A Room in the Garden_ by Paola Becchimanzi

A ROOM IN THE GARDEN VISIT ITALY TOURS INVITES YOU TO DISCOVER THE BEAUTY OF THE ITALIAN ART OF OUTDOOR

Guide 2013

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VISIT ITALY TOURS invites you to discover the beauty of the Italian rt of outdoor living

Italian Gardens are world renowned for being some of the most important gardens in the history of art. Visiting Grandi Giardini Italiani means moving off the beaten track and discovering some of the most beautiful landscapes in Italy. Visit Italy now gives you the opportunity to stay the night in these living works of art, walk around after closing hours and, as a highly exclusive experience, wake up in a real paradise;something that you will remember for the rest of your life! Gardens have been built, through the centuries, all over Italy, form the lake area in the north right down to Siciliy in the south. That means that Visit Italy is able to pick out the finest places to stay,organize special functions and lunches with the help of garden owners that are part of the Grandi Giardini Italiani network. It doesn’t matter how much time you have to spend the important thing is not to spend it in a queue, or in a caotic traffic jam. Visit Italy wants you to spend your time in a relaxing walk round a magnificent garden, sipping a good cocktail under a grapevine on a mild meditteraean evening, or just taking time off from everyday stress reading a good book under a century old Oak tree looking out over fountains and perfectly kept lawns.

“...The shepherd, who did not smoke, took out a bag and poured a pile of acorns out on to the table. He began to examine them one after another with a great deal of attention, separating the good ones from the bad. I smoked my pipe. I offered to help him, but he told me it was his own business. Indeed, seeing the care that he devoted to this job, I did not insist. This was our whole conversation. When he had in the good pile a fair number of acorns, he counted them out into packets of ten. In doing this he eliminated some more of the acorns, discarding the smaller ones and those that that showed even the slightest crack, for he examined them very closely. When he had before him one hundred perfect acorns he stopped, and we went to bed. The company of this man brought me a feeling of peace.” from

Jean Giono - The Man Who Planted Trees

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Resort Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco - Barga

ot just any room, not just any garden. Visit Italy Tours gives you the unique opportunity to wake up in one of the finest garden in the history of art. Your room may be in a simple bed and breakfast built in an out house overlooking a sixteenth century parterre. Your window could open out from the first floor of a noble palace looking down to a topiary garden. You could have an entire floor with connecting apartments that just walk out into a park with over 3000 roses in bloom. An experience of a life time. Visit Italy will accompany you to discover iconic landscapes, parks, gardens, private and rare plant collections, nurseries and above all let you see behind the scenes of world famous Italian Gardens. Many of the gardens in this guide are part of a National wide network

called Grandi Giardini Italiani. It was founded to spread the knowledge of the immense botanical and historical heritage of Italians gardens. Visit Italy therefor is a precious partner in so far as attracting visitors interested in living an outdoor experiwnce. Visiting rural Italy means seeing the ever changing landscapes from the smooth Tuscan hills to the steep terraced gardens in Liguria. It means seeing vineyards that look like gardens, and gardens that look like back drops far a film. Visiting gardens with us means slowing down, having time to appreciate a warm day sitting out under a tundre year old tree, staying on after closing time: it means coming as close as you can to the Italian way of life. Not just a room, not just a garden: Visit Italy Tours and Grandi Giardini Italiani has put together, just the best way to enjoy over 500 years of gardening history. Your room is waiting for you, so are the Grandi Giardini Italiani. Judith Wade

“...The oaks of 1910 were now ten years old and were taller than me and than him. The spectacle was impressive. I was literally speechless and, as he didn’t speak himself, we passed the whole day in silence, walking through his forest. It was in three sections, eleven kilometers long overall and, at its widest point, three kilometers wide. When I considered that this had all sprung from the hands and from the soul of this one man - without technical aids - , it struck me that men could be as effective as God in domains other than destruction.” from Jean Giono - The Man Who Planted Trees

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Index La Cervara, Abbazia di S.Girolamo al Monte di Portofino - S. Margherita Ligure

1 Castello di Roncade 16 2 Villa Pisani Bolognesi Scalabrin 18 3 Villa Arvedi 22 4 Villa Melzi d’Eril 28 5 Villa d’Este 38 6 Villa Matilde 32 7 Palazzo Malingri di Bagnolo 36 8 Villa della Pergola 38 9 LA Cervara 38 10 Palazzo Fantini 38 11 Villa Armena Buonconvento 42 12 Grotta Giusti 44 13 Villa La Massa 46 14 La Foce 48 15 Villa Gamberaia 50 16 Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco 52 17 Borgo Seghetti Panichi 54 18 Grand Hotel Terme di Stigliano 58 19 Parco Idrotermale del Negombo 60 20 Parco dei Principi 64 21 Planeta Estate 68 22 Casa Pennisi 72

a room in the garden

1 2 3

Castello di Roncade (Treviso)

Villa Pisani Bolognesi Scalabrin (Vescovada, Padova)

Villa Arvedi (Grezzana, Verona)

6 7 8 9 10 11

Villa Melzi d’Eril (Bellagio, Como) Villa d’Este (Cernobbio, Como) Villa Matilde (Romano Canavese, Turin) Palazzo Malingri di Bagnolo (Bagnolo Piemonte, Cuneo) La Cervara, Abb. S.Girolamo al Monte di Portofino (S. Margherita Ligure, Genova) Villa della Pergola (Alassio, Savona)

Grotta Giusti (Monsummano Terme, Pistoia) Villa La Massa (Candeli, Florence) Villa Gamberaia (Settignano, Florence)

Il Ciocco (Buonconvento, Siena)

Grand Hotel Terme di Stigliano (Monterano, Rome)

15 16 17 19 20 21 22

La Foce (Chianciano, Siena)

Villa Armena (Buonconvento, Siena)

Palazzo Fantini (Tredozio, Forlì-Cesena)

Parco Idrotermale del Negombo (Lacco Ameno, Isola d’Ischia, Naples) Hotel Parco dei Principi (Sorrento, Naples)

Planeta Estate (Menfi, Agrigento) Casa Pennisi (Catania)

Parco Storico Seghetti Panichi (Castel di Lama, AP)

“...The hillside whence we had come was covered with trees six or seven meters high. I remembered the look of the place in 1913 : a desert... The peaceful and steady labor, the vibrant highland air, his frugality, and above all, the serenity of his soul had given the old man a kind of solemn good health. He was an athlete of God. I asked myself how many hectares he had yet to cover with trees.” from Jean Giono - The Man Who Planted Trees

Bosco del Resort Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco - Barga

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Castello di Roncade B&B in Treviso

LOCATION The landscapes in the region are characterized by an extraordinary variety. In Veneto region you can find natural beauties, such as the sceneries of the Dolomites, the shores of the lake of Garda, the landscape of the Euganei and then the seaside towns. The large natural variety of environments offers the passionate many paths to discover, while the greedy will be able to enjoy the flavors of the local traditions. To complete the picture, you will also find many local fairs and cultural shows, folk appointments and thermal centers of international fame. N

Surroundings

Castello di Roncade Via Roma, Roncade (Treviso) An ancient moat and powerful medieval walls, with squat square towers at the four corners and well-proportioned circular towers placed at the entrance gateway, surround and austerely 15th century Venetian villa of severe elegance. This has a loggia with two tiers of arches, for its architecture it is considered among the first examples of Venetian villas. A small army of seventeenth century statues representing infantrymen from the Venetian army

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marches along the central avenue from the entrance gateway to the Villa. The open space seems much larger then it really is due to the presence of four monumental trees, two Magnolia grandiflora and two Cedrus libani planted symmetrically, which have a grandiose, extensive spread. The specimens of Lagerstroemia indica which border the stairway facing the Villa are also more than a century old. GARDENS The garden is located inside the walls, in a square space with an avenue along the perimeter.

Treviso

Miles

Venice

Miles

Padova

Miles

Vicenza

Miles

Verona

Miles

ACCOMODATION The kindness and the professionalism, with which the guest is welcomed, have the purpose of making the environment extremely comforting, letting the most demanding clients also feel “at home.” Everything has been selected according to criteria of elegance and style. The Baroness Illaria Ciani Bassetti, wife of Vincent and mother of Claudio, provided herself the choice of furnishing with taste and imagination. Also the Buffet breakfast gives the visitor the possibility to live an awakening of absolute pleasure, tasting the best gastronomic products that the Venetian territory has to offer. The apartments, extracted within the seductive and ancient medieval structures, provide all the modern comforts. In the winter there is a centralized heating system that perfectly heats the spaces, while in the summer, the same walls of the tower provide a natural air conditioning system.

