AZURE COLLECTION
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AZURE COLLECTION
AZURE COLLECTION Italy 2013 Venice Rome Florence Tuscany Verona & The Lakes Portofino Neapolitan Riviera Puglia Sicily & Sardinia Private Villas Luxury Cruises Venice Simplon-Orient-Express VALLE d’AOSTA TRENTINO MILAN FRIULI VENICE LOMBARDY VENETO AZURE COLLECTION VERONA PIEMONTE Italy is a country of immense diversity, great charm and exquisite style. Its historical heritage spans several thousand years and culturally it’s one of the richest nations in Europe. The result is that every trip to Italy is a GENOVA LIGURIA EMILIA-ROMAGNA gastronomic journey of discovery against a backdrop of breathtaking and ever-changing scenery. In our 2013 brochure we aim to highlight Italy’s hotel treasures, all of them coming with stunning locations, charming rooms and attentive service, not to mention a certain something that sets them apart from the crowd. FLORENCE PISA This brochure has been designed for that ‘special’ trip to Italy. We will tailor-make everything to suit your own TUSCANY personal requirements and, as always, keep a keen eye on best value for money. Thanks to our close MARCHE working relationship with local suppliers you can depend upon the same kind of practical advice and assistance when you’re actually in Italy. Our service includes anything from making spa reservations to VIP guided tours, UMBRIA and if you’re thinking of getting married there we will navigate the pitfalls of Italian bureaucracy to ensure your perfect day. We do hope you enjoy reading this rather unique brochure and look forward to designing your very own ABRUZZO ROME holiday, including everything that is ‘La Dolce Vita’, to this magnificent country. LAZIO MOLISE APULIA NAPLES Jayne O’Gorman, Managing Director BARI CAMPANIA VIP Concierge BASILICATA How do you improve on an amazing holiday? Well, how about letting us arrange for you that little – or BRINDISI SARDINIA big – something special in order to make your holiday a truly unforgettable one. Allow us to tempt you with what is available to enable you to discover your very own treasure of Italy, from exclusive after hours visit to Leonardo de Vinci’s The Last Supper or Venice’s Basilica, or create your own personal perfume, or even train to become a gladiator! And that’s just the start... For further information please email: concierge@azurecollection.com CAGLIARI CALABRIA CONTENTS PALERMO TRAPANI SICILY CATANIA VENICE ROME FLORENCE TUSCANY VERONA & THE LAKES PORTOFINO NEAPOLITAN RIVIERA PUGLIA SICILY & SARDINIA VILLAS LUXURY CRUISES PRIVATE JETS & CLUB EUROPE Page 6-13 Page 14-19 Page 20-25 Page 26-31 Page 32-35 Page 36-37 Page 38-45 Page 46-47 Page 48-51 Page 52-53 Page 54 Page 55 OUR TOP RECOMMENDATIONS SPA-TACULAR Verdura Golf & Spa Resort, Sicily SOMETHING SPECIAL TO DINE FOR Page 51 Capri Palace Hotel & Spa, Capri COOKERY SCHOOLS Page 45 The Gritti Palace, Venice Page 10 Forte Village Resort, Sardinia Page 51 Palazzo Avino, Neapolitan Riviera Page 40 Villa San Michele, Florence Page 23 Capri Palace Hotel & Spa, Capri Page 45 Villa Crespi, Lake Orta Page 35 Castiglion Del Bosco, Tuscany Page 29 Castello Del Nero, Tuscany Page 29 Il Pellicano, Tuscany Page 31 Il Pellicano, Tuscany Page 31 Borgo Egnazia, Puglia Page 47 Forte Village Resort, Sardinia Page 51 Il Salviatino, Florence Page 22 CastaDiva Resort & Spa, Lake Como Page 34 Four Seasons Hotel, Florence Page 25 Villa Crespi, Lake Orta Page 35 Monastero Santa Rosa, Neapolitan Riviera Page 42 Hotel Eden, Rome Page 18 Hotel Villa Del Quar, Verona Page 33 Gran Melià Rome Villa Agrippina, Rome Page 17 Il Salviatino, Florence Page 22 Borgo Egnazia, Puglia Page 47 Il Salviatino, Florence Page 22 The Londra Palace, Venice Page 12 Verdura Golf & Spa Resort, Sicily Page 51 Villa Spalletti Trivelli, Rome Page 19 The Centurion Palace Hotel, Venice Page 13 Castello Banfi, Tuscany Page 25 OFFICAL FERRARI SELF-DRIVE TOURS This must be on everyone’s bucket list; driving yourself around the gorgeous Italian countryside in a Ferrari. Offered in conjunction with Red Travel; during the trip you sleep in the best hotels, dine in the finest restaurants and are treated to a drivers VIP experience that would make Jeremy Clarkson jealous. Escorted trips range from 1 day experiences to an 8 day Grand Tour; these are holidays of a life time. All the best routes have been covered, but if you want to go off plan, no problem. Then, why would you when you can already choose between Tuscany, the Northern Lakes and the Amalfi Coast. But more importantly choose between a Ferrari 458 Spider, Ferrari 458 Italia, Ferrari California, Ferrari F12 Berlinetta and a Ferrari FF (it’s TEE TIME ESCAPE / HONEYMOON YOUR CONCIERGE breaking the rules a bit, but we can also arrange a Maserati Quattroporte). And if you are considering the holiday Verdura Golf & Spa Resort, Sicily Page 51 Venice Simplon-Orient-Express & The Cipriani, Venice Pages 9/10 UK chauffeur transfers as a test drive before you buy, be sure to let us know. Castiglion Del Bosco, Tuscany Page 29 Villa San Michele, Florence & Castiglion Del Bosco, Tuscany Pages 23/29 Airport fast track service, UK and worldwide Borgo Egnazia, Puglia Page 47 Hotel Splendido, Portofino Sample Tour, contact us for more options: Page 37 Airport lounges, UK and worldwide Palazzo Avino, Neapolitan Riviera & J.K. Place, Capri Pages 40/45 Pre-book golf tee times &/or spa treatments 5 days/4 nights touring Rome and Tuscany in your choice of Ferrari (driving for 3 days), staying in luxury accommodation on a breakfast basis, including British Airways Club Europe flights. From £8,455 per person. FAMILY FRIENDLY Grand Hotel Timeo, Sicily Page 49 Restaurant reservations, local tours and excursions Forte Village Resort, Sardinia Page 51 Villa D’Este, Lake Como Page 34 Premium airline cabins Verdura Golf & Spa Resort, Sicily Page 51 Il Salviatino, Florence & Il Pellicano, Tuscany Page 22 Weddings or celebration parties WEDDINGS AND CELEBRATIONS Borgo Egnazia, Puglia Page 47 Monastero Santa Rosa, Neapolitan Riviera Page 42 Private jets We have plenty of experience arranging bespoke Italian weddings, whether just for you and your partner Castiglion Del Bosco, Tuscany Page 29 Villa Spalletti Trivelli, Rome Page 19 VIP resort transfers (including by helicopter) or for a cast of hundreds. We will always go out of our way to ensure your special day surpasses all The Cipriani, Venice Page 9 Castello Banfi, Tuscany Page 30 Villa rentals and yacht charters expectations. Of course, we can also help if you’re celebrating an anniversary or a special birthday with a 4 wide range of unique experiences, private villas and intimate boutique hotels to choose from. We can help For further information please email: make it simply unforgettable. concierge@azurecollection.com CALL 01244 322770 5 “The Orient-Express train is the only way to travel. It is super luxurious and combines with the Hotel Cipriani for a perfect stay. Did you know you can also book it for the return journey to London?” VENICE OR ‘LA SERENISSIMA’, AS SHE WAS KNOWN FOR THOUSANDS OF YEARS, IS TRULY ONE OF THE MOST SEDUCTIVE AND BEGUILING PLACES ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD. Built on more than 117 low-lying islands, this unique city is a water wonderland divided by over 100 canals and spanned by more than 400 bridges. And whilst life on her stunning waterways is still evolving today, the ancient monuments, museums, churches, art galleries and spires will all entice you to explore her glorious past. Wonder at the audacity of Casanova, delve into the secrets of the Council of Ten or marvel at the talent of incredible painters like Canaletto and Paolo Veneziano. Whatever you decide to do, just like it did with Goethe, Mann and Browning before you, Venice can’t fail to capture your imagination and seduce you with her beauty… VENICE 8 3 5 6 2 4 7 1 VIP Concierge Service •Discover an unknown Venice and the Venetian way of life on a walking tour with a local Venetian. HOTEL KEY 1. THE CIPRIANI 2. THE GRITTI PALACE •Visit the islands of Venice, including a behind closed doors visit to the Murano Glass factory. 3. HOTEL DANIELI •Enjoy your very own private visit of the Basilica San Marco, no crowds, just you and your guide 4. BAUER IL PALAZZO •Take a romantic Gondola tour and enjoy a candlelit dinner at Bistrot de Venice 5. THE LONDRA PALACE 6. LUNA HOTEL BAGLIONI 7. THE CENTURION PALACE HOTEL 8. CA’ SAGREDO RS When to visit November through to January is quieter though the chilly Adriatic winter means you’ll need to wrap up warm, however, February is carnival season. March to June is a nice temperature but can be busy, where July to August are the hottest months. September to October is a little cooler and little quieter, ideal. VENICE Q How to get there British Airways fly to Venice daily from London with low cost airlines offering alternative timings and direct departures from Gatwick, Stansted, Birmingham, Manchester, Newcastle and Edinburgh. From Marco Polo airport it is 40 minute taxi and a water taxi to most of the canal side hotels. Please ask your local travel agency specialist or contact us on 01244 322770 sales@azurecollection.com azurecollection.com 6 7 THE CIPRIANI No brochure on Italy would be complete without The Cipriani, one of the most famous hotels in the world, not just in Venice. Its tranquil location on Giudecca Island is stunningly beautiful, yet it lies only 5-minutes away from St. Mark’s Square by private launch and has the breathtaking views to prove it. It’s part of the exclusive Orient-Express Hotel group, and as you would expect, the service is seamless and the 95 guest rooms and suites are superb. The gardens are also outstanding and include a tennis court, a wellness centre and an enormous heated sea-water swimming pool. Don’t leave without experiencing a waterside lunch in Cips, a glamorous dinner in Fortuny’s or a Bellini in the new Gabbiano Bar. Accommodation: 95 rooms and suites Dining: Fortuny, Cip’s Club and Pool restaurant, 3 bars Facilities: Spa, Pool, Kids club, Tennis, Fitness centre VENICE SIMPLON-ORIENT-EXPRESS Children: Welcome with club London to Venice • Venice to London • Plus Special Journeys 4 Nights: From £995pp including British Airways flights and transfers Can there be a better way to arrive in Venice than aboard this luxury train? The Venice Simplon-OrientExpress is quite simply a legend, an Art Deco icon where romance, adventure and style combine to Meal Plan: Breakfast included, optional half-board and full-board Special Offers: Free nights create a rail journey unlike any other. The moment you step on board you’ll be transported to a more elegant age of travel, the vintage mood enhanced by the spectacular scenery of the Swiss Alps and Italian Dolomites. Your private cabin will take you right back to the glamour of the 1920s and 30s, your comfortable sofa converted into cosy upper and lower berths whilst you’re enjoying a delicious dinner. The talented French chefs will prepare gourmet delicacies complemented by sparkling crystal and crisp white linens, cocktails and piano music in the famous Bar Car bringing your day to a suitably glamorous end. And remember, you can never be overdressed aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. Accommodation: 12 Sleeping cars containing double cabins and cabin suites Dining: 3 restaurant cars, bar car Facilities: Boutique Children: Not recommended for under 12 years Price: Train only supplement from £1,955pp one way Meal Plan: Full-board TIMETABLE Depart: London Victoria 10:45am Arrive: Venice 17:56pm the next day. Depart: Venice 10:57am Arrive: London Victoria 17:30pm the next day. Please note all timings are provisional and subject to change. 8 CALL 01244 322770 azurecollection.com 9 HOTEL DANIELI Tre palazzi make up the Hotel Danieli ensuring guests are swept up in a grand, aristocratic, Italian embrace. Overlooking the lagoon and with St Mark’s Square literally around the corner, you are in the historic thick of it. The hotel’s 216 rooms offer a rich choice from luxury doubles and lagoon views, with classic Venetian styling, to opulent suites awash with marble, baroque flourishes and choice antiques. The roof-top dining room has to be one of the finest places to dine in the city with views sweeping from the Giudecca to the Lido and beyond. And when Venice’s riches overwhelm, be whisked by boat to a private beach on the Lido. Accommodation: 216 rooms and suites Dining: Terrazza Danieli restaurant, Bar Dandolo Facilities: Privileged use of nearby golf and private beach (at extra charge) Children: Welcome 4 Nights: From £895pp including British Airways flights and transfers Meal Plan: Breakfast included, optional half-board and full-board Special Offers: Early booking discount, Free nights, Second room discount THE GRITTI PALACE HOTEL DANIELI Now opening its doors for the first time since its magnificent 15 month, multi-million pound restoration, BAUER IL PALAZZO Venice’s iconic Gritti Palace, which dates from 1525, features 61 sumptuous rooms and 21 exquisitely Venetian suites, all offering the very highest levels of luxury accommodation in this historic city. This authentic 18th century Palazzo overlooking the Grand Canal is just a few minutes’ walk from St Mark’s Square. It ranks amongst Venice’s most luxurious The opulent rooms vary from the charming Deluxe to the Landmark Grand Canal and offer a wonderful retreats, its Gothic-Byzantine façade combining with its canal-side bar and range of views from the beauty of the Santa Maria del Giglio square to the Rio del Ostreghe. Each offers wonderful décor details from elegant chandeliers, jewel box designs, wooden wall boiserie and silk damask restaurant to create the perfect backdrop for a romantic weekend. All of the design fabrics, while bathrooms feature the finest Italian and Croatian marble, sumptuous bathrobes and 34 suites and 38 guest rooms (the latter recently refurbished) are a reflection Signature amenities. of traditional Venetian style complete with gilt mirrors, rich fabrics, carved The generous suites range from the Sestriere to the Ernest Hemingway, which features the famed former own private balconies overlooking the canal. The fitness and wellness centre resident’s own club chair, each with unique features such as full length balconies, floor to ceiling windows enable you to dip back into the 21st century when you're in the mood. stucco ceilings and Murano glass chandeliers, many of them also boasting their or duplex layouts. Accommodation: 38 guest rooms and 34 suites Dining is of the highest order here, the Restaurant Club del Doge offering the finest of Venetian culinary Dining: De Pisis restaurant, Rooftop breakfast lounge and the fashionable traditions to tempt international gourmands, as befits a hotel with it’s own highly regarded Epicurean School. B Bar Whether visiting for carnival, for the biennale or just because you can, the Gritti Palace will gild your trip Children: Welcome with truly memorable luxury. 