooms located in the main building and in several villas hidden amongst
ancient olive and cypress trees. The emphasis is on total relaxation in elegant
surroundings – take a stroll (or the lift!) to the private beach or enjoy the
heated swimming pool with its majestic sea views; have a restorative
treatment in the thalassotherapy spa. The restaurants and shops of Porto Ercole
are a short drive away and there are numerous places of interest nearby,
including Etruscan and Roman ruins.
33
TUSCANY & UMBRIA
6
Borgo Scopeto Relais
Superior
9
Set against a dramatic backdrop of rolling countryside and overlooking the city
of Siena, this property was home to the Sozzini family for many centuries and
is the perfect place to escape to for peace and tranquillity. The 58 bedrooms are
scattered among eight buildings, all of which offer spectacular views and are
decorated in warm colours. ‘La Tinaia’ serves a variety of cuisine alongside olive
oil produced on the estate and wines from their own vineyard. Tours of the
winery and private tastings can be arranged upon arrival. In the grounds of the
hotel are two outdoor swimming pools, two tennis courts and a small
wellness centre offering a wide range of treatments. Scopeto Relais offers great
value for money and is perfectly situated for discovering many important
Tuscan towns. Hotel open 22 march – 31 October.
3 night price from £629 per person low season.
SPECIAL OFFER 22 March – 17 May, 30 September – 31 October:
2 nights for the price 1, 4 nights for the price of 2 or 6 nights for the price of 3;
18 May – 29 September: 3 nights for the price of 2 for Sunday, Monday or
Tuesday arrivals OR 5 nights for the price of 4 all week.
Villa Bordoni
7
Borgo San Felice
Deluxe
The pretty hilltop hamlet of San Felice lies in the heart of Chianti,
15 kilometres from Siena. It dates back to as early as 714AD and now the
whole hamlet has been converted into a luxury hotel. It is also one of Chianti
Classico’s leading wine estates. The 43 rooms are all decorated in traditional
Tuscan style and are spread throughout the hamlet whether in the main palazzo
or in the numerous Mediaeval town houses. The hotel is a member of Relais &
Châteaux and its ‘Poggio Rosso’ restaurant serves fine cuisine using the best
local produce. Leisure facilities include an outdoor swimming pool, tennis
courts, pitching green and spa. Open 22 April – 16 November.
SPECIAL OFFER: 22 April – 15 May, 16 October – 16 November: 6 nights
34
Superior
A beautifully restored 19th Century hunting lodge,Villa Marta is located in the
countryside, just three miles from Lucca. Owners Andrea and Alessia have
developed a great reputation for providing friendly service and a welcoming
atmosphere.Villa Marta is recommended for those looking to combine
sightseeing (Lucca, Pisa and Pietrasanta are all closeby) with peaceful relaxation.
The Renaissance style garden has plenty of shady spots and an attractive
summer swimming pool; bicycles are available and the hotel regularly
organises painting and cookery classes – the restaurant inspires you to learn
some of the chef ’s secrets (we recommend advanced reservations for dinner).
There are only 15 bedrooms and the decoration throughout is understated,
whilst paintings by local artists add touches of colour.
10 Villa Le Maschere
Deluxe
Mugello, to the north of Florence, is a valley of rolling countryside, forests
and vineyards. The fertility of the land and its close proximity to the city
led to the creation of some beautiful late Renaissance country houses, one of
the grandest of which is Le Maschere. A five year restoration has preserved many
original features including some beautiful frescoes and these are combined with
contemporary design in the 65 elegant bedrooms. A magnificent sweeping
staircase leads from the entrance to the two summer swimming pools and
into a tranquil 18 hectare park that runs down to the shores of Lake Bilancino.
The restaurant specialises in delicious regional cuisine – the best ‘bistecca
fiorentina’ comes from Mugello. There is an extensive spa and a complimentary
shuttle that takes guests to the centre of Florence in about 30 minutes.Villa Le
Maschere offers exceptional value for money when compared with hotels of a
similar quality in the more fashionable areas of Tuscany to the south.
SPECIAL OFFER: 1 November – 5 April: 4 nights for the price of 3;
6 April – 24 May, 28 September – 25 October: 5 nights for the price of 4;
25 May – 27 September: 7 nights for the price of 6, saving up to £140.
Villa Bordoni (a superior, privately-owned country hotel)
Located in the hills above the picturesque town of Greve in Chianti, the Villa
Bordoni is a luxurious country house hotel off the beaten track but
conveniently situated for visits to Florence (30 kilometres) and Siena (50
kilometres).Your hosts here are David and Catherine Gardner who, in search
of their dream property, came across this 16th Century villa and have restored
it along with its traditional Italian garden. The villa’s 10 rooms as well as the
cottage are decorated using the finest furniture and fabrics. There is a superb
restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool and a small open-air fitness room set
in the beautifully manicured gardens. In cooler weather, guests can enjoy the
intimate lounge with its cosy log fire or the library. Hotel closed in January
and February.
8
Albergo Villa Marta
Castello la Leccia
11 Castello la Leccia
Superior
Opened in 2012, Castello La Leccia is a beautifully restored ancient hamlet
situated two kilometres south of Castellina in Chianti and 45 minutes from
Florence. It has a spectacular elevated position at the end of an avenue of
cypress trees and has panoramic views of the Val d'Elsa, taking in Siena, San
Gimignano and the Alps. The 12 large and elegant suites are decorated with
great flair and have extremely comfortable king size beds, separate sitting areas,
luxurious bathrooms and the latest technology. All have wonderful views of the
surrounding vineyards, olive groves and summer swimming pool.
The restaurant serves a light lunch and an à la carte dinner every day by the
Italian Garden. The wine cellars have also been restored and the estate is once
again producing Chianti Classico. Open 29 March – 10 November.
SPECIAL OFFER all year: 7 nights for the price of 6, saving £120;
29 March – 30 April, 16 October – 10 November: 3 nights for the price of 2½,
saving £58.
TUSCANY & UMBRIA
TOWNS OF UMBRIA
PERUGIA
ASSISI
Perugia is the capital of Umbria and is one of the
country’s most beautiful hill towns. Famous for its
thriving university, chocolate production and July Jazz
Festival it is also a major centre of Mediaeval art.
There are numerous ecclesiastical and secular buildings
dating from the Middle Ages and vast Etruscan city
walls which gives some idea of Perugia’s historical
significance as far back as the 6th Century BC.
Assisi is a peaceful Umbrian town located on the slopes of
Monte Subasio. It has a rich religious heritage with many
churches filled with fine artworks and Franciscan relics.
Most were built using pink stone which gives the town its
distinctive appearance.The Basilica di San Francesco with
its famous Giotto frescoes is a Mediaeval masterpiece.
Brufani Palace
This famous hotel opened in 1884 and is located in the historical centre of
Perugia. The spacious halls and public areas have high painted ceilings and
original parquet floors that have been carefully restored. Great stone fireplaces,
lit in the winter time, grand chandeliers and antique furniture transmit an
immediate sense of warmth and comfort. The 94 elegantly furnished rooms and
suites are all traditional in style and the feel is that of an old fashioned town
house. There is a restaurant with terrace for summer dining and a bar.
SPECIAL OFFER 1 November – 30 April, 15 July – 31 August: 3 nights for
the price of 2, saving £90; Kirker clients staying 2 nights or more from
1 May – 14 July, 1 September onwards receive a complimentary dinner at
Collins restaurant.
Nun Assisi Relais
This beautiful former monastery has a quiet setting on one of the highest
points of the historical centre, 15 minutes’ walk through the atmospheric
streets to the Basilica of St. Francis. It has been meticulously renovated and
combines original features such as exposed stone walls, frescoes and vaulted
ceilings with a contemporary minimalist design. The 15 bedrooms are light and
comfortable and most have wonderful views over the secluded courtyard
garden to the Rocca Maggiore fortress. The delightful subterranean spa is built
into the ruins of a 1st Century Roman amphitheatre and features a series of
pools of different temperatures carved into the rock (free of charge for guests –
no children under 12). The restaurant serves traditional Umbrian cuisine with a
contemporary twist and has a cloister for al fresco dining.
SPECIAL OFFER all year (expect public holidays & 6 September – 5 October):
7 nights for the price of 6 OR 4 nights for the price of 3 for Sunday arrivals,
saving up to £170.
UMBRIA COUNTRYSIDE
12 Relais Todini
Deluxe
Located 30 miles south of Perugia, Todi is a perfectly preserved hill town with
three sets of walls – Etruscan, Roman and Mediaeval – leading to the central
Piazza del Popolo. The Relais Todini is five miles from the town and is
Umbria’s most luxurious countryside hotel. It is an elegant manor house dating
from the 14th Century and is reached via a sweeping drive lined with cypress
trees. It sits on top of a hill and has wonderful panoramic views of the
surrounding countryside which can be enjoyed from the 12 luxurious,
classically furnished bedrooms. The restaurant is one of the region’s finest and
offers traditional Umbrian recipies in elegant surroundings. There is a summer
swimming pool, a small spa and there are a range of activities available
including cooking classes, wine-tasting, hiking and mountain biking.
Villa di Monte Solare
14 Villa di Monte Solare (a superior, privately-owned
13 II Falconiere
Deluxe
Located close to the beautiful town of Cortona where the regions of
Tuscany and Umbria meet, Il Falconiere is perfectly situated for visiting
Siena, Arezzo, Assisi and Perugia which are all within a 45 minute drive.
The original buildings of this 17th Century manorhouse have all been recently
renovated and now form part of this small luxurious hotel. There are just 12
rooms, all beautifully restored with frescoed walls and original furniture. The
restaurant for which the hotel is rightly famous serves authentic and
imaginative cuisine using local and regional produce. The pasta is homemade,
olive oil is pressed from home-grown olives and grapes come from the hotel’s
vineyard. There is also a lovely terrace in the garden where guests can enjoy
afternoon tea or an aperitif. The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool
where light lunches are also served and a wellness centre.
SPECIAL OFFER for all departures: 7 nights for the price of 6, saving £140.
country hotel)
Located close to Lake Trasimeno, Monte Solare is an ancient patrician
villa and farmhouse that sits amongst olive groves, vineyards and woods.
The 28 rooms are situated in the villa itself as well as in the outhouses which
surround the beautiful Italian garden, and all are furnished in a classical Italian
country house style. The hotel’s restaurant serves excellent cuisine and its cellar
has the largest collection of Umbrian wines in the world. The spa offers a range
of massages and beauty treatments. There are two outdoor swimming pools
for use by the guests depending on which building they are staying in and a
tennis court. Throughout the year, the hotel runs courses in cooking and winetasting; details on request. Open all year.
SPECIAL OFFER 3 January – 31 May, 1 October – 23 December: 5 nights
for the price of 4; 1 June – 30 September: 7 nights for the price of 6, saving
upto £110.
35
TUSCANY & UMBRIA
UMBRIA COUNTRYSIDE
15 Villa Milani (a historical private residence)
Located above the town of Spoleto, this beautiful villa was built in 1880 by the
Roman architect Giovanni Milani as a summer residence. It has been restored
to its original splendour by his great granddaughter Giovanna and her husband
Luigi. The villa is surrounded by a park filled with oak trees and olive groves
and the views of the town and the countryside are spectacular. There are just 11
bedrooms, each furnished with antiques. Breakfast and a light lunch are served
in the terraced gardens where you will also find a delightful summer
swimming pool. Dinner is available from April to October on request. The
Villa Milani provides a unique and highly civilised base in the heart of Umbria.