An Italian style garden serves as invitation to the private chapel, while behind the building the garden still continues for a brief line with great mastings of quality, among which Taxodium, and cypresses along the ditch. Little beyond it takes the upper hand the countryside with the rows of grapevine that testify the actual vocation of the ownership. Plan a visit: open all year round from Monday to Friday, from 9am to 12pm and from 3pm to 7pm.

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Villa Pisani Bolognesi Scalabrin B&B in Vescovana - Padova

GARDEN To describe the gardens of Villa Pisani, we will quote the book “Days spent on a Doge’s farm” of Margaret Symonds.

“ ..... the garden is the sole creation of a modern English fancy, and has nothing to do with the old Pisani nobles. They did not use their spare ground thus, but planned it in stiffer style..... it consisted of square plots of earth, hedged in with box ... It is natural that the strong English instincts of the new Contessa should have made her shudder at the general sunbaked and unsoften aspect of this huge farmhouse .... she needed flowers, as English women do, and shade - above all things, shade - then the roses would grow and the birds would come .... Gradually a new and growing world of green and colored things arose round the bare walls.”

ph Giorgio Majno

ACCOMMODATION Villa Pisani Bolognesi Scalabrin Via Roma, 25, Vescovana (Padova) The Villa was erected in the first half of the 1500s, commissioned by Cardinal Francesco Pisani, Venetian patrician, bishop of Padova. It became the administrative seat of the properties acquired

by the family in 1478, in the lower Padovan area. After the shift of the economic interests of the family to the mainland, the noble patrician Venetian commissioned Andrea Palladio and the major architects and painters of the time to construct and decorate the numerous villas and palaces in the area.

The grandeur and beauty of the facades and the interior of the villa in Vescovana, built on the ruins of an ancient medieval tower, reflects the power, prestige and wealth of the family. In coherence with the position of the Veneto government, the Pisani family initiated a vast draining project and redevelopment of this watery territory, subject to flooding from the Adige and Gorzone rivers. PLAN A VISIT: Open all year. From Monday to Friday from 9am to 12pm and from 1:30pm to 5:30pm

The villa has 8 double rooms and a suire, all furnished with antique furnitures with a view over the garden and all with a private bathroom. The Bed & Breakfast option includes the hospitality of the rooms and a breakfast that is served in one of the dining rooms or in the garden, with all the services from the Villa. In the garden there is a pool and an indoor parking garage. There is a possibility for group arrangements, with the service of a private chef on site able to prepare gourmet dishes.

LOCATION Villa Pisani Scalabrin is located in Vesconvana, south of Padova and not far from Villa Estense. The location is ideal to discover the beautiful surrounding: Padova, Este, Monselice, Ferrara or Chioggia. Surroundings Padova

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25 Miles

Ferrara

26 Miles

Venezia

50 MIles

Verona

81 Miles

Mantova

100 Miles

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Villa Arvedi

Borgo 27 - Appartments in Verona protects it from the cold winds. Century-old boxwood bushes line the path, complete with its central fountain. It is from here that a complex design unfolds, consisting of antique low boxwood bushes, which create an extraordinary feeling of space and are in harmony with the building’s facade. The magnificent road that leads from the estate’s entrance to the villa is lined with boxwood trees that have been pruned into geometric perspective shapes. Plan a visit: Guided tours daily by appointment for groups of 10 persons ph. Alessandro Rania

LOCATION Villa Arvedi is located only 9 km away from Verona and it is a perfect place to discover the town, the Lake garda and Vicenza with its beautiful Venetian Villas.

Surroundings Verona

9 miles

Peschiera del Garda

32 miles

Vicenza

39 miles

Mantova

42 miles

Padova

56 miles

Venezia

80 miles

Treviso

91 miles

Ferrara

101 miles ph. Alessandro Rania

ACCOMMODATION A short distance from Villa Arvedi, you can find the Borgo 27, a wonderful Villa dated from the ‘800 within a blooming garden that opens to a panoramic view over the Valpantena. In this an important historical residence property of the Arvedi family, there are 11 welcoming suites, very spacious and comfortable, all differently furnished and featuring furnitures and fittings from the time of origins. ph. Alessandro Rania

Borgo 27 Via Borgo 27, 37023, Grezzana (VR) Villa Arvedi in Cuzzano, Grezzana, was registered as the property of Mastino, Alberto and Cangrande della Scala since 1200. In 1432 it was described as: ”a holding with a battlemented house, and wine and oil presses”. It is situated on the slope of a hill and surrounded above by an ancient olive grove and a wood full of oaks and

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hornbeams. Towards the middle of 1650 it took on its current form based on the architect’s G.B. Bianchi designs. The room on the first floor and the small church are covered in frescos painted by Ludovico Dorigny (1654-1742). There are also frescos created by Farinati, Fralezza and Santo Prunati. In the centre of the rear courtyard there is a small baroque church dedicated to San Carlo Borromeo (he stayed here during his journey to Trento for the 1485 Council). Just a note: here

was filmed the movie “Letters from Juliette”. GARDENS Villa Arvedi is also known for its Italian style garden. It is an elegant and sober accessory to the Villa and is characterised by its refined double fan drawings, unique in Italy. It is bordered by a low wall and extends onto a terrace that looks out onto the front of the villa. It is open on the east side where there is the access road and

ph. Alessandro Rania

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ph. Alessandro Rania

Borgo 27 Appartments

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Borgo 27 Appartments

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Villa Melzi d’Eril Como

Villa Melzi d’Eril Lungolario Manzoni - Bellagio (CO) The Gardens of Villa Melzi stretch out along the lake shore and are harmoniously inserted into the hilly scenery of the Bellagio peninsula that divides the two branches of Lario lake. Inland, the Villa, the Chapel and the orangery, today transformed into a historical museum, are splendid expression of neo-classical style and as such stated national monument. This architectural complex was realized between 1808 and 1810 for Francesco Melzi d’Eril (1753-1816), Duke of Lodi, Vice President of Italian Republic under Napoleon and afterwards Gran Chancellor of the Napoleonic Reign of Italy. Francesco Melzi d’Eril relied upon the architect and decorator Giocondo Albertolli (1742-1839), an exponent of great importance in neo-classicism, asking for a villa looking sober and polished whose simple lines and volumes would emphasize the surrounding amazing countryside.

Through the contribution of great artists and artisans and the special concordance between them and Francesco Melzi the whole complex was shaped like a place of rare harmony and was admired, among the others, by Stendhal who described its beauty in his book “Rome, Naples, Florence” dated 1817. GARDENS The English style gardens, enriched by sculptures, were designed by the architect Luigi Canonica and the botanist Luigi Villoresi, both responsible for the setup of the gardens of the Villa Reale in Monza. The greater glamour of the property resides in the extraordinary park facing the lake and in the expedients adopted to expand optically the

space, in reality narrow, between l’ incipient hill (also a monumental park) and the water mirror. To welcome the visitor a pool of ninfee, little beyond a kiosk in Moorish style with charming sight on Bellagio and, opposite, the monument to Dante and Beatrice of the Comolli, that seems have inspired “La Sonata to Dante” of Liszt. The walk of the avenue of the plane trees, trimmed low with mastery to umbrella, ends in the immense terrace opposite the villa, framed from ancient and valuable statues. In the park exotic plants alternate with rare age-old trees, gigantic hedges of camellias, rhododendrons and azaleas. Between the more precious plants you can find Liriodendron tulipifera, cedars of the Lebanon,

red beeches, camphors, Ginkgo biloba; many others, of botanical and historic value, are highlighted to add interest to the visit. Plan a visit: from March 24 till end of October 2012 . Daily from 9.30am to 6.30 pm LOCATION The gardens of villa Melzi are stretched along the shore of the lake and they are harmoniously inserted in the hilly picture of the peninsula of Bellagio that divides the two branches of the Lario.