4 Nights: From £870pp including British Airways flights and transfers Meal Plan: Breakfast included Accommodation: 21 suites, including 10 unique suites and 61 rooms Special Offers: Early booking discount, Free nights Dining: Club del Doge Restaurant, Longhi Bar Facilities: Epicurean school, Acqua di Parma Blu Mediterraneo Spa Suites, Fitness suite Children: Welcome 4 Nights: From £960pp including British Airways flights and transfers BAUER IL PALAZZO Meal Plan: Breakfast included Special Offers: Free nights 10 CALL 01244 322770 azurecollection.com 11 THE LONDRA PALACE THE CENTURION PALACE HOTEL There’s still something charmingly intimate about the neo-classical Londra Behind its gorgeously gothic façade, the Centurion Palace Hotel features a Palace, even though its 53 restyled guest rooms and junior suites now rank surprisingly contemporary interior with stunning views across the Grand Canal. amongst the finest in Venice. The hotel’s setting couldn’t be more perfect This former monastery comprises 50 rooms and suites, all of which feature either – right on the waterfront, literally a few steps from St. Mark’s Square highly individual decors of rich fabrics, cutting edge Italian-designed furniture overlooking the lagoon and San Giorgio. All of the public areas were also refreshed in 2009, yet none of the hotel’s 19th century grandeur has been lost. The sublime ‘Do Leoni’ restaurant is just one more reason why this place is a firm favourite of ours and well worth discovering, especially as the hotel is now a member of the prestigious gastronomic collection Relais & Chateaux. and high-tech details in the rooms, to the superb architectural features of marble fireplaces and exquisite moulded ceilings in the suites, some of which are arranged over two floors with galleried lounges. Bathrooms are the last word in modernism, both beautifully appointed and utterly luxurious. The hotel’s own Antinoo’s Lounge and Restaurant offers Michelin-rated cuisine that encompasses Venetian specialities and the finest Italian inspired gastronomy, Before you dine, be sure to enjoy a cocktail on the veranda of Riva degli while across one of the bridges in the City of the Doge is a superb gym to Schiavoni to watch the world, literally, go by. keep you trim. If traditional luxury and chic modernity were ever to be found under one roof, it is here at the Centurion Palace Hotel. Accommodation: 53 rooms Accommodation: 50 rooms and suites Dining: Do Leoni restaurant, bar Children: Welcome Dining: Antinoo’s Lounge & Restaurant 4 Nights: From £790pp including British Airways flights and transfers Facilities: Fitness suite, Private garden Meal Plan: Breakfast included, optional half-board Children: Welcome 4 Nights: From £745pp including British Airways flights and transfers Meal Plan: Breakfast included, optional half-board and full-board Special Offers: Free nights THE LONDRA PALACE THE CENTURION PALACE HOTEL LUNA HOTEL BAGLIONI CA’ SAGREDO Situated just moments from the Piazza San Marco and with picture perfect Another example of Venice’s living history, The Ca’ Sagredo lies in a 15th views over the San Marco basin, this former magnificent 12th century Venetian century palace on the Grand Canal between Ca D’Oro and the Rialto bridge. palazzo is the oldest hotel in Venice – it is reputed to have played host to the It opened as a hotel in 2007 after a painstaking restoration which uncovered a Knights Templar – and a marvellous centre for your visit to historic Venice. host of architectural treasures – no less than five centuries of history were Welcoming you with classical interiors that feature frescoes, crystal chandeliers, lovingly brought back to life. The frescoes, public areas and marble staircases antique furniture and so much more, the 104 rooms and suites are each are all quite breathtaking, as are the 42 guest rooms which are a combination beautifully appointed and offer the very best of supreme quality service and of traditional Venetian décor with a contemporary twist. The elegant restaurant standards with wonderful attention to those all important small details. With not only takes full advantage of its romantic canal-side location, but also its proximity excellent in-hotel fine dining that features authentic local cuisine and even a to the Rialto market selling fresh produce and seafood. private mooring dock for boats and gondolas, the wonderfully-situated family friendly hotel puts the best of Venice on your doorstep and gives you a home Accommodation: 42 rooms and suites from home that is the very definition of Italianate grandeur. Dining: L’Alcova restaurant, bar Facilities: Fitness room, Personal trainer, Personal shopper, Accommodation: 104 rooms and suites Baby-sitter on request Dining: The Canova restaurant, Marco Polo Ballroom, Caffè Baglioni Children: Welcome Facilities: Marco Polo Ballroom (frescoed) 4 Nights: From £745pp including British Airways flights and transfers Children: Welcome Meal Plan: Breakfast included, optional half-board and full-board 4 Nights: From £855pp including British Airways flights and transfers Special Offers: Early booking discount, Free nights, Complimentary lunch Meal Plan: Breakfast included, optional half-board Special Offers: Early booking discount, Free nights 12 LUNA HOTEL BAGLIONI CA’ SAGREDO CALL 01244 322770 azurecollection.com 13 “Explore the city, then take the 1½ hour high-speed and modern train to twin imperial Rome with renaissance Florence. Now that is Italy.” WHETHER YOU’RE A HISTORY ENTHUSIAST OR SIMPLY LOOKING FOR LA DOLCE VITA, ROME IS THE CITY FOR YOU. It’s an in-your-face mix of the ancient past and the stylish present, its fashion-conscious citizens getting on with their ordinary lives against the extraordinary backdrop of the Colosseum, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter’s Square. This city is a living museum for those of you who don’t really like museums, and after you’ve climbed the Spanish Steps, gasped at Michelangelo’s frescoes and tossed a coin into the Trevi Fountain, there are plenty of relaxing alternatives. So why not enjoy a pizza in a pavement café and watch the priests on their way to the Vatican? Give your credit cards an outing and make a beeline for the Fendi, Gucci and Prada stores along the Via Condotti? And, of course, you simply have to stay up very late and mingle with the glitterati… ROME 1 3 6 4 5 2 VIP Concierge Service HOTEL KEY 1. HOTEL DE RUSSIE •Experience an exclusive after hours visit to the Sistine Chapel and Vatican Museum, just you and 2. GRAN MELIÀ ROME VILLA AGRIPPINA your guide. 3. HOTEL EDEN •Enjoy a classic highlights tour of Imperial Rome, seeing all the famous sites the VIP way with no queues. 4. BERNINI BRISTOL •Spend an exclusive evening at the Rome Academy and see internationally acclaimed artists at work, 5. REGINA HOTEL BAGLIONI then mingle with the community over dinner. 6. VILLA SPALLETTI TRIVELLI •Take a vintage Vespa tour of the city for your very own ‘Roman Holiday’, just like Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck. RS When to visit Winters are relatively mild in the city, however, November and December are traditionally the wettest months. In the summer, July and August are the hottest, whereas spring and autumn, March to June and September to October respectively, are ideal with blue skies and a lovely climate. Q ROME How to get there British Airways fly to Rome daily from London with low cost airlines offering alternative timings and direct departures from Gatwick, Heathrow, Stansted, Bristol, Birmingham, East Midlands, Manchester, Leeds Bradford, Newcastle and Glasgow. The main airport, Fiumicino, is just 30km from the city centre and transfers take from 45 minutes. The city’s second airport is Ciampino and transfers take from 50 mins. Please ask your local travel agency specialist or contact us on 01244 322770 sales@azurecollection.com azurecollection.com 14 15 GRAN MELIÀ ROME VILLA AGRIPPINA This is a fresh and modern urban resort in this most historic of cities. On the banks of the Tiber and a HOTEL DE RUSSIE stone’s throw from the Vatican, the location is fit for an empress – originally Nero’s mother to be precise. This people-watchers’ paradise lies between the Spanish Steps and Piazza del Popolo within easy walking The tranquillity and design of the new rooms and suites can only be improved by the trademark ‘RedLevel’ distance of the Via Condotti. It was ‘made over’ by Rocco Forte and Olga Polizzi a few years ago and now VIP service which is available. Several restaurants, bars and a wine cellar provide a range of dinner options has some stylish modern design touches to go with its neo-classical façade and terraced gardens. The 122 from formal dining to cocktails and canapés. The resort feel stems from the impressive gardens and pools, bedrooms are classic yet chic, all of them appointed in restful shades, with some suites boasting long and the YHI Wellness Area which allows you to enjoy spa treatments, gym and a beauty salon. This space terraces and romantic city views. General leisure amenities include an excellent gym and wellness zone, has created an urban sanctuary which is the ideal base for a holiday exploring the eternal city. both of them well worth your attention after you decided to go for that chocolate fondant in Le Jardin de Russie and that third martini in the see-and-be-seen Stravinskij Bar (yes,he once stayed here!). Accommodation: 87 rooms and 29 suites Dining: 2 restaurants, 3 bars Accommodation: 89 rooms and 33 suites Facilities: Outdoor pool and jacuzzi, Wellness zone with indoor vitality jacuzzi, Fitness club, Dining: Le Jardin de Russie restaurant, bar Private gardens Facilities: Private garden, Spa, Gym, hairdresser Children: Welcome Children: Welcome 4 Nights: From £760pp including British Airways flights and transfers 4 Nights: From £1,030pp including British Airways flights and transfers Meal Plan: Breakfast included Meal Plan: Breakfast included Special Offers: Early booking discount, Free nights Special Offers: Early booking discount, Free nights 16 CALL 01244 322770 azurecollection.com 17 HOTEL EDEN REGINA HOTEL BAGLIONI Almost as famous as its illustrious guests, the Hotel Eden has been wowing The Regina Hotel Baglioni is housed in a graceful Liberty-style building dating visitors to Rome for 120 years now. And that’s true from the moment the back to 1904, its recent nip-and-tuck meaning that some of Rome’s more top-hatted doorman ushers them into the white marble lobby to the moment famous hotels have been left in the shade. All the modern amenities have now the smiling maitre d’ leads them to their table on the rooftop restaurant – the been introduced, yet the vintage ambience (an almost theatrical mix of the Michelin-starred haute cuisine comes with quite breathtaking views towards St. classic and the art deco) is still warmly embraced. Antique furnishings, silk Peter’s Cathedral. Many of the city’s other highlights such as the Spanish Steps, tapestries and Murano glass lamps distinguish the 116 guest rooms and 9 suites, Via Veneto and Via Condotti are also just a short walk away, the subdued some of them boasting their own private balconies overlooking the Via Veneto. colours, refined furnishings and turn-of-the-century prints of the 121 guest The Trevi Fountain and Via Condotti are both a 15-minute walk away, although rooms creating classic havens perfect for getting one’s breath back. as there’s a seductive bar, a stylish restaurant and a stress-busting spa on the premises you probably won’t want to wander too far. Accommodation: 108 rooms and 13 suites Dining: Michelin starred La Terrazza Restaurant and Il Giardino Restaurant Accommodation: 125 rooms and suites Facilities: Wellness corner with Gymnasium and Steam bath Dining: Brunello restaurant, Baglioni Caffe Children: Welcome Facilities: Spa/Wellness centre 4 Nights: From £825pp including British Airways flights and transfers Children: Welcome Meal Plan: Breakfast included 4 Nights: From £795pp including British Airways flights and transfers Special Offers: Free nights Meal Plan: Breakfast included Special Offers: Early booking discount, Free nights, Free upgrade, Food, beverage and spa discount HOTEL EDEN REGINA HOTEL BAGLIONI BERNINI BRISTOL VILLA SPALLETTI TRIVELLI With its commanding position on the Via Veneto and lovely views over Piazza This historic 20th century residence is all about privacy and discretion, the Barberini, the Bernini Bristol is the perfect oasis from which to explore the mood definitely more ‘country estate’ than ‘urban retreat’. Central in its location Eternal City. The 127 rooms and suites pamper you in Roman luxury and offer just a 5-minute walk from the Trevi Fountain, you’ll be protected from the you a choice of classical décor featuring rich tapestries and period furniture or masses by the kind of walled Italian garden that comes with gazebos, fountains and manicured lawns. Tapestries, oil paintings and period furnishings define the more contemporary design with stylish modern flourishes. Suites offer public