Italy has long, rich history of culture and incredible castles. Dozens of private castles across Italy are now up for sale.

Dimitri Corti is the CEO of Lionard Luxury Real Estate, and says his firm currently has 37 castles for sale, but there are over 70 throughout Italy in their portfolio.

So what’s driving the abundance of private castles? Corti states, “The high maintenance costs and the increasing tax burden on properties have convinced many owners, whose properties have often been in the family for generations to evaluate sales opportunities aimed at the foreign market.”

Prices for a private castle ranges from €1,200 to €8,500 per square metre for properties of great charm and value, in perfect condition,. Some tof the castles for sale are already being used as a tourist accommodation, or as a farm.

Two, great historical figures from Dante’s Divine Comedy are Farinata degli Uberti (c. 1212-1264) who was one of the damned souls in Hell, and the Sienese noblewoman Sapia Salvani (c. 1210 -1278), who was one of the envious souls in Purgatory. Both these characters are associated with two castles in Tuscany – Castello di Sapia near Siena and Castello di Tavolese near Florence. Now you can purchase one of these famous castles and become part of history.

Piedmontis the city where yo uwill find the best value properties. For example, one of the most eye-catching castles in the Monferrato area is surrounded by a park with age-old trees, 5,962 square metres of perfectly-restored indoor space, and a sixteenth century guesthouse. The asking price for this castle is about €7 million.

Another example is Acquabella that is located in the gorgeous setting of the Vallombrosa Nature Reserve, near the Abbey of the same name. The castle has been restored to perfection, boasting a total of about 5,000 square metres of indoor space.

An early 20th-century castle found on the coast between Livorno and Castiglioncello, provide stunning sea views. This castle has 700 square metres of indoor space over four floors and two crenellated towers. The castle property features a lush park with palm trees, oaks, age-old pines and exotic plants.

On sale for for €2.5 million is another property – Castello di Sapia. This castle was named after a main character in an episode of Canto XIII of Dante’s Purgatory. Located near Monteriggioni, Italy, this castle is nestled in the timeless countryside, but does need a complete restoration.

For those with a bigger budget and wanting a luxury castle, there were several that range in price between €10 and €20 million or more.

In Lombardy, you’ll find several manor houses for sale, including an impressive castle near Milan. This luxurious castle (photo above) is surrounded by a circle of medieval walls, protected by a typical moat, with six crenellated towers, the castle has 8,800 square metres of indoor space with adjoining stables, chapel and private cemetery. The property features a beautiful, Italian-style garden, in addition to a large swimming pool set in a nineteenth-century bath.

One impressive is castle is Castello di Tavolese. This amazing private castle once belonged to the illustrious Farinata degli Uberti and Canigiani families, Petrarch’s mother belonging to the dynasty of the latter. The castle offers 7,676 square metres of indoor space and 62 hectares of parkland. There are also other buildings on site such as a church and several farmhouses.

If you are interested in learning more about these private castles for sale in Italy, please contact The Life of Luxury. Return to follow this luxury blog to read about other luxury real estate news and luxury properties for sale.

Located in the romantic city of Venice, Italy – The BAUERs has long been recognized as luxury hotel property with a strong family tradition that represents the true spirit of Venice.

Each year, The BAUERs hotel celebrates Christmas Eve by decorating this luxury hotel with beautiful and colorful glass ornaments. Hotel guests can experience the Christmas spirit and warmth of the winter season.

For a memorable fine dining experience, the BAUERs offers the ultimate Christmas feast that will tease and please your senses. You can enjoy the evening with a unique and delicious tasting dinner at the hotel’s own De Pisis Restaurant. There are two entree choices – a meat and a seafood menu.

The amazing meat menu starts with a duck pie that features fruit mustard from Cremona, and an incredible game terrine with pumpkin and pomegranate. The meal’s first course includes pheasant tortellini with consommé and black truffles and then followed by a delicious serving of roast beef with cream of Jerusalem artichokes, green pepper, and Balsamic vinegar sauce. This unbelievable holiday meal finishes with a truly, classic and irreplaceable Christmas Italian dessert – Panettone, with a tasty tangerine flan with pistachio ice cream.

The sensational seafood menu begins with fried and marinated mackerel and red prawns, and orange flavored chicory and cream chickpeas, and next a black ink tagliolini with cuttlefish and venus clams. The dinner’s main course is a fresh, almond-crusted fillet of turbot with broccoli and a seven-spice sauce, followed by a typical Christmas dessert, such as a chocolate log.