ph. Daniele Cavadini

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ph. APT

Villa d’Este

Luxury Hotel in Como Villa dìEste via Regina, 40 Cernobbio (CO)

Villa d’Este, a former 16th century princely residence, surrounded by a 25 acre park, is more than just a hotel. The luxury and magnificence of a bygone era is maintained intact. We simply added all the up-to-date amenities. Upon emerging from the revolving doors you feel the cares of the modern world slip away and the warm greetings of the staff make you feel at home. GERDEN The Villa was built in 1568 by Cardinal Tolomeo Gallio from a design by Pellegrino Ribaldi, known as the pilgrim. At the end of the eighteenth century the villa was bought by marquess Bartolomeo Calderara for his wife, Vittoria Peluso, who restored the building and modified the design of the gardens. In 1815 the property was taken over by Caroline of Brunswick, Princess of Wales and repudiated wife to future George IV of England who gave the estate its current name. The Villa changed hands many times: becoming a hotel for the first time in 1856; for two years from 1868 tzarina Maria Fedorowna lived in the splendid residence, in awe of the surrounding countryside; finally in 1873 the Villa was reopened as a luxurious Hotel, today one of the most famous in world. The famous mosaic of polychrome stones with Nymphaeum is one of the garden’s most ancient features and a fine example of roman baroque: this forms the entrance and the beginning of the double stream that leads to the statue of Hercules and Lica. As for the botanical aspect the sections of the lower garden are compose of vast lawns bounded by box plants sculpted into spheres and cubes whilst on the right towards the old hydrotherapy building, Norway spruces, magnolias, cypresses and a large sycamore prosper. The area surrounding the nymphaeum is characterised by box plants, rosebushes, pittosporum and shiny ivy. The famous avenue that accompanies the stream, once surrounded by Cupressus sempervirens, is now flanked with laurels, magnolias and cypresses.

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LOCATION Set on the shores of Lake Como, the Hotel is located in one of the most important crossroads between Italy and Northern Europe. 60 minutes from Milan.

Surroundings Verona

9 miles

Peschiera del Garda

32 miles

Vicenza

39 miles

Mantova

42 miles

Padova

56 miles

ACCOMMODATION Rooms & Suites Villa d’Este totals 152 rooms. The main house built in 1568 and known as the Cardinal’s building counts 125 rooms while the trompe l’oeil masterpiece known as the Queen’s Pavilion, inaugurated in 1860 has 27 rooms. In 1873 the two Villas combined into one property became Villa d’Este. Every air conditioned room is different both in size and décor. Period furniture. Oil paintings. Como silk covers sofas and chairs. Drapes are silk brocade. Linen sheets. Walk-in closets Some rooms have balconies or terraces. Private Villas Villa d’Este is pleased to offer guests seeking the ultimate Lake Como experience, two magnificently renovated 19th Century villas that are located within the resort’s 25-acre park. Villa Malakoff and Villa Cima are available for short term tenancies with amenities ranging from housekeeping to full hotel service. Guests are able to use all of the facilities and amenities of the hotel, while maintaining the privacy and exclusivity that their own private villa can offer. The interiors and décor of both Villas respect the patrician villa atmosphere that is traditional in Como and within the Villa d’Este. Guests will experience an elegance and attention to detail that is the hallmark of our service. ooms have balconies or terraces

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Villa Matilde

Relais in Romano Canavese -Turin

Relais Villa Matilde Viale Marconi, 29 Romano Canavese (TO) The Relais Villa Matilde is located in an oasis of tranquillità in the heart of the canavese region, in au old town at the foot of the Alpes and the rolling hills, on the border with the Val d’Aosta, and just 29 miles from Turin. This 18th century patrician villa stands in lush private park qith ageold trees, charming corners and nooks. It is a timeless backdrop fora n unforgettable stay or for anjoyng relaxina holiays, cultural and wellness pursuits and the Piedmont region’s excepional cuisine

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GARDEN The villa is surrounded by a 1700 acres of secular garden which is divided into several areas connected with stairs and stone balustrades. The ancient village of Romano Canavese, surrounding the garden, the park is connected through a beautiful monumental wooden door. Moving from the wooden door you come to an area with cobblestone river black and gray on the floor and a porch that leads to dependence and the swimming pool. Overcoming a second arch, you can access to the rear garden closed on two sides of the villa and the other two sides by a wall covered in ivy with a bignonia which towers over the entrance

door of the villa. Hence, through a gate, you can get swimming pool, limited to a square area with roses. On the front of the villa there is a large lawn with a centuries-old beech under whose umbrella can be accommodate 80 people seated at the table. A huge magnolia blooms every year in front of the house giving pink flowers. Beeches, sycamores, as well as an avenue of fruit trees are interspersed with a meticulous order along the path leading to the gate or along a path for a relaxing stroll.

LOCATION Close to Turin, the former Italian Capital, a handsome city which is just waiting to be discovered, with the soaring Dolomites as a backdrop and not far from the splendid Venaria Reale royal palace, Villa Matilde is in a splendid natural setting a short drive away from the Gran Paradiso National Park. THE CANAVESE: Lakes, castles, traditions: discover the Canavese is an extraordinary experience. From the mountains to the historic castles, from the sport to the art, enjoy the unforgettable surprises.

Turin

Surroundings 29 miles

Stupinigi

38 miles

Aosta

47 miles

Racconigi

59 miles

Alessandria

64 miles

Lago maggiore

70 miles

Pollenzo

75 miles

Cuneo

91 miles

ACCOMODATION Noble salons, a prestigious library, refined and elegant rooms and twenty guestrooms and suites, each one different from the next, but all splendidly furnished with frescoes, period furniture and with bright tiled bathrooms, make this handsome villa, which has welcomed Laura Bush and Rudy Giuliani, the heartbeat of the Relais. And then there is the Tinaia in the old park, and the Colombaia which is close to the swimming pool and has another 23 spacious and bright rooms, six of which are dual-level suites and ideal for families.

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Palazzo Malingri di Bagnolo Appartments in Cuneo

Palazzo Malingri di Bagnolo Via Palazzo, 23 Bagnolo Piemonte (Cuneo) The slope of the Piedmont hill of Valle Po is broken by an earthen platform held in place by dry stone masonry. The park of Malingri Palace in Bagnolo stands on this platform. Within the Palace, or “slow Castle”, that has been the residence of the Melingri family since XV sec., there is a romantic English garden. From the yard, thru a small door, you can enter the park welcomed by the imposing volume of the tulips tree (liriodendron tulipifera), the sight often surprises for the magic of shadows, lights and colors. The drawing of the paths travels all around the garden closed from wall. There are two large meadows that seemed framed by high age-old trees, conifers and broadleaves of different species and flourishing collections of shrubs like rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, hydrangeas, camellias. In the center of meadow towards the valley, there is an elliptical stone bath named “fountain of the green man” with reference to some story lost in time, offers shelter to small fish that graze around the stems of the ninfee. GARDEN The park of original design in the 600, has gone thru a romantic remake in the 800. Covering about two hectares, is rich in centuries-old trees as much as 40 metres tall, with examples of pinus nigra, pinus austriaca, cedri deodara, taxus bacata, metasequoie as well as fagus tricolor, oaks, chestnuts, libocedrus and criptomeria japonica. As a main feature of the Parco Malingri there are bloomed bushes for every season and a collection of acidofile, rododendri, azaleas, ortensie and camellia. Plan a visit: by appointment only LOCATION Tranquility, intact nature and landscape, outskirts of great tourist value the cities of art Saluzzo and Pinerolo, the Po Valley and the splendid Cuneese valleys; possibility to do many different sports, to train or to walk on the signed paths inside the property.

