Luxurious Hotels

We take a look at some stunning hotels around Italy that will make your honeymoon or anniversary very special indeed

VILLA DRAGONETTI HOTEL AND RESTAURANT
L’AQUILA, ABRUZZO
Tel: (+39) 0862 680222
www. villadragonetti.it

This is a stunning 16th-century historical residence, situated on the borders of the Gran Sasso National park and only seven kilometres from beautiful L’Aquila.

Surrounded by a 4,000-square-metre park and a 16th-century Italian garden, the Villa is a fascinating hotel and restaurant. The rooms are absolutely exquisite with beautiful rich colours in the vast and sumptuous rooms, all perfect for relaxing in this elegant and unique ancient residence of the Marquesses Dragonetti de Torres.

The hotel is steeped in history and, fascinatingly, in the early years of the 19th century Giacinto Dragonetti came back from his exile in Marseille and asked highly-skilled artists to decorate the inner part of the Villa in honour of his nephew Alfonso. The Villa is a place that is not only comfortable, with staff taking great care of you but also somewhere you probably won’t ever want to leave as you enjoy your time relaxing amongst the beauty and nature of the stunning Abruzzo region renowned for its warmth and hospitality.

L’ALBERETA HOTEL
FRANCIACORTA, LOMBARDY
Tel: (+39) 030 77 60 550
www.albereta.it

What could be more romantic than sleeping under the stars, lulled into dreams by the melody of chirping crickets and a cool breeze on a balmy Italian summer’s night? The ‘Honey Room’ at L’Albereta Hotel is perfect for dreamy evenings of stargazing with your loved one. At the push of a button the roof opens up to the fresh air, allowing the sky into your room. Add to this the breathtaking view of the surrounding vineyards, mountains and lake and you really are experiencing heaven on earth.

L’Albereta is situated in the wine-growing region of Franciacorta, deep in the hills of Lombardy and very close to Lake Iseo. The stylish five-star Relais & Cheateaux property is an ideal place to relax, even the gardens are like an open-air lounge, complete with grand sofas and candlelight.

Why not indulge in a massage at the hotel’s Henri Chenot Espace Vitalité, a state-of-the-art spa and fitness centre, before enjoying a sumptuous dinner at the three-star Michelin Ristorante Marchesi Relais Gourmand, where each plate looks like a miniature work of art. Complete your romantic stay with a visit to the opera in nearby Verona or a trip to Venice before returning to the hotel for a glass of the region’s famous sparkling wine. At the end of the day sink into your luxurious bed and fall asleep under the twinkling stars.

L’ANDANA HOTEL
CASTIGLIONE DE LA PESCAIA,
TUSCANY
Tel: (+39) 0564 944 800
www.andana.it

Formerly the Duke of Tuscany’s hunting lodge, L’Andana is now a comfortable countryside retreat set in 500 acres of vineyards and boasting a world famous restaurant and contemporary spa. The unique villa and fattoria, housing the 33 rooms, is situated at the foot of lush green hills lined with olive groves. Each bedroom has a vast bathroom and cosy fireplace and benefits from beautiful views over the countryside and garden.

Chef Christophe Martin, formerly at the products and services by E’SPA, guests are offered the finest and most relaxing experiences available.

After a well-spent day exploring the region, guests may relax in the spa or beside the pool or alternatively enjoy a game on the hotel’s tennis court or 18-hole golf course.

Citalia offers five nights at the five-star L’Andana, in a deluxe double with breakfast, car-hire and British Airways flights departing Gatwick to Pisa from £849 pp, saving £161 per person. Includes five nights for the price of four for arrivals all season except 1st July until 31st August 2008.

THE BAUER HOTEL
VENICE, VENETO
Tel: (+39) 041 520 7022
www.bauervenezia.com

Venice is easily one of the most romantic cities in Italy and the perfect spot for a honeymoon. The Bauer is located on the Grand Canal and only minutes away from the centre. Most of the rooms have fantastic views over the lagoon and the city.

The Bauer Hotel is set overlooking the Baroque church of Campo San Moisè and just two minutes from St. Mark’s Square. This famous contemporary-styled deluxe hotel encompasses the true atmosphere of Venice.

The 91 luxurious guestrooms and 18 suites have recently been renovated in Venetian style and feature modern facilities perfectly blended into an old-world atmosphere.

When the weather allows, buffet breakfast is served on the Bauer Terrace, while in the evening cocktails can be enjoyed here along with spectacular views of the Grand Canal and the famous Venice landmark, the Chiesa della Salute. Guests also have access to the award-winning and rather wonderful gourmet ‘De Pisis’restaurant.

Citalia offers four nights at the five-star Bauer Hotel, Venice, in a deluxe double with breakfast and British Airways flights departing Gatwick to Venice from £525 pp.

Includes four nights for the price of three for Sun/Mon arrivals valid 27 July until 28 August 2008.

For more information on any of these offers please contact Citalia on (+44) 0871 664 0253 or go to www.citalia.com