Each dinner menu pairs ideally with a post-dinner stroll around this luxurious hotel. Enjoy viewing the atmosphere and unmatched beauty of Christmas at The BAUERs.

The evening’s dress code requires a jacket.
When: December 24th and 25th, 2014
Where: Ristorante De Pisis at The BAUERs hotel in Venice, Italy
Cost: 120 euros per person, wines excluded ­ VAT included

Please contact The Life of Luxury to book your travel reservation at The BAUERs in Venice, Italy for their Christmas holiday dinner. Return often to read about other luxury travel packages and industry news by following this luxury blog.

The glittering Emerald Coast of Sardinia is a true Italian gem and a cozy retreat for celebrities and affluent visitors who enjoy the finer things in life. With crystal clear waters, ancient monoliths, rustic rolling farmlands and untouched natural splendor, it’s no wonder that Sardinia is such a sought after summer destination. Now you can enjoy sheer freedom and complete pleasure on the shoreline of Sardinia as you explore the sights and sounds of the Emerald.

Coast on your Quadski:
The Quadski is the new must have superyacht toy, a prestigious BMW engine, reactionary wheel retraction and high powered speeds allow this amphibious vehicle to explore both the land and the sea, meaning you can truly get off the beaten track. After your superyacht docks in a prestigious port or anchored off in a secluded bay, you can take to the waves and discover Sardinia’s elusive draw and secret spots.

Sweeping Sand Dunes:
The beaches of Sardinia offer golden sunlit cliffs laced in green, peach sands and sparkling jade colored waters that are always welcoming. Those wanting to embrace solitude, nature and adventure should head for the sweeping Piscinas Dunes near Arbus. The towering dunes cling to the sky, and the gentle sea breeze continues to carve and shape them throughout the day. The effect making you feel like you are visiting the dreamscape of Dali’s paintings as the landscape melts and curves and changes.

Dazzling Marine Grottos:
The dazzling Grotta di Nettuno in Alghero offers a spectacular sight for Quadski cruisers. The ruptured sea wall hiding the lovely town twinkles with illuminated rock formations and white foam crashing gently at the maze of hidden coves. The dramatic marine display of Neptune’s Grotto can be reached by passing through the luscious deep waters rippling beneath Porto Conte, which is an adventure in itself.

Sweet Pesto and Wine:
The shores of Olbia are the best place to stop for a spot of lunch with the Dolceacqua being a sumptuous choice for Sardinian zest. The award winning blend of rustic ingredients with a modern and innovative twist and plenty of sea fresh flavors are sure to satiate every appetite. Flaky sea bream, sweet, nutty homemade pesto and golden honeyed wines offer a bounty of beauty for the palate.

Virgin Beauty on La Maddalena Archipelago:
Breath-taking beauty, Mother Natures touch and shimmering sands and sea are waiting to embrace you in the heart of La Maddalena Archipelago. This incredible collection of islands has been declared a UNESCO heritage site and with its transparent waters, blushing rose colored sands and complete preservation of nature, it is a dream spot to explore on your Quadski.

Crumbling Walls of Castelsardo:
Enjoy a historic stop laced in Medieval magic and Italian charm at Castelsardo, voted one of the most beautiful villages in Italy. Explore the turrets, crumbling walls and majestic sea views of the castle, walk the winding alleys over spilling with hand woven baskets and other trinkets and admire the Neolithic tombs cut into the rock.

Summertime Glitz:
Il Portico in Porto Cervo is the place to be seen on your superyacht toy. This popular celebrity hangout offers stylish, intimate surroundings and incredible canapés. Admire the blissful views, relish in first-class company and let the glamor of the Emerald Coast sweep you away.

Ready to plan a fabulous vacation to Italy and the Sardinia coast and explore on your Quadski? Contact us today and we can help arrange your entire luxury travel itinerary. Return to read our luxury blog and stay on top of the latest luxury travel news.

To learn more about Quadski, please click here: http://www.gibbssports.com/

One of the most beautiful villas on the beautiful Castiglioncello coast of Tuscany is now for sale. This luxury villa in Italy was once owned by Alberto Sordi.

Castiglioncello is a famous region of Tuscany, Italy where numerous film directors and actors have lived, including Vittorio Gassman, Marcello Mastroianni and Alberto Sordi. Sordi bought the luxury Villa Corcos back in 1962 and sold it over thirty years later in 1997.

Villa Corcos has been the location of several popular movies, including Il Sorpasso of Dino Risi and Pellegrini d’Amore that featured a young Sofia Loren. The villa was first built in the eighteen hundreds for Italian painter – Vittorio Corcos.

