Archive for 'Southern Italy'

Castel del Monte is probably one of the most memorable castles and buildings that you will ever see. Its distinctive appearance, architectural brilliance and historical importance have meant that it has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site (one of 50 in Italy). The building, located in Apulia, near Bari, was commissioned by Frederick II of Swabia in the 13th century and sits on a hilltop, surveying the beautiful surrounding landscape. Whether you're interested in history or not, this sight is well worth a visit for the views that it offers and its dominating octagonal structure which seems like something plucked right from the pages of Game of Thrones or some other grand fantasy novel. Just find a luxury villa in Apulia and head to the castle one day to explore, admire and learn.

Ravello is a southern Italian town on the famous Amalfi Coast, perched high above sparkling azure seas and with stunning views across the water. It has long captured the hearts of many and is often included in lists of best holiday destinations, lesser-known Italian gems and beautiful towns. In fact, many of the town’s biggest fans have been artists and writers, such as D.H. Lawrence and Virginia Woolf, who became so enamoured with the place that they have spent extended periods in the town or have lived there. Why were they so taken by the town? Well, it offers the perfect mix of culture, relaxation, delicious food, luxurious accommodation and stunning views. In fact, Gore Vidal once described the panorama here as “the most beautiful in the world.” If you want to take in the most beautiful panorama in the world for yourself, just find a vacation rental in Campania and spend some time in the stunning town of Ravello.

Termoli is a beautiful seaside town on the Adriatic coast in the region of Molise. It is a local resort town known for its lovely beaches and striking fortifications. However, if you are visiting this town, and we recommend that you do, be sure to make the time to stop by the cathedral. Termoli Cathedral makes an immediate impact upon visiting with its elegant and stunning restraint and has an exceptionally long and rich history going back hundreds of years. It is said to originally have been the site of a Roman temple dedicated to Castor and Pollux and is now just as alive as a place of worship, a popular spot for weddings and a venue for plays, concerts and more. In fact, the whole town is worth the visit so why not find a holiday rental in Abruzzo nearby and spend a day exploring this charming and historic place?

Castel San Vincenzo is a stunning village in the south of Italy that you're likely to never have heard of. It is, however, the largest village in the Abruzzo, Lazio and Molise National Park and home to the famous Benedictine Abbey of San Vincenzo al Volturno and artificial lake of Castel San Vincenzo. It is a town steeped in history with remnants of this rich past visible everywhere you turn. Additionally, perched on a hillside with expansive views across the surrounding landscape, it is an exceptionally beautiful place. Mountains, greenery, forests and the rich blue of the lake come together with the distinctive stone buildings and red roofs to form a colourful and striking picture. Just find a vacation rental in Abruzzo nearby and spend a day exploring this stunning town.

The San Carlo Opera House in Naples was built in the 18th century by King Charles of Bourbon who wanted his capital city to have a state-of-the-art theatre. A large and luxurious space with majestic architecture and perfect acoustics, it became known far and wide. Sadly, it was destroyed in a fire in 1816 but was rebuilt under the direction of architect Antonio Niccolini, who created the opulent building which stands on the site today. The San Carlo Opera House is among the oldest continuously active public opera houses in the world and puts together a dazzling season of opera, ballet and performances each year. If you feel like getting dressed up and experiencing the magic and luxury of a show at the theatre, or merely tour the stunning building, just find a holiday rental in Naples and stop by!