Surroundings

ph. Dario Fusaro

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Pinerolo

9 miles

Salluzzo

14 miles

Torino

32 miles

Cuneo

34 miles

Alessandria

78 miles

ph. Bruno Cattani

ACCOMMODATION “The Cascine -Farmhouses” located around the castle fortitude in the year Thousand, in the agricultural estate of over 50 hectares among lawns, vineyards, orchards and secular woods, are ancient rural buildings in stone built between 1500 and 1800. Restored in 2006 as accomodation of charme in the local rustic style, preserving the characteristics of the ancient use, each has their own well and firewood oven, portico or hayloft and large size green and in bloom spaces to live the countryside. Available accommodation Cascina Bruce’ Il Tinaggio La Vecchia Il Cravot Guest room Cascina Castlin Le Colonne La Torre La Vite Cascina Bedassot Il Forno La Mangiatoia Il Pozzo

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(4 guests) (5 guests) (2 guests) (2 guests) with pool 70mq (2 guests) (2 guests) 36 mq (4 guests) (2 guests) (2 guests) (4 guests)

Villa della Pergola Alassio

Villa della pergola Via Privata Montagu, 9 Alassio (SV) The history of the Villa is strictly related to those English who first came to Alassio on their winter holidays. In 1875 two Scottish gentlemen, George Henderson Gibb and General William Montagu Scott McMurdo were the first British who spent a whole year in Alassio together with their families. The next year they decided to buy two huge pieces of land on the hill above Alassio: the parks “Fuor del Vento” and “Molino di Sopra”. The first building to be built by General McMurdo on his property was the “Villino della Pergola”, which was called “Casa Napier” at that time. It

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reflected, better than the Villa itself, the taste of its creator; it was, in fact, designed according to Anglo-Indian architectural style of the English who had lived most of their lives in India, serving as officers, government officials or businessmen. After The Hanbury family completed the gardens of the Villa, enriching them with a great variety of exotic plants, brought in from the botanic gardens of the “Mortola”. GARDEN It is a 22.000 square meter area, rich in Mediterranean and exotic flora. Plants from many climatic zones of the world are sheltered here in a harmonious ensemble. Romantic pergolas of roses and glycines connect the different levels of

the park, where delicate water-lilies float on the surface of ponds and fountains. Our guests will be delighted by the colours and sweet perfumes which fill the air at any time of the year.

Surroundings Sanremo Genova Santa Margherita Nizza Portofino Alessandria

37 miles 62 miles 79 miles 67 miles 83 miles 89 miles

Racconigi

105 miles

ACCOMMODATION The “Villa della Pergola” , also known as “Villa Hanbury”, and the “Villino della Pergola” are two ancient residences built , at the end of the 19th century, on the first hill above Alassio. They were home, for more than a hundred years, to three noble British families: the McMurdos, the Dalrymples and the Hanburies. The two villas are surrounded by a huge park with a surface of 22.000 square metres, rich in Mediterranean and exotic flora, ponds, fountains and pergolas. The inner rooms, after accurate restoration works, have regained their extraordinary charm of Victorian period. The Villa will impress our guests with its massive fireplace made from Finale Stone, its ancient oak door, its antique furniture and a collection of pictures, books and objects owned by both the British families housed here and the British colony living in Alassio for over a century. The stay at the “Villa della Pergola” and the “Villino della Pergola” is not just the best way to enjoy the Italian Riviera in every season of the year. It is also a good chance to go through the Italian and English history. Each room is dedicated to a different character who played a crucial role in the history of the Villa and that of Alassio itself. Guests will be also delighted by a magnificent view of the Bay, opening from Capo Santa Croce to Capo Mele while looking out over the silhouette of the Gallinara Island.

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La Cervara Abbazia di S.Girolamo al Monte di Portofino Hotel in S. Margherita Ligure

La Cervara Abbazia di S.Girolamo al Monte di Portofino Lungomare Rossetti – via Cervara, 10 Santa Margherita Ligure (GE) The Cervara Abbey is situated on a sheer cliff between Santa Margherita and Portofino. Today it is mainly used for conferences, meetings, concerts, private parties and wedding ceremonies. GARDEN The abbey was founded in 1361 by a small group of Benedictine monks and in its 7 centuries of history it has seen peaks of great splendour and lows of decline, which is reflected in the various architectural transformations of the building. Of particular importance is the monumental Italian garden, the only one still in Liguria, on two levels connected by pergolas and steps. On the lower part, box-tree hedges (Buxus Sempervirens L.) are shaped in geometric designs such as cones and graded cones (a noteworthy example of the artistic shaping of plants), surround the 17th century marble fountain representing a putto. The plants along the walls or along the borders as well as the vines on the ancient pergolas are all part of the garden architecture. Among the numerous species we can find the colourful strelitzia, citrus plants, oleander and Aleppo pines, a centuries-old pepper tree and the rare pink capers. On the East side of the lower garden the pergola is covered with a huge purple wisteria (Wisteria sinesis L.) more than a hundred years old. On the upper part of the garden there are octagonal pillars covered with Trachelospermum jasminoides L., whose flowers give off a delightful jasmine .

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ph. Fusaro

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LOCATION quam sin nonsed ma eum quia que maiorestibus dolor sequi officit, vendita tatiorpori berem con rerio que esed quiatibus sunt prem as voluptaectio omnimpe rrovid magnam non nos rem ea voluptat lis rest, sitatus solo eatur seque la et omnis sitiae volenih illendae. Ex evellup taepreptas erchil etur ant doluptis quiam facim invelenis reped est dellit facest, quas di num, is sum faccati te et et omnimusdam quasim qui dolor maios as eos atquia a plici sundem asperrunt et assit velibus net aliaepr eptatent opta cumet laccus saperum cone volorum ut et volorerumque volutempos quis moditatet ulluptat. Ebis aut fuga. Beati reculpa nobitincte pelit voluptae laborumet magnatempora necust magnatas dolori ni doloreribus enestiaerem lit, untibus. Axim volorest, sinvelit aut aut destiossime vellestem haribus et rem a ipsunte nullam quae v Surroundings Rapallo Portofino Genova Alessandria Viareggio Parma

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2 miles 4 miles 19 miles 71 miles 76 miles 116 miles

ph. Fusaro

Palazzo Fantini

Torre Fantini B&B in Tredozio

ACCOMODATION At clients disposal four nice rooms and a suite. The interiors, simple but elegant, are functional and highlight the original rustic characters with beams to sight, floors with “cotto” and furnishings of nineteenth-century taste. On the ground floor is located the suite “Il Forno” with a queen size bed, bathroom with shower, kitchenette and small living area with sofa bed. On the first floor is located “Il Camino”, queen size bed with fireplace, garden view and bathroom with shower and “La Vecchia Torre”, queen size bed with valley view and bathroom with shower. On the second floor is located “Il Nido dei Rondoni”, double room with valley view and bathroom with shower and “Le Ginestre”, twin or queen room with garden view and bathroom with shower.

Palazzo Fantini Palazzo Fantini Via XX Settembre, 81 - Tredozio (FC) B&B Torre Fantini Via San Michele, 47 - Tredozio (FC) Palazzo Fantini is the splendid result of a series of layered constructions made at time. The original constrution is from Sixteen Century, but the palace got its actual shape around the middle of Seventeen century, The valuable decorations Liberty are from the Nine hundred. On initiative of the actual owner the stables, the wine cellars, the two ample courts and the barns have been faithfully recovered, typical of the ancient nobility estates of the countryside. Park and garden Italian style are jewels of notable charm. The part dedicated to the park offers recurrent kind you can find in the great Italian

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landscape gardens: besides holm trees, chestnut trees, white poplars, hollies, make beautiful show of itself conifers as Abies pinsapo, Pinus nigra and above all stately cedars (Cedrus libani, C. deodara and C. Atlantic). On this grandiose background they jump the hems in trimmed boxwood, within which in the summer they detach for contrast colored seasonal flowers. The lawns, the tubs of ninfee, the bushes of ancient roses, the mixed hems, the festoons of begonie underline and they enliven the sketch. GARDEN The elegant but rather austere eighteenth century façade does not give even a hint of the welcoming secrecy of the garden. Nothing can be guessed from outside, but after passing through the doorway into the first courtyard, guests are welcomed by a game of carved box hedges, salvia splendida and a pond containing

water plants. The courtyard is surrounded by private entrances and a series of buildings which were once part of the farm. Suddenly there is a surprise, an Italianate garden which is raised in comparison to the level of the house, and which can only be reached by a flight of steps by the side of a large bulkhead. The garden consists of various sections which are set down on the hill and on the slope. The Romantic garden was designed in the nineteenth century, reflecting the classical themes of the period, such as the secret paths, the fountain with water lilies, the precise geometry of the hedges, the topiary hedges and the ancient rose bushes with lamb’s ears plants and borders of “old-fashioned” flowers, such as dahlias, begonias, irises and lantanas. The corner of Aromatic Herbs, in contrast, was designed and created more recently.

