Archive for 'Pretty Views'

Those who book a villa in Tuscany likely plan on venturing out into her famous countryside, to drive down winding, cypress-lined roads, to take in sweeping views over rolling green hills and valleys filled with a patchwork of fields and vineyards, to stumble upon sights like endless golden meadows of sunflowers, and to discover charming little villages and striking medieval towns that look like something from a storybook. As you drive around, maybe with particular destinations in mind and attractions on your itinerary or maybe simply for the joy of the activity itself, you’ll eventually work up an appetite. Of course, if you rent a vacation rental in Tuscany, you’ll discover that almost anywhere you go, great things can be found to eat and drink but if you are after a rather magical experience, then why not a dreamy picnic of delicious treats in a beyond picturesque setting, near the famous wine town of Montepulciano? 

This newly listed villa in Apulia is a true dream escape for those who want to get away from it all and unwind. Not only does Villa Augusta boast extraordinary sweeping views across the olive trees, homes, and villages of the valley below, right out to the Adriatic and the beaches of Apulia, but the property itself has everything you could need from a luxury escape in the region. Sleeping up to six guests in three bedrooms with three bathrooms, this sleek and chic luxury villa in Apulia combines a charming historic exterior with elegant minimalist interiors and amazing amenities. 

Venice is one of those great, romantic destinations that is familiar to almost every person in the world and that many people have on their bucket lists but it is not the only place worth seeing in the Veneto region of Italy, despite how it might sometimes overshadow other areas. For those who book a vacation rental in Veneto, there is so much more to see beyond the Floating City. There is, in fact, too many delights to list in one post but here is our guide to some of the other highlights of the region…

Those who choose to book a villa in Italy are, statistically, rather likely to be pasta fans and you will find it pretty easy to get your hands on some incredible pasta dishes while enjoying your getaway. From local family-run eateries, to food festivals serving and celebrating regional varieties, to famous restaurants and Michelin-starred wonders, you’ll find amazing pasta in locations all over Italy without having to look very far. However, the more ardent foodies who are planning a getaway in the homeland of this beloved cupboard staple might be after something a little more special. If you’re up for an adventure and you want something unforgettable, then why not seek out the rarest pasta in the world, the so-called, “Threads of God?”

If you are willing to go on a very special kind of pilgrimage – an edible variety – then you can seek out su filindeu, these Threads of God, while staying in one of our vacation rentals in Sardinia. This rare kind of pasta comes from the Barbagia region of Sardinia and is notoriously difficult to make. It is produced by only a vanishingly small group of women from the Sanctuary of Saint Francis, a little church in the village of Lula, and traditionally only for the biannual Feast of San Francesco – on the 1st of May and the 4th of October. 

For those dreaming of a perfect seaside break in Italy, Sicily is one destination that offers an endless list of gorgeous coastal towns, resorts, and little coves and bays that can be enjoyed on all sorts of days at the beach. From days spent luxuriating at beach resorts with a well-made cocktail, to holidays where water sports are tried for the first time or skills are improved upon, to escaping to a little gem where you can enjoy the sound of the lapping waves and enjoy peace and quiet – there’s a perfect beach option for anyone who books a villa in Sicily.

Among all of the pretty seaside towns and areas on the island, however, we think that one of the most picturesque and charming of all has to be Scopello. Located on the north-west of the island, this little village is in the Province of Trapani, 10km from Castellammare del Golfo, and borders the Riserva Naturale dello Zingaro. Down in a little bay, framed by green hills and striking cliffs, looking out onto impressive rock stacks jutting out of impossibly blue waters, is a collection of charming stone buildings that constitute this photogenic village.