SPECIAL OFFER for all departures: 3 nights for the price of 2 OR 6 nights
for the price of 4, saving up to 230.
what’s included
Return flights
Car hire (supplement for private transfers available on request)
accommodation including breakfast
The services of the Kirker Concierge to book expert local guides, a
table for dinner, wine tasting or cookery classes
in our reservations department on 020 7593 2288 for advice and the
latest prices.
FOR FLIGHT INFORMATION SEE PAGE 30 FOR
FLORENCE, PERUGIA & PISA AND PAGE 39 FOR ROME
16 Villa di Piazzano (a privately-owned country hotel)
Set in the Chiana valley and surrounded by lush green hills, the Villa di Piazzano
is an elegant retreat offering a genuinely warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Owned and run by Alessandra Wimpole, it is an early 16th Century hunting
lodge. The 13 traditionally furnished bedrooms all overlook the valley and the
tranquil gardens where there is a large summer swimming pool. A one
bedroom cottage has recently been added and is a good option for longer stays. It
is close to the pool and has a private garden, terrace, kitchen and bedroom in the
loft. A simple lunch is served in the garden on request and Alessandra’s mother
prepares a delicious evening meal which is accompanied by wine from the
neighbouring vineyard. This is the perfect base from which to explore Tuscany
and Umbria and the family are happy to share their extensive knowledge of the
area. The wonderful Etruscan hill town of Cortona is a 10 minute drive away.
SPECIAL OFFER 1 – 30 April, 1 – 31 October: 4 nights for the price of 3,
saving £78.
UMBRIA – THE ESSENCE OF ITALY
A SEVEN NIGHT KIRKER CULTURAL TOUR
Our Cultural Tours programme is designed to appeal to a broad range of
clients who enjoy travelling with like-minded companions and will be of
particular interest to anyone who is curious about art, architecture and
history. Our Umbria tour will be led by Christopher Monckton and will
be based at the Brufani Palace hotel in Perugia. It includes visits to Todi,
Gubbio, Arezzo, Sansepolcro and Asissi and departs on 27 May and
7 October. Price from £1,794 per person.
Approximate driving times:Pisa – Pietrasanta
Pisa – Montecatini Terme
Pisa – Siena
Pisa – Perugia
Florence – Siena
Florence – Gaiole in Chianti
Florence – Casole D’Esla
Florence – Assisi
Florence – Todi
Florence – Spoleto
Rome – Spoleto
Rome – Assisi
Rome – Todi
Rail times:Pisa – Lucca
Pisa – Montecatini Terme
Pisa – Pietrasanta
Montecatini Terme – Florence
Florence – Cortona
Florence – Siena
Rome – Spoleto
Rome – Assisi
Perugia – Assisi
36
30 mins
45 mins
2 hrs 15 mins
3 hrs
1 hr 30 mins
1 hr 20 mins
1 hr 10 mins
2 hrs 15 mins
2 hrs 20 mins
2 hrs 30 mins
1 hr 50 mins
1 hr 50 mins
2 hrs 30 mins
2 hrs
30 mins
35 mins
20 mins
1 hr
1 hr
2 hrs
1 hr
1 hr
2 hrs
10 mins
30 mins
20 mins
10 mins
20 mins
ROME
As they go about their business,
Romans are possessively proud of
their historic city. It retains an
unforgettable majesty, rich with
the relics of 2,000 years of
history and after the face-lift it
received for the 2000 celebrations,
this wonderful city is looking
better than ever. Our Kirker
Guide Notes will help you find
some wonderful and atmospheric
restaurants, many of which are
off the beaten tourist track.
1
Eden
Deluxe
Restored as one of Rome’s greatest traditional luxury hotels, the Eden is
located close to the Via Veneto and the Spanish Steps. The hotel is sumptuously
furnished throughout with many antiques and has 121 beautifully decorated
bedrooms. The 6th floor ‘Terrazza’ restaurant (advance reservations essential)
and piano bar have spectacular views of Rome, as does the terrace where
breakfast may be taken in summer. Buffet breakfast included. Fitness centre.
For service, attention to detail, comfort and style, we highly recommend the
Eden – especially if you are considering Rome for a personal celebration.
SPECIAL OFFER 1 November – 30 April, 15 July – 31 August: 3 nights for
the price of 2, saving £230; 1 May – 14 July, 1 September onwards: 4 nights for
2
De Russie
4
Grand Hotel De La Minerve
Deluxe
This fine hotel has one of the best locations in Rome; in the heart of the
historical city centre, overlooking the 2,000 year old Roman Pantheon and just
five minutes’ walk from the Piazza Navona and the Trevi Fountain. The grand
hall is covered with a wonderful Liberty style stained glass roof with a picture
of Minerva at its centre. On warm summer evenings a romantic roof terrace
restaurant offers gourmet dishes, fine wines, candlelight and spectacular views
of the city. Buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner are available in the ‘Cesta’
restaurant. The 135 spacious bedrooms and suites are decorated in classical style.
SPECIAL OFFER 1 November – 30 April, 1 July – 31 August: complimentary
upgrade to superior room.
Deluxe
5
Regina Baglioni
Deluxe
Sir Rocco Forte is establishing a new group of European luxury hotels,
and the Hotel de Russie is his finest. Located in the heart of Rome, next
to the Piazza del Popolo, the De Russie dates back to 1816. Picasso, Cocteau
and other artists appreciated the elegance and spaciousness of the building with
its great courtyard and terraced gardens. In summer, drinks, lunch and dinner
are served outside or in the bar and restaurant. It has 129 classically furnished
bedrooms; many with restful garden views. A wonderful health spa offers
hydrotherapy, beauty treatments and a gymnasium (additional charges payable
locally).
Located on the Via Veneto, this is one of the most stylish and fashionable
hotels in Rome and combines classical architecture and Art Deco furnishings
with some wonderful designer elements – it should appeal to both the older
and younger generations. It is located on the Via Veneto and is a 15 minute
walk to many of the city’s most popular sites. It has a less corporate feel than
many of its rivals. The ‘Brunello’ restaurant serves modern Mediterranean
cuisine and is highly regarded and there is a small spa and fitness centre and
103 comfortable bedrooms.
SPECIAL OFFER 1 November – 20 December, 1 January – 21 March,
1 – 31 August: 4 nights for the price of 3 for classic rooms OR 3 nights for the
price of 2 for executive rooms or higher .
SPECIAL OFFER 1 November – 30 April, 1 July – 5 September: 3 nights for
the price of 2, saving up to £225; 1 May – 30 June, 6 September onwards:
4 nights for the price of 3 if stay includes a Sunday night, saving £249.
3
Excelsior
Deluxe
Located on the Via Veneto, The Excelsior, after a recent renovation, is once
again one of the city’s finest hotels. It is lavishly furnished throughout; the
elegant lounges have marble floors and some beautiful Oriental rugs, whilst the
bedrooms have rich fabrics, Imperial, Renaissance and Biedermeier style
furnishings and crystal chandeliers – the famed Westin ‘heavenly bed’ guarantees
a restful night’s sleep. The ‘Doney’ restaurant serves delicious Italian regional
dishes and music and cocktails can be enjoyed at the ‘Excelsior Bar’. The
unique ‘hclub<doney’ extends along the Via Veneto and is one of the most
popular meeting places for guests and well-heeled Romans. There is also a
fabulous new spa with a Roman style indoor swimming pool.
saving £190.
6
Palazzo Manfredi
Superior
This boutique hotel is perfect for those seeking stylish accommodation and a
remarkable location amongst the ruins of Imperial Rome. The villa and gardens
of the Domus Aurea are opposite and the Coloseum is virtually next door,
separated only by the remains of the gladiator barracks of Ludus Magnus.
Recently reopened after a comprehensive renovation, it has just 17 bedrooms
that combine classical style with designer elements. The rooftop restaurant is
the perfect spot for breakfast, drinks or dinner as you look past the Coloseum
and the Forum towards the Vittorio Emmanule monument. There are some
good local restaurants nearby and the ‘Via Del Corso’ is a 15 minute walk.
SPECIAL OFFER from 1 December – 30 April, 15 July – 6 September:
Rome hotels continued overleaf
37
ROME
7
Bernini Bristol
Superior
10 Villa Spalletti Trivelli
Opened in 1870, the Bernini Bristol has recently undergone a major restoration.
It has a great location at the foot of the Via Veneto, right on the Piazza Barberini.
Public rooms are grand and decorated with antique tapestries and Venetian glass
chandeliers.The 127 bedrooms are furnished in two contrasting styles – some
modern and others classical (please advise at time of booking if you have a
preference).There is an excellent rooftop restaurant, ‘L’Olimpo’, with a large terrace
where you can experience wonderful views over the rooftops to St. Peter’s. Fitness
centre with gym, steam room and sauna.
8
Aldrovandi Villa Borghese
Superior
Located in a tranquil location in the exclusive Parioli district of the city. Grand and
traditional and recently renovated, the Aldrovandi Palace has 123 bedrooms
furnished in a classical style and has views of either the beautiful Borghese Gardens,
the grand villas of the surrounding area or the hotel’s garden and its large summer
swimming pool. The new contemporary restaurant ‘Oliver Glowig’ serves lunch
and dinner on the terrace by the pool in summer and in its stylish interior during
the cooler months. A pleasant 25 minute stroll through the Borghese Gardens takes
you to the historic centre; alternatively, there is a complimentary minibus.
Deluxe
This beautiful patrician villa is perfectly located in the heart of the city, yet
has a remarkable oasis-like atmosphere. The Quirinale Palace is opposite
and the Trevi Fountain is only five minutes’ walk away; yet once inside the villa
you will feel far removed from the madding crowd. It is decorated throughout
with exquisite furniture, tapestries and paintings from the Spalletti Trivelli
family’s collection. Maria Merra and her team deliver exceptional service and
there are just 12 spacious bedrooms decorated in a classical style but with all
the modern comforts you would expect. The elegant drawing room has a
complimentary bar, an open fire and a wonderful collection of books; there is a
wellness centre with hammam and Turkish bath and a splendid Italian garden.
Villa Spalletti Trivelli was recently voted one of the top 50 hotels in the world
by the Telegraph.
Kirker clients staying 3 nights in a prestige room receive an 80 euro spa voucher;
3 nights in a junior suite receive a complimentary 3 hour walking tour; 3 nights
in a deluxe suite receive a 3 hour Vespa tour.
SPECIAL OFFER 1 November – 30 April, 15 July – 31 October: 4 nights for
the price of 3, saving up to £175; 1 May – 14 July: 7 nights for the price of 6,
saving £215.
9
d’Inghilterra
Deluxe
This popular Kirker hotel has the best location of any in Rome – it is close to the
bottom of the Spanish Steps and is just a few steps from Via Condotti, the city’s
most fashionable shopping street. A favourite of Hemingway and Mark Twain, it
has been described as among the 20 most charming hotels in the world. The 97
bedrooms are all different; some are furnished with antiques and others in a more
contemporary style.There are some sumptuous suites which we would be happy
to quote on for a special occasion.There are several small and cosy lounges, an
intimate bar and a restaurant, which has a terrace for alfresco dining. Prices based
on superior rooms. See page 27 for details of a wonderful three centre holiday
combining the d’Inghilterra with stays at sister hotels in Florence and Siena.
4 nights for the price of 3 all week OR 3 nights for the price of 2 for Sunday
arrivals, saving £260.