This incredible Italy villa consists of a 9,700 sq ft main building. The villa overlooks the sea and features 6,500 sq ft of lodge terrace. In addition to the main house and lodge terrace building, the property is 43,000 sq ft in size.

Alberto Sordi sold the villa to an Italian entrepreneur, prior to his death in 2003. The new Villa Corcos owner completed a conservative restoration project. Sordi’s study room was left in tact and includes his portrait, his desk, in addition to many personal items and photographs.

According to Lionard Luxury Real Estate, the real estate company listing Villa Corcos, the luxury Italian villa will be listed for sale at about 15 million Euros. Currently, Lionard focuses on the luxury market in Italy and currently offers property portfolio of greater than 1,000 homes. The medium price for their portfolio ranges between 5 and 10 million Euros.

If you are interested purchasing the luxury Villa Corcos in Tuscany region of Italy, please contact The Life of Luxury. We can also assist you with buying or selling real estate almost anywhere in the world, as we work with only the best realtors. If you want to continue to read all about the latest news in the luxury real estate market, return and follow this luxury blog.

The Palio di Siena is a magnificent horse race and festival that’s held in the Italian city of Siena twice each year. Siena is located next to the famous Renaissance city of Florence.

The Palio in Siena is a special event for the city as every citizen is involved to some extent. Locally, The Palio di Siena is known as Il Palio. The event is a historical secular tradition tied to the origin of the Contrada of the city of Siena.

This popular event is witnessed by thousands of tourists and locals who crowd historic Il Campo square to view this incredible, cultural experience. See first hand as a horse and jockey, who represent various parts of Siena participate in the exciting horse race.

We can arrange a unique Palio in Siena, luxury travel package and that includes an apartment to view all of the festive action. It’s a VIP service experience. This exclusive apartment can hold up 10 people, and was actually rented by famous actress Kate Winslet during last year’s event.

The luxury Apartment offers the following amenities: Guided visits, De Luxe room in a Tuscan resort, breakfast and thermal experiences, plus a private car and driver at your disposal.

The Palio in Siena is a unique combination of culture, tradition and folklore. Beginning August 16, immerse yourself in two days of festivities that includes the unbelievable medieval duels between the numerous contrada teams.

After the horse races end, you can relax and enjoy the Italian culture with three days at a resort found in the hilly area of Val d’Orcia.

The Palio in Siena itinerary includes the following:

Friday August 15
– Late Afternoon Arrival at Siena (a transfer be be arranged by request from the arrival airport)
– Check in at the 5 stars Hotel in Siena
– Dinner at the Contrada preparing the Palio

Sat August 16
– Morning: 3h Guided Visit of the Contrada, the Church during the Horses Benediction, the Contrada Museum, Pinacoteca and Dome
– Lunch
– Back to the Hotel preparing for The Palio (Dress code: Formal)
– 5:30 p.m Transfer to a Private and Exclusive Apartment in Piazza del Campo which boasts the exclusive view on the Mossa, which is both the starting and ended point of the Palio’s Run
– 7:30 p.m Starting of the Palio’s run, Folkloristic Dinner in Piazza del Campo, watching the Horses Parade

Sun August 17
– Morning: Check out
– Transfer to the Resort in the Val d’Orcia
– Check in at the Resort: A XVII century palace with thermal pool hidden in the Tuscany’s hills
– Afternoon at your leisure
– Dinner in a suggested restaurant

Mon August 18
– Morning: Discovering Val d’Orcia villages, guided visits of Montepulcinao, Pienza, Montalcino (private driver at disposal)
– Lunch: Wine, typical Tuscan products and Olive oil tasting
– Afternoon at your leisure
– Dinner in a suggested prized restaurant

Tue August 19
– Morning: Discovering Val d’Orcia Villages: guided visits of Sorano, Pitigliano and Saturnia
– Afternoon leisure time
– Dinner in a suggested restaurant

Wed August 20
– Check out of your hotel
– Transfer to Rome (different destinations are available upon request)
– Flight back to your home country

If you interested in experiencing the wonders of The Palio in Siena in Italy, contact The Life of Luxury and one of our VIP travel concierge specialists can book your entire itinerary. Want to learn about more luxury travel opportunities, then follow this luxury blog each day.

The magical Italian city of Venice is often called the “Queen of the Adriatic.” Venice is recognized as one of the most romantic, if not the most romantic city in the world.

