Archive for 'Winter'

When one is planning a vacation during the winter months, there are really two ways that you can choose to go: embrace the cold by planning a ski break or try and fight the cold by going to a warm destination or a place where you can get warm readily. In the latter case, the naturally-occurring thermal springs located all around Italy mean that even if temperatures outside are not that high, the soothing, therapeutic, relaxing mineral-rich waters in these hot springs are sure to warm you up, right down to your bones!

So, if you're someone who is always trying to fight the cold and you are looking to enjoy a relaxing spa getaway this winter, we highly recommend heading to one of these destinations. Plus, if you want to combine a bit of both ways of coping with the cold – embracing it and enjoying winter activities and soaking in thermal waters to warm up afterwards – many of the same towns where thermal springs are found also have ski facilities themselves or ski resorts located close by. Here are our picks for the top thermal spa destinations to discover on vacation in Italy this winter...

If summer in Italy (and, increasingly, everywhere else) is about the aperitivo, then the winter in Italy is about the digestivo. Consumed after a meal, to aid digestion, this tradition can be indulged in whenever you wish but is particularly suited to the colder months, when we are all likely to eat meals that are a little heartier in order to keep the chill away. 

Grappa and the Aosta Valley

One of the most famous digestivi in Italy also comes from one of the best destinations in Italy for a winter break: grappa from the Aosta Valley. The smallest region in Italy, ringed by the rugged and romantic snow-capped peaks of the Alps, and dotted with adorable towns and ski resorts, this is the perfect place to escape to for magical winter scenery, charming Christmas markets, delicious and warming meals, and some of the best grappa in the world. Just browse our incredible range of holiday rentals in Aosta Valley and come experience this winter wonderland for yourself!

Have festive plans got your head in a tailspin? Are there too many parties, commitments, things to buy, rooms to clean and decorate, foods to prepare? Have you been considering just escaping this Holiday Season? Well, we think that’s a great idea! Especially if you have been thinking about a vacation rental in Italy, as we would argue that it is one of the best possible destinations at this time of the year.

Whether you personally celebrate Christmas or not, those who find themselves on holiday in Italy over the Holidays will discover many of the permanent charms of the country with a pretty, festive, exciting Christmas veneer on top. Many cities and towns are at their most beautiful at this time of the year, there are even more things to see and do, as well as lots of incredible seasonal dishes to enjoy, so its an excellent time to visit!

We have previously extolled the virtues of booking a vacation rental in Rome and spending the Christmas Holidays exploring the city and all of its festive delights. Of course, for practising Christians to whom religion is a core tenet of their lives, it would make sense to celebrate one of the biggest religious events in the calendar in the spiritual hub of the Catholic Church. However, for those who are less religious or not even Christian at all, there is still much to recommend a holiday in Rome over the Holidays!

From the food and wine, to the beautiful decorations, to the Christmas markets, to the special events and unique traditions there is even more to see, do, and enjoy in the endless list of attractions already on offer in the Eternal City at this time of the year. Plus, it may be when the city is at its loveliest – with twinkling lights and other decorations adding a festive cheer and pretty addition to the grand monuments and wonders of the past of Rome!

In addition to attending choir services, shopping at markets, going to a play or the ballet, visiting museums and architectural gems, wandering gorgeous historic streets with a sweet Christmas veneer, trying seasonal delights in bakeries and restaurants, chatting over drinks, and more, those who book a holiday rental in Rome and visit at this time of the year might also want to try one very seasonally appropriate and magical activity: ice skating in the charming festive surroundings of Rome! A great way to embrace the season and warm up as you explore the city during the winter, there are a variety of different rinks around the city to choose from each year...