LOCATION Tredozio, in the heart of “Romagna” Tuscany, a town

B&B Torre Fantini

Palazzo Fantini

ph. Gabriele Angelini

at borderline, in the middle of two wondurful regions that still live of that set apart nature, away from the contemporary frenzies in a panorama of woods and tortuous roads. Torre Fantini B&B is located at the doors of the National Park of the Casentinesi Forests, 17 Miles from Faenza, along the old Street Faentina.

Surroundings Faenza

19 miles

Ravanna

50 miles

Bologna

52 miles

Firenze

56 miles

San Marino

73 miles

B&B Torre Fantini

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Giardino di Palazzo Fantini

ph. Gabriele Angelini

Villa Armena Relais in tuscany

Villa Armena Località Armena Buonconvento (SI)

his feud beloved by the name of Armena, a sign of respect for the origins of the one who so powerfully came into his heart and in his life.

The Villa, whose construction is attributed to Baldassarre Peruzzi and built in the first half of 500, was the country residence of the family of Malavolti of Siena. A noble birth who had the good fortune to count among their ranks nine Captains of the People, which is the most important figure in in the political of Siena at that time. The legend says that the name was given to the Armena Villa and its immediate surroundings by a Malavolti who has just returned from a crusade to the Holy Land, made a stop in Armenia where he fell in love with a beautiful girl. He returned to Italy to celebrate the wedding and decided to devote

LOCATION Villa Armena, Buonconvento, is in the heart of the Crete Senesi. An astoundingly attractive area of unsurpassable historical interest, Buonconvento - whose name derives from the Latin “bonus conventus” meaning a good-natured, fortunate community - is a member of the prestigious “Most Beautiful Villages in Italy” Association. Imagine age-old villas, country houses, monasteries and abbeys. Imagine endless rows of vineyards that seem to chase each other over the hills. Imagine small groups of olive trees, so close to each other that they seemingly protect and caress each

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other with their long branches. Imagine hundreds of cypress trees competing to reach that small cloud floating in the sea of blue above them. Imagine all that and, after a glass of Brunello, a local farmer’s greeting, and the innocent smile of a local child, you’ll fall hopelessly in love with this small, humble part of the world where the sun remains warm and the air fresh and delicate.

Surroundings S. Quirico D’Orcia Pienza Montepulciano Firenze Perugia

14 miles 19 miles 27 miles 62 miles 65 miles

GARDENS The garden villa Armena probably dates back to the early decades of the ‘900 and is composed of flowerbeds of hedges of Buxus sempervirens with the central circular in shape, arranged in a geometric pattern and a cypress grove which stretches along the north side. “The cypress grove on north side has a semicircular shape and is perfectly suited to the terrain slope helping to hold the ground at this point probably had suffered an erosion resulting in a collapse of the entire area north. On the sidelines of the formal garden, which extends the shelf in front of the facade of the Villa, is a charming gazebo iron, refined by climbing roses. Plan a visit: all year around

ACCOMMODATION Villa Armena offers a total of 10 rooms, all very different from one another. There are four categories: three Classic rooms, two Junior Suite, four Suites and a Superior Suite. Each room enjoys stunning views over the Villa grounds or the wonderful Crete Senesi and comes with precious furnishings, prints, paintings and fabrics. With a wealth of history, yet boasting all modern amenities, the Villa Armena rooms were designed and built to provide the utmost satisfaction for the guests.

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Grotta Giusti

Resort Golf & Spa in Monsummano Terme - Pistoia

Grotta Giusti Resort & Spa Via Grottagiusti, 1411 - Monsumanno Terme (Pistoia) Grotta Giusti immersed in a typically Tuscan landscape, is surrounded by a centuries-old park, hills rich in flourishing vegetation and fragrant plants and flowers. The Park was an idea and a creation of famed architect Pietro Porcinai from the early ‘900. The Grotta Giusti Resort is a member of the prestigious Small Luxury Hotels of the World chain and is located in Monsummano Terme just a few miles away from Florence, Pisa and Lucca. A short distance from the Hotel you can reach the thermal SPA, famous for the millennial Grotto one of the largest and enchanting of the world, with its thermal water and the relaxing and beneficial steam bath. GARDENS Created at the end of the 15th century, the

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“gargoyle” built so as to emit tongues of fire from its mouth. From the belvedere one can enjoy one of the most beautiful views of Verona. Besides the collections of flowers, important Roman ruins and Goethe’s huge cypress,the garden preserves all the original sixteenth-century features: fountains, acoustic caves, pergolas, Italian-style boxwood, mythological statues and a small yet complex maze, known as one of the oldest in Europe.

garden now presents itself as planned in 1570 by Agostino Giusti, a knight of the Venetian Republic and courtier of the Tuscan Grand-Duke. It was designed as a scenary to Palazzo Giusti taking advantage of the terraces which were to reveal the city to the gaze a little at a time, according to a pre-ordained plan. Starting from just outside the sixteenth-century hall, a now famous avenue of cycpresses climbs up to a cave full of stalactites, above which there is a

Visited and celebrated throughout the centuries by famous people from history and culture (among whom Cosimo De’ Medici, De Brosses, Addison, Emperor Joseph II, Goethe, Mozart, Carlo Felice of Savoy, Suares and Gabriel Faure), this garden constitutes, with the neighbouring sixteenth century palace, an urban complex of great interest and classical beauty. LOCATION The Grotta Giusti Resort is located in Monsummano Terme, an important crossroad with dominant view over the Padule of Fucecchio and on to the Valdinievole. The hill of Monsummano Alto was fortified at least from the XI century. For all nature lovers, a walk over this hill is an opportunity not to be missed, it is of a remarkable interest from the geological and naturalist point of view, the rare surrounding vegetation make this one of the most evocative location over the Montalbano Hills. Of a naturalistic importance is also to be

Surroundings Pistoia Lucca Firenze Pisa San Gimignano Volterra

18 miles 30 miles 52 miles 56 miles 100 miles 122 miles

ACCOMMODATION Set in a private park with secular trees, the early ninetheen century villa, now a prestigious Hotel, enriched by antique furnishings and paintings, has maintained intact its historical feel and natural charm. The 58 Double rooms and 6 Junior Suites, furnished in a refined, fresh style, offer unexpected details such as the bathrooms in luxurious white marble with thermal tap water.

considered the Padule di Fucecchio.

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Villa La Massa

Luxury Hotel in Florence Hotel Villa La Massa Via della Massa, 24 Firenze, Candeli Immersed in the heart of Tuscany, where nature predominates, this splendid mansion is a place where refined elegance meets total relaxation from the moment you arrive. Part of the Leading Hotels of the World, Villa La Massa is the exquisite jewel of the Villa d’Este Group. The 16th Century estate sits on the banks of the Arno River, on 20 acres full of lemon trees and olive groves that surround the property. Its reflection on the Arno River renders it almost like a Renaissance painting of the most magnificent bucolic landscape. Located just a few kilometers outside Florence, you may wish to immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of the Tuscan capital city, making use of the comfortable shuttle bus that the hotel provides. But at the end of a busy day, the peace and serenity of the Villa calls you so you return to a place where time and your mind, stop in time. GARDEN Villa La Massa is graced with 22 acres of gardens that surround it, full of paths that lead you to the Arno River and from which you can only see the beautiful panorama of the Chianti Rufina hills that surround it. A limited number of precious olive oil bottles is produced every year from the olive groves that surround the property. Plan a visit: during the opening of the Hotel (from March 24th till November 5th 2011) from 10.30am till 11.30am and from 2.30pm till 4.30pm.

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LOCATION Villa La Massa is comfortably situated to the south of Florence, only a few kilometers from the exit “Firenze sud” of the A1 motorway. It is at the gateway to the famous Chianti wine region, with most notable villages reachable within 30 minutes and ideally positioned for day trips within the Tuscan region. Guests enjoy complimentary shuttle service to and from the Ponte Vecchio 7 days a week.