spaces, everything sourced from the private collection of the Spalletti exemplary elegance and views over the stunning Triton fountain or the entire Trivelli family. Even the 12 guest rooms and suites are individually appointed as in city, some with large private terraces, whirlpool baths and even a Turkish bath, a private house. Yet all this Roman grandeur comes with plenty of Italian outdoor spa or heated pool. The most cosmopolitan of culinary tastes will be warmth, the elegant afternoon teas and over-generous buffet breakfasts showing sated at the rooftop L’Olympo restaurant while the elegant Bristol Lounge this is a family who knows what hospitality really means. Exclusive like the bar is the perfect place to unwind. For true pampering, the Bernini Bristol historic home that houses it, their wellness centre in Villa Spalletti Trivelli ensures wellness centre, offers residents a full range of techniques and treatments to unique treatments and therapies, guaranteeing unrivalled relaxation in the make you feel so truly Imperial you may wish to pack a toga! historic centre of Rome. A Turkish bath and Hammam, created following antique tradition and improved by avant-garde research in the field of wellness, Accommodation: 127 rooms and suites is where you can re-energise yourself through purifications and treatments. Dining: L’Olimpo Roof Restaurant Facilities: Wellness and Fitness suite Accommodation: 12 deluxe suites Children: Welcome Dining: Group private dining available, ‘Petit carte’ Facilities: Spa, 24 hour gym, Private gardens, Roof terrace 4 Nights: From £680pp including British Airways flights and transfers Children: Welcome Meal Plan: Breakfast included BERNINI BRISTOL 18 4 Nights: From £1,045pp including British Airways flights and transfers Special Offers: Free nights VILLA SPALETTI TRIVELLI CALL 01244 322770 azurecollection.com Meal Plan: Breakfast included 19 “Florence is an incredible city to explore on foot. But then you simply have to get out and explore the beautiful Tuscan countryside.” TODAY FLORENCE IS A THRIVING METROPOLIS WITH FASHIONABLE EATERIES AND GUCCI-CLAD CITIZENS. Yet this regional capital of Tuscany is also Italy’s ‘Renaissance City’ and so will be forever linked with 15th century artists such as Michelangelo, Botticelli and Leonardo da Vinci. Its skyline is thankfully still a masterpiece courtesy of showpieces like the Renaissance Basilica, Giotto’s Campanile and the Gothic Duomo; all of these architectural treasures enhanced by the fast-flowing Arno River and romantic Ponte Vecchio. But if you really want to immerse yourself in Florence’s art and culture don’t leave without wandering through the Uffizi Gallery; a visit to the Accademia is also recommended if you fancy marvelling at Michelangelo’s Statue of David. And why not use this fascinating city as a base from which to explore the entire Chianti region, the towns of Sienna and Pisa are all within easy driving distance? FLORENCE 6 1 2 To Fiesole 4 5 7 3 8 VIP Concierge Service •Marvel during an exclusive private visit to the Vasarian Corridor preceeded by a visit to the Uffizi Gallery. HOTEL KEY 1. IL SALVIATINO 2. VILLA SAN MICHELE •See the highlights of Florence on this VIP tour of the city including The Academy of Fine Art, Santa 3. HOTEL LUGARNO Croce and of course the Gallery of the Uffizi. 4. J.K. PLACE FIRENZE •Visit a traditional erboristerie where you will create your own personal perfume fragrance to take 5. HOTEL SAVOY away, followed by an exclusive visit to ‘Prix Coty’. 6. FOUR SEASONS HOTEL •Spend the day cruising through the Tuscan hills in a Ferrari, or would you prefer a Lamborghini – 7. RELAIS SANTA CROCE no problem. 8. VILLA LA MASSA RS When to visit Winter months are traditionally cool and wet and the summer hot and dry. Meaning the best months to visit are March to June and September to October which also tend to be quieter. Q FLORENCE How to get there British Airways fly to Pisa from London and code share with Meridiana to fly to Florence. Low cost airlines offer alternative timings and direct departures to Florence from Gatwick and London City; and to Pisa from Luton, Stansted, Bristol, East Midlands, Manchester, Leeds Bradford, Liverpool, Newcastle and Belfast. Transfers from Florence Airport take approximately 20 minutes and 45 minutes from Pisa Airport. Please ask your local travel agency specialist or contact us on 01244 322770 sales@azurecollection.com azurecollection.com 20 21 IL SALVIATINO Peeking out from the cypress trees that flank the Fiesole hillside, Il Salviatino is an ‘urban resort’ with a bit of a past. This aristocratic palazzo dates back to the 15th century and still has the handpainted frescoes and centuries-old mosaics as evidence. These vintage gems are now carefully matched with exquisite antiques, whilst the 45 rooms are all individual works of art, yet the comfortable lounges, cordial ambience and friendly ‘service ambassadors’ contribute more than enough warmth. So you can feel free to surrender to the Italian treatments of one of Il Salviatino Spa by Vranjes and then linger a while in La Terrazza Restaurant – Carmine Calo’s authentic Tuscan cuisine comes with quite splendid views of the city and the Duomo. Accommodation: 23 rooms and 22 suites Dining: La Terrazza Restaurant (summer), Le Serre Restaurant (winter), Hotel Bar Facilities: Pool, Spa, Gym, Library, Gardens, Complimentary shuttle to/from Florence city centre Children: Welcome 4 Nights: From £845pp including British Airways flights and transfers Meal Plan: Breakfast included, optional half-board Special Offers: Early booking discount, Free nights, Complimentary dinner VILLA SAN MICHELE This 15th century monastery was transformed into one of the world’s most romantic getaways by OrientExpress Hotels in the 1980s. Of course, the company had a particularly good start – the hotel’s façade is attributed to Michelangelo, whilst its setting high in the hills of Fiesole yields stunning vistas over Florence and the Arno Valley. Nowadays it offers 45 guest quarters, some of them secluded suites in the gardens and a few of them the cosy hideaways of former monks, yet others are ‘named’ suites with anything from private gardens to pool-like bathtubs. The Tuscan cuisine of the 16th century Loggia restaurant and umbrella cocktails of the hilltop swimming pool are perfectly enhanced by the spellbinding views. Accommodation: 45 rooms & suites Dining: Pool restaurant, Loggia restaurant and 3 bars Facilities: Fitness centre, Outdoor swimming pool, Complimentary kids club, Complimentary shuttle to/from Florence city centre Children: Welcome with club 4 Nights: From £1,290pp including British Airways flights and transfers Meal Plan: Breakfast included, optional half-board and full-board Special Offers: Free nights 22 CALL 01244 322770 azurecollection.com 23 HOTEL LUNGARNO FOUR SEASONS HOTEL This elegant yet unpretentious affair is romantically sited right on the south bank Stay here and make all your Medici fantasies come true. This former convent of the Arno River, just to the west of the Ponte Vecchio. Stay in one of its and Renaissance palazzo might now be part of the world’s finest hotel terraced guest rooms overlooking the water and you can almost conjure up company, but its meticulous 7-year restoration mean that the 15th century ‘Room with a View’; another quintessential Florentine experience awaiting you frescoes and hand-painted ceilings still take centre stage. The 116-room hotel in the riverside restaurant with its traditional Italian cuisine. Art, antiques and lies in a quiet street in the historic centre of Florence and, as it boasts the city’s charming staffers endow the Hotel Lungarno with a classic, friendly ambience, finest spa, as well as its largest private garden (11 acres), it certainly lives up to but if you fancy something a little more cutting-edge opt for one of its sister its billing as a ‘city sanctuary’. Dining choices range from the elegant to the hotels: The Continentale evokes all the glamour of the 50s, the Gallery Hotel alfresco, leisure amenities include a large gym, outdoor pool and whirlpool, Art is an innovative urban getaway, whilst the Lungarno Suites offer modern whilst the one-off guest rooms and suites are a sublime blend of Renaissance apartment living with all its inherent freedom and ideal for families. All of which artistry and high-tech comfort. belong to the Salvatore Ferragamo Family, meaning you are in the same fashionable hands as the many celebrities who have adorned the red carpet in Accommodation: 116 rooms and suites one of their exclusive creations, from Marilyn Monroe to Angelina Jolie. Dining: Michelin starred Il Palagio and Al Fresco Restaurants, Atrium Bar Accommodation: 73 rooms and suites Facilities: Spa, Fitness Centre, Pool, Yoga and Winery Dining: Restaurant ‘BSJ’ Children: Welcome Facilities: ‘Pictea’ Lounge Bar, WiFi, Access to nearby White Iris Beauty SPA 4 Nights: From £995pp including British Airways flights and transfers steam bath Meal Plan: Breakfast included Children: Welcome 4 Nights: From £755pp including British Airways flights and transfers Meal Plan: Breakfast included Special Offers: Early booking discount, Free night J.K.PLACE FIRENZE HOTEL LUNGARNO FOUR SEASONS HOTEL HOTEL SAVOY RELAIS SANTA CROCE VILLA LA MASSA J.K. PLACE FIRENZE HOTEL SAVOY RELAIS SANTA CROCE VILLA LA MASSA Tucked away in a lively piazza just minutes from the Duomo, J.K. Place is a city centre hotel for those who don’t really do hotels. This ultra-chic bolthole is more like a tranquil private residence, the entrance way discreet, and the hospitality just like you’d get back home. Architectural Digest has paid due homage to its eclectic interiors, the modern photography and pieces drawn from the 1960s and 70s working perfectly against the neo-classical backdrop. The 20 rooms range from a romantic den with a four poster to a penthouse with a panoramic terrace; the new J.K. Lounge, the kind of stylish venue where you dine in Dolce & Gabbana. Accommodation: 20 rooms and suites Dining: J.K. Lounge Facilities: Roof top terrace, Drawing room, CD/DVD selection, Complimentary soft drink mini-bar, Free Wi-Fi, Free access to the nearby Olimpo SPA steam bath Children: Welcome 4 Nights: From £1,020pp including British Airways flights and transfers Meal Plan: Breakfast included A Rocco Forte/Olga Polizzi spellbinder, the Hotel Savoy is a fashion-conscious yet family-friendly boutique hotel with a delightfully central location just around the corner from the Duomo. Its 88 guest rooms and 14 suites have all been styled in a soothing blend of muted earth tones; the artwork appropriately inspired by the city’s obsession with shoes and hats. The terraced L’Incontro Restaurant reflects that other enduring Florentine love affair with Tuscan cuisine, and whilst there’s also a new fitness centre on-site, you’ll be so busy hitting Hermes, Gucci and the Uffizi that a work-out will hardly be necessary. Accommodation: 88 rooms and 14 suites Dining: Restaurant L’Incontro and bar Facilities: Outdoor terrace, Fitness centre Children: Welcome 4 Nights: From £905pp including British Airways flights and transfers Meal Plan: Breakfast included Special Offers: Early booking discount, Free night Relais Santa Croce Hotel places you at the very heart of this timeless jewel of a city. Offering a sumptuous fusion of classical luxury and peerless modern comfort, its 24 rooms and suites are tastefully themed with period furniture and lush fabrics and feature stunning marble bathrooms, panelled walls, frescoed ceilings and even ancient arches. The restaurant Guelfi e Ghibellini specialises in superb Tuscan cuisine featuring local produce from the nearby Sant’Ambrogio market with handmade pastas, breads and pastries and has an excellent wine list to match, with many local regional treasures. If you seek a perfect private residence with superb service, look no further. Accommodation: 24 rooms and suites Dining: Guelfi e Ghibellini restaurant, Enoteca Pinchiorri restaurant (adjoining), Bar and Sala della Musica Children: Welcome 4 Nights: From £825pp including British Airways flights and transfers Meal Plan: Breakfast included Special Offers: Early booking discount, Free nights, Food & beverage credit A 16th century estate set on the bank of the River Arno in 22 gorgeously calming acres, the utterly exquisite Villa la Massa is a stunning residence just a few short miles from the centre of the city. With 39 rooms, each of which can only be described as magnificent, marble bathrooms, canopied beds, sumptuous fabrics and every comfort provided for you, your stay here will make you feel as noble as a member of the de Medici or Sforza family. The fitness centre and heated pool will soothe you, the children’s playground will amuse your brood and opulent meals featuring produce from the Chef’s garden may even inspire you to join the cookery classes and learn the secrets of Tuscan cuisine. Accommodation: 37 rooms and suites Dining: Il Verrocchio restaurant, The Medicean Bar, Pool Bar, The Cellar Facilities: Cooking school, Wellness centre, Fitness suite, Heated outdoor pool, Jogging trail Children: Welcome 4 Nights: From £1,070 pp including British Airways flights and transfers Meal Plan: Breakfast included 24 CALL 01244 322770 azurecollection.com 25 “In this romantic corner of Italy you’ve not just got the rolling hills, olive groves and Renaissance cities, but the kind of delicious foods and fine wines you’ll simply love. The best way to explore is to hire a car and hop from hotel to villa.” ITS FABLED ROLLING HILLS ARE STUDDED WITH VINEYARDS, OLIVE GROVES AND SLEEPY VILLAGES, WHILST ITS FAMOUSLY ROMANTIC CITIES ARE OVERFLOWING WITH RENAISSANCE AND MEDIEVAL TREASURES. This combines to make Tuscany one of Italy’s most showstopping regions. Florence is a dream come true for all the culture buffs, of course, but don’t miss the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the medieval piazza of Sienna or the walled town of Lucca either. Yet Tuscany is not all about photo