Archive for 'Lombardy'

Italy has inspired, produced, and been the setting of lots of incredible films throughout the decades. In fact, due to a particularly rich period in the 20th century when Italy produced, arguably, many of the best movies ever made, it is a perfect destination for serious cinephiles the world over. From, “The Bicycle Thieves,” to, “The Godfather,” to, “Cinema Paradiso,” to, “Life is Beautiful,” to, “Gladiator,” to “Call Me by Your Name,” the list of incredible films made or set in Italy is endless and, luckily, some of them even have backdrops and settings that can still be visited. So, if you're interested in a whistle-stop film industry virtual tour (for now and hopefully in person sometime soon!) of Italy, read on and discover the perfectly picturesque places in Italy that have graced the silver screen throughout the history of cinema...

As Italy was the birthplace of the Renaissance and has, and continues to, given rise to some of the most famous artists to ever exist, there is an incredible artistic heritage in the country and endless museums, galleries, churches, towns, mural walls, stately homes, temporary exhibitions, and more that are stuffed with outstanding works of art to take in all over the country. However, if, as in moments like this, you can't quite make it to Italy or her exhibitions then fear not! A large number of truly excellent exhibitions and world-class museums and cultural institutions are available online to visitors through virtual tours and other online resources. We've rounded up a list of some great examples that you can visit right now from the comfort of your own homes as we all look forward to adventures in the real thing sometime very soon in the future...

Bergamo may be a famous foodie destination but there is also more to it beyond just all of the good eating that you can expect when you find a vacation rental in Lombardy. For example, there are great hiking spots to take in wonderful views over the city like the incredible Canto Alto peak that we recently wrote about. However, if you are in it for a bit more of a thrill then we recommend a visit to the nearby Adventure Park Bergamo-Roncola.

Lombardy is one of the biggest regions of Italy and is characterised by her varied and beautiful landscape that is home to both Alpine peaks and Italy’s stunning lake district (including Lake Como, Lake Garda, and more). If you are an outdoorsy type or in search of incredible views and backdrops, it is a perfect holiday destination. Just browse our vacation rentals in Lombardy and come explore the impossible beauty and endless outdoor pursuits offered by this amazing part of Italy for yourself!

While there is much to do in the region, many are drawn to Lombardy particularly for hiking and walking. However, there is a wide range in difficulty and distance that different hikers can be looking for. Some may be up for major expeditions but if you’re interested in simply taking in some pretty views and stretching your legs rather than hikes that last hours upon hours, one popular peak that is easily accessed, not too much of a climb, and offers incredible panoramic views over the surrounding area is Canto Alto.

As there are incredibly lovely surroundings and views, an elegant and relaxing atmosphere, and leisure activities aplenty to choose from, Lake Garda has long been a place where the rich and famous have chosen to make their homes or to build holiday homes. Accordingly, along the shores of Lake Garda and on the islands throughout the lake, you will find some of the most impossibly beautiful estates, villas, and mansions in the entire world. If you have found a vacation rental in Lombardy or a holiday rental on Lake Garda and you are exploring the region or, better yet, if you have a particular interest in stately homes, architectural gems, and amazing gardens, then you will be very much in luck as there are lots of astounding treats to discover in and around Lake Garda. One such fascinating (albeit controversial) site is the Vittoriale degli Italiani (The Shrine of Italian Victories), a hillside estate in the town of Gardone Riviera.

The Vittoriale degli Italiani’s most famous inhabitant was the Italian poet Gabriele d'Annunzio who has left the biggest mark on the property to this day and under whom large expansion and reconstruction was undertaken. D’Annuzio is, today, a controversial figure, a talented writer and famous rogue who is considered a proto-fascist and was once a rival to Mussolini’s leadership of Fascist Italy.