Villa Cora

In the charming village of San Cassiano and sitting 1,537m above sea level is Rosa Alpina, a beautiful mountain retreat just 2.5 hours north of Venice.

Each room has been individually designed and furnished with local antiques. You’re in the heart of the magnificent Dolomites and the hotel maintains a cosy alpine feel while offering guests the highest level of comfort and luxury.

Be sure to treat yourself at St. Hubertus, the hotel’s three Michelin-starred restaurant – one of only a few restaurants in Italy with three stars. For a really special dining experience, be sure to reserve the chef’s table with a view into the kitchen. The wine bar offers a more informal atmosphere and on those chilly evenings, you can indulge with a traditional fondue.

You’re ideally located to explore the mountains, and hikers, skiiers and climbers won’t be disappointed. If you’d rather sit back and relax, then unwind in the spa or enjoy a drink on the terrace looking out over the jaggedy peaks. There are two wellness areas, one for families and one for adults, so there is something for everyone.

Back in 1619, a group of Cisterian monks headed up the old salt road into the Langhe hills and built a monastery on the ruins of an existing chapel. Almost 400 years later and doors are once more open, offering guests the chance to explore this beautiful corner of Italy from the most charming of locations.

The hotel’s elegant rooms and suites are full of character, each one unique in its design. Some come with ancient fireplaces and private gardens, while suites have their own balconies and Jacuzzi. Decor is elegant and refined and befitting of its origins as a monastery.

The hotel is located along one of the five ancient Vie del Sale, or salt roads, that carried precious salt from the Ligurian Sea to beyond the Alps. The views are truly spectacular and even just stepping outside your room you’ll find yourself surrounded by strawberry and olive trees and the beautifully maintained flower, herb and vegetable garden.

The outdoor swimming pool offers panoramic views of the Moscati vineyards and the Langa Hills, but for the ultimate in relaxation you’ll want to head to the spa. A real highlight, it has a wine hammam with a Jacuzzi filled with water and wine, and a sauna in the shape of a barrel.

This part of Italy is known for its fine food and wine, and the choice of restaurants at San Maurizio is second to none. For high-end dining there is Michelin-starred Guido da Costigliole located in the ancient cellar. A more relaxed option is the Truffle Bistrot, named after one of the region’s most loved ingredients; in the summer there is the option to dine al fresco. There is also a wine and cocktail bar showcasing the region’s top drops.

There’s lots of beautiful countryside to explore and horse riding, walking or cycling through hazelnut groves and medieval villages is one of the best ways to appreciate this very special pocket of Italy.

Perched high above the sparkling bay, with wonderful views down on to the harbour below, Belmond Hotel Splendido has long been the glamorous heart of Portofino.

Once an Benedictine monastery that was ransacked by Saracen pirates frequently enough that the monks abandoned it in the 16th century, the building was renovated inn the 19th century by an Italian aristocrat and then transformed into a hotel in 1901. The Splendido – and Portofino – was discovered by American visitors in the 1950s and soon hosted stars and notaries from Winston Churchill and the Duke of Windsor to Clark Gable, Groucho March and Elizabeth Taylor.

The allure and thoroughly Italian charm of this golden age is retained, indeed celebrated today. 70 rooms and suites make the most of the Italian Riveria’s distinctive light, with spacious and airy ambiance, many with incredible views and private balconies.

The panoramic pool, Terrazza Restaurant and piano bar are as elegant as they ever were, perfect spots for socialising and people watching. The trip down to Portofino itself is a pleasant walk (or complimentary shuttle) away, where guests can enjoy the soaking up the bustling harbour’s energy at the hotel’s Chaflay Restaurant and Bar or head out to sea on boating excursions.