opportunities in front of world-famous sites. Tuscans are also known for their appreciation of good food and fine wines, and there are plenty of family-owned trattorias where you can happily lose a few hours sampling freshly-made delicious food and a bottle of Chianti. TUSCANY •PISA • FLORENCE •Livorno 2 San Gimignano 3 • Volterra •Arezzo • 5 SIENA • •Montepulciano Cortona 1 4 6 VIP Concierge Service •Learn the secrets of Tuscan cuisine at this hands on lesson, plus sommelier guidance and followed by dinner •View the Chianti countryside from above as you float over it in a hot air balloon, then enjoy a picnic Chianti breakfast •Enjoy a leisurely cycle through the Tuscany countryside; mostly flat, with the opportunity to taste some local food and wines • Montalcino •Grosseto HOTEL KEY 1. CASTIGLION DEL BOSCO 2. CASTELLO DEL NERO 3. CASTELLO DI CASOLE 4. CASTELLO BANFI 5. GRAND HOTEL CONTINENTAL 6. IL PELLICANO •Visit local independent vineyards where you will be treated to a variety and breadth of the fabulous Chianti wines with expert guidance of the most popular Italian wine outside Italy RS When to visit Winter months are traditionally cool and wet and the summer warm and dry and lovely to be out of the cities, with spring and autumn boasting pleasant temperatures and low rainfall. September and October are also the time of the olive and grape harvests and traditional truffle hunting season. Q TUSCANY How to get there British Airways fly to Pisa from London and code share with Meridiana to fly to Florence. Low cost airlines offer alternative timings and direct departures to Florence from Gatwick and London City; and to Pisa from Luton, Stansted, Bristol, East Midlands, Manchester, Leeds Bradford, Liverpool, Newcastle and Belfast. Access to Tuscany is equally straightforward from Pisa or Florence airport. Please ask your local travel agency specialist or contact us on 01244 322770 sales@azurecollection.com azurecollection.com 26 27 CASTIGLION DEL BOSCO DISCOVER TUSCANY There is no better way to discover the sights and sounds, and tastes and treasure of this most beautiful region of Italy than by exploring it at your own pace. We have created two itineraries to whet your appetite, and since everything we do is tailor-made simply use these as inspiration and tell us what exactly you would like. On the following pages we have a collection of stunning properties from across the region and at the end of your tour it is easy to extend with a stay in historical Florence or relaxing on the Tuscan coast. It is your holiday, where can we take you? A TASTE OF TUSCANY (4 days/3 nights) EXPLORING TUSCANY (8 days/7 nights) Day 1: Head to the medieval Castello Banfi and enjoy a stroll amongst the Day 1: Arrive and head to this working model game reserve and estate of Castello di Casole. Walk the extensive grounds, or relax in the Essere Spa before being treated to fresh, simple, inspired food, expertly paired with fine wines of Italy and the world. Accommodation: Castello di Casole, Località Querceto (2 nights) constellation of vineyards and olive groves of this working estate or their Museum of Glass demonstrating the art of glass design as far back as the 15th Century. Don’t miss the Enoteca where you can sample the produce of the estate before dining at La Taverna, where house wine has never been so good. Accommodation: Castello Banfi il Borgo, Montalcino (1 night) Day 2: Pick up a selection of your favourite wines, don’t worry if the boot isn’t big enough they can easily arrange shipping, before heading north to Siena. Much more than the bi-annual Palio horse race spectacle, this city boasts stunning churches, medieval towers, gorgeous frescoes and all centred around Il Campo, the famous main piazza. Accommodation: Grand Hotel Continental, Siena (1 night) Day 3: In the morning wind your way through the Chianti hills and then it is well worth straying off the beaten track to discover the charming medieval town of Volterra. The nearby town of towers, San Gimagnano, can be busy during the day so try and visit later on to avoid the crowds at this location for the film ‘Tea With Mussolini’. Accommodation: Castello del Nero, Tavarnelle Val di Pesa (1 night) Day 4: Spend your time enjoying the ESPA Spa at the hotel and walking in the extensive grounds before visiting the Leaning Tower of Pisa prior to your flight home. Day 2: Spend the morning in the fabled Chianti countryside and then visit the lesser known medieval town of Volterra, saving the more famous town of San Gimagnano until late afternoon in order to avoid the crowds. Imagine waking to gaze on your own private Tuscan estate, surrounded by vineyard-cloaked hills dotted with ancient farmhouses? Castiglion del Bosco, in the Val d’Orcia National Park in the Brunello di Montalcino wine-producing region, 95kms south of Florence, offers just that; a skilful blend of authentically restored 17th- and 18th-century villas and suites, and 21st-century refinements. The 23 spacious suites are in the heart of the estate, in a film-set-perfect hilltop ‘village’ of shuttered buildings, tall cypresses and stone-flagged streets. Rooms are spacious, colours fresh, furnishings an elegant mix of antiques and craftsmanmade. Dotted around the estate, the 9 farmhouse-villas (three to five bedrooms) with their raftered ceilings and arched windows, are furnished in a gracious, Sienese style, rich with antiques and offering every refinement from walk-in closets to private pools. With a spa, cookery school, winery, restaurants, golf course, tennis courts, infinity pool and hiking trails, you may never need to leave your estate. Accommodation: 23 suites and 9 villas Dining: 2 restaurants, 1 bar Facilities: Golf course, Spa, Kids club, Culinary academy, Wine tours and tasting, Fitness centre Children: Welcome 4 Nights: From £1,025pp including British Airways flights and car hire Meal Plan: Breakfast included, optional half-board Special Offers: Early booking discount, Packages Day 3: Head south to Siena, and explore the many delights of this once Florentine rival. Accommodation: Grand Hotel Continental, Siena (1 night) CASTELLO DEL NERO HOTEL & SPA If you are looking for a Tuscan retreat, you would be hard pushed to find one Day 4: Head east to Cortona, made famous by Frances Mayes’ Under the Tuscan Sun’, and drink in the views of the surrounding countryside from this hill-top town. There are plenty of sites to explore here before you head to the perfect renaissance town of Pienza. After becoming Pope in 1458 Pope Pius II had his home town completely rebuilt in the renaissance style, creating a model of stunning architecture. Accommodation: Castiglion Del Bosco, Montalcino (2 nights) more perfect than this. The converted 12th Century castle offers its guests historical surroundings, boutique charm and modern luxury facilities. However, the heart of this retreat has to be the spa designed by the exclusive ESPA. The rooms and suites combine elegance with modern comfort, and the 18 unique suites boast carefully restored original frescos, family crests, vaulted ceilings, plus in all rooms, flat screen TV’s and air-conditioning when you don’t need Day 5: A trip to this region of Tuscany would not be complete without visiting the home town of the famous Vino Nobile de Montepulciano, considered to be one of Italy’s finest wines. Here at Montepulciano you can choose to wander its attractive streets with their numerous and tempting wine and cheese shops, but you would be missing the medieval palaces and churches that equally deserve a visit. Accommodation: Il Pellicano, Porto Ercole (2 nights) your goose down duvet or cashmere blankets. And after a day exploring the region, La Torre restaurant will treat you to a gourmet experience of real Tuscan cuisine. Where, in summer you can enjoy your dinner on the garden terrace and in winter beside the historic fireplace, whilst the Bar offers a more informal dining experience. Accommodation: 50 rooms and suites Day 6: Relax on the estate and then head to the nearby town of Montalcino, home of the other famous wine of the region, Brunello di Montalcino. Smaller than its counterpart, the town boasts a majestic 14th century castle, ramparts to stroll along and visit the interesting Museo Civico e Diocesano d’Arte Sacra. Day 7: Relax and unwind and treat yourself to dinner at their 2 Michelin-starred restaurant. Day 8: Take the coastal drive to Pisa airport, leaving yourself enough time to see the Leaning Tower before you fly. 28 CASTIGLION DEL BOSCO CALL 01244 322770 Dining: ‘La Torre’ restaurant and bar Facilities: ESPA Spa Children: Welcome 4 Nights: From £695pp including British Airways flights and car hire Meal Plan: Breakfast included CASTELLO DEL NERO azurecollection.com Special Offers: Free nights, Second room discount, Exclusive spa packages 29 CASTELLO DI CASOLE GRAND HOTEL CONTINENTAL – SIENA This is Tuscany – and on an estate of 4,200sqm it really is, well certainly a good The only hotel offering 5 star luxury within Siena’s ancient city walls, this chunk of it. Opened in July 2012, the stunning centre piece is a restored magnificent 17th century former Palazzo was once the gift of a Pope to his hilltop castle and beautifully manicured grounds. The boutique, all-suite hotel favoured niece. With breath-taking frescoed, vaulted ceilings, priceless furniture intertwines perfectly old world charm with modern luxury, offering its guests and rare marbles, the Grand Hotel Continental’s 51 rooms and suites have an authentic experience with all the trimmings of luxury. The restaurants and hosted nobility and statesmen and offer comfort and service accordingly. Well bars are designed to treat your palette, whilst the Essere Spa and pool will treat appointed, this is the perfect choice if you seek a touch of de luxe in Siena. your body and soul. However, the estate is still very much a working farm and The Ristorante Sapordivino located in the court covered by the high crystal game reserve which you are invited to explore by foot, and then enjoy the dome serves an excellent menu that encompasses both authentic Tuscan bounty which surrounds you. Time your return from a day exploring and you specialities and wider Italian favourites, teaming both with wines from a fully could stroll to their own amphitheatre for heavenly views of the Tuscan comprehensive list that is rich with Italian treasures. Whether visiting for the sunset and enjoy a late afternoon concert, whilst sipping on something excitement of Il Palio or for the galleries and museums, you’ll be thrilled to refreshing, of course. have the Grand Hotel Continental as your home from home. Just remember to pick up some of the gorgeous local speciality panforte as an edible souvenir! Accommodation: 41 suites Dining: Tosca restaurant and Pazzia gourmet pizzeria Accommodation: 29 rooms and 11 suites Facilities: Spa and fitness centre, Amphitheatre, Chapel, Outdoor heated Dining: Sapodivino Wine Bar & Restaurant, Banqueting hall infinity pool, Hiking trails, Biking, Private game reserve on the estate, Language, Facilities: Reading room, Wine cellar pottery and cookery classes available on request. Children: Welcome Children: Welcome 4 Nights: From £650pp including British Airways flights and car hire 4 Nights: From £860pp including British Airways flights and car hire Meal Plan: Breakfast included, optional half-board Meal Plan: Breakfast included Special Offers: Free nights, Packages Special Offers: Free nights, Free room upgrade CASTELLO DI CASOLE GRAND HOTEL CONTINENTAL CASTELLO BANFI IL PELLICANO A 7000 acre, family-owned vineyard estate and winery in the Brunello region, Situated at Porto Ercole this elegant property clings to the rugged hillside above some 40 miles from historic Siena, the Castello Banfi has its origins as an the blue waters that lap its beach club – think more Amalfi coastline than ancient Etruscan settlement and as a Romanesque Renaissance castle even Sardinian beach – with its classic Tuscan styled rooms reflecting the style and merited mention by Dante. Its 14 rooms and suites offer privileged privacy and beauty of the region of Tuscany. There are many reasons why you should visit superb comfort with king sized beds, fine furnishings and fabrics and the well this southern part of the Tuscan coastline, but two of them are two Michelin appointed bathrooms with rain showers. La Taverna restaurant in the arched Stars. Both held by the impressive talents of chef Antonio Guida and you can cellar where oversized casks of the local Brunello di Montalcino once matured, sample his craftsmanship in Il Pellicano restaurant and then learn some of his serves superbly authentic Tuscan dishes, while the reading room, pergola skills at their cooking school, just one of the many activities devised to keep garden, hillside swimming pool with wonderful vineyard views and a fitness you as entertained as you want to be. And when you don’t want to be active, area all add to the Castello’s elegant charm and delightful comfort. head to the Pelliclub for some much deserved spa pampering. Accommodation: 14 rooms and suites Dining: Taverna Banfi Accommodation: 34 rooms and 16 suites Facilities: Winery, Wine tastings, Cookery lessons, Private tours, On-site hot Dining: The 2 Michelin-starred Il Pellicano Restaurant, Pelligrill, Bar air baloon, Biking and hiking trails, Enoteca produce shop, Glass museum, Facilities: Cooking class, Cocktail masterclass, Health & Beauty Centre, Fitness area, Outdoor pool Boutique shop, Heated outdoor pool, Beach club Children: Welcome Children: Welcome over 10 years 4 Nights: From £955pp including British Airways flights and car hire 4 Nights: From £990pp including British Airways flights and car hire Meal Plan: Breakfast included, optional half-board Meal Plan: Breakfast included Special Offers: Free nights Special Offers: Special booking discount CASTELLO BANFI 30 IL PELLICANO CALL 01244 322770 azurecollection.com 31 ALL DESERVING OF YOUR DISCOVERY IN THEIR OWN RIGHT, THESE ARE THE GEMS OF NORTHERN ITALY. If fair