Surroundings Florence Greve in Chianti Siena San Gimignano

4 Miles 13 Miles 41 Miles 32 Miles

ACCOMMODATION Two Villas dating back to the days of the Medici (16th century): the Noble Villa (Villa Nobile), the Old Mill (Vecchio Mulino) and the more recent little Villa (Villino) are the highlights of Villa La Massa which, from an ancient dwelling of the aristocracy, was turned into a hotel in 1948. The hotel offers its guests 37 rooms, all different from one another, and all recently refurbished in the traditional Florentine style. Recently a new and splendid Presidential suite with private garden has been open to the public. The spacious and airy rooms are decorated with antique furniture, fabrics woven at the historic Florentine textile mills, wrought iron and woodwork from the famous old-time Florence cabinet makers. Bathrooms and their fittings are done in a style reflecting the atmosphere of times gone and are fitted with Carrara marble. Most have windows framing the beautiful Tuscan landscape.

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La Foce

B&B and Appartaments in Siena La Foce Strada della Vittoria 63 Chianciano Terme (Siena) Villa and garden embrace the spectacular view of the Val D’Orcia and Monte Amiata beyond. Antonio Origo was chiefly concerned with bringing prosperity and modern cultural methods to the then very poor valley, while Iris concentrated on the garden, her books and welfare end education of the farmer families. The garden grew together with the works and progress on the farm. For the Origos, the garden represented a haven from the harshness of the land, and a place to welcome their friends, to treasure the shade, the flower blossom and to shelter from the harsh temperatures of the Valley in the summer. Today la Foce is a center for cultural and artistic activities. The incontri in Terra di Siena festival organized concerts and exhibitions of contemporary art and Etruscan archaeology, and several other activities provide points of interest in most season. GARDENS The garden grew gradually, between 1925 and 1939. The house is surrounded by a formal Italian garden, which is divided into geometrical ‘rooms’ by box hedges with lemon trees in terracotta pots. Travertine stairs lead to the rose garden and a winding wisteria-covered pergola bordered by lavender hedge.

LOCATION The farm of La Foce is nestled in the Hills of Val D’Orcia, a lovely valley in the southern Tuscany, miraculously intact. Half way from Florence to Rome, short distance from Siena, Arezzo, Perugia, Assisi and Orvieto. Also jewels from medieval and reinassance villages such as Pienza, Montepulciano, Monticchiello and Montalcino are a short distance away. The countryside offers wonderful paths in the woods and hills of Siena, the cuisine is among the best in the region and in the local wineries you can sample most famous wines such as Vino Nobile and Brunello. Cultural events (Concerts, Galleries, Seminars) are organized in the nearby sites. Surroundings Florence Perugia Siena Cortona Orvieto Montalcino

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ACCOMMODATION The compound of La Foce features the Villa, the main Residence, few houses used in the past by farmers living on site and the medieval castle of Castelluccio. In the Castle, every summer, a music festival takes place, an event organized and directed by musician Antonio Lysy. The Villa, built at the end of the 15th century as an inn along the route, has been a property of the Great Hospital of Santa Maria della Scala of Siena. It features three floors, uphill and surrounded by the famous garden created by Iris Origo and the English architect Cecil Pinsent The palace is only 500 Meters away from the Villa la Foce on the way to Chiarentana, the only B&B of all the featured accommodation but can be rented weekly by a family or a group of 8 passengers.

76 miles 55 miles 52 miles 35 miles 35 miles 21 miles

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La Gamberaia

Guest Houses in Florence GARDENS The most interesting part of the park is south side of the building. Here opens a beautiful parterre, wanted by princess Ghyka. The floor is separated in four rectangular flower beds of water, from the course very lengthened, underlined by hedges of boxwood (often double) that finish in a hemicycle-belvedere marked by cypresses shaped to arches with a scenic effect similar to an eighteenth-century theater of verzura, that allows perspective views of big suggestion over the Florentine country. PLAN A VISIT: Daily Monday to Friday from 9am to 6pm - On Sunday from 9am to 4pm LOCATION Located on the Settignano hills, two steps from the city but surrounded by the silence of paradise, Villa Gamberaia has an exceptional view Surroundings Florence Siena Lucca Cortona Montepulciano

8 miles 47 miles 49 miles 65 miles 70 miles

Perugia

97 miles

of Florence and the Arno valley. Strolling in the beautiful Italian style garden that for centuries have been the mean attraction of the Villa, the visitor can admire the surrounding view and feel absorbed in the heart of Tuscany. ACCOMMODATION At Gamberaia there are four houses carefully restored, furnish with ancient furniture of family and offering modern equipments: Cappella, Nettuno, Limonaia (ancient fifteenth-century farm that dominates the lemon garden and has a vine-trellis, ideal to have lunch) and Villa. Available accommodation Cappella

180mq (6 guests)

Nettuno

180mq (6 guests)

Limonaia

180mq (8 guests)

Villa

750mq (18 guests)

La Gamberaia Via del Rossellino 72 Settignano (Firenze) The most ancient news of the location know as “Gamberaja” goes back to the second half of ‘300 when a farm with an agricultural house was once owned by the nuns of S. Martin to Shelf. The name referred to the presence of a course of sweet water where the shrimps were fished. It is a monument rich in history, its enchantments are revealed little by little to whom who spends the time to discover them. The garden is a bright and clever game of heights and voids, in which water’s tubs delimited by the boxwood replace the parterres. The longitudinal axle is constituted by a great lawn path; at the intersection with the secondary one, is located the decorated cabinet with statues, games of water and four stairways that give access to two woods of secular holm trees and the lemon garden, with arboreal peonies and backs of roses “Albértine.”

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Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa in Barga - Lucca

Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa Località Il Ciocco Barga (Lucca) The Reinassance Tuscany is nestled within a 2,000 hectares estate nature strechted in a 500meters to 1250 meters of altitude. From its highest point you are able to view the beauty of the surrouding nature: The Appennino ToscoEmiliano, The Apuane Alps, The Serchio Valley and the Gargagnana. The Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa has several sporting facilities for all needs. The large stadium, FIFA certified has a breathtaking view over the mountains and is the ideal location for any training needs. Within the resort you will find also facilities for Tennis, Basket and Volleyball. A full service Hotel opened in 1956, the first Reinassance Resort by Marriott International in Europe. LOCATION Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa is only a few minutes away from Barga, an hamlet in the Remeggio hill in the heart of the Serchio Valley and is considered to be one of the most beautiful hamlet in Italy. The Hotel is a short distance away from City of Arts such as Florence, Lucca & Pisa. At the Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa you can enjoy the spectacular views of the Appenino Tosco-Emiliano, The Apuane Alps, The Serchio Valley and the Gargagnana. Surroundings

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Barga

3 miles

Lucca

25 miles

Pisa

36 miles

Viareggio

43 miles

Firenze

68 miles

Modena

74 miles

Bologna

82 miles

Parma

106 miles

Siena

111 miles

GARDEN The flora is essentially linked to the marginal and nemoral environments and is consistent with the forest density. The vegetation on the hills and mountains is dominated by an acidophilic type vegetation which is rather homogeneous. ACCOMMODATION The Hotel has 180 rooms, 11 Suites and Junior Suites with the very new Reinassance Chich Design. All rooms have a unique view over the Serchio Valley and the Tuscan mountains. The hotel offers an indoor heated pool with whirlpool, Sauna and Caldarium, Ice Shower, Chromotherapy shower and a Gym.