When one hears the word Venice, it conjures up visions of an endless fairytale of canals, a romantic gondola ride and incredible building architecture. Venice is also known for luxury shopping, local markets and numerous fine dining restaurants.

The city’s history is rich in culture. Each view from a narrow bridge or stroll down the piazzas tells a unique story. So how should you spend your time discovering Venice, Italy. Many people spend just a day from the mainland of Italy, but there is much to see and do.

We wanted to share the perfect way to spend three days exploring Venice. You’ll fall in love at first sight and want to immediately make plans to return someday soon.

For those you are making plans to visit this Spring and love art, you are in luck. Venice is hosting all of its major art exhibitions this season. The art exhibits include the Fortuny Museum, the exhibition of Carlo Fontana in Palazzo Franchetti and Venice Art for All Haris Epaminondas Chapter IV. Cyprian artist Haris Espaminonda also makes his first Italy art exhibit in Venice.

There’s no better place to start your Venice stay than visiting St. Mark’s Square and its incredible Cathedral. St. Mark’s Square is also known as Piazza San Marco and is the primary, public square of Venice. The amazing Diocesan Museum of Sacred Art displays a wide variety of very unusual artistic pieces. One of the best places to take in the famous Grand Canal of Venice is from the terrace of the De Pisis. To view the Bellini’s famous triptych and Titian’s magnificent ‘Assumption of the Virgin Mary’ stop by the church of the Franciscan Friars. End the day with a fine dining experience at the Michelin-starred Quadri Restaurant located in Saint Mark’s Square.

Begin your second day with a delicious breakfast at one of many local eateries. Then it’s off to the Veneto Region of Italy with a short train ride to Padua. Be sure to see the world-renowned Scrovegni Chapel frescoes that were created

by Giotto. Visit St. Anthony’s Cathedral and stroll through the beautiful botanical gardens, plus view Galileo’s operating table. You can dine at the trattoria “Da Gianni” or head back to Saint Mark’s Square for numerous restaurant choices.

On day three, hop on a private boat and head out to the Islands of the lagoon. Explore this amazing place and be taken back in time. One of the most secret islands is San Francesco del Deserto. On the island of Torcello, you can dine and enjoy the panoramic views of Venice. For additional views and a little exercise, be sure to climb up to the top of the beautiful bell tower. Upon your return to Venice, stop by the busy Rialto Market which is right next to famous Rialto Bridge.

To have a true VIP experience, be sure to stay at The Bauers luxury hotel while in Venice. This elegant hotel can be found just a few steps away from the main city center of Venice.

If you want to live in a dream for a few days, nothing beats The Bauers Hotel, located in the heart of Venice, a mere two minutes walking distance from the city’s St. Mark’s Square, shopping, and cultural center. Also nearby is the magical Doge’s palace, which best symbolizes Venice. Doge’s palace is also located in St. Mark’s Square, close by the famous Ponte dei Sospiri.

A luxury stay at The Bauers hotel provides its guests with many privileges such as passes to the Pinault Foundation, the various civic museums and access to the Venice Casino. In addition, receive benefits in some of the luxury hotel’s partner boutiques located around Venice.

The Bauers hotel makes for a perfect stay while in scenic Venice. Itself offering classic architecture and opulence.

To make plans to visit Venice, Italy and stay at The Bauers luxury hotel near Saint Mark’s Square, contact one of our travel concierge specialists at The Life of Luxury. Continue keeping up with the best luxury travel news by following our luxury blog.

Spring is here and the arrival of the luxury Grand Hotel Tremezzo re-opening on Lake Como is upon us. First built in 1910, the luxury hotel in Italy underwent a 3 year renovation project that consisted of a complete overhaul of the hotel’s 92 rooms.

The incredible Grand Hotel Tremezzo has been a favorite destination for the many of the world’s most affluent people, from famous celebrities to noted dignitaries. This iconic palace hideaway offers the ultimate in luxury living.

This season, the Grand Hotel Tremezzo will offer 30 newly-renovated Lake View Prestige Rooms plus the new signature Historic Suite Aurelia. This unique lakeside palace serves up memorable views of the Riviera delle Azalee, Bellagio, plus incredible Grigne mountains.

Hotel guests will enjoy wrought-iron balconies that provide amazing water views of majestic Lake Como. The luxury rooms are decorated with custom furniture that have been created by local artisans. The decor has also been accented with finest, local silk. You’ll find gorgeous Verona marble in each bathroom. The glamorous style is truly magnificent!