COMPLIMENTARY ENTRANCE TICKETS
TO EITHER THE VILLA BORGHESE, or THE
VATICAN MUSEUM & SISTINE CHAPEL
Villa Borghese:This elegant villa in the Borghese Gardens was founded by
Cardinal Scipione and contains a wonderful collection of classical sculptures
and Renaissance art. Highlights include works by Titian and Lotto as well
as Canova's sculpture of Pauline Bonaparte (closed Mondays).
Vatican Museum & Sistine Chapel:This fascinating visit consists of many
museums, each covering a different period or genre. Although best known for
Michelangelo’s work in the Sistine Chapel and the Raphael Rooms, there is
much more of interest including the Etruscan Museum, the Tapestries
Gallery and the Vatican's own important art collection (closed Sundays).
All Kirker clients are offered guaranteed entrance tickets to either the
Vatican Museum and Sistine Chapel or the Villa Borghese.
38
Villa Spalletti Trivelli
11 Dei Mellini
Superior
One of the city’s most fashionable first class hotels, the Dei Mellini, completely
rebuilt behind a traditional façade, is very well located in a quiet street a few
steps from the river; the Vatican is 20 minutes’ walk away whilst you can reach
the Piazza Navona and the Pantheon in 15 minutes. Facilities include a bar
which also serves light meals, lounge, and a large rooftop terrace. The 80
bedrooms are comfortable and stylishly furnished.
12 Capo d’Africa
Superior
Located just five minutes’ walk from the walls of the Colosseum and very close
to the Forum, the Capo d’Africa is truly in the heart of ancient Rome. All 65
bedrooms in this restored 19th Century town house are furnished with great
taste in a very comfortable contemporary style. In the lobby, the attractive bar
serves drinks and light snacks throughout the day, whilst a full buffet breakfast is
available in the breakfast room on the third floor where you will also find a
large summer terrace and solarium. There are several cafés and restaurants in the
immediate vicinity.
the price of 2, saving £105; 1 April – 15 July, 1 September onwards: 4 nights for
the price of 3 if stay includes a Sunday night, saving £132.
ROME
FRASCATI
13 Marcella Royal
Located on Via Flavia, five miutes’ walk from via Veneto, this welcoming 4 star
hotel offers comfortable accommodation and value for money. The highlight of
a stay at Marcella Royal is the ‘Sala Panorama’ on the top floor with its open air
terrace. Here you can enjoy breakfast, a cocktail or a light snack whilst taking
in the magnificent views of the city’s rooftops from St. Peter’s to the Castelli
Romani. There are 85 bedrooms; those reserved for Kirker clients are the
renovated rooms on the second and fourth floors, or the spacious, external
facing rooms on the fifth and sixth floors.
The town of Frascati is 20 kilometres east of Rome, in an
area rich in vineyards and grand private villas, the most
impressive of which is the Villa Grazioli.
14 Oxford
Superior
Sister hotel of the Regno, the charming family-run Oxford offers good
quality accommodation;Via Veneto is just five minutes’ walk and from there,
the Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain are both within easy reach. The 60
bedrooms are all well furnished and, unusually for a 3 star hotel, there is a
very good value restaurant serving Italian cuisine (open for dinner only).
There is also a comfortable lounge and a bar serving drinks and light snacks.
SPECIAL OFFER 4 November – 2 February: 3 nights for the price of 2;
3 February – 14 March: 4 nights for the price of 3, saving up to £65.
15 Regno
Superior
This family-run hotel is under the same ownership as the Oxford and has an
excellent location in the heart of ancient Rome. It is on the busy Via del Corso,
so very close to the Trevi Fountain, Pantheon and Piazza Navona. All 66
bedrooms are pleasantly furnished and there is a small lounge and a bar. Buffet
breakfast. Supplement for a room with a terrace available on request.
Park Hotel Villa Grazioli
Superior
The Villa, built in 1580 by Cardinal Carafa, who chose the site for its atmosphere
of tranquillity and its wonderful views of the city, is a member of Small Luxury
Hotels. Much of the original decoration has been restored and the public rooms
are spectacular, with vaulted ceilings and intricate 17th Century frescoes.The
highlight is a stunning gallery, painted from floor to ceiling by Pannini in 1736.
The 58 bedrooms are furnished with simple elegance, many have terracotta tiled
floors and beamed ceilings; there are 12 bedrooms in the main villa (supplement
on request) and the remainder in the Limonia and Paggeria buildings reached by
an underground passageway.There is an excellent restaurant with a large terrace
overlooking the park and a summer swimming pool.The setting is peaceful
and relaxing, yet Rome is easily accessible in 40 minutes – a shuttle bus operates to
Frascati station.
SPECIAL OFFER valid for all departures: 3 nights for the price of 2 saving
up to £118. Kirker clients staying 4 nights or more receive a complimentary
3-course dinner (excluding drinks).
SPECIAL OFFER 4 November – 2 February: 3 nights for the price of 2;
3 February – 14 March: 4 nights for the price of 3, saving up to £65.
what’s included
Return flights
Vatican Museum or Borghese Gallery tickets
in our reservations department on 020 7593 2288 for the very latest prices.
CULTURAL TOURS TO ROME
If you prefer to visit Rome as part of a group, you might like to consider
one of our Cultural Tours which are accompanied by an expert Kirker
lecturer. ‘The Grandeur of Rome’ focuses on the art and architecture of
the Eternal City and includes a private visit to the Sistine Chapel.
Week-long tours depart on 29 April and 9 September and the cost is
from £1,994 per person. ‘Villas and Gardens around Rome’ is a five
night tour based at the Villa Grazioli and includes visits to all the major
gardens surrounding the city including La Ninfa and la Landriana and
the Vatican Garden.Tours depart on 13 May and 16 September and cost
from £1,559. For further details or to request a copy of our Cultural
Tours & Music Holidays brochure, call us on 020 7593 2284.
F L I G H T
Direct flights from the UK to Rome Fiumicino:
Heathrow: British Airways, Alitalia; Gatwick: British Airways, Easyjet
Glasgow, Leeds Bradford, Manchester: Jet 2
Belfast, Dublin: Aer Lingus
Direct flights from the UK to Rome Ciampino:
Bristol: Easyjet; Birmingham: bmibaby; Dublin, East Midlands,
Edinburgh, Glasgow Prestwick, Gatwick Liverpool and
Manchester, Stansted: Ryanair
British Airways Club Europe from £250 Gatwick; £280 Heathrow
39
THE AMALFI COAST,
CAPRI & ISCHIA
This is the jewel in the crown of Italy’s beautiful scenery; picturesque towns cling to the rugged coastline, the azure waters
glisten in the plentiful sunshine and a holiday spirit puts a smile on the faces of visitors and locals alike.The region is
rightly famous for its wonderful seafood but it is the numerous ancient sites that
make the Amalfi Coast so unique. Pompeii, Herculaneum, the
exquisitely decorated Villa Oplontis, the wonderful Archaeological
Museum in Naples where all the best finds are displayed and
Paestum, a green and reflective site with its collection of
wonderful Greek temples. Private tours can be arranged to all
of these sites – further details on request.
Bellevue Syrene
Paestum
SORRENTO
Sorrento is an hour’s drive south of Naples and has been a
fashionable resort since the early 19th Century. It has
narrow streets, colourful shops, good restaurants and
tranquil squares.The town is set on a cliff top above the
harbour where ferries run to Capri. All our hotels have
superb views across the Bay of Naples towards Vesuvius.
Grand Hotel Cocumella
Deluxe
Originally a 16th Century monastery, this fine hotel is located on the cliff edge
overlooking the Bay of Naples and is surrounded by tranquil gardens. It is just
one kilometre from Sorrento – the hotel operates a shuttle bus to and from the
town centre. A renovation has recently been completed and it now offers 35
comfortable bedrooms decorated with antique furniture, yet with all the
modern amenities you would expect from a member of ‘Small Luxury Hotels of
the World’. Nestled in the gardens you’ll find the tennis court and, in the shade
of orange trees, the lovely large swimming pool. A private lift operates to sea
level where there is a sun deck and bathing platform. There is a gastronomic
restaurant, a grill restaurant on the terrace with wonderful sea views, a piano bar,
and a wellness centre with gym, treatment rooms, Jacuzzi, sauna and hammam.
SPECIAL OFFER all year (except 5 – 20 August): 7 nights for the price of 6,
saving up to £160. Clients staying 4, 5 or 6 nights receive one complimentary
dinner.
Excelsior Vittoria
Built in 1750 and a hotel since 1920, the Bellevue Syrene is now a member of
Relais & Châteaux and is impeccably maintained and beautifully decorated
with a clever combination of antiques and contemporary design. Located in the
centre of Sorrento, the hotel has a restaurant and a club lounge where
complimentary drinks and snacks are served all day. The gardens and terraces of
the hotel have fabulous views of the bay and all 49 bedrooms overlook the sea.
A lift connects the hotel with a private jetty below – ideal for sea bathing.
Guests can use the indoor and outdoor pools at the Hilton which is 20
minutes’ walk away.
Bel Air
Superior
A small, immaculate and very comfortable hotel located on the cliffs above
Sorrento, with great views of the town. The Bel Air has a comfortable lounge, a
restaurant, an attractive bar and a summer swimming pool with sun terrace.
All rooms with sea view and balcony. Buffet breakfast. There are 48 excellent
air-conditioned bedrooms. Hotel open 1 April – 31 October.
Maison La Minervetta
(a deluxe boutique hotel)
Located just outside Sorrento in a spectacular location perched on the cliff
overlooking the fishing boats in the harbour below, this excellent hotel is run
by Eugenia and her architect husband Marco. Decorated with an eclectic mix
of objects and paintings collected from around the world, the hotel opened in
2005 and has established an excellent reputation. The Minervetta has succeeded
where many ‘design’ hotels have failed because the owners personally oversee
every aspect, and together with their charming staff, they have created a relaxed,
homely environment. There are just 12 bedrooms, all with sea views.
The terrace offers wonderful views across to Sorrento and beyond to the Bay
of Naples. The hotel’s plunge pool and sun terraces are accessed by a lift and
steps. The centre of Sorrento is less than 10 minutes’ walk.
Deluxe
Built in the grand, traditional style, the Excelsior Vittoria is Sorrento’s top hotel.
Overlooking the harbour and just a short stroll along the hotel’s private
driveway from the town centre (20 steps lead from the very attractive gardens
to the main entrance). Well furnished throughout with a bar, two restaurants, a
stylish lounge and a large terrace overlooking the Bay of Naples. The hotel has
an outdoor summer swimming pool with poolside bar. A private lift
connects the hotel with the Marina Piccola below, where boats depart for
Capri. All 97 bedrooms are comfortably furnished.
SPECIAL OFFER 1 November – 30 April, 1 – 28 October: 4 nights for the
price of 3, saving £175; 1 May – 30 September: 7 nights for the price of 6,
saving £236.
40
Deluxe
what’s included
Return flights
table for dinner
latest prices.
THE AMALFI COAST,
CAPRI & ISCHIA
Punta Regina
POSITANO
The colourful buildings of this remarkable town cascade
down a vertiginous hill to the sea. Once a hideaway for
writers, it is now a fashionable resort with a beach and
hundreds of painted villas, smart boutiques and excellent
waterside fish restaurants.