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Borgo Storico Seghetti Panichi

Relais in Castel di Lama - Ascoli

Borgo Storico Seghetti Panichi Via San Pancrazio, 1 - Castel di Lama (Ascoli) The Borgo Storico Seghetti Panichi lies on a hill along the valley of the River Tronto, a few miles from Ascoli Piceno. The historic compound, built in different periods, includes the Relais Villa, an ancient medieval fortress, which was adapted into a country residence in the 18th century; the Residenza San Pancrazio and other buildings dating back to the 17th Century and the 19th Century, sheltered by the ancient perimeter walls of the castle. The Oratory, built in 1608, decorated with precious frescoes attributed to the Biagio Miniera school. All is surrounded by an historic garden of rare beauty, planted between 1875 and 1890 by the renowned botanist and landscape gardener Ludwig Winter, today the first Bioenergetic garden in Europe. GARDENS Once Italy had been united in 1860, the robust defences near the Lama river – with the Mediaeval tower, the castle, the country house – were able to be embellished by the addition of graceful gardens. Planned and realised between 1875 and 1890 by the great German botanist and landscape gardener Ludwig Winter, the park testifies to his passion for palm trees of various kinds. One can admire two rare exemplars of Jubaea spectabilis, numerous Phoenix canariensis and Ph. dactilifera, the silvery-blue Heritea armata, some monumental Washingtonia filifera, as well as Chamaerops humilis and

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groups of Yucca gloriosa and Cordyline australis. This park has the distinction of being the first historical garden in Italy to undergo bioenergetic measurements over large areas. The electromagnetic readings were conducted for a period of two years. Strolling through an enchanting natural landscape and stopping to rest in tranquil and calming areas, visitors can enjoy an itinerary that offers them the possibility of testing the different beneficial effects of various kinds of plants. Some of these are native to the landscape of the Marches area, such as the Red Beech and Oak. Others, particularly around the quiet lake, have oriental origins: the golden Ginkgo biloba, the Japanese Prunus rosa, messenger of springtime because it is the first to blossom, a delicate Taxodium disticum and a Sophora japonica ‘Pendula’. Within the lake itself grow various waterlilies and white lotus flowers. The essences obtained from palm trees, olive trees and some ancient orange trees growing in the garden are used to produce a silky and delicately perfumed Body Oil, part of the “Princess Pignatelli Beauty Line”. PLAN A VISIT: Open every day, only on reservation, from 10.00am to 6.00 pm. LOCATION The Borgo Storico Seghetti Panichi is in the southern province of Le Marche, the Piceno area, in the small village of Castel di Lama. It is 5 miles from the beautiful town of Ascoli Piceno and only 6 miles from the Adriatic Coast.

Surroundings Ascoli Piceno Norcia Amatrice Chieti Spoleto

10 miles 42 miles 42 miles 59 miles 68 miles

Sulmona

88 miles

ACCOMMODATION Borgo Panichi Seghetti offers two types of accommodation. Relais villa - The attraction of the villa is its elegance and refinement in a calm and reserved atmosphere where guests feel at home. The living room with its welcoming settees and fireplace, the billiard room, the small sitting room for reading and listening to music. The venezia dining room opens in the evening for those who wish to enjoy local recipes, produce from the kitchen garden and wines from local wine cellars. The gallery leading to the ground floor passes through a large window to the garden, a unique set for unforgettable Dinners under the stars in summertime. On the first floor the landing with the library and old family portraits leads to the Six suites blu, gigli, winter, orientale, roma and cielo. Residenza san pancrazio - Sheltered by the ancient perimeter walls of the borgo, the residenza San Pancrazio dates back to 1600. An elegant restoration, using typical local materials, such as the marches cotto and ascoli travertine, has allowed the creation of five apartment suites with private access. Surrounded by the mediterranean garden where the borgo’s swimming pool with sauna and wellness room are located, it is the ideal place for families and for those who want both privacy and high quality hospitality standard

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Grand Hotel Terme di Stigliano Hotel in Rome

Grand Hotel Terme di Stigliano Via Bagni di Stigliano - Canale Monterano (Rome) The Grand Hotel delle Terme di Stigliano is located in one of the most suggestive frames of the Lazio Region. The structure was built in the year Seven hundred, when the thermal baths became property of the royal family Altieri, and it built above remaining’s of Roman temples. The first testimonies on the existence of Stigliano go back to the times of the “etruscans”; known fact is that this ancient population was very tied up to the cult of the thermal baths and these places considered sacred. In Roman epoch, the waters were called “Thermae Stygyane”, to comparison of the magic powerful waters of the swamp Stygia. The hotel is inserted in a botanical park, an appealing spot for the quality, the kinds of plants and for the waters: nine different rising and two rivers cross the park and make it a unique place. The park, completely restructured, extends along the run of the thermal sources that assure a great nourishment to the ground, guaranteeing an exuberant and luxuriant flora. Maples, secular oaks, giant bamboo and tall pines frame the horizon and the landscape.

GARDENS in the park you can still find the remains of the Roman thermal baths, made bigger from the Imperor Tiberio. The presence of the thermal waters and the exceptional microclimate has made the flora of Stigliano extraordinarily exuberant. Some exclusive kinds of this park, exhibit different spontaneous flowerings in every season. The park of more than 20 hectares, undue along a magic itinerary: maples, centenary oaks, lecci, oaks, cores, tamerici and giant bamboo unite to the Roman pines. Extremely complex also the fauna: herons, hawks, owls, porcupines, rates, foxes, weasels. Plan a visit: from March to January, with group visits for party of 10 minimum by appointment only. LOCATION The Grand Hotel Stigliano is located in a beautiful area of the inner land of Lazio Region not far from Bracciano Lake and the Etruscan settlement of Cerveteri.A Surroundings Roma Viterbo Tarquinia Anguillara

34 miles 33 miles 32 miles 16 miles

Bracciano

10 miles

ACCOMMODATION The hotel offers an elegant and refined environment in tone with the splendor of the past and the modern comforts of today. The interior design, the decor along the walls, make Stigliano an enchanted place, with the addition of the typical warming atmosphere known from the buildings of that epoque. The Grand Hotel offers 46 rooms between charming and romantic in the main building and the delightful dependance and 2 suites, all with a beautiful view of the famous Stigliano Park. Every room is characterized by the individuality of the décor and furniture, a strong classical call in harmony with the history and the charme of the style of the building.

ph. Alberto Nardi

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Parco Idrotermale Negombo Hotel in Ischia Island Parco Idrotermale Negombo Via S. Montano, Lacco Ameno - Isola d’Ischia (Naples) The Duca Luigi Silvestro Camerini, humanist and traveller, arrives to Ischia in 1946 to research a location where he could create a park that could express his great passion for botany. The charm of the place and its surprising analogy with the bay of Negombo, from him admired at Ceylon, makes the choice fall on the bay of San Montano. Here the nature finds its more significant expressions in the thermal sources, proff of the volcanic history of the island of Ischia that is possible to use according to a tradition that has roots from the classic age. The present aspect of the park owns a lot to the passionate intervention of the landscape painter Ermanno Casasco. GARDENS The landscape painter Ermanno Casasco has created a garden deeply connected to the millennial culture of the island, full of surprises and unexpected solutions. From 1998 in the park you can find important sculptures of contemporary art. In this garden the landscape is integrated with the splendor of plants arrived from Australia, Japan, South Africa, Brazil. They signal examples of variegated Orbea, Hakea, Encephalartos, Macrozamia, Cycas media, Dasylirium, Erythrina, Schinus terebindifloria, a centenary Ficus magnolioides and wondeurful Eucaliptus ficifolia. Plan a visit: from April 20 to October 14 . Daily from 5:30pm to 7pm (last entrance 6pm). Baths and seaside establishment are open from 8.30am to 7pm

LOCATION The island of Ischia is located at the northern end of the gulf of Naples and is not far from the islands of Procida and Vivara. The whole island, other is not than the summit of the Mountain Epomeo, the part in surface of the undersea volcano. Ischia is famous for its thermal waters, used since the antiquity. Already the first farmers Euboici (VIII century a.C.), as seen from the many archeological finds recovered in the site of Pithecusa and preserved at the Archeological Museum of Villa Arbusti in Lacco Ameno, appreciated and used the waters of the thermal sources of the island.

Napoli Capri Sorrento Positano Pompei Ercolano

Surroundings

ACCOMMODATION The Hotel della Baia, That faces the Park of the Negombo, counts sixteen rooms (two of which with Turkish bath), provided of every comfort, terraces with garden, five independent dependences with garden, American bar and breakfast in hotel. Lunch and dinner are served at Negombo that offers besides the restaurant, pools with sea water, thermal, kneipp, private beach. At the Wellness Center it is possible to do thermal treatments and aesthetic curative treatments. There is also a Turkish bath and covered pool.