VERONA was in any other country it would be flooded with tourists thanks to its architecture, boutique shops and of course the annual Opera Festival, this year celebrating its 100th year. Held in the magical setting of the roman amphitheatre this year the programme includes performances of Romeo et Juliette, what could be more appropriate? Since Roman times LAKE COMO has been popular with the rich and famous, an appeal that still remains today. It is widely regarded as one of Italy’s most beautiful lakes, whilst LAKE GARDA boasts being the largest. Both are treats for the eyes and deservedly popular, but one lake has not yet been discovered, LAKE ORTA, with its dramatic play between mountains, weather, light and the enchanting island of San Giulio. This lake offers a treat for the soul as well as the eyes. PALAZZO VICTORIA – VERONA Centrally located, this renovated hotel is ideal for those wanting to explore Verona’s treasures on foot and stay in comfort in the city. And when we say comfort, we really mean luxury. The rooms and suites, each individually decorated, effortlessly combine traditional touches of the local Veneto region with modern fresh design and furnishings to create a restful haven. Whilst the marble bathrooms are where you can beautify yourself before heading out to dine or go to the famous opera. Some suites also come with beautiful terraces and others with a Jacuzzi. Throughout the hotel there are treasured pieces of art and architecture that have been lovingly preserved giving this hotel a real sense of time and place. Well, it was originally built as a palace at the beginning of the 14th century, but don’t worry, all mod-cons like wi-fi throughout are readily available! In ‘Borsari 36’, Michelin-starred chef, Carmine Caló, promises to serve up delicious traditional Italian and regional cuisine with a contemporary twist. You’d expect nothing less, as this whole hotel is a fusion of a respect for the traditional with a modern take. It is an ethos that stems from the building’s new owner (and its saviour) Marcello FM Pigozzo who recently bought and renovated it having remembered the building from his childhood. Accommodation: 71 rooms & suites Dining: Borsari 36 Restaurant, Victoria Club Bar Facilities: Concierge Children: Welcome 4 Nights: From £555pp including British Airways flights and transfers Meal Plan: Breakfast included Special Offers: Early booking discount, Free nights PALAZZO VICTORIA “These are some real hidden gems of Italy set amongst the crowning glory of its famous lakes.” HOTEL VILLA DEL QUAR – NEAR VERONA VIP Concierge Service Not for nothing is this historic and beautiful villa in the heart of Valpolicella, •Marvel at the masterpiece during your own private after hours viewing of Leonardo di Vinci’s The known as one of the most perfect 5 star settings in Italy. The twelve rooms and Last Supper 13 suites offer opulent elegance and superb comfort and are set in delightful •Discover Shakespeare’s Verona on a fascinating walking tour of this fair city grounds that include a fitness centre, sauna and massage room together with •Enjoy a candlelit dinner followed by seats at the opera for the Verona Opera Festival and a carriage home a picture perfect vineyard and superb clover leaf swimming pool. But that is •Experience a different view of Lake Como, from the air with a sea plane ride over this beautiful location only part of the story, for this family owned and run Relais & Chateaux jewel RS When to visit It also boasts two superb restaurants ‘Arquade’ and ‘Quar 12’ where 17th of a 15th and 16th century villa is located on the site of a roman-era ‘castrum’. century wall hangings and Murano glass chandelier create the perfect ambience Winter is much colder and less predictable until March. April can be lovely with spring flowers blooming. May, June and September offer great for cuisine overseen by Chef de Cuisine Gennaro Vitto. The Bar and Tea Room temperatures and are a little quieter as Italians traditional holiday is July and August when temperatures are at their peak. Q have superb views of the Veronese landscape and Verona itself is only a ten How to get there minute drive away with the hotel’s complimentary car transfer. British Airways flies daily to Milan from Gatwick and Heathrow with low cost airlines offering alternative timings and direct departures from Gatwick, Luton, Manchester and Edinburgh. Milan’s main airport, Malpensa, is approximately 1 hour from Milan city centre, Lake Como and Lake Orta. Accommodation: 12 rooms and 13 suites British Airways flies to Verona from Gatwick with low cost airlines offering alternative timings and direct departures from Gatwick, Stansted, Manchester, Dining: Restaurant Arquade Newcastle, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Belfast. Transfers to Verona city centre or Hotel Villa del Quar take from 30 minutes. Facilities: Swimming pool, Helipad, Sauna, Complimentary chauffeur to Verona, nearby golf Children: Welcome VERONA & THE LAKES 4 Nights: From £725pp including British Airways flights and transfers Meal Plan: Breakfast included HOTEL VILLA DEL QUAR - VERONA 32 CALL 01244 322770 azurecollection.com Special Offers: Early booking discount, Free nights, Opera packages 33 CASTADIVA RESORT & SPA – LAKE COMO VILLA CORTINE PALACE – LAKE GARDA Situated on the shores of Lake Como, CastaDiva Resort & Spa is a haven from the real world. Lavish decoration is blended with luxurious comfort in rooms and suites embellished by silk and velvet to try and distract you from that stunning lake view. A little exploration and you are rewarded by a 1300sqm spa devoted to the four elements for individual and couple experiences, and a relaxation room suspended above a 19th century dock. You will also discover a Spa Café and a gourmet restaurant, the Bellini Bar, and a pool bar in summer. But the Villa Roccabruna hasn’t forgotten its musical predecessor as this early 19th Century villa now stands on the once historical mansion of the soprano Guiditta Pasta. As such CastaDiva Resort & Spa plays host to themed operatic events and has close links to the Teatro Sociale of Como. The latter making it possible for guests to attend exclusive summer events taking place during the Como Città della Musica Festival at Villa Olmo. But before you head off to the opera, ensure you enjoy a Bellini in the bar at the lakeside. On the southern shore of Lake Garda there is an isthmus, where there is a hill Accommodation: 73 rooms and suites plus 2 private villas Dining: L’Orangerie restaurant, Spa Café, Bellini Bar, Pool bar (summer only) Facilities: Spa, Wellness area, Fitness centre, Indoor heated pool, Outdoor heated pool with Jacuzzi floating on the lake, Shopping gallery, Shuttle to Como, Library, Private dock Children: Welcome 4 Nights: From £890pp including British Airways flights and transfers Meal Plan: Breakfast included, optional half-board Special Offers: Early booking discount, Free nights, Complimentary lunch, Spa discount, Packages upon which a small town is situated. Atop that hill, in the centre of the historic Sirmione, is the Villa Cortine Palace Hotel, a wonderful destination offering 54 splendidly comfortable rooms and suites and set in a delightful 12-acre park. Each room is a picture of elegance featuring cool parquet floors covered with precious carpets and furnished with antique furniture, Venetian glass chandeliers and leading on to equally well appointed marble bathrooms. The main restaurant and delightful dining terrace will pique your palate with superb cuisine that uses the very best of local produce while the pool and tennis courts will keep you trim. Not for nothing is this hotel set on the ‘pearl of Lake Garda,’ it’s a gem. Accommodation: 54 rooms and suites Dining: Le Gardenie restaurant, American Bar, summer Beach Bar & Barbeque Children: Welcome 4 Nights: From £845pp including British Airways flights and transfers Meal Plan: Breakfast included, optional half-board Special Offers: Free nights CASTADIVA RESORT & SPA VILLA CORTINE PALACE VILLA D’ESTE – LAKE COMO VILLA CRESPI – LAKE ORTA For pure Italian opulence in a commanding position on the shores of Lake On Lake Orta in the heart of Piedmont, the Villa Crespi’s fairytale folly has 14 Como, the Villa D’Este is utterly peerless and entirely worthy of its reputation rooms and suites each of which will delight you with a romantic rococo style as one of the finest hotels in the world. Built in the 16th century as the that evokes the tales of One Thousand and One Nights. Featuring every summer residence of a Cardinal, it became the favoured hotel of European modern convenience and gloriously opulent decor, four-poster canopied beds, royalty since opening it’s doors in 1873, its 152 rooms and suites offering true silk wall hangings and period furniture and paintings are abundant and there splendour and graceful living. Decorated with period furniture, swathed in silks are choices of views from the lake or gardens. The inspired chef produces and brocades and featuring oil paintings, each is unique, with many having magical menus befitting his two Michelin stars, and will share the secrets of his either a balcony or terrace or marble bathrooms featuring Jacuzzis. For complete recipes in their the mouth-watering cooking classes with lunch – so you can seclusion there are even two private villas. With its floating pool, tennis courts relish the spoils of your learning. Or equally relax and enjoy a range of massages and marina there is plenty to amuse while the range of excellent indoor and and treatments available at the hotel. Villa Crespi, situated on this undiscovered al fresco bars and restaurants will see that you want for nothing. There are so lake, is truly a place to dream of. few places on earth that offer supremely sumptuous living in such a spectacular natural setting that the Villa D’Este could rightfully be called “heavenly.” Accommodation: 6 rooms and 8 suites Dining: Villa Crespi Restaurant Accommodation: 152 rooms and suites Facilities: Cooking classes, Wine cellar, Spa treatments, WiFi Dining: Veranda restaurant, Grill restaurant, Pool Bar, Bar Canova, Children: Welcome Bar Terrazza, D’Este Club 4 Nights: From £725pp including British Airways flights and transfers Facilities: Wellness & Beauty Centre, Indoor heated pool, Outdoor heated Meal Plan: Breakfast Included pool with Jacuzzi floating on the lake, Water sports and tennis available for hire, Jogging trail Children: Welcome VILLA D’ESTE 34 4 Nights: From £1,120pp including British Airways flights and transfers VILLA CRESPI Meal Plan: Breakfast included Special Offers: Special booking discount, Honeymoon CALL 01244 322770 azurecollection.com 35 ONCE A SLEEPY FISHING HARBOUR, THIS SMALL TOWN IS NOW A TOURIST IDYLL ALONG THE PICTURESQUE ITALIAN RIVIERA. Relaxing and people watching are the two biggest pass times HOTEL SPLENDIDO here, as during the summer the port becomes a hub of yachting activity and the harbour simply pulses with life. For those more Hotel Splendido, on a luxuriant hillside overlooking the yachts and islands in the There are so many reasons to stay in Portofino on the Ligurian coast and the harbour, is not least among them. An Orient-Express hotel with a beautiful active there are popular diving sites nearby and, of course, you can have a go at sailing yourself. Or for those more historically minded range of 69 suites and rooms, many with balconies or terraces, it is wondrously there are several museums, castles and churches close by that are well worth exploring. And Castello Brown, dating back to the 16th elegant, sumptuously decorated and boasts a pool, tennis court, sauna and Century, offers one of the best views of Portofino from its once protective battlements. But if you like to be in the thick of it, take a steam room and a wellness centre set in the beautiful Mediterranean garden. The three restaurants offer the very best of Italian cuisine, not to mention pew at the harbour and be a part of the summertime buzz. stunning panoramic sea views and the two bars specialise in some remarkable cocktails and sundowners. If jet-set cool set in old world Italian charm is for “We simply can’t decide which is better, a glass of Prosecco on the beautiful harbour front you then the Hotel Splendido is a must. or up on the panoramic hill top. Try them both and let us know which one you prefer.” Accommodation: 69 rooms and suites Dining: La Terrazza and Pool restaurants, 2 Bars Facilities: Fitness centre, Spa, Outdoor swimming pool, Complimentary shuttle to/from village of Portofino. Children: Welcome 4 Nights: From £1,295pp including British Airways flights and transfers Meal Plan: Breakfast included Special Offers: Free nights HOTEL SPLENDIDO HOTEL SPLENDIDO MARE Sister hotel to the Hotel Splendido, the Splendido Mare has a perfect position in the very centre of Portofino and looks onto the small, pretty square and the delightful, famed harbour. Most of the beautifully airy 16 suites and rooms have balconies or a terrace giving perfect views of sea and pretty lanes along which a host of the literati and glitterati have meandered. Bathrooms have separate VIP Concierge Service baths and showers, are elegantly luxurious and feature Bulgari and Penhaligons •Discover one of Italy’s most beautiful coastlines and its treasures in a private tour through the toiletries. With excellent regional specialities and a superb wine list, The Chuflay region’s history and vistas. restaurant epitomises the glamour of the Splendido, whether eating indoors or al fresco on the harbour side to the accompaniment of lapping waves and gently rocking yachts. It’s so perfect you’ll wonder why you haven’t been RS When to visit before! Even in winter temperatures rarely dip below freezing. March to June and September to October are very pleasant temperatures in which to visit. July and August are the warmest months, but kept fresh by onshore breezes. Q Accommodation: 16 rooms How to get there Dining: Chuflay restaurant and bar British Airways flies daily to