Archive for 'Pretty Views'

Tropea is one of those destinations that is so exceptionally picturesque that it can often seem utterly unreal. The turquoise blue of the waters, the pale sands, the lush green hillsides and white cliffs, the rainbow of sun umbrellas and towels along the strand, the market stalls overflowing with vibrant fresh produce, and the gorgeous pink sunsets all make this town look like a stunning painting rendered in the brightest and loveliest hues. In addition to being fronted by one of the prettiest stretches of beaches in all of Italy, adorned with one of the most scenic monasteries in Italy (which is really saying something), and overlooked by one of the most charming towns in Italy, this often lesser-known gem for international tourists is a true must if you find a villa in Calabria. An ideal spot to spend a day sunning yourself on the beach, splashing around and cooling off in those bluer than blue waters, wandering about the pretty tangle of streets throughout the town, taking endless pictures, and finding some cute little place to grab food, it is a perfect place for a day-trip while in the area. Come and see its exceptional looks with your own eyes and discover the endless charms and delights that it has on offer...

Located just a stone’s throw from the seafront of the beautiful port town of Palermo, one will find the city’s stunning 18th century botanical gardens that are one of the must-see spots on the whole island for garden and plant-lovers who find a villa in Sicily. The most tropical garden in Europe, this fascinating and lovely balmy gem is a truly magical place, spread across a park that is 10 hectares in size and that hosts an astounding twelve thousand different plant species. For those looking to wander peacefully between outdoor gardens and greenhouses, among flocks of parrots and tropical plants, and past beautiful statuary, it is an ideal spot to enjoy some peace and calm in the city.

The glamorous and beautiful Amalfi Coast, located in the southern Italian region of Campania, is dotted by both towns that are known for being impossibly chic and attracting the rich and famous as well as picturesque little villages and seaside resorts. The charming town of Atrani falls into the latter category and is a must-see spot for those who find a villa on the Amalfi Coast and want to take in the flavour of the region. While there are some incredibly famous towns in the area that are also worth visiting and exploring, those who want to remain a little off the beaten path and to explore a lesser-known gem should definitely head to Atrani. One of Italy’s best-kept secrets, this picture-perfect town is located only a short drive from the more famous hot spots of the Amalfi Coast and only a few minutes from the town of Amalfi itself. Atrani is truly a brilliant place to enjoy authenticity, some excellent beaches, and idyllic surroundings on a day trip. Just begin browsing our wonderful range of incredible vacation rentals on the Amalfi Coast and then get planning a visit to the unspoiled and characteristic town of Atrani on your next holiday in Italy.

If you have been considering a villa in Piedmont or a vacation rental in Lombardy, it is not unlikely that you might decide to spend a day during your holiday in Italy exploring Lake Maggiore. This incredibly scenic part of the country and part of Italy’s famous and beloved lake district is bordered by impossibly picturesque little towns, circled by excellent hiking routes, full of little islands and islets with gorgeous historic villas, architectural gems, and gardens, and is a perfect place to come and either enjoy various outdoor pursuits or to simply relax and unwind. While there are plenty of things to see and do in the area, one of the most remarkably lovely and magical activities that we can recommend is a visit to the Giardino Botanico Alpinia.

The Giardino Botanico Alpinia is an extraordinary and unique botanic garden housing mostly Alpine plant species that is located at 800m altitude above the picturesque lakeside town of Stresa that is right on Lake Maggiore. Reached by the Lido di Carciano - Alpino - Mottarone cable car, this very special garden not only houses a fascinating collection in an especially scenic location but is also accessed in such a whimsical and charming way. Overall, a visit to this wonderful garden while on vacation at Lake Maggiore is a definite must and would also be certainly a wonderful addition to any day trip in the area if you have found a holiday rental in Piedmont and are spending time seeing what the area has to offer. 

The Amalfi Coast is a famously lovely coastal area of Italy and a vacation rental on the Amalfi Coast certainly will offer plenty of opportunity to relax by the sea with a cocktail or a good book or both, to cool down in the bluer than blue waters, to enjoy a whole range of different water sports, to hike while taking in some incredible views, and to generally make the most of some spectacularly beautiful natural surroundings. However, if you have found your villa on the Amalfi Coast and you’re looking to get outdoors, get active, and to enjoy the most untouched and lovely of natural settings, then we suggest setting aside some time to explore the Punta Campanella Marine Reserve. An area of unblemished beauty, this is a highly popular diving spot that boasts some truly extraordinary sights, has great hiking routes in the area, has a flourishing and diverse flora and fauna and marine life, and is swathed in ancient myths of sirens and heroes. For adventurers planning on spending time on vacation in Campania and this part of Italy, it is definitely a must!