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Grand Hotel Parco dei Principi Hotel in Sorrento

Grand Hotel Parco dei Principi - Via Rota, 1 - Sorrento (Naples) The extraordinary stunning views of the sea from the terraces of the rooms in the Parco dei Principi, which is practically suspended between sky and sea, make this an idyllic and fairytale resort. The surroundings of our 5 star hotel in Sorrento are every bit as magical, from the elegant gardens with their tall palms and age-old trees, flowers and plants, to the sea and the private beach. The Hotel Parco dei Principi was designed and built by the architect Gio Ponti and it is a masterpiece of contemporary art. Using exclusive lines, perfect plays of colours and meticulous attention to furnishings, Gio Ponti created the first “design hotel” of the Sixties. GARDEN The garden of 27000 sq. mt. Dispay several rare species, some of with other trees, bushes and a loto f flowers. This fantastic garden passed down from the time of the Bourbons, is really an asset to the venue for its beauty and for the long lasting care which has been devoted to it. nist, siti doloreh endition

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LOCATION The Hotel Parco dei Principi is located on one of the most popular tourist destinations of the Sorrento Coast, close to the Capri and Ischia islands, at only 1.5 km from the main Sorrento attractions, the city center and the harbour Marina Piccola. Set between an outstanding botanical garden and a private beach and due to its advantageous location in the midst of a stunning cultural and

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tourist itinerary, Sorrento is the ideal place to start discovering some of the most beautiful attractions along the coast.

Surroundings Positano Pompei Amalfi Ravello Napoli

11 miles 17 miles 20 miles 25 miles 31 miles

Vietri

33 miles

ACCOMMODATION The marine shades and blues of the ceramic tiled floors, the original furnishings designed by the architect Gio Ponti, along with the drapes and bathrooms create a harmonious and relaxing atmosphere in our villas, suites and rooms along the Sorrento coast. The Parco dei Principi Hotel in Sorrento has 96 rooms from Classic to Superior, from Deluxe to Junior Suite, with park views or front sea views and with sliding windows which open onto terraces and balconies from where there are enchanting views of the surroundings. Additionally, all rooms, suites and villas have either double or twin beds, Free WiFi, individually-controlled air conditioning, security box, minibar, telephone with direct external line, LCD TV, satellite channels, film on demand, high-speed Internet, blue bathrooms with mosaics and Marinella amenities.

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Planeta - La Foresteria Resort in Menfi

Planeta - La Foresteria Contrada Passo di Gurra - ex S.S. 115 s.p. 79, Km 91 - Menfi (Agrigento) The La Foresteria resort is the most authentic expression of the Planeta family hospitality, an ambassador for Sicily and Sicilian wines and olive oils throughout the world. At La Foresteria you can find a family atmosphere,

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typical of an elegant and aristocratic country house, surrounded by vineyards and aromatic herbs, with an open kitchen redolent of all the scents of the Mediterranean and traditional Sicilian cooking. GARDEN The Foresteria bears resemblance with a typi-

cal village of rural homes standing on the hill to watch over the surrounding vineyards and olive groves. At sunset the austerity of line and play of light between the external space and internal courtyards which form sheltered gardens, prevail and merge with green spaces due to the variations of level between terraces, swimming pool and the large flowerbeds containing collections of plants.

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Thousands of herbs planted and listed as in a nursery garden provide a feature of remarkable garden planning which continues the green aspect of vineyards in the background. Feel the senses, lavender, oregano, sage, rosemary and all other aromatic herbs which have grown in hundreds in the southern gardens. All these plants are well spread in Sicily and there is no household in the countryside neither traditional dishes that do not require the flavor of these spices. If aromatic herbs play a lead role, there are also other plants to embellish the outdoor or internal spaces. A good example are the tropical plants dwelled in the greenhouse which link the living with the pool, the orange grove within the enclosed garden, the succulent plant.

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LOCATION La Foresteria is centered in an extraordinarycontext of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The archeological park of Selinunte, the Valley of the Temples in Agrigento, the crystalclear sea at Porto Palo and the Nature Reserve on the Belice river are only a few of the many places to start your trip to Sicily. Surroundings Selinunte

16 miles

Marsala

31 miles

Segesta

44 miles

Agrigento

49 miles

Trapani

64 miles

Erice

67 miles

ACCOMODATION The resort has 14 spacious rooms, each named for the aromatic herbs that surround it. Each one strikes a perfect balance between comfort and atmosphere, with different colors and furnishings that reflect those of the traditional country villas – pastel walls, carpets of red and ocher and the yellow and blue ceramics from Caltagirone and Burgio. Every room also features a private terrace.

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Casa Pennisi B&B in Catania

Palazzo Pennisi Piazza Pennisi, 29 Acireale (Catania) The Palazzo Pennisi of Floristella dates back in the ‘800, located in the historical city center of the Baroque city of Acireale, set between Piazza del Duomo and the Basilica of S.Sebastiano. A Family residence since its early creation by Baron Agostino Pennisi of Floristella as it stands today. One of the two rooms was once an important numismatic collection of Greek-Sicilian coins dated back to the 6th-9th century B.C. today displayed in an exhibit at the Regional Archeology Museum of Siracusa. A distinctive value is given by the monumental marble staircase, in neo-classical style. The interior space of the Palazzo are still featuring the original decor. The gardens of Palazzo Pennisi of Floristella was planted at the end of the XIX Century as frame to the prestigious Grand Hotel des Bain. The Grand Hotel was built by the Florentine architect Mariano Falcini to host the clients of the contemporary Terme di Santa Venera in an harmonious environment. Acireale was a quite renowned thermal destination and counted among its hosts the Italian Royal family, Richard Wagner family and prominent Doctor Antonio Cardarelli

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GARDEN The Architect assigned to design the gardens was Mariano Falcini, who characterised it with a classical structure, with paths delimitated by high box hedges and impressive flower-beds. Tropical plants, that can still be admired, were also inserted together with Mediterranean essences creating an incredibly fascinating and attractive ensamble As a result, nowadays ancient palms (Washingtonia, Chamaerops, Poenix), colossal Yuccas, Sterlizias, Guaiabos, Cycas, Laracandas, Chorysias come towards visitors, surrounded by walnut trees, cluster pines and mulberries. Plan a visit: by Appointment only

LOCATION Acireale is set at the edge of a large plateau on the coast facing the Ionian Sea. In the surrounding you can engage beautiful scenic routes, the sea is within walking distance thru a natural trail in the Natural Reserve of Timpa. Acireale is a popular thermal destination, famous for sulfur water since its ancient origins.

Surroundings Taormina Siracusa Noto Modica

24 miles 50 miles 66 miles 86 miles

Palermo

133 miles

ACCOMMODATION On one wing of the house there is a large apartment, elegantly furnished, can be used for lodging or exclusive receptions. The apartement features two large double rooms with a third bed option, a living room, a breakast nook overlooking the roof gardens, where weather permitting breakfast is served.

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“...When I consider that a single man, relying only on his own simple physical and moral resources, was able to transform a desert into this land of Canaan, I am convinced that despite everything, the human condition is truly admirable. But when I take into account the constancy, the greatness of soul, and the selfless dedication that was needed to bring about this transformation, I am filled with an immense respect for this old, uncultured peasant who knew how to bring about a work worthy of God.” from Jean Giono The Man Who Planted Trees

Ill

La Landriana - Ardea

A ROOM IN THE GARDEN VISIT ITALY TOURS INVITES YOU TO DISCOVER THE BEAUTY OF THE ITALIAN ART OF OUTDOOR

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Guide 2013

A ROOM IN THE GARDEN VISIT ITALY TOURS INVITES YOU TO DISCOVER THE BEAUTY OF THE ITALIAN ART OF OUTDOOR

Supported by

on e of i ts ki n d

Unique Hotels of Italy

HQ OFFICE C. Trionfale, 57 00195 Roma rome@visit-italy.travel

NAPOLI OFFICE Via Manzoni, 161 80046 - San Giorgio a Cremano- Napoli naples@visit-italy.travel

NEW YORK OFFICE 730 Fifth Avenue Suite 600 - NY 10019 - USA marco@visititalytours.it

PARIS OFFICE 5 rue hanovre 75002 Paris - France

SAO PAOLO OFFICE Rua Vol da Patria, 2741 Cep: 02401-100 Sao Paolo - Brazil

MOSCOW OFFICE Pechatnikov per.6 office 12 Moscow - Russia

NEW DELHI OFFICE 401, Keltron chambers 18/7 Arya Samaj Road Delhi - India

Guide 2013