Genoa from Gatwick, with low cost airlines offer alternative timings. Transfers to Portofino take just over an hour. Facilities: Guest staying at Splendido Mare can use all the facilities of Hotel Splendido 4 Nights: From £1,090pp including British Airways flights and transfers PORTOFINO Meal Plan: Breakfast included Special Offers: Free nights HOTEL SPLENDIDO MARE 36 CALL 01244 322770 azurecollection.com 37 “This incredible coast is perfect for slowly making your way along, with every town boasting a different vista. And when you’ve had enough of the roads, why not charter a private yacht and see it all from the azure waters.” THE SORRENTO AND AMALFI COAST WILL MAKE YOU GIDDY – AND THAT’S NOT JUST BECAUSE ITS FAMOUSLY WINDING COASTAL ROAD INVOLVES IMPOSSIBLY STEEP MOUNTAIN SIDES AND EVEN LONGER DROPS. No, it’s because the place is both astoundingly beautiful and impossibly glamorous; artists, writers and movie stars all flocking here to find anything from sunshine to inspiration. But this region to the south of Naples is no jet-set affair, its mood slow-paced rather than sophisticated and its way-of-life still firmly rooted in the past. Fishermen still haul in their catch at pastel-coloured towns like POSITANO, for example; the medieval cathedral continues to take pride of place in AMALFI, whilst RAVELLO still needs nothing more than its celebrated gardens and picture-perfect Mediterranean views to keep its visitors enthralled. You can expect some steep climbs here, but remember there’s always a glass of limoncello waiting for you at the end! After a short crossing you reach the island of CAPRI, off the Amalfi Coast, which offers anything from Roman remains to Versace gowns and let’s not forget the staggering sea views. Further south again is MARATEA which will not just introduce you to charming villages and spectacular coastal scenery, but it will also be a bit of a journey into Italy’s past. Not only do majestic mountains sweep down to the Tyrrhenian Sea, but there are also medieval castles, historical centres and an incredible 44 churches dotting the landscape. Why not combine these cultural activities with horse riding, sea excursions and beach or mountain walks. NEAPOLITAN RIVIERA • 7 Sorrento Positano Praiano 6 5 Amalfi 3 2 Ravello 1 4 Conca dei Marini Capri 9 8 Maratea VIP Concierge Service HOTEL KEY 1. PALAZZO AVINO, RAVELLO •Enjoy one of the most scenic drives you will ever take along the breath taking Amalfi Coast, with a 2. HOTEL CARUSO, RAVELLO private expert driver 3. SANTA CATERINA, AMALFI •Soak up the sunshine onboard a private yacht tour along the Amalfi Coast 4. MONASTERO SANTA ROSA HOTEL & SPA, CONCA DEI MARINI •Discover the essence of flavour stemming from the produce at a local farm which supplies one of Italy’s top restaurants, Don Alfonso, followed by lunch at the restaurant to taste the passion 5. CASA ANGELINA, PRAIANO •Spend a VIP day discovering Capri by private motorboat reaching lesser known beauty spots and 6. LE SIRENUSE, POSITANO lunch on the island at your choice of restaurants 7. GRAND HOTEL EXCELSIOR, SORRENTO 8. J.K. PLACE, CAPRI 9. CAPRI PALACE HOTEL & SPA, CAPRI RS When to visit Winters here are generally mild but can be wet and as such much is closed in the region. April to June and September to October are the nicest temperatures and it is generally quieter. July and August are peak months for temperatures and people. Q NEAPOLITAN RIVIERA How to get there British Airways flies daily to Naples from Gatwick with low cost airlines offering alternative timings and direct departures from Stansted, Birmingham, East Midlands, Liverpool, Manchester, Newcastle, Glasgow and Edinburgh. Transfers from Naples Airport to Capri (via car and hydrofoil) takes approximately 13/4 hours, Sorrento takes an hour, and the Amalfi Coast from 1½ hours depending. Transfers to Maratea take approximately 3 hours. Please ask your local travel agency specialist or contact us on 01244 322770 sales@azurecollection.com azurecollection.com 38 39 HOTEL CARUSO – RAVELLO This former 11th century palace is set 350-metres above sea level on the highest point in Ravello. Nowadays it’s a 50-room getaway looked after like a favourite child by Orient-Express Hotels. The frescoes, vaulted ceilings, terraced gardens and even the tiny baroque-style chapel are all evidence of its fascinating origins; the fitness facilities, wellness centre and infinity-edge pool (complete with iPods and Evian vaporisers) displaying its awareness of modern trends. A contemporary twist has also been given to the Caruso’s cuisine, the traditional Neopolitan and southern Italian dishes served in a couple of restaurants either indoors or on panoramic terraces. Sea views, balconies and specially crafted Neopolitan furnishings await in the 50 guest rooms and suites. Accommodation: 50 rooms and suites Dining: Restaurants Caruso and Belvedere, 2 bars Facilities: Fitness centre, Spa, outdoor Infinity swimming pool, Complimentary coastal boat tour, Complimentary shuttle to/from Amalfi and Positano Children: Welcome 4 Nights: From £930pp including British Airways flights and transfers Meal Plan: Breakfast included, optional half-board and full-board Special Offers: Free nights HOTEL CARUSO SANTA CATERINA – AMALFI This 19th century whitewashed villa clinging to a panoramic cliff near Amalfi PALAZZO AVINO – RAVELLO has been transformed into a much-loved seaside getaway by three generations of Since it opened in 1997 in the quaint hilltop village of Ravello, Palazzo Avino has won almost every award the Gambardellas family. The traditional décor is testimony to their taste; the going. Not only is this 12th century Italian villa overflowing with refinement and romance, but its attentive lengthy repeat guest list an affirmation of their hospitality. Most of the 66 staff can’t do enough for you, its fine dining restaurant boasts a couple of Michelin stars and its leisure classically-styled guest rooms boast seaview balconies; infinity pools on offer in amenities include a sublime spa, a stunning swimming pool and a beautiful new beach club just 15 minute’s some of the ‘named’ suites. An elevator whisks you down to the Beach Club drive away. The beach club boasts an excellent casual restaurant, beautifully appointed changing rooms, with its private beach, fabulous rock-ledge seawater pool and seafood restaurant; as well as relaxing living rooms within a private villa setting. The 32 rooms and 11 suites are defined by the culinary focus moving back up the cliff to the excellent Mediterranean-style eatery after dark. If you need any further attention, there’s a wellness centre their antique furnishings and 21st century comforts, and if you go for one with the kind of panoramic offering relaxing things like holistic and lemon massages. Mediterranean views that take your breath away, you’ll understand exactly why Palazzo Avino gets such rave reviews. So a little change to now reflect the family name of Avino isn’t going to change a thing. Accommodation: 66 rooms and suites Dining: Restaurants Santa Caterina and El Mare Accommodation: 32 rooms and 11 suites Facilities: Spa/Wellness centre, Gym, Pool, Beach club Dining: Two Michelin starred Rosselinis restaurant, Terrace restaurant, Beach club Children: Welcome Facilities: Pool, Spa, Beach club with complimentary shuttle 4 Nights: From £895pp including British Airways flights and transfers Children: Welcome Meal Plan: Breakfast included, optional half-board and full-board 4 Nights: From £755pp including British Airways flights and transfers Meal Plan: Breakfast included SANTA CATERINA 40 CALL 01244 322770 azurecollection.com 41 CASA ANGELINA – PRAIANO MONASTERO SANTA ROSA HOTEL & SPA – CONCA DEI MARINI, AMALFI COAST Hugging a cliff in Praiano, Casa Angelina is where the Amalfi Coast goes all minimalist. This fivestar boutique hotel is whiter than white both inside and Perched on a spectacular cliff top between Positano and Amalfi and with eagle-like views over the beautiful out, just the occasional splash of colour provided by whimsical Murano glass bay of Salerno, this privately owned former 17th century monastery, which only opened its doors in May sculptures. Yet who needs more when the Mediterranean is spread out before last year, offers panoramas like no other. With comprehensive state of the art contemporary comforts you like a turquoise blanket? Terraces, floor-to-ceiling windows and even a where once were nuns, the 20 superbly appointed rooms and suites have vaulted ceilings and original glass-fronted lift to the beach ensure you never forget where you are. The 43 features, beautifully complemented with furniture and furnishings carefully selected from across Italy. Santa rooms and suites are equally serene, most with balconies or terraces, four Rosa Ristorante specialises in the cuisine of Campania and as you might expect with the Amalfi Coast views, on the beach and many with sea views – you’ll probably never turn on the delights in serving the freshest of local catches with the finest of home-grown produce from its gardens. Fittingly for a former monastery, the Spa is a delight of spiritual tranquillity with superb range of treatments and techniques. There can be few more spectacular sea views in this part of Italy and Monastero Santa Rosa is surely the finest, most elegant vantage point. plasma TV. There’s also a wellness centre and indoor and outdoor pools; culinary options including the scene-stealing Mediterranean cuisine of Un Piano nel Cielo. Accommodation: 43 rooms and suites Dining: Un Piano nel Cielo restaurant Accommodation: 20 rooms Facilities: 2 pools, Wellness Centre, Fitness room, Beach, Private boats, Dining: 1 Restaurant Facilities: Spa, Infinity pool Complimentary shuttle bus to/from Positano, Complimentary parking Children: Welcome Children: Welcome from 10 years of age 4 Nights: From £735pp including British Airways flights and transfers 4 Nights: From £740pp including British Airways flights and transfers Meal Plan: Breakfast included, optional half-board and full-board Meal Plan: Breakfast included Special Offers: Free nights Special Offers: Early booking discount, Free nights CASA ANGELINA LE SIRENUSE – POSITANO To dine on the terrace of Le Sirenuse’s La Sponda restaurant is a memory that will remain for life – inspired Neopolitan cuisine and intriguing fellow guests combine with 400 candles to create an almost theatrical ambience. Otherwise this 18th century palazzo owned by Marchese Sersale since 1951 is very much the kind of place you can make yourselves at home. Antique-filled lounges lead to cosy sitting areas which in turn lead to panoramic terraces; as much as possible overlooking the ‘vertical town’ of Positano beneath and the Mediterranean beyond. Whitewashed walls and hand-made tiles distinguish the 58 guest rooms, most of them boasting terraces and sea views. The Aveda spa, swimming pool and switched-on service finish it all off perfectly. Accommodation: 58 rooms and suites Dining: Michelin starred ‘La Sponda’ restaurant, Oyster/Champagne bar Facilities: Spa, Pool, Fitness centre Children: Not suitable for children under 6 years 4 Nights: From £995pp including British Airways flights and transfers Meal Plan: Breakfast included LE SIRENUSE 42 CALL 01244 322770 azurecollection.com 43 GRAND HOTEL EXCELSIOR VITTORIA – SORRENTO J.K. PLACE CAPRI – CAPRI HARBOUR Owned and run by the same family since opening in 1834, the Grand’s Originally a 19th century private house, J.K. Place is still elegant enough to convey reputation for elegant Neapolitan service and hospitality has certainly stood the the warmth and intimacy of a cherished seaside home. This chic all-white test of time, and as such been the choice of members of European royalty and getaway overlooks Capri’s main harbour and both its flower-filled public areas international celebrities. Many of the rooms, suites, restaurants and bars boast and 22 guest rooms display the inspired taste of someone unafraid of mixing superb views across the Bay of Naples. Whilst creature comforts and graceful the antique with the contemporary. Most of the stylish rooms and suites boast living are very much the order of the day, while the ultra modern spa La Serra sea views, and some even have their own terraces where you can breakfast will ensure that relaxation is guaranteed. Acres of private gardens, a swimming on sweet pastries and strong coffee. Otherwise the traditional Mediterranean pool and a private lift to the harbour for the hotel’s private boat for Positano, fare is served on the hotel’s panoramic terrace or in its fashionable JKitchen Capri and Naples, make this a perfectly unique and charming hotel. restaurant; the fitness centre, outdoor swimming pool and east-meets-west spa all there as an alternative to the designer shopping. Accommodation: 71 rooms and 26 suites Dining: Bosquet restaurant and Orangerie restaurant by the pool, 2 bars Accommodation: 22 rooms Facilities: Spa, Pool, Kids pool and play ground, Private lift to the harbour, Dining: JKitchen Lounge & Restaurant Children’s soccer and basket ball field Facilities: Spa, Outdoor pool Children: Welcome Children: Welcome 4 Nights: From £685pp including British Airways flights and transfers 4 Nights: From £1,240pp including British Airways flights and transfers Meal Plan: Breakfast included, optional half-board Meal Plan: Breakfast included Special Offers: Early booking discount, Free nights, Summer packages J.K. PLACE CAPRI GRAND HOTEL EXCELSIOR VITTORIA LA LOCANDA DELLE DONNE MONACHE – MARATEA CAPRI PALACE HOTEL & SPA – CAPRI This former convent is tucked away in the picturesque old village of Maratea – A hotel for indulgence of Hollywood proportions. Their cuisine is of star quality, Michelin Star of course, with L’Olivo, the only Capri restaurant with two and now their Il Riccio Restaurant & Beach Club has recently also earned its first. In addition to their world renowned and multi-award winning spa which specialises in beauty and medical activities. These include the famous “Leg School”, ensuring