Le Sirenuse
Deluxe
Located in the centre of picturesque Positano, Le Sirenuse – formerly the
home of a local nobleman and now one of the most sought-after hotels
on the Amalfi Coast – is small, immaculate and very luxurious. The hotel is
beautifully furnished and has an excellent restaurant, small summer
swimming pool with sun terrace and wonderful views of the town and the
bay. It has 58 air-conditioned bedrooms, all with colourful tiled floors. A new
spa has opened and offers treatments using Aveda natural products – there is
also a sauna and steam bath. Supplement for deluxe room with balcony and sea
view available on request. Hotel open 28 March – 31 October.
Poseidon
Superior
Built into the hillside of Positano, the Poseidon is an extremely comfortable
and stylish hotel – and our favourite property in the town. The relaxing
atmosphere and charming staff make this one of our favourite hotels on the
Amalfi Coast. There is a fabulous terrace with a swimming pool overlooking
the town and the sea (breakfast is served outside in summer) a spacious bar and
lounge, a restaurant and an extensive fitness and beauty centre offering Shiatsu,
mud treatments and hydromassage. This hotel is ideal for families and all 50
air-conditioned rooms have balcony or terrace and partial sea view. Hotel open
22 April – 30 October.
Covo Dei Saraceni
Superior
This impressive hotel rises directly from the sandy beach in the centre of
Positano, and is built into the rocky hillside. All 58 rooms are therefore at the
front of the hotel, overlooking the town and the sea; each has a small balcony.
The style is modern, bedrooms are simply furnished and decorated in light,
Mediterranean colours. An open-air rooftop swimming pool and terrace
will delight sun worshippers. Foodies will enjoy the traditional pizzas (cooked
in a wood-burning oven) and local dishes served in the attractive restaurant
with its plants and vaulted ceilings; there is also a snack bar on the ground floor.
Supplement for junior suite with balcony or large terrace available on request.
Hotel open 9 April – 18 October. During the summer months, boats depart for
Amalfi and Capri from the harbour below the hotel.
Superior
This charming family-run hotel is located just above the Poseidon on the
hillside within the town of Positano. Although there is no pool, it is a 10
minute walk to the main shopping area and beach. The Punta Regina looks out
over the bay with sea and rooftop views and has 13 bedrooms; each is
decorated in cool cream colours with comfortable contemporary furniture.
Our rooms have a flower-filled private balcony or terrace facing the sea.
Continental breakfast is served either in your room or on the rooftop terrace in
summer. There is no lounge or bar but drinks can be served in your room on
request. A delightful addition to Positano’s collection of first class hotels. Hotel
open 1 April – 3 November.
NAPLES
The history of Naples dates back to the 9th
Century BC, when the Greeks founded ‘Neapolis’.
Attracted by its magnificent scenery, intellectuals
such as Cicero,Virgil and Pliny the Elder, all found
their inspiration here.Today, traditional pizzerias,
cafés and superb restaurants can be found, as can
excellent boutiques, markets, beautiful monuments
and fascinating museums.
Grand Hotel Parker’s
Deluxe
Located at the beginning of Corso Vittorio Emanuele, 20 minutes’
walk from Piazza Plebiscito, the Royal Palace and San Carlo Theatre,
this elegant hotel has been welcoming guests since 1870. Beautifully
decorated throughout in Liberty style, it has 82 bedrooms (we recommend
deluxe rooms with wonderful sea views – supplements available on request).
‘George’s’ rooftop restaurant and the 6th floor ‘Bidder’s Bar’ both have
spectacular views of the Gulf of Naples. The hotel’s spa provides unique
treatments such as hydro massage with Champagne Rosé and a jacuzzi and
face treatment with gold dust. The owners also have a beautiful vineyard in
the heart of the Campania countryside where wine-tasting can be arranged.
Grand Hotel Parker’s is exceptional value for money and is a great place to
spend a short break, or to stay for a few nights at the beginning or the end of
a longer Amalfi Coast itinerary.
SPECIAL OFFER valid for all departures: 3 nights for the price of 2, saving up
to £130.
PRIVATE EXCURSIONS
ON THE AMALFI COAST
The Kirker Concierge is available to book a wide variety of private
excursions with expert, English-speaking guides to the key
archaeological sites on the Amalfi Coast including Herculaneum,
Pompeii and Paestum. Please call our concierge on
020 7593 2286 to discuss your requirements.
Amalfi Coast, Capri & Ischia hotels continued overleaf
41
THE AMALFI COAST,
CAPRI & ISCHIA
RAVELLO
Villa Cimbrone
Nestled in the hills inland from the coast, Ravello is a quiet
village with spectacular views. Once the second city of the
Amalfitan Republic, it has a cathedral, fine Mediaeval art,
two glorious public gardens and a summer concert programme.
Caruso
Deluxe
The Orient-Express group reopened the doors of this historic hotel in June
2005. The Caruso family purchased the property in the late 1800’s, and within
years it was attracting guests from all over the globe, drawn by its idyllic
location and luxurious surroundings. Regular guests included Greta Garbo,
Humphrey Bogart and Jackie Kennedy. It is located high up in the heart of
Ravello, with breathtaking views of the Amalfi coastline and the
Mediterranean. The 50 bedrooms are all beautifully decorated. The outdoor
swimming pool, poolside restaurant and bar and the ‘Belvedere’ restaurant are
all located in the beautifully landscaped gardens at the front of the hotel. The
‘Caruso’ gastronomic restaurant also has wondrous views of the garden and the
coast from its summer terrace. Hotel open 29 March – 3 November.
SPECIAL OFFER 29 March – 16 May, 14 October – 3 November: 4 nights for
AMALFI
Once the most important trading port in southern Italy,
Amalfi is today a small attractive town with a fine
beach, good cafés, restaurants and shops, and wonderful
views of the sea and the hills behind.
Santa Caterina
Palazzo Avino
Palazzo Avino
Deluxe
Originally built in the 12th Century, this is a beautifully renovated hotel,
just five minutes’ walk from the centre of Ravello, 1,000 feet above sea
level with spectacular views towards the Amalfi coast. Set in terraced gardens, the
hotel (formerly known as Palazzo Sasso) has a large, open-air heated
swimming pool and a rooftop sun terrace with two jacuzzi pools. There are 43
bedrooms, Michelin two-starred restaurant (dinner only) and an informal grill
on the terrace. In 2009 the hotel introduced ‘Clubhouse by the Sea’, a beautiful
waterside villa offering a salt water pool, living rooms, lush gardens, and a small
restaurant serving pizza and sea food. A path leads through the gardens to stone
steps that descend to the sea. A shuttle runs to the villa throughout the day.
Hotel open 27 March – 31 October.
SPECIAL OFFER 27 March – 30 April, 1 – 31 October: 4 nights for the price
of 3, saving £180.
Rufolo
Superior
A pleasant, family-run hotel, the Rufolo is located just 40 metres from Ravello’s
picturesque main square. It has just 34 bedrooms, a summer swimming pool,
spacious terraces, gardens and a panoramic restaurant. The hotel overlooks the
famous Villa Rufolo, home of the annual Ravello Music Festival. Our prices are
based on superior rooms with sea view.
42
Deluxe
Perched dramatically on a rocky promontory at the highest point in Ravello,
and surrounded by one of Italy’s most famous gardens, this is a truly unique
property. There has been a villa on this site since the 12th Century and over the
years it has been transformed from a monastery to a private villa and finally to a
small luxury hotel. It was continually updated and extended until the English
politician Ernest Beckett took over in 1904 and added the finishing touches.
Throughout the 20th Century the villa played host to a succession of notable
literary and artistic figures such as Virginia Woolf and Greta Garbo. It is now
one of the regions loveliest family-owned hotels, and its 19 antique furnished
bedrooms all have wonderful views of either the spectacular coast or the elegant
Cimbrone gardens. There are several beautiful public lounges, a large outdoor
swimming pool and a very highly regarded restaurant which uses many
ingredients grown within the extensive private gardens.
Deluxe
A beautiful, elegant property located one kilometre from the centre of Amalfi,
this traditional hotel is set in extensive terraced gardens high above the
Mediterranean. The hotel has two excellent restaurants, one with panoramic
views of the bay, and the other by the seawater outdoor swimming pool
(reached by a lift) located at sea level – perfect for a wood-fired pizza lunch in
summer. There are also two bars, large lounges and a fitness centre. Buffet
breakfast. There are 50 rooms in the main building and 17 attractive cottages set
amongst the hotel’s private orange and lemon groves.
Luna Convento
Superior
Originally a convent dating from the 9th Century and a hotel for over 180
years, the Luna Convento is located within walking distance of the centre of
Amalfi and overlooks the entire bay. A beautiful flower-filled courtyard is the
focal point and is surrounded by an ancient cloister which was founded by
St. Francis of Assisi in 1222. All 43 bedrooms are furnished in traditional
Mediterranean style and all overlook the sea. There are two restaurants and steps
lead down to a seawater swimming pool across the road from the hotel.
SPECIAL OFFER 1 November – 31 May, 1 October onwards: 7 nights for the
price of 6, saving up to £115.
what’s included
Return flights
table for dinner
and suites on request).
THE AMALFI COAST,
CAPRI & ISCHIA
CAPRI
Capri remains one of our most favourite spots in
the Mediterranean. Although tiny, its scenery is
breathtakingly beautiful. Scented wild flowers,
fig trees, tiny coves, fabulous villas, smart boutiques,
the famous Blue Grotto and the Faraglione Rocks
draw many visitors.
Ischia
ISCHIA
Capri Palace
Volcanic in origin, Ischia is known as the
Green Island because of its abundant vegetation, or as the
Island of Good Health for its thermal springs. It is an
oasis of breathtaking scenery with pretty coastal and
hillside villages.
Mezzatorre Hotel & Spa
Superior
Located in the north of the island near the small village of Lacco Ameno
(where a shuttle bus operates to and from the hotel) it has a superb setting
amongst seven hectares of beautiful pine forest. The views from the panoramic
restaurant and the hotel terraces over the Gulf of Naples and Vesuvius are
sublime. The main building is in a restored 15th Century watchtower and the
other buildings housing the majority of the hotel’s 59 bedrooms are located in
the grounds. The rooms are all decorated in a Mediterranean style and some
have their own private gardens. The main restaurant serves local and
international cuisine and light lunches can be enjoyed by the heated seawater
outdoor swimming pool. The hotel’s spa has three indoor treatment pools
and offers treatments based around the island’s thermal springs and mineralenriched mud. There is a tennis court and a bathing platform at sea level.
THE 8TH KIRKER ISCHIA MUSIC FESTIVAL
A SEVEN NIGHT ESCORTED HOLIDAY
Our Music Holidays programme is designed to appeal to clients who
enjoy travelling with like-minded companions. Departing on
14 October, our exclusive festival is based at the 4 star San Montana
and includes a series of seven exceptional concerts which take place at
La Mortella, the home of the late Sir William and Lady Walton.
Musicians engaged for 2013 include The Kungsbacka Trio, soprano
Sarah-Jane Brandon and pianist James Baillieu.
Prices from £1,998 per person.
Punta Tragara
Return flights
Return transfers by car and ferry/hydrofoil
Kirker’s Guide Notes to restaurants, museums and sightseeing and the
services of the Kirker Concierge
latest prices.
Deluxe
The Punta Tragara stands at the end of the path that connects Capri Town
(15 minutes’ walk) with the steps that lead down to the sea. It is the only
hotel to look directly onto the beautiful Faraglione Rocks and the views are
breathtaking. Built of sandstone and recently renovated to a very high standard,
it is decorated with many antiques and works of art. There are 44 bedrooms, all
with balconies or terraces, extensive gardens and sun terraces and two openair seawater swimming pools (one is specially heated for hydro-massage: the
Punta Tragara is famed for its excellent thalassotherapy and beauty treatments).
