7 Pines Resort Sardinia

Lake Como is all about style and elegance, and the iconic Grand Hotel Tremezzo with its impressive art nouveau façade, fits the brief perfectly. Sat on the western shores of the lake, the hotel looks out across the water to the pretty town of Bellagio and the dramatic Grigne mountains. Not to be outshone by its famous neighbour, Villa Carlotta, the hotel sits within beautifully landscaped gardens filled with rare and ancient magnolias, palm trees and flowers that explode in clouds of red, purple, pink and blue. Rooms come with large windows that look out over lake or gardens, and the views from the rooftop suites are hard to beat. It’s not just the scenery that’ll catch your eye, however, and there’s plenty to admire inside as well. The lounge is filled with brightly coloured furniture and features ornate silk hangings on the wall, while the billiards room is home to an original table from the 1800s. Guests can dine on seasonal Mediterranean cuisine in the restaurant where in the warmer months, food is served on the terrace. The trattoria and wine bar is perfect for more casual dining, offering the relaxed atmosphere of an ancient wine cellar with a touch of modern elegance. Relaxing here is easy; the hotel has a secluded outdoor pool in the gardens and its own man-made beach, located just in front of the water-on-water floating pool on the lake. The indoor infinity pool and spa look out over the water and offer luxurious Santa Maria Novella products and treatments. The hotel also has its own water limos for when you want to explore and discover the lake.

The Borgo Santandrea is a splendid 5-star hotel situated in the heart of the Amalfi Coast, overlooking the charming fishing village of Conca dei Marini. The hotel features 52 rooms and sumptuous suites, all meticulously designed to merge artisanal Mediterranean traditions with elegant mid-century style, perfectly complemented by the breathtaking views of the sea. The hotel has a strong focus on sustainability, and has incorporated some of the best energy saving technologies, state-of-the-art waste management systems, and plastic reduction initiatives. After a day of adventure and exploration, enjoy exclusive access to the hotel’s private beach. Bask under the Mediterranean sun, take a dip in the crystal clear water, and indulge in the delicious cuisine of the beach restaurant and bar. Head to the hotel’s wine cellar, where a new tour is curated by the sommelier each evening, and is paired alongside a delectable selection of meats, cheeses, and breads thoughtfully selected by the chef. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy incredible dining at Michelin star restaurant Alici. For ultimate relaxation, take a visit to the Wellness Retreat at the hotel, where a range of treatments are offered by highly skilled therapists. You can also keep up with your fitness routine in the spacious gym or on the outdoor terrace, all whilst taking in the panoramic sea views.

Along the banks of the River Arno on a pedestrianised piazza, is the St. Regis Florence, a historic palace designed by Brunelleschi. The hotel’s 80 rooms and 19 suites are decorated in elegant Medici, Fiorentino or Renaissance style. Some feature adorned coffered ceilings, wall frescoes and 15th-century artwork. Florence is a city of true beauty and you’ll enjoy views of the city, courtyard or the River Arno from your opulent room. Indulging in the local food is the highlight of any trip to Italy and the hotel’s Restaurant, Winter Garden by Caino, has been awarded a Michelin star for its innovative cuisine. The excellent food is matched by its surroundings and the high glass ceilings and dramatic chandelier give the room plenty of old-world charm. The Regis Bar is located in the arches of the restaurant and the perfect place to relax with an espresso or cocktail. If grapes are more your thing, the cellar houses more than 300 prestigious labels from Italy and further afield. For when you want to relax and unwind, head to the hotel spa or fitness centre or get out and discover the beautiful city of Florence which is right on your doorstep.

After falling for the ruins of this dramatically perched 17th century convent while boating in Salerno Bay, the American owner of the Monastero Santa Rosa spent the next decade painstakingly renovated and restoring the building, creating the stunning and secluded boutique hotel it is today. With only 20 rooms and suites, but plenty of outdoor living areas and private spaces dotted around the estate, this unique property is dedicated to total relaxation, as you can take your pick from the various secluded sun terraces perched on the hillside. Make your way down the lush tiered gardens to reach a truly breathtaking infinity pool where you can soak up the sweeping, panoramic views across the Amalfi Coast. The sisters’ former winery is now the setting for a vast sanctuary of a spa – an impressive selection of some 400 wines now stored in the cellar of Ristorante Il Refettorio, where guests can expect an innovative Mediterranean gastronomic experience with the freshest ingredients from the gardens and surrounding Campania region. The convent sits in the quaint fishing village of Conca dei Marini, just a 20-minute car or boat ride from the most scenic towns along this glamorous coastline – notably Positano, Amalfi and Ravello. An array of excursions can be organised, from walking trails and cultural tours, to diving and windsurfing.