you’ll be fit for any red carpet event. Located at the foot of Monte Solaro, the highest part of the island, the Capri Palace is an ultra sophisticated art-filled ‘palace’ with 78 rooms ranging from traditional Mediterranean – style chambers to oversized modern suites with private pools and garden, including the art deco Paltrow Presidential Suite with a 360o vista and two private pools. By day enjoy bistro lunches on an amazing panoramic terrace, simply make for the beach club with its trendy and Michelin starred Il Riccio or if the sun is what you want to avoid visit its boutique Mariorita, where the philosophy is “not just shopping, but experience”. Here even the most demanding of movie stars would not caprice of their decision about staying at Capri Palace. its 18th century origins can still be discerned in the whitewashed walls, original tiled floors and raw stone walls. Yet today it comes with lashings of style (all those virginal white fabrics are very ‘now’), not to mention an eclectic range of contemporary oils, Murano lamps and old paintings. Just 27 uniquely-styled guest rooms are on offer here making it ideal for an intimate wedding setting. The rooms range from the almost nun-like Classic Rooms to the more hedonistic suites with their canopy kingsize beds and heady views over the rooftops. And you can certainly kick austerity into touch in Il Sacello restaurant, the Italian cuisine drawing from the fresh seafood and flavours of Basilicata restaurant attracting an equally smart and modern clientele. Accommodation: 27 rooms and suites Dining: Restaurant “Il Sacello”, Bar L’Alambicco and Wine cellar Facilities: Massage room, Pool, Fitness centre, Free shuttle service for the beach (with complimentary sunbeds and umbrellas), Garden, Library Children: Welcome 4 Nights: From £570pp including British Airways flights and car hire Meal Plan: Breakfast included LA LOCANDA DELLE DONNE MONACHE 44 Special Offers: Early booking discount, Free nights CALL 01244 322770 CAPRI PALACE HOTEL & SPA azurecollection.com Accommodation: 65 rooms and 13 suites Dining: The 2 Michelin starred L’Olivo Gourmet restaurant, Bistrot Ragu, Artist Bar, Wine Cellar, nearby 1 Michelin starred Il Riccio restaurant and Beach Club Facilities: Medical spa, Pool, Fitness Children: Welcome 4 Nights: From £1,340pp including British Airways flights and transfers Meal Plan: Breakfast included, optional half-board and full-board Special Offers: Early booking discount, Free nights 45 THE FAIRYTALE TRULLI, SMALL WHITE CIRCULAR STONE HOUSES WITH CONICAL ROOFS DATING FROM THE 19TH BORGO EGNAZIA CENTURY, HELP TO MAKE PULIGIA, ITALY’S HEEL, AN ENCHANTING DESTINATION. As do the sweeping coastlines, rocky Located among fields of olive trees in Savelletri di Fasano close to the Adriatic sea and the ancient Roman City of Egnazia, Borgo Egnazia is an architectural masterpiece. It’s completely built with Tufo, a local type of limestone, and draws its inspiration from the Masserie and Apulian towns of Lecce, Bari, Ostuni, just minutes away. coves and smooth beaches sculpted by the Adriatic and the Ionian seas. Nature reserves, olive groves, green meadows and wetlands, cathedrals and ancient watchtowers, add to the appeal. And if all that’s not enough to lure you, Puglia offers some of the The stunning resort balances tradition and innovation in perfect harmony. It’s composed of three distinctive areas: the elegant sophistication of La Corte; the dynamic and lively Borgo, and the classically comfortable Villas. finest food and wine that Italy has to offer. The hotel is a popular destination for golfers thanks to the San Domenico golf course. The lush and expansive 18 hole championship course, considered one of the top in Italy, borders the azure sea with a clubhouse situated right on the coast. “With so much to offer, and direct flights, it is easy to see why the ‘heel’ of Italy is attracting a lot of interest.” But it’s not just golfers who feel at home here. It’s a haven for families too. The Trullalleri kid’s clubs is equipped with a playroom, relaxation and reading areas and a dedicated zero-entry swimming pool. Activities include jewelry making, vegetable gardening and of course visits to the beach. The Finchi D’India Teen Club is a multimedia extravaganza complete with Wii and wifi as well as tennis and golf clinics. Accommodation: Rooms and suites in La Corte (hotel) and Borgo (Apulian village), and Villas Dining: Due Camini restaurant, La Frasca restaurant, Trattoria Mia Cucina restaurant, Da Puccetta children’s restaurant, Bar del Portico, Capanno bar, L’Angoletto bar, Caffè dell Piazzetta. (Seasonal opening) Facilities: Golf course, Cooking school, Tennis academy, Pools, Beach club & watersports, Boutique, Reading room, Cigar room Children: Welcome, with Kids and Teen clubs 4 Nights: From £695pp including British Airways flights and transfers Meal Plan: Breakfast included, optional half-board and full-board Special Offers: Early booking discount, Complimentary half-board RS When to visit With its Mediterranean climate Puglia boasts a longer season than most, with spring being generally warm with temperatures reaching the early 20s by the end of April. Summer is peak season here with long, hot and dry days with temperatures up to 30oC and the sea wonderfully warm. The autumnal weather typically begins in October, however temperatures generally remain in the 20s until December, and winter is normally a little rainy and milder. Q How to get there British Airways flies daily to Bari from Gatwick, with low cost airlines offer alternative timings and direct departures from Stansted to Bari or Brindisi. Transfers from either airport to Borgo Egnazia take just over an hour. PUGLIA 46 CALL 01244 322770 azurecollection.com 47 FOR ALL THAT IT’S PART OF ITALY, SICILY – THE LARGEST ISLAND IN THE MEDITERRANEAN – IS ANOTHER COUNTRY. It wears its history on its sleeve with rich relics scattered almost casually. The food has hints of Arabic spices; the vegetation is exotic with oranges, lemons and palms; the pace of life slow, warm and friendly. Historical riches GRAND HOTEL TIMEO – TAORMINA, SICILY The first hotel to be built in Taormina, in the rocky hills of Sicily’s east coast, this glamorous Orient Express Hotel is all that an enchanting retreat should be. The 70 rooms and suites are full of Italian style and flair, from Sicilian baroque include show-stopping Greek temples, Baroque churches, and medieval mosaics. No visitor can resist the pull of Mount Etna’s eerie to country charm, and offer balconies, terraces and bay or garden views. All are volcanic landscape or the south coast’s sandy beaches. Or, of course, a glass or two of Marsala. Midway between Italy and North beautifully appointed, packed with amenities and feature toiletries by Bulgari, Penhaligons and Molton Brown. Restaurant dining features carefully chosen Africa, SARDINIA is Italy with a twist of the exotic. In the south, idyllic sandy coves mix with spectacular wave carved rocks and local specialities and superb terrace views of Mount Etna and Cape Taormina, Cagliari’s Citadel and Roman amphitheatre. the poolside bar is perfect for lazy lunches while the wellness centre specialises in treatments using local flowers and fruit essences. When de Maupassant wrote “Sicily is perfect for touring with so much history, culture and scenery. You simply must hire a that Taormina is “a landscape in which you can find all that seems to be created car to explore the island and then flop on a beach. What could be better?” on earth to seduce the eyes, mind and fantasy,” he knew of what he wrote. Accommodation: 70 rooms and suites VIP Concierge Service Dining: 2 restaurant and 2 bars •Enjoy a hands-on cooking lesson in Taormina at the well known Licchio’s restaurant, and learn how to make pasta like an Facilities: Fitness centre, Spa, Pool, Complimentary shuttle to/from sister hotel Italian grandma Villa Sant’ Andrea and use of the private beach, Complimentary twice daily •From Sicily sail the Tyrrhenian Sea on board your own yacht; let the skipper navigate the islands and way anchor for you coastal boat trip Children: Welcome, with club at Villa Sant’ Andrea to take a dip to cool off 4 Nights: From £795pp including British Airways flights and transfers SARDINIA •Discover our favourite corners of the beautiful island of Sicily on this private full day tour Meal Plan: Breakfast included, optional half-board and full-board •Children can learn to play football with Chelsea FC, Rugby with English legends like Austin Healey or tennis with Jonas Bjorkman Special Offers: Free nights HOTEL KEY 2. VILLA SANT’ ANDREA VILLA SANT’ ANDREA – TAORMINA, SICILY SICILY •Palermo 1. GRAND HOTEL TIMEO Trapani 3. THE ASHBEE HOTEL 4. HOTEL TAORMINA IMPERIALE 5. VERDURA GOLF & SPA RESORT 5 Taormina 3 1 4 2 On a private beach on one of Italy’s most beautiful coastlines and just a short • Catania• cable car ride from the heart of stunning Taormina, Villa Sant’ Andrea offers all the sophisticated luxury you might expect from an Orient-Express hotel. The 60 •Agrigento rooms and suites have views over the private bay and are elegant and Cagliari 6 • supremely comfortable, many boast either lovely ‘Juliet’ balconies or terraces 6. FORTE VILLAGE RESORT for al fresco living while the bathrooms are a wealth of marble. Restaurant Oliviero is justifiably famed for its superb Mediterranean cuisine with innovative RS When to visit twists which uses only the very freshest of local produce and seafood and there Winters in Sicily are generally cooler with a higher chance of rain. During April to May the temperatures are warming which is ideal for touring. June to August are the warmest months (August can be busy with Italian holiday makers) with September and into October being a lovely time of year to visit. Flights to Sardinia and hotel opening dates mean you’ll only visit between mid-May to early October when there is the best chance of sunshine and lowest chance of rainfall. Q GRAND HOTEL TIMEO can be fewer better sea views than that from it’s tree-shaded panoramic terrace. Twin this beach retreat with the glamourous hill-top Grand Hotel Timeo, also from Orient-Express, for a Sicilian match made in heaven. How to get there Accommodation: 60 rooms and suites British Airways fly to Catania in Sicily twice a week from Gatwick with low cost airlines offering alternative timings and direct departures from Gatwick Dining: 1 restaurant and 1 bar and Manchester. Low cost carriers also fly direct to Palermo from Gatwick or Stansted, and Trapani from Luton. A chartered British Airways flight flies Facilities: Spa, Fitness centre, Beach, Pool, Complimentary kids club, directly to Cagliari in Sardinia from London and Manchester twice a week, with low cost airlines flying to Cagliari from Stansted and Edinburgh. Complimentary shuttle to/from sister hotel Grand Hotel Timeo, Complimentary twice daily coastal boat trip Children: Welcome with club SICILY & SARDINIA 4 Nights: From £835pp including British Airways flights and transfers Meal Plan: Breakfast included, optional half-board and full-board VILLA SANT’ ANDREA 48 CALL 01244 322770 azurecollection.com Special Offers: Free nights 49 THE ASHBEE HOTEL – TAORMINA, SICILY VERDURA GOLF & SPA RESORT – SICILY This beautiful boutique hotel, the former home of British Colonel and designed No urban retreat this, but a brand new full-service resort complete with 45-holes of golf, an exciting spa and an infinity-edge swimming pool, as well as 1.8km of private coastline on the rugged south-west coast of Sicily. Olga Polizzi has made her mark on all the 203 rooms and suites, her inspired use of stone, wood, earth tones and dramatic accent colours set off by views of the Mediterranean Sea. Sicilian, Italian and Mediterranean dishes are all showcased in the restaurants, and if you want to bring the kids along there’s an informal buffet-style eatery as well as a Gelateria for freshly made Italian ice-cream. Enjoy the 45 holes of incredible golf, designed by Kyle Phillips and including two 18-hole Championship courses. Relax in the amazing Thalassotherapy pool spa with its multitude of tailored treatments which takes pampering to a whole new level. Meanwhile let the Children’s Club and teen ‘Hang-out’ area keep the junior guests more than happy from dawn ‘til dusk. Both comprising of a full range of special activities for the older children as well as the young, with dedicated areas and all the appropriate amenities, from a high chair to a Nintendo Wii Console, to help save on your packing. That is not to mention the tennis, bicycles, wind and kite surfing, football, sailing, jeep adventures, fishing trips, wine tasting and cooking lessons mean you’ll be kept as busy as you want to be. by the Arts and Crafts architect C.R. Ashbee, is a true Sicilian treasure of grace, style and supreme comfort. Set on a cliff overlooking the Ionian Sea, its 25 rooms and suites offer a wide range of accommodation choices, each featuring gorgeous décor, antique furniture, well chosen art and all the modern amenities you would expect. The crisp cool interior of marble, granite and whitewashed walls gives on to glorious terrace gardens of citrus trees with a super swimming pool and a cliff top infinity pool that offers views that truly go on forever. No surprise then that The Ashbee Hotel features in “Cool Hotel” lists, it certainly deserves to. Accommodation: 25 rooms and suites Dining: St. George Restaurant, The Pool Bar, The Roof Terrace Bar Facilities: Outdoor pool, Roof terrace Children: Welcome Accommodation: 203 rooms and suites Dining: 4 restaurants, 4 bars Facilities: Extensive spa, Golf course, wide range of land and water sports Children: Welcome 4 Nights: From £855pp including flights and transfers Meal Plan: Breakfast included, optional half-board and full-board Special Offers: Early booking discount, Free nights, Complimentary upgrade 4 Nights: From £725pp including British Airways flights and transfers Meal Plan: Breakfast included THE ASHBEE HOTEL VERDURA