Dining on the terrace or by candlelight is offered at the hotel’s ‘La Bussola’
restaurant. Hotel open 20 April – 31 October.
SPECIAL OFFER 20 April – 13 May, 1 – 31 October: 5 nights for the price of
4 and a complimentary room upgrade, saving £195.
Casa Morgano
Deluxe
Small (just 28 rooms), exclusive, understated luxury; the Casa Morgano is a
favourite Kirker hotel, located just a five minute walk from Capri Town and
with wonderful views of the sea. The emphasis is on elegance, comfort and
service. Breakfast is served whenever you wish, either in your room or on the
terrace; lunch is taken by the open-air swimming pool. The kitchen is
closed in the evenings, but there are several excellent restaurants within a few
minutes’ walk. Hotel open 1 April – 31 October.
Caesar Augustus
what’s included
Deluxe
The Palace has become one of the finest hotels and spas in Italy, with its
cool stone floors and luxurious white décor. Its spectacular location high
up in Anacapri offers dramatic sea and mountain views. The Michelin-starred
restaurant serves delicious cuisine, and in summer, dining outdoors under the
stars is a wonderful experience. There is a large outdoor swimming pool,
although some suites have their own pools. The spa offers thalassotherapy
treatments and an indoor pool. The hotel operates a shuttle service for the
10 minute journey to their ‘Il Riccio’ restaurant, where you can experience
wonderful views, great food and sea bathing. It has 78 bedrooms.
Deluxe
Perched on the cliff, 300 metres above the sea in Ana Capri, this privatelyowned hotel commands one of the most spectacular views on the island. When
the Romans established a private home on this site, they took immense trouble
to choose the location and the property is now one of the best small hotels in
Capri. There are 42 rooms in the main hotel, plus 10 suites in the villa.
Restaurant, stylish infinity swimming pool, terrace and wonderful views of
the sunset across the Bay of Naples. Hotel open 1 April – 31 October.
SPECIAL OFFER 1 April – 31 May, 1 September – 31 October: 4 nights for
the price of 3 for Sunday arrivals, saving up to £230.
43
SANTA MARIA
DI CASTELLABATE
Castellabate lies two hours south of Naples and is a
Mediaeval town dominated by its impressive castle
founded in 1123. It is beautifully preserved and has
been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Below the town, you’ll discover the unspoilt seaside
village of Santa Maria di Castellabate with its sandy
beach. A stay here can easily be factored into a
tailor-made itinerary – there are good rail links to
Salerno which is 45 miles away.
what’s included
Return flights
Accommodation including breakfast and the services of the Kirker
Concierge
in our reservations department on 020 7593 2288 for the very latest prices.
Palazzo Belmonte
Palazzo Belmonte (a historical private residence)
Palazzo Belmonte is situated within the walls of a 17th Century residence
which was formerly the hunting lodge of the Prince of Belmonte. The Palazzo
is still owned by the Belmonte family and the current prince lives in an annexe
from where he takes an active role in the management and preservation of the
property. The swimming pool is situated in a secluded part of the five acres of
mature gardens that lead to the sandy beach where deckchairs are available for
hotel guests. Rooms are located in the main Palazzo, in the adjoining Palazzina
Edoardo, and the Dependence and are decorated with period furnishings and
attractive Italian textiles. There is a range of accommodation that would suit
couples looking for privacy as well as families, so call us for more detailed
information. The ‘Palazzo’ restaurant is open for dinner from 20 June to mid
October. The Greek temples at Paestum are nearby. Hotel open 5 May –
27 October. No lift.
SPECIAL OFFER 5 May – 23 June, 9 September – 27 October: 4 nights for
BASILICATA
The region of Basilicata lies between Campania to the north and Calabria to
the south and is a wonderfully unspoilt area, off Italy’s well-trodden tourist
track. Few visitors venture here but those who do are awarded with an unspoilt
landscape and beautiful coastline.The pretty town of Maratea is defined by
narrow streets and alleys and has over forty churches.The journey by car from
Naples airport takes three and a half hours.There is a train station in Maratea
that can be reached in four hours from Rome and two hours from Naples.
Santavenere
Deluxe
A landmark hotel since 1956 when Count Stefano Rivetti built his ‘golden
refuge’ on Maratea’s most picturesque promontory. The Santavenere quickly
gained a reputation as one of southern Italy’s best kept secrets and attracted
stars such as Richard Burton and Frank Sinatra. There are 39 bedrooms finished
in rustic style, many with wonderful sea views. It has a large saltwater
swimming pool, tennis court, spa, restaurant and a private rocky beach.
A testament to simple elegance, the hotel is at sea level and is located in the
small village of Fiumicello, a 15 minute walk from the bars and restaurants of
Maratea port. Hotel open 24 May to 7 October.
PECIAL OFFER 24 May – 3 July, 1 September – 7 October: 7 nights for the
what’s included
Return flights
Car hire
Accommodation including breakfast and the services of the Kirker
Concierge to book expert local guides
and suites on request). All quotations are tailor-made, speak to an expert
in our reservations department on 020 7593 2288 for the latest prices.
44
La Locanda Della Donne Monache
La Locanda Della Donne Monache
Superior
This restored 18th Century convent is located in the heart of Maratea and is
framed by the terracotta roofs of the old Mediaeval village. It was originally
occupied by the Visitandine nuns and the many historical features that remain
make a fascinating contrast with the contemporary art that has been collected
by the owners. Each of the 27 bedrooms reflects the character of the property
and is designed to make the most of the abundant natural light. The view from
the hotel’s restaurant, gardens and swimming pool are also wonderful both by
day and by night. The shops and restaurants around the main square of Maratea
are a few minutes’ walk away and the hotel operates a shuttle to a lovely local
beach where the sea water is crystal clear. Those with mobility issues should
beware that there are a number of steps around the hotel and the path to the
village centre is steep. Hotel open from 13 April to 14 October.
F L I G H T
Direct flights from the UK to Naples:
Liverpool, Gatwick, Stansted, Bristol, Edinburgh: Easyjet
Birmingham, East Midlands, Bristol, Glasgow Prestwick,
Manchester, Newcastle: Thomsonfly (summer only); Dublin: Aer Lingus
British Airways Club Europe from £275
PUGLIA
The ‘Heel’ of Italy has a rich history and over the years
has played host to the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines,
Normans and Spanish and, as a result, has many
archaeological sites, castles and historic towns. Many of
the hotels are converted masserias – fortified, walled
farmhouses that were built to defend against invading
forces. Puglia is relatively unspoilt with few tourists; it is
popular with Italians in July and August but is very
peaceful at other times.
Alberobello
CENTRAL PUGLIA
SOUTHERN PUGLIA
The rolling hills of the Valle d’Itria have many places of
interest including the archaeological site of Egnatia, the
UNESCO protected Alberobello and whitewashed
hilltowns like Ostuni.
The Salentine peninsula covers the heel of Italy, south of
Brindisi and this is where you will find Puglia’s best sandy
beaches together with some beautifully preserved towns such
as Taranto, Otranto, Gallipoli and Lecce, the ‘Florence of
the South’, a Baroque masterpiece.
Masseria Torre Coccaro
Deluxe
Built in the 16th Century as a watch tower, the Coccaro opened as a
resort hotel in 2002. The restoration has preserved all of the Masseria’s
rustic character and it is a very atmospheric place to stay. The 33 bedrooms
have flagstone floors and antique furnishings but are comfortable with
expensive fabrics, linen sheets and large bathrooms with rain showers; many
have fireplaces and all have a terrace or balcony overlooking the farm. There is
a wonderful, gently sloping summer swimming pool, two restaurants serving
delicious Adriatic fish accompanied by organic produce from the farm and an
Aveda Spa with small indoor pool (charge payable locally). The hotel runs a
shuttle bus to its private sandy beach which is 10 minutes away.
Villa San Martino
SPECIAL OFFER valid all year: 3 nights for the price of 2, saving up to £190.
Rail times:Bari – Lecce
Bari – Fasano
Bari – Rome
Bari – Bologna
This renovated, whitewashed masseria is just a few kilometers from the historic
port of Otranto and one hour from Brindisi airport; the sandy beaches of the
Baia dei Turchi are a short drive away. It is ideal for couples of all ages as well as
families and has 29 bedrooms, located in the farmhouse or adjoining buildings
which are simply furnished in a Mediterranean style; many have vaulted
ceilings. The swimming pool is a central feature of the property, and the
owner’s six dogs and two cats add to the friendly and informal atmosphere.
Good food is also a feature with home made cakes available at breakfast and the
Masseria’s home grown fruit and vegetables featuring on the daily changing
dinner menu which is served on the candlelit terrace in fine weather.
Deluxe
The Baroque town of Martina Franca is located in the verdant Valle
d’Itria, a region of vineyards, olive groves and trulli, the distinctive
bee-hive shaped houses that are typical of the region. The villages of
Alberobello and Locorotondo are close by and the drive to both the Adriatic
and Ionian coasts takes just 30 minutes. A member of Relais & Châteaux,Villa
San Martino is located a few minutes’ by taxi from the beautifully preserved old
town and sits amongst mature gardens and parkland. Martina Batzu and her
team offer impeccable service and the atmosphere is elegant and relaxed. There
are just 23 bedrooms and all are decorated with local antiques and custommade silks and damasks. Some are in the main villa and others are in the annexe
by the beautiful swimming pool. There is an Oriental-style wellness centre
and a superb restaurant serving variations on typical regional cuisine.
Approximate driving times:Bari – Martina Franca
Brindisi – Martina Franca
Brindisi – Otranto
Bari – Otranto
Bari – Fasano (Torre Coccaro)
Brindisi – Fasano (Torre Coccaro)
Brindisi – Lecce
Bari – Lecce
Masseria Monte Lauro (a privately-owned country hotel)
1 hr
1 hr
1 hr
2 hrs
20 mins
20 mins
20 mins
30 mins
50 mins
50 mins
35 mins
Patria Palace, Lecce
Superior
Located in a small square opposite the elaborate Baroque façade of the Santa
Croce, this former palace is an aristocratic mansion with 60 bedrooms
decorated in Liberty style, many have original frescoes. The hotel’s restaurant is
acknowledged as among the best in the region and serves delicious local
cuisine; there is a small lobby bar, while the summer roof terrace has spectacular
views of the rooftops of the city.
what’s included
Prices quoted include return flights
Car hire
Kirker’s Guide Notes to restaurants, museums and sightseeing and the
services of the Kirker Concierge
in our reservations department on 020 7593 2288 for the very latest prices
F L I G H T
2 hrs
1 hr 30 mins
40 mins
4 hrs
5 hrs 30 mins
Direct flights from the UK to Bari:
Gatwick: British Airways; Stansted: Ryanair
Direct flights from the UK to Brindisi:
Stansted: Ryanair
45
SICILY
Sicilians are immensely proud of their island and its
fascinating history and today delight in sharing their unique
culture with visitors. As the largest of the Mediterranean
islands, it has a strategic importance that has brought it under
the influence of many foreign rulers. Apart from the temples,
theatres, and churches which reflect Greek, Roman, Arab and
even Norman influences, the delicious local food and wine adds
an extra dimension to any visit to the island.The interior is
wild and mountainous and has unspoilt lemon groves and
vineyards; the main towns are located on the coast and can be
combined to create an enticing multi-centre holiday.
