Archive for 'Northwest Italy'

Come and be an onlooker of one of Italy’s most exciting Palio events, the ‘Palio di Asti’. This thrilling annual horse racing event, held on the third Sunday in September is a feast for the eyes! Held in the city of Asti in the region of Piedmont in Northwest Italy, the Palio di Asti attracts hundreds of thousands of spectators from the local area as well as many tourists from far and wide.

For visitors wishing to stay in the area in anticipation of this glorious occasion, there are several lovely holiday villas in Portacomaro, close to the city of Asti.

This historic Palio dates back to the thirteenth century and since 1988, has taken place in the Piazza Alfieri where there is an unusual triangular track which is used to race around.

You will witness not only one, but four exhilarating races to determine the worthy victor representing their contrada. There are twenty one contrade in the Asti region.

A worthy day trip if you're spending your holiday north of Italy is to explore the majestic castles that surround the stunning Lake Como, in the province of Como in Lombardy. It’s regarded as Italy’s favourite lake to visit and is also the deepest one in the country.

There are plenty of vacation villa rentals in Como town to choose from which have breathtaking views of the lake.

The location of this lake, which was beside the main route of trade between central Europe and Rome in ancient times, made it a prosperous place to live. Many castles were built along its edge, most using the stretch of water as a clever protective boundary from frequent invaders.

Fortresses were built on its shores that date from the Middle Ages, through the 19th century and even from the beginning of World War I. Some are open for tourists to walk around and others, which are now hotels or homes in private ownership, can be admired from the hills that surround them.

Orta San Giulio is a town that features beautiful landscapes and is a simple town, which is great if you want a remote place to stay free from the distractions of everyday life. Take the time out of your day to enjoy this scenic town that is known for its Romanesque and Baroque architecture.

When you visit this town, you can view many lakes located within the area. Chiefly among them is the Lake Orta. This lake is one of the smallest, yet most attractive lakes near Orta San Giulio. Be sure to check out this stunning lake, by staying in a holiday villa. With our website Italy-Villas.com, your search process for a great accommodation is made easy.

The quaint little town of Bard is located near the centre of a narrow gorge at the head of Aosta Valley. 

This town is ideal if you want to be surrounded by a rich culture and elegant landscapes!  When you arrive here, you can see many rocks with incisions on them that date as far back as the Iron Age.

Bard is well known for its impressive fortress, visited each year by thousands of people.  The sheer size of this dwelling is astounding, so remember to bring your camera to take lots of impressive photos!

The fortress remains in excellent conditions thanks to several extensive renovations over the years. In 2006, it was re-opened as the Museum of the Alps.  In this museum, there are many exhibits and galleries, allowing you to gain insight into the rich cultures and history of the area.

Part of the stretch of coastline known as the Italian Riviera, Rapallo is located in the province of Genova, in northern Italy.

With a moderate climate and level terrain, the landscape gives way to hills that rise immediately beyond the city itself.

These are where you will find a range of different luxury villas to choose from, where they are sheltered from the wind.