GOLF & SPA RESORT HOTEL TAORMINA IMPERIALE – TAORMINA, SICILY FORTE VILLAGE RESORT – SARDINIA Located in the heart of Taormina’s historic centre of wisteria scented streets With eight different 4 and 5 star hotels dotted throughout 55 beautiful acres, Forte Village adorned with bougainvillea, the equally historic Hotel Imperiale was reopened Resort is a Mediterranean beach resort unlike any other. This award winning and world famous in 2009 after sympathetic restoration using the distinctive local volcanic stone Sardinian escape caters to virtually every possible holiday whim. For adults there is the ‘Leading’ Extensive modernization has resulted in luxurious modern rooms and suites Thalasso del Forte spa or a personalised wellness programme devised by the Doctor of the which feature Brazilian rosewood furniture in shades that reflect the warmth of celebrities, Dr Mosaraf Ali. For those bringing kids there is the vast Leisure Land and Kids’ City Sicily’s mosaics and ceramics. Whilst the panoramic outdoor pool and Roof as well as the resorts endless white sands and pools to entertain. For the more sporty young Terrace offer stunning vistas of the Sicilian sea and historic Taormina below. ones there is a rugby academy with Austin Healey and Will Greenwood; a tennis academy with The intimate spa promises relaxation and pampering after you have strolled to Jonas Bjorkman and Paul Haaruis; and a dance academy with Katia Liepa; and a professional Corso Umberto, Taormina’s exclusive promenade to walk in the footsteps of golf academy – the ‘school run’ has never looked so appealing! Dining is also an integral part Hollywood greats. Of an evening head to the Anfiteatro restaurant for a of the resort, with not one but 3 Michelin starred chefs – Gordon Ramsey, Giancarlo Perbellini traditional Sicilian dish, cleverly interpreted by their chef. You will soon embrace and Rocco Iannone – starring here alongside 18 other restaurants. So as with every aspect of the unique magic of Taormina which has beguiled a host of artists and celebrities, this resort, the choice is yours. and inspired the stories and legends that have increased Taormina’s charm. Accommodation: 755 rooms, bungalows, suites and villas spread across 8 individual hotels HOTEL TAORMINA IMPERIALE 50 Accommodation: 63 rooms and suites Dining: Up to 21 restaurants (depending on accommodation booked and season) Dining: Anfiteatro restaurant, Pool Bar Facilities: Large Spa, Pools, Kids city, Leisure Land, Sports academies, Beach, Land and Facilities: Spa, Outdoor pool, Roof terrace, Fitness suite water sports, Shopping piazza Children: Welcome Children: Welcome 4 Nights: From £660pp including British Airways flights and transfers 4 Nights: From £915pp including flights and transfers Meal Plan: Breakfast included, optional half-board and full-board Meal Plan: Half board Special Offers: Early booking discount, Free nights CALL 01244 322770 FORTE VILLAGE RESORT azurecollection.com Special Offers: Early booking discount, Children stay free, VIP couples 51 ALL OUR HAND-SELECTED VILLAS COME WITH THE PERSONAL TOUCH. FROM THE FRIENDLY WELCOME AT YOUR VILLA TO THE USEFUL INFORMATION PACKS AND 24/7 CONTACT, WE ENSURE YOU QUICKLY FEEL AT HOME. These featured villas are just a handful of what we VILLA VENDEMMIA – TUSCANY Picture yourself enjoying a glass of the nearby Chianti wine as the sun sets on your private Tuscan terrace. Recently restored to the highest standard, the villa originally dates back to 1874. The ground floor houses the two living rooms, have available. We will also be delighted to recommend several villas in Tuscany, for example. Please don’t hesitate to contact us for kitchen, bar, TV room and billiard room, whilst a stone stair case leads you up further information or to discuss your personal requirements… to five bedrooms (with three more available if the rest of the family want to come as well). Outside in the extensive and private grounds there is a patio for “Staying in a villa gives you the best of both worlds. You have all the independence and convenience of a home-from-home plus the luxurious and stunning surroundings of your own private villa.” al fresco dining, tennis court and an infinity pool with fully equipped pool house. And when you can tear the family away from this rural idyll Florence is only 15 minutes away and Siena only 45, well, you may need to re-stock your wine VIP Concierge Service supply. •Enjoy the services of an in villa executive chef for anything from breakfast to an exclusive dinner party •Food delivery service Accommodation: Sleeps 10 (can be extended to 16 upon request) •Baby sitter Dining: Full kitchen, BBQ and outside dining, Pool house with kitchen •Charter a private yacht for all the family Facilities: Swimming pool and pool house, BBQ, Tennis and Basketball court, •Enjoy private tours and excursions from across the region Bar, TV Room, Billiard Room, Play room, Piano, Elevator Children: Welcome 7 Nights: From £1,125pp including British Airways flights and car hire VILLA LA CORTE DEL LAGO – BELLAGIO, LAKE COMO Meal Plan: Accommodation only If you run out of sugar at this lake side villa, when you ‘pop’ next door to borrow some you could find the door being answered by some of the biggest VILLA VENDEMMIA Hollywood stars, business moguls and renowned musicians. This seven bedroom 19th Century villa is the ideal base from which to explore the area, VILLA MINI – NEAPOLITAN RIVIERA or simply retreat with friends and family in front of a marble fireplace or on Sitting proudly above Sorrento looking out over the bay of Naples, this modern your lakeside terrace. If you don’t fancy another BBQ, then it is only a short retreat comprises of two buildings, one ultra modern and second more stroll to a wonderful Trattoria, or if that is too far we can easily arrange a chef to prepare a special meal for you all. Afterwards why not take your digestif authentic. Both beautifully appointed and adorned with every modern and head to the first floor study with its lake view terrace. From there plan convenience. Choose to take a dip in the garden pool or in the Jacuzzi with where you’ll visit tomorrow or perhaps decide to just relax by the pool with panoramas over the Gulf. One of the two expansive terraces makes the most a little something fizzy chilling away ready for when the sun goes over the of this stunning vista and you can BBQ and dine out here. Inside is a modern yardarm. kitchen, large dining room and open plan living area, and upstairs are three of the double bedrooms. Across the way is the second building housing the Location: Shores of Lake Como, near Bellagio remaining two bedrooms, with their own living/dining room and kitchen all on Accommodation: Sleeps 14 a single floor with a terrace leading down to the new pool. And what could Dining: Full kitchen, BBQ and outside dining area overlooking the lake be better than the nearby coastlines of Sorrento and Amalfi as your holiday Facilities: Swimming pool and sun loungers area, Study with 1st floor lake view terrace playground. Children: Welcome 7 Nights: From £1,290pp including British Airways flights and car hire Accommodation: Sleeps 10 Meal Plan: Accommodation only Dining: Two kitchens, BBQ and outside dining VILLA LA CORTE DEL LAGO Facilities: Swimming pool, Jacuzzi, BBQ, Daily maid service, parking for two cars Children: Welcome PRIVATE VILLAS 7 Nights: From £1,210pp including British Airways flights and car hire Meal Plan: Accommodation only VILLA MINI 52 CALL 01244 322770 azurecollection.com 53 PRIVATE JETS Our Private Jet Charter services enable our clients to arrange for the precise flight they desire in full privacy, while choosing your exact origin and destination, selecting the precise departure times, airfields and routes you want, fly the executive aircraft you need while having on board only the people you wish to fly with. Fly in privacy and security, avoid delays at airports having to remove SEADREAM YACHT CLUB shoes, unpack laptop computers and other personal items. Travel with the same level of class, privacy and confidentiality as in your business or ABOUT SEADREAM If you’ve ever dreamt of cruising Italy’s coastline aboard ‘your own’ motor yacht, The SeaDream Yacht Club can transform your fantasy into a reality. It’s no ordinary cruise line but a familyowned boutique yacht company, SeaDream 1 and 11 both award-winning vessels accommodating no more than 112 pampered guests. The onboard experience itself is sublime, of course. Every one of the 56 bedrooms boasts unobstructed sea view and features marble bathrooms, multi-jet shower massage units and living areas with flat-screen TVs, CD and DVD players. Little touches include Bvlgari toiletries, Turkish cotton bathrobes, Belgian bed linens and well-stocked fridges. Of course, dining is a real feature of any cruise. The cuisine is always world-class, served immaculately and cooked à la minute, and as both the Dining Salon and outdoor Topside restaurant offer open seating, you can dine as a couple or with new-found friends. HERE WE HIGHLIGHT JUST TWO OF THE MANY TEMPTING VOYAGES WITH SEADREAM YACHT CLUB: personal life. ROME TO VENICE (11 nights) This navigation of Italy’s coastal highlights are combined with a host of veritable treats of Albania, Montenegro and Croatia before arriving at the Queen of the Adriatic, Venice. Please don’t hesitate to contact us and we will be After you have been treated to the Italian collection you sail to Albania where you can explore two UNESCO world heritage sites of the ancient city of Butrint and the well preserved Ottoman town of Gjirokastra. Other highlights include the venetian influenced port of Kotor in Montenegro, and one of the most beautiful of Croatian islands, Mljet, scattered amongst several stunning and ancient cities of Croatia. And what more appropriate way to enter the floating city, than on your luxury floating boutique hotel. An incredible 11 nights allows you to effortlessly explore some of the more exotic locations of the Mediterranean and Adriatic. pleased to discuss the aircraft that is right for your trip and also give you a tailor-made quotation. Departing 16 July 2013 Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy – Capri, Italy – Amalfi, Italy – Taormina, Sicily – Sarande, Albania – Kotor, Montenegro – Dubrovnik, Croatia – Korcula, Croatia – Mljet Nature Park, Croatia – Split, Croatia – Rab, Croatia – Piran, Croatia – Venice, Italy Prices from only £4,660 on an all-inclusive basis, including British Airways flights and transfers. ROME AND BACK AGAIN (7 nights) The voyage treats you to the very best of Italy’s stunning mainland and island coastline, in addition to a little Gaelic charm in the form of Corsica, France’s best kept holiday secret. Sailing from Rome’s Port, Civitavecchia, the charming town of Bonifacio on Corisca’s southern tip is your first destination with its nearby idyllic beaches. Island hopping will soon see you back in Italy on Sardinia’s fashionable Costa Smeralda. Next call is the Neapolitan Riviera and the beautiful towns of Amalfi and Positano for you to discover. And from Sorrento you can easily reach the fascinating historical site of Pompeii. Then finally from the green hills of Mount Vesuvius to the Azure waters of Capri, before heading back to Rome (Civitavecchia). Departing 1 June 2013 Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy – Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy – Bonifacio, Corsica, France – Costa Smeralda, Sardinia – Amalfi, Italy – Positano, Italy – Sorrento (Pompeii), Italy – Capri, Italy – Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy – Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy Prices from only £3,030 on an all-inclusive basis, including British Airways flights and transfers. Pre- and post-embarkation extensions can be effortlessly tailor-made to suit you. Club Europe offers the high levels of comfort and excellent service you expect from British Airways. You will speed through the airport with options including online check-in and online boarding pass, a separate check-in area for premium passengers and Fast Track security at London Heathrow, London Gatwick and other selected European airports. Relax before your flight in their lounge; enjoy complimentary hot and cold snacks and a variety of refreshments, including a wide selection of wines, from one of their bars. On board, you’ll enjoy good food, wine and more personal space in Berth 54 staterooms, 16 convertible to double suites (Commodore suites), 1 Admiral suite and 1 Owners suite. Children Welcome. Tailor make YOUR holiday. Pre-bookable options include: Private charter the whole yacht, Spa treatments, private land excursions. 54 CALL 01244 322770 the comfort of their separate Club Europe cabin where you’re guaranteed a window or aisle seat. azurecollection.com 55 ALSO FROM AZURE COLLECTION The Azure philosophy is to inspire people not just to travel but to see and sample the very best our world has to offer. If you like what you‘ve seen in our Italy collection brochure why not discover what else the Azure Collection has to offer you? THE AZURE COLLECTION 2013 Caribbean, Mexico & USA Indian Ocean, Middle East, Asia & Indian Sub-Continent, Africa and Closer To Home A Z U R E C O L L E CT I O N AZ U R E CO L L E CT I O N Caribbean Mexico USA Indian Ocean & Middle East Asia & Indian Sub-Continent Closer To Home To order our other brochures please visit www.azurecollection.com ALL CORRECT AT TIME OF PRODUCTION © AZURE COLLECTION. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. THE AIR HOLIDAYS AND FLIGHTS SHOWN ARE ATOL PROTECTED BY THE CIVIL AVIATION AUTHORITY. ALL BOOKING CONDITIONS: azurecollection.com/booking-conditions AZURE COLLECTION Where travel for the discerning begins CARIBBEAN · MEXICO · USA · INDIAN OCEAN · MIDDLE EAST · INDIA · FAR EAST · AFRICA · ITALY · MEDITERRANEAN ABTA No.Y2719 15 Grosvenor Court, Chester, United Kingdom CH1 1HG Tel 01244 322770 Fax 01244 322771 e-mail sales@azurecollection.com www.azurecollection.com