Villa Sant’ Andrea
TAORMINA
Taormina is a beguiling town in a commanding
position high on Monte Tauro, overlooking two
sweeping bays below, in the shadow of Mount Etna’s
imposing silhouette. Hotels in the seaside resort of
Taormina Beach hug the dramatic rocky coastline and
provide a tranquil haven away from the main town
centre.Taormina prices include return scheduled
flights to Catania, return private car transfers to/from
your hotel and accommodation with breakfast.
Deluxe
Formerly the summer retreat of the Trevelyan family, this famous hotel has an
excellent location on the shore overlooking Mazarro Bay. The Orient-Express
Group acquired the property in 2010 and the handsome building has been
completely restored to its original splendour, whilst retaining the relaxed
atmosphere of a private residence. Although many guests enjoy sea bathing
from the private beach (small pebbles), a wonderful new heated swimming
pool has been added. The hotel is surrounded by subtropical gardens and there
is an excellent restaurant with a terrace where guests can sit in the shade of
palm trees and enjoy the view across the bay. There are 60 elegant bedrooms
overlooking the gardens or the bay. Lift, but not to all floors. Taormina town
can be reached in a few minutes by cable car (or complimentary shuttle) where
clients may use the facilities at the sister hotel Timeo.
SPECIAL OFFER 19 April – 23 May, 1 – 27 October: 5 nights for the price of
4, saving £178.
San Domenico Palace
Superior
This deluxe hotel is Sicily’s most famous property and offers high levels of
service in a unique atmosphere. If you have dreamt of staying in a beautiful
ancient building with a fascinating history, then the San Domenico Palace with
its unspoilt colonnaded cloisters, grand public rooms, beautiful antiques and
spectacular views across the Ionian Sea will be perfect for you. The original
monastery dates back to the 15th Century and was joined to the Grand Hotel
in 1896 to create this delightful 108 bedroom hotel. Kirker prices are based on
sea view rooms in the Grand Hotel wing. The beautiful terraced gardens include
a summer swimming pool with a well stocked bar where you can enjoy a
light lunch in the shady pavilion overlooking the pool. Hotel closed 10 January
– 8 March.
SPECIAL OFFER 9 – 27 March, 7 – 31 October: 4 nights for the price of 3,
saving £134; 28 March – 6 October: 7 nights for the price of 6, saving £178.
Taormina
Grand Hotel San Pietro
Grand Hotel Timeo & Villa Flora
Deluxe
Now owned by Orient-Express Hotels, the Timeo is Sicily’s finest deluxe
property and certainly our favourite – it is the perfect oasis for peace and
tranquillity. The unique terrace has a sublime restaurant which offers guests
delicious cooking and spectacular views over the roofs of Taormina town,
down to the Mediterranean and across to Mount Etna. Located next to the
Greek Theatre, it is furnished throughout with beautiful antiques; there is a
summer swimming pool set amongst the terraced gardens and an excellent
bar where you can relax on the main terrace. The 87 beautifully furnished
bedrooms are located either in the main building or next door in the Villa
Flora.Clients can enjoy the private beach at the sister hotel,Villa Sant’Andrea.
Dating back to the beginning of the last century, the San Pietro’s location, just
below the town, is second to none – it has breathtaking views of the bay and is
surrounded by flower-filled gardens. The 63 bedrooms are all spacious, elegant
and comfortable, decorated with rich fabrics and classical furniture. Kirker
prices are based on superior rooms with sea view and balcony. The hotel has a
large lobby with a bar, library and tearoom and a wellness centre. In the
summer months, guests can use a private beach club (hotel shuttle bus
available), relax by the swimming pool or on the extensive outdoor terraces
adorned with terracotta pots with orange and lemon trees and vines. A member
of Relais & Châteaux, the restaurant serves traditional cuisine with a
contemporary twist.
SPECIAL OFFER 21 March – 30 May, 20 October – 17 November: 5 nights
SPECIAL OFFER 14 – 27 April, 13 – 31 October: 5 nights for the price of 4;
1 – 31 July: 7 nights for the price of 6, saving £158.
46
SICILY
Villa Carlotta
Deluxe
The 19th Century Villa Carlotta is an aristocratic residence built in the
architectural style typical of the late 1400s. Just a short walk to Taormina’s
pedestrian streets, this elegant, stone-clad villa is surrounded by lush gardens,
where the summer swimming pool is located and has captivating views over
the bay below. The 27 rooms are all furnished in a classical Sicilian style. The
delicious breakfast is famous throughout Taormina and is served until late
morning on the magnificent rooftop terrace. The hotel has use of a private
beach club and restaurant, easily reached by complimentary minibus (charge for
sunbeds and parasols payable locally).
Villa Belvedere
Superior
This delightful hotel is owned and run by the charming Pécaut-Bambara
family. Located close to the Botanical Gardens and a short walk from the
centre of Taormina, it has been sympathetically renovated to retain its
character and most of the 47 rooms have a small, French balcony
overlooking the terraced gardens and summer swimming pool with the
Bay of Naxos and Mount Etna in the distance. This is the perfect hotel if you
are looking for good value, character and a relaxing atmosphere. From April
to October guests can enjoy an excellent buffet lunch and à la carte menu.
Hotel open 7 March – 17 November.
SYRACUSE
The Corinthians were the first settlers at the intriguing
island of Ortigia which forms the main part of this ancient
city. Syracuse Cathedral has original Greek columns dating
from the 5th Century, the Temple of Athena within its
massive walls and a handsome Baroque façade. It ranks as
one of the most remarkable buildings in Sicily and is
worthy of a journey in its own right. Fly to Catania,
price includes hire car.
Des Etrangers
Fly to Cantania, price includes hire car.
The Falconara Resort
Superior
Situated on the southeast coast, 60 kilometres from Agrigento and its Greek
Temples, the Falconara Resort is the ideal place to relax and is easily reached in
90 minutes from Catania. It is situated just 200 metres from the sea and is
adjacent to Castello di Falconara, a 14th Century castle. The hotel is divided
into two buildings, the modern Club House, which houses most of the
bedrooms and junior suites and the Dependence which has been converted
from the old castello outbuildings. The resort is a member of Design Hotels and
is decorated in modern, contemporary style. As well as a large outdoor
swimming pool, there is a tennis court and a wellness centre. Hotel open 22
April to 16 October. Prices based on sea view rooms in the Club House and
include half-board.
Masseria Mandranova (a superior country house hotel)
Situated just 10 kilometres from the sea and 5 kilometres from the town of
Palma di Montechiaro, this Masseria has been restored to house 9 bedrooms in
the main farm building, and two separate conversions (the old station house
and an ancient outbuilding). Rooms are comfortably furnished, retaining many
original features, but with modern creature comforts. The communal areas are
in the main farmhouse, including the outdoor dining terrace. It is a working
farm and produces some of Sicily’s best olive oil. In the Autumn you can
witness, or even participate in the olive harvest itself. Agrigento and the Valley
of the Temples are 25 kilometres away.
Deluxe
The stunning views from the beautiful rooftop restaurant of Des Etrangers
offer guests a unique panorama over the spectacular natural harbour and
leaves one in no doubt why the Greeks elected to adopt this as the location of
their headquarters in Sicily. Located at the top end of the tree-lined
promenade, overlooking the marina and famous Arethusa Fountain, the hotel is
within Ortigia island’s fascinating historical centre that forms the heart of
Syracuse. The hotel’s designers are proud of their use of contemporary
furnishings blended with original architectural features and no expense has
been spared in recreating Roman mosaics in the hotel’s grand hallway. There is
a spa with indoor pool and 91 rooms. Our prices are based on deluxe rooms
with sea view.
SPECIAL OFFER for all departures: 4 nights for the price of 3, saving up to
£130 OR 7 nights for the price of 5, saving up to £260.
Grand
FALCONARA
Superior
Located on Ortigia island, this traditional hotel has been extensively renovated
and has an outstanding position overlooking the harbour. The rooftop
restaurant offers guests panoramic views over the historical city centre across
the Ionian Sea. The hotel is privately-owned and has 40 well furnished rooms;
there is a small archaeological museum in the basement. During the summer
guests can use the hotel’s private sandy beach, located across the bay just 15
minutes away via the hotel’s own boat (there is a small charge for this service).
Falconara Resort
SCIACCA
Fly to Palermo, price includes hire car.
Verdura Golf Resort
Deluxe
The Rocco Forte Collection’s new venture is the most luxurious
resort Sicily has seen. It is situated on the sea, just outside Sciacca
and 30 kilometres from the temples at Agrigento. Opened in April 2009, it has
200 bedrooms, two 18 hole golf courses and a 9 hole course. There is a golf
club with its own bar and restaurant as well as several restaurants that cater for
all tastes from fine dining to midday snacks on the private beach. The Health
Club has five Thalassotherapy pools and a restaurant for those who prefer to
stick to a strict regime or who have special dietary requirements. There is also
a large outdoor swimming pool and all guests have access to the private
pebble beach. Only an hour away from Palermo airport, the hotel is proving
popular with people looking for the latest state-of-the-art luxury.
Sicily hotels continued overleaf
47
SICILY
AGRIGENTO
TRAPANI
Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples include the remains of
the most complete Greek temples outside mainland
Greece.The unspoilt rocky scenery, punctuated with
almond, cypress and olive trees, is the perfect backdrop to
one of the most astonishing archaeological sights in Italy.
Fly to Palermo, price includes hire car.
Trapani prices include return scheduled flights to Palermo,
return private car transfers to/from your hotel and
accommodation with breakfast.
Villa Athena
Deluxe
We are very excited to be welcoming back this famous hotel to the Kirker
programme. Since undergoing extensive renovations including all rooms and
public areas, the Villa Athena is once again the best hotel in Agrigento. The
hotel has 27 individually furnished bedrooms, many with temple views
(supplements on request) and is in a stunning location overlooking the Temple
of Concordia. Formerly a private residence, this 18th Century palace is a
unique property. The summer swimming pool is set in the garden amongst
olive trees and gives guests the opportunity to relax within a stones’ throw of
one of Italy’s most fascinating archaeological sites. There is a wonderful
restaurant where you can experience alfresco dining that focuses on the best
of traditional southern Sicilian cuisine.
Kempinski Hotel Giardino di Costanza
Set in expansive parkland, the Giardino di Costanza has established itself
as one of the island’s most luxurious resorts. It is located on the west coast,
just one hour from Palermo and is close to the pretty fishing town of Mazara
del Vallo and the Mediaeval town of Erice. There is much to explore in the area
– the surrounding region of Trapani is rich in cultural and historical sites and is
blessed with picturesque countryside and a dramatic coastline, but many come
here to simply relax, recharge and enjoy the superb facilities. There is an
extensive spa, two outdoor swimming pools, two tennis courts as well as
a heated indoor swimming pool, sauna, plunge pool and jacuzzi. The 91
bedrooms are all extremely comfortable and have a balcony or a terrace.
Excellent local and Mediterranean cuisine is served in the main courtyard
restaurant; the pool bar offers lighter meals during the day and there is a bar,
lounge and an extensive wine and olive oil cellar.
SPECIAL OFFER 22 March – 11 July, 9 September – 3 November: 4 nights
PALERMO
Palermo, the Sicilian capital, is a lively city with Mediaeval
streets; markets; art and architecture; world renowned opera;
Baroque churches and the beautiful Norman cathedral at
Monreale, located just seven kilometres from the city centre.
It makes a memorable starting point for a visit to the island.
