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By Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande September 7, 2020 in Destination: family-friendly villas, Destination: Italy, Family Travel, Food and Drink, Travel Tips No Comments

Lecce : artistic and culinary treasures

Deep into the heel of the Italian boot lies a wonderful Apulian gem–Lecce, the heart of the Salento area famous for its pristine beaches and remarkable culture. The land of olive groves and ancient “masserie” is especially popular for its very own interpretation of the Baroque architectural style of the late 16th-century, the “Barocco Leccese”. Sought after for its churches (there are more than forty!), piazzas, small courts and noble palaces, Lecce is also home to a Roman amphitheater dating back to the Augustan age. Flowers, fruit trees, cherubs and

By Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande July 1, 2020 in Destination: Spain, Family Travel, Travel News No Comments

Spanish Mediterranean Villa Holidays Get the Green Light!

Spanish Villas

Yes, finally the uncertainty is over. The EU is open to travellers from within European Union including Brits. What’s more, if you’re travelling from the U.K. then from July 6th, 2020 there is no quarantine when you return home, thanks to new air bridges established to safe countries including our favourite luxe villa holiday destinations of Spain & Italy. Both destinations have a top ‘Green’ rating according to the U.K.’s new traffic light rating system. So, your summer holiday is go! …and nothing beats the privacy, security, and style of

By Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande February 13, 2020 in Destination: France, Destination: Italy, Destinations, Family Travel, Food and Drink No Comments

Five of the Finest Villas in Europe for Wine Lovers

Enjoy a holiday at the heart of some of Europe’s best wine growing regions, staying at one of our unique luxury villas. Each has been selected not only for their exceptional location, close to vineyards and within stunning landscapes, but for facilities too, like beautiful swimming pools and stylish kitchens.

By Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande October 9, 2019 in Destination: Italy, Destinations, Family Travel, Travel Tips No Comments

DESTINATION ITALY: 5 of our all-time favourite luxe properties

Italy is one of our most popular destinations. Understandably, when you consider the beauty and magnificence of the country’s landscapes; the sophistication and elegance of its cities; the charm of the countryside villages; the artistic heritage: and the wonderful cuisine. The list of captivating reasons to visit Italy could be almost endless, but how do you choose a property for your holiday, retreat or special occasion? To help you navigate our curated collections of villas, mansions, farmhouses and retreats we like to highlight our favourite properties from different destinations. This

By Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande September 23, 2019 in Destination: Italy, Experiences, Food and Drink, Travel Tips No Comments

5 Instagram-friendly spots to eat well in Milan

Milan is full of excellent spots to grab a bite. Here’s some of the best places to have breakfast, lunch, aperitivo, dinner and brunch…and take beautiful pictures to post on Instagram too! Gelsomina (Via Carlo Tenca, 5 – tra Repubblica e Porta Venezia) it is an hidden gem. This bakery inspired by southern Italy style and cooking (Sicily and Campania in the lead!) offers a great variety of exquisite pastries and sweets, from ricotta-filled cannoli to pistachio croissants and Neapolitan sfogliatelle. You cross the threshold and immediately feel in a

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