Grand Hotel Villa Igiea
Superior
Located on the coast with wonderful views across the marina to the Bay of
Palermo, this famous property is just 10 minutes’ taxi ride from the heart of the
city and offers guests a tranquil haven in an idyllic setting.There is an excellent
restaurant with an outside terrace and you can relax in a quiet corner of the
jasmine scented gardens, or enjoy a drink from the bar by the summer
swimming pool; there is also a sea bathing platform. Built at the end of the 19th
Century, this is a masterpiece of Liberty style and still has much of the original
furniture.The 113 rooms are well furnished.
SPECIAL OFFER valid for all departures: 4 nights for the price of 3,
saving £120.
Centrale Palace
Superior
Located in the historical centre, the Centrale Palace is just three minutes’ walk
from the Duomo and provides guests with good value, comfortable
accommodation.There are 63 bedrooms, an elegant breakfast room, and a very
good rooftop restaurant (closed Sundays) with outstanding views over Palermo’s
fascinating roofscape.The hotel also has a sun terrace on the top floor.
3 night price from £628 per person low season, £649 per person high season
Villa Igiea
OPERA in palermo
Italy's biggest opera house, the Teatro Massimo in Palermo is
celebrating the bicentenary of the birth of Richard Wagner with a
mouth-watering line up of singers for the composer's ‘Ring Cycle’.
The four operas will be introduced one by one throughout the year
in a new production by Graham Vick.
‘Das Rheingold’ is showing in January with Robert Brubaker as Mime,
‘Die Walkure’ takes the stage in February with Lise Lindstrom as
Brunnhilde, ‘Siegfried’ comes in October and ‘The Ring Cycle’ closes in
November with ‘Gotterdammerung’ with Sergei Leiferkus as Alberich.
Call the Kirker Concierge on 020 7593 2286 for schedules and ticket prices.
what’s included
Grand Hotel Wagner
Deluxe
Housed in a neo-classical Palermitan palace, the Grand Hotel Wagner was built in
the early 20th Century. It is situated in the heart of the city, not far from the
historical Massimo and Politeama Theatres and the pedestrian area of via Principe
di Belmonte where the best boutiques, bars and restaurants can be found.The
interior of the hotel is decorated ornately with rich carpets, rare marble, old
paintings and a rare antique fireplace.The hotel has an excellent bar, a rooftop
terrace and a wellness centre.The 61 bedrooms are furnished in a classical style.
48
Flights
Kirker’s Guide Notes
The services of the Kirker Concierge to book opera tickets or expert
local guides
Prices based on sharing a double room (supplements for single rooms on
request). All quotations are tailor-made; speak to an expert in our
reservations department on 020 7593 2288 for the latest prices.
SICILY
THE AEOLIAN ISLANDS
View of Salina from Vulcano
Dotted across the Tyrrenhian Sea, off the northern coast of Sicily, these seven
tiny islands provide some wonderful wildlife and scenery due to their volcanic
origins and unspoilt countryside.The islands can easily be reached by boat from
northern Sicily, or from Naples. Alternatively, there are flights from Naples and
Palermo. Prices include transportation to and from Cantania airport.
VULCANO
SALINA
The southernmost of the Aeolian Islands,Vulcano is
renowned for its beautiful landscape. It has the largest
volcanic plateau of the archipelago and is famed for its
natural thermal waters and sulphur mud treatments.
Salina is the second largest Aeolian island and by far the
lushest with more than 400 different types of plants
growing here.The island is most famous for the
production of Malvasia, a delicious white wine that is
only produced on Salina.
Therasia Resort
Originally built in the 1960’s by a local Sicilian family, this hotel has been
completely renovated by its new owners who have sensitively refurbished the
bedrooms using local materials. The only 5 star hotel on the island, it offers a
range of different standards of rooms, all tastefully decorated and some with sea
views and terraces with outdoor Jacuzzis. All rooms are air-conditioned and have
telephone, radio, safe and satellite TV. There are two restaurants, both serving
regional Aeolian and Sicilian cuisine. The pièce de résistance, however, must be
the wonderful infinity pool with spectacular views over Lipare’s famous
Faraglioni Rocks. The hotel also has a wellness centre (opening 1 June) where
you can unwind with Thalasso treatments and marine mud face and body masks.
Capofaro Resort
Deluxe
Located just outside the main town of Santa Marina, in a magnificent location
perched on the cliffs of Salina, this fantastic boutique retreat is an exciting
addition to the Kirker programme. Owned by the prestigious Conte Tasca
D’Almeria wine family, this hotel is situated in the middle of 7 hectares of
working Malvasia vineyard, and overlooks the lighthouse (or Faro) from which
it takes its name. The style of the hotel is very relaxed and simple allowing the
stunning views and amazing location to take centre stage. The Capofaro has an
attractive bar and alfresco restaurant which is located right next to the Infinity
swimming pool. There are just 20 rooms, all with terraces.
SPECIAL OFFER: 11 May – 28 June, 14 – 30 September: 7 nights for the
what’s included
SICILY – AN ENIGMATIC ISLAND
A NINE NIGHT KIRKER CULTURAL TOUR
Our Cultural Tours programme is designed to appeal to a broad
range of clients who enjoy travelling with like-minded companions
and will be of particular interest to anyone who is curious about art,
architecture and history.
In the company of Christopher Monckton, this comprehensive tour will help
you discover the architectural, artistic and historical highlights of the island.
Departures 20 April and 21 September. Prices from £2,398 per person.
Return flights
Return transfers (or car hire where indicated)
Kirker’s Guide Notes to restaurants and sightseeing
The services of the Kirker Concierge to book opera tickets, local
guides or a table for dinner
in our reservations department on 020 7593 2288 for advice and the
latest prices.
F L I G H T
Direct flights from the UK to Palermo
(for Palermo, Sciacca, Agrigento, and Trapani):
Gatwick: Easyjet (summer only)
Direct flights routes from the UK to Trapani:
Luton: Ryanair
Direct flights routes from the UK to Catania
(for Taormina, Falconara, Syracuse and Aeolian Islands):
Gatwick: British Airways, Easyjet; Manchester, Gatwick: Thomsonfly
(summer only); Dublin: Aer Lingus
Approximate driving times:Bologna – Ravenna 1 hr 20 mins
Palermo – Agrigento 1 hr 30 mins
Agrigento – Syracuse 3 hrs
Agrigento – Taormina 3 hrs
Catania – Syracuse
45 mins
Catania – Taormina
45 mins
Palermo – Trapani
Catania – Falconara
Catania – Milazzo
Taormina – Milazzo
Palermo – Sciacca
Palermo – Cefalu
50 mins
2 hrs
1 hr 30 mins
1 hr
2 hrs
50 mins
49
SARDINIA
Sardinia has some of the Mediterranean’s most
breathtakingly beautiful scenery. All along the coastline
there is rich vegetation leading to magnificently clear,
turquoise waters. Inland, there are rugged mountains and
plenty to explore including Roman and Carthaginian
ruins, fortresses and churches. All our featured properties
offer an informal and relaxing atmosphere.
Cervo
This fine hotel is located in the heart of Porto Cervo, the Costa Smeralda’s
famous and glamorous yacht harbour and marina and is surrounded by stylish
boutiques, cafés and bars. There are 80 bedrooms, up to five restaurants to
choose from depending on the season and a swimming pool. In addition, the
facilities of the Cervo Tennis Club are available for hotel guests. The hotel
operates a complimentary boat shuttle to a beautiful private sandy beach
nearby. Prices and further details available on request.
Don Diego, Costa Dorata
Superior
be explored on foot, horseback or bicycle. There is a wide variety of birdlife to
be discovered and also a number of archaeological ruins nearby. The seaside
resort of Cala Gonone is 12 miles away and Olbia airport can be reached in an
hour and 15 minutes. There are 68 attractively decorated bedrooms; our prices
are based on deluxe rooms with a balcony or a terrace. There is an excellent
restaurant and a large heated swimming pool. Prices include half-board and
an air-conditioned hire car for the duration of your holiday. No lift.
Our favourite hotel on the island, Don Diego’s wonderful seaside location
rivals that of any of the luxurious 5 star resorts on the Costa Smeralda yet it
offers more charm and much better value for money. It is located in a secluded
position, just eight miles south of Olbia airport and sits in flower-filled gardens
that slope down to a private and pristine sandy beach. Designed in typical
Sardinian style, the 70 bedrooms are housed in a series of cottages scattered
amongst pine trees; each room is decorated in a rustic style and has recently
been renovated – we recommend the spacious junior suites with seas views
(supplements available on request). The restaurant has views out toward the
nearby islands of Molara and Tavolara. There is a lovely seawater swimming
pool, a tennis court and jogging trails, and water sports are available from the
beach. Hotel open 14 May – 26 September.
Located on the south eastern corner of the island, Cala Caterina is beautifully
designed in the style of a Mediterranean villa with long shady colonnades.
There are 48 bedrooms with balconies or terraces; all have views of the gardens
and several have glimpses of the sea through the trees. The chef creates a
delicious four-course tasting menu each evening and cocktails are served on
the wide terrace by the swimming pool. A short walk through manicured
lawns takes you to the sandy beach. The popular resort of Villasimius with its
marina is a short drive away and Cagliari airport can be reached in an hour and
a quarter. No lift. Car hire included. Hotel open 16 May – 27 September.
SPECIAL OFFER 18 May – 9 June, 7 – 21 September: 7 nights for the price of
6, saving £110.
The Forte Village Resort
Su Gologone, Oliena
Superior
Nestling at the foot of Mount Corrasi, 10 minutes from the town of Oliena,
this charming, rustic hotel is the ideal place to enjoy the island’s unspoilt
mountain scenery; it is located on the edge of the Gennargentu National Park.
There are many characteristic shepherds’ trails that lead from the hotel and can
Driving times:Olbia Airpot – Costa Smeralda
45 mins
Alghero – Costa Smeralda
2 hrs 30 mins
Alghero – Cagliari
3 hrs 30 mins
Olbia – Cagliari
3 hrs 30 mins
Olbia – Oliena
1 hr 15 mins
Cagliari – Chia
1 hr
Cagliari – Villasimius
1 hr 15 mins
50
Cala Caterina, Villasimius
Superior
This famous, multi award-winning resort is set in 25 hectares of tropical
gardens, just 45 minutes from Cagliari airport. It consists of seven hotels
and a fantastic array of facilities including 14 restaurants, a number of cafés and
bars, numerous swimming pools, 12 tennis courts, jogging tracks, Go
Karting, an outdoor ice rink, a wonderful thermal spa, watersports from the
large sandy beach including a dive centre, and one of the world’s best children’s
clubs. Many of our sales team have first-hand experience of the resort, so please
do call us for additional information and advice on which hotel might best suit
your particular requirements. Prices available on request.
what’s included
Return flights
Return private car transfers (except where indicated)
Accommodation including breakfast and the services of the
Kirker Concierge
on 020 7593 2288 for the latest prices.
F L I G H T
Direct flights from the UK to Olbia:
Gatwick, Bristol: Easyjet; Leeds Bradford, Edinburgh: Jet 2
Direct flights to Cagliari:
Gatwick: British Airways; Stansted: Easyjet
Direct flights to Alghero:
Stansted: Ryanair; East Midlands: bmibaby
booking form
I TA L Y 2 0 1 2 / 1 3
Kirker Holidays, 4 Waterloo Court, 10 Theed Street, London SE1 8ST
Office hours: 09.00–18.00 (Mon-Fri), 09.00–16.00 (Sat)
Reservations: 020 7593 2288 Fax: 020 7593 1461
Brochure requests: 020 7593 2282
Accounts/administration: 020 7593 2280
italy@kirkerholidays.com www.kirkerholidays.com
CONTACT DETAILS/TRAVEL AGENT’S STAMP
Name:
DETAILS OF ALL PASSENGERS
Title
Initial and Surname
Age (if under 18)
Address:
Postcode:
Email:
ACCOMMODATION DETAILS
PAYMENT BY DEBIT / CREDIT / CHARGE CARD
Destination
Hotel
Nights
Room Type
Please charge £.............. to my card (Debit Card, Mastercard, Visa, Amex, Diners Club)
and charge any balance due to the same card 8 weeks prior to departure.
Expiry Date:
Issue number:
Name on Card:
EXCURSIONS & SPECIAL REQUESTS
Address:
Postcode:
Signature
No administration fee is chargeable for payments made by debit card.
An administration fee of 1% is chargeable for payments made by most Mastercard and Visa credit cards.
An administration fee of 2% is chargeable for payments made by American Express and premium or
corporate cards.
Deposit: minimum £200 per person (deposit amounts will be advised at time of booking).
Deposits are due at time of booking.
Full payment is due not later than 8 weeks prior to departure.
Cheques should be made payable to 'Kirker Travel Limited'.
Next of Kin Name and Telephone Number
NAME:
DAY TEL:
NIGHT TEL:
On behalf of all persons on this booking form I have read and agreed the conditions of booking
contained in this brochure.
SIGNATURE
DATE:
✂
ESSENTIAL INFORMATION AND CONDITIONS OF BOOKING
All bookings are subject to our full booking conditions which appear on our
website www.kirkerholidays.com. A copy of these can also be e-mailed or
posted to you on request. By asking us to make your booking, you confirm you
have had access to and agree to the full booking conditions which you should
read.
The booking conditions provide for the payment of cancellation charges if you cancel or fail to
make payment when due.They also include limitations and exclusions of our liability to you.
For international travel by air, sea or rail, our liabilities are limited and excluded as if we were
a carrier within the applicable international convention or EU regulation (for example, the
Montreal Convention, the EC Regulation on Air Carrier Liability and the Athens Convention).
A surcharge may be payable in limited circumstances where certain costs increase after booking.
Your contract will be with KirkerTravel Limited t/a Kirker Holidays.This contract comes into
existence when we dispatch our confirmation invoice to the person who makes the booking or
your travel agent.
We hold an AirTravel Organiser's Licence issued by the Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL number
2450). When you buy an ATOL protected air inclusive holiday or flight* from us, you will
receive a confirmation invoice from us (or via our authorised agent) confirming your
arrangements and your protection under our ATOL. In the unlikely event of our insolvency
the CAA will ensure that you are not left stranded abroad and will arrange to refund any money
you have paid to us for an advance booking. *The air inclusive holidays and flights we arrange
are ATOL protected providing either the person who pays for the booking is present in the UK
when the booking is made or the first leg of any flight or flights we arrange for you commences
in the UK. For further information, visit the ATOL website at www.atol.org.uk.
We are also bonded with ABTA Limited (membership numberV6595).This means that if your
holiday does not include flights arranged by us, all monies you have paid to us for an advance
booking will be refunded or if your holiday includes return travel and is already underway, you
will be returned to the UK in the unlikely event of our being unable to provide your holiday
due to our insolvency.
ABTA and ABTA members help holidaymakers to get the most from their travel and assist them
when things do not go according to plan.We are obliged to maintain a high standard of service
to you by ABTA’s Code of Conduct. For further information about ABTA, the Code of Conduct
and the arbitration scheme available to you if you have a complaint (details in our full booking
Kirker Travel Limited Registered Office:
4 Waterloo Court, 10 Theed Street, London SE1 8ST.
Registration in England: 1985696 VAT Reg No. 805 1461 59
conditions), contact ABTA at 30 Park Street, London, SE1 9EQ or see www.abta.com.
We are also a member of the Association of Independent Tour Operators (AITO).
British citizens require a British passport in order to travel to the destinations we feature.This
usually takes approximately 6 weeks to obtain unless you are over 16 and haven’t held a passport
previously in which case you need to allow at least 6 weeks.
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office publishes regularly updated travel information on its
website www.fco.gov.uk/knowbeforeyougo which you are recommended to consult before
booking and in good time before departure.
In the event of any flight delay or cancellation at your UK or overseas point of departure, the
airline is responsible for providing such assistance as is legally required by the Denied Boarding
Regulations.The ferry, tunnel or rail operator is similarly responsible in relation to any delayed
or cancelled sea crossing or international rail departure. Except where otherwise stated in our
brochure or on our website, we regret we cannot provide any assistance in such circumstances
other than information and advice to the extent we are in a position to do so.
Data Protection
For the purposes of the Data Protection Act 1998, Kirker Travel Limited is a data controller.
Please be assured that we have measures in place to protect personal data held by us. This
information will be passed to the relevant suppliers of your holiday arrangements. The
information may also be provided to public authorities such as customs or immigration if
required by them and to other third parties who need it to enable us to provide your holiday
(such as credit card companies and banks), or as required by law. Certain information may also
be passed on to security or credit checking companies. Other than in relation to government
/ public authorities (over whom we have no control), we will take appropriate steps which are
intended to ensure that anyone to whom we pass your personal data for any reason agrees to
keep it secure and only uses it for the purposes of providing their services. If we cannot pass
personal data to the relevant suppliers or any other third party as applicable, whether in the EEA
or not, we will be unable to fulfil your booking. In making your booking, you consent to
personal data being passed on to the relevant suppliers and other third parties.When travelling
outside the European Economic Area, controls on data protection may not be as strong as the
legal requirements in this country. We would also like to store and use your personal
data for future marketing purposes (for example, sending you a brochure or
other marketing material) unless you have told us that you do not wish us to do
so. Full details of our data protection policy are available on our website and on request.
Kirker Holidays is a member of the Kuoni Travel Group
the aito
quality charter
AITO is the Association for independent and specialist holiday companies. Our member companies,
usually owner-managed, strive to create overseas holidays with high levels of professionalism and a shared
concern for quality and personal service. The Association encourages the highest standards in all aspects of
tour operating.
EXCLUSIVE MEMBERSHIP –AITO sets criteria regarding ownership, finance and quality which must
be satisfied before new companies are admitted to membership.All members are required to adhere to a Code
of Business Practice which encourages high operational standards and conduct.
FINANCIAL SECURITY – AITO members are required to protect money paid by customers to the
member for any holiday sold under the AITO logo and to comply with UK Government Regulations in
this respect. Members submit details of their bonding and guarantee arrangements to the Association on a
regular basis.
ACCURATE BROCHURES and WEBSITES – All members do their utmost to ensure that all their
brochures and other publications, print or electronic, clearly and accurately describe the holidays and
services offered.
PROFESSIONAL SERVICE AND CONTINUAL IMPROVEMENTS – All members are committed to
high standards of service and believe in regular and thorough training of employees. Members continually
seek to review and improve their holidays. They listen to their customers and always welcome suggestions
for improving standards.
MONITORING STANDARDS – AITO endeavours to monitor quality standards regularly.All customers
should receive a post-holiday questionnaire the results of which are scrutinised by the Association.
RESPONSIBLETOURISM – All members acknowledge the importance of AITO’s ResponsibleTourism
guidelines, which recognise the social, economic and environmental responsibilities of tour operating.Those
demonstrating their achievements beyond the pure acceptance of this principle are recognised by the award
of 2 to 5 star status.
CUSTOMER RELATIONS: All members endeavour to deal swiftly and fairly with any issues their
customers may raise. In the unlikely event that a dispute between an AITO member and a customer cannot
be settled amicably, AITO’s low-cost Independent Dispute Settlement Service may be called upon by either
side to bring the matter to a speedy and acceptable conclusion.
Kirker Holidays is a member of the Association of Independent Tour Operators.To contact the Association
visit www.aito.co.uk or call 020 8744 9280.
Publication date September 2012
©2012 Kirker Travel Limited
OUR RANGE OF HOLIDAYS
Short Breaks
SOUTHern AFRICA
Our Southern Africa brochure
features a range of short break
stay options and longer tailormade itineraries. As well as
including the pick of hotels
and guesthouses in outstanding
locations such as the Cape
Peninsula and the Garden
Route, our programme
includes game reserves, Zulu and Boer War battlefields,
Victoria Falls, Botswana, Zambia, Namibia and Mauritius.
cultural tours &
musical holidays
Our Cultural Tours programme
is designed to appeal to a broad
range of clients who enjoy
travelling with like-minded
companions and will be of
particular interest to anyone
who is curious about art,
architecture, gardens,
archaeology or history. Our Music Holidays feature escorted
visits to Europe’s leading festivals, as well as a selection of
our own musical events on land and sea.
Holidays to 60 classic cities and
relaxing rural locations
throughout Europe and beyond.
Our Short Breaks brochure
features a range of over 500
selected hotels and we can
create any tailor-made itinerary
to two or more destinations.
Each Kirker holiday is created
to suit your personal requirements with travel by air, rail,
Orient-Express, Eurostar or overnight sleeper combined
with private guided tours, opera tickets, museum passes or a
table at a Kirker recommended restaurant.
iNDIA
Our comprehensive brochure
covers India from Shimla in the
North to Cochin in the South
and has a broad choice of hotels
from converted palaces to
characterful homestays. The
dedicated Sri Lanka section
highlights the many attractions
of this fascinating island which
can be combined in a tailor-made tour. Call our
experienced sales team for further guidance.
SPAIN
france
Our new French brochure
features classic city breaks to
Paris, Nice, Bordeaux, Monaco,
Strasbourg, Cannes and Lyon
and tailor-made holidays to
Normandy, Brittany, the Loire
Valley, Champagne, Burgundy,
Provence, Languedoc-Rousillon
and the idylic island of Corsica.
We feature simple family-run hotels up to the grandest
palaces and châteaux.
north africa &
the middle east
Tailor-made holidays to
Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Israel,
Jordan, Lebanon, Oman and
Dubai. Our team of expert staff
have first hand experience of
these unique destinations and
will help you plan the perfect
holiday. We have access to the
very best local guides to enhance your experience.
Spain offers a great climate
and a wonderful range of
music, art and architecture; all
perfect ingredients for a
wonderful short break.The
Phoenicians, Romans and
Moors all left behind an
extraordinary legacy.
Experience this fascinating
country on a tailor-made holiday, designed to reflect the
diversity of this fascinating country.
Kirker Holidays, 4 Waterloo Court, 10 Theed Street, London SE1 8ST
Office hours: 09.00–18.00 (Mon-Fri), 09.00–16.00 (Sat)
Reservations: 020 7593 2288 • Fax: 020 7593 1461 • Brochure requests: 020 7593 2282 • Accounts/administration: 020 7593 2280
A SSOCIATION OF INDEPENDENT TOUR OPERATORS – OUTSTANDING SERVICE AWARD 2010, 2011, 2012
ADVANTAGE INDEPENDENT TRAVEL AGENTS – BEST SPECIALIST TOUR OPERATOR 2012

italy - Kirker Holidays

Transcription

Similar documents

expose - Mallorca Immobilien 24

Weekend Breaks and Holidays

BURJ AL ARAB

Villa Oleandra is perfectly located, in the heart of Lake Como, the

TIME FOR THE EXTRAORDINARY

A000657 . Managers Specials_Dec

DELUNS TECHNOLOGY INTERNATIONAL CO., LIMITED

guided tour to the “cinque terre” by boat and trekking or local transport

Germany 2016 presentation