Suite Aurelia becomes the latest “Historic Suite” at the Grand Hotel Tremezzo and pays tribute to one of the hotel’s own Grand Dames. Turning 90 years old this year, Aurelia is respected and beautiful member of owning family, and has an elegant style and well known for her sophistication.

In the Suite Aurelia, which is the fourth Historic Suite that the hotel has added, discover treasured antiques from her own personal collection. Examples are a beautiful 18th Century oil painting, incredible baroque mirror in addition to a writing desk.

Each Historic Suite at the luxury Grand Hotel Tremezzo celebrates the “Great Ladies” who have graced the Italian property. For example, Suite Greta was named after famous actress Greta Garbo, who mentioned the luxury hotel in her popular movie – “Grand Hotel.”

For hotel guests staying in one of the eight, amazing Rooftop Suites, they will experience the ultimate indulgence and VIP service of a private butler service. For those who want a true VIP experience, combine all 8 suites into your very own, opulent Rooftop Penthouse.

Each of the Rooftop Suites offers a private terrace and outdoor heated Jacuzzi. There’s no better place to take in the breathtaking Lake Como views and relax in luxury style.

The renovation at the luxury Italian hotel also consisted of updates to the luxurious T Spa. Indulge in luxury style by trying a spa treatment in the T Spa Suite. It even comes with a private couple’s massage room. T Spa Suite features a stunning whirlpool tub to relax your worries away, in addition to a steam bath, with contrast shower and cascade jets, plus a sauna.

For some of the best fine dining found anywhere, choose from any of the hotel’s five restaurants. Discover Italian cuisine from the culinary maestro Gualtiero Marchesi. Marchesi is well recognized as Italy’s most celebrated modern Chef. Along with Executive Chef Osvaldo Presazzi, Maestro Marchesi’s offers signature dishes such as his world-renowned “Risotto con Foglia d’oro,” or Saffron Risotto topped with Pure Gold Leaf.

If interested in booking a dream vacation to Italy and stay at the iconic Grand Hotel Tremezzo on Lake Como, please contact The Life of Luxury and one of our travel concierge specialists can assist you. To stay on top of the latest VIP travel news, come back often and follow this luxury blog.

The luxurious Palladio Hotel and Spa is located on Venice Giudecca Island in Italy and provides guests spectacular views across the water to the world famous Doge’s Palace.

Venice is a magical place with secluded islands, winding alleyways, incredible Italian cuisine and of course, the gondolas that cruise down the romantic canals of Venice.

But a hidden gem of Venice is adjacent to the Palladio Hotel & Spa and Villa Giudecca Island. This beautiful, secluded oasis awaits those luckily enough to visit it. The reward is one of the most romantic spots found anywhere in the world – the BAUERs Venetian Garden.

The magnificent Venetian Garden is wonderful way to enjoy film screenings, relaxing picnics, as well as al fresco dining.

Francesca Bortolotto Possati is the current owner of the Bauer Hotel group and has made it a priority to revive this secret garden that is relatively hidden. She has been inspired by the beauty of the gardens with traditional English flowers and the oldest magnolia tree in Venice.

For an unforgettable experience, The Bauers Palladio Hotel & Spa offers its guests the unique chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the BAUERs Venetian Garden and indulge in a dining experience of Italian cuisine under the trees. the lush garden is adorned with flowers read to bloom this Spring, including: narcissuses, tulips and crocuses.

Later this summer the garden will come alive with plants such is lily of the valley, lilacs, climbing white roses plus and a gorgeous, lavender-lined pagoda.

Lounge in the garden with deliciously prepared baskets – al fresco style. The Palladio Hotel & Spa also provides cookery lessons that are offered by the hotel’s talented chefs. Be taught using traditional culinary methods and utilize fresh, classic Venetian ingredients from the nearby Rialto market.

The BAUERs Venetian Garden is an oasis for the senses. Children can play amongst warm sunshine, fresh air, and lush green grass of the garden grounds. The beauty of the garden flowers and trees is stunning. Visitors can also try various activities such as rowing and gondola lessons. Or take a private boat and cruise around the many, hidden Venetian islands.

For mothers who desire a pampering experience, enjoy a day at the hotel luxury spa. Choose from a variety of body treatments that will both relax and rejuvinate. If you want to keep in the spirit of enjoying the natural outdoors, then try a luxury massage in the garden in a linen tent under the breezy magnolia tree. It doesn’t get any better than that – a true VIP style experience!

For a little artistic experience, how about a fun picnic while watching outdoor screenings of various classic English and International films. Several noted ones include Alice in Wonderland and Brideshead Revisited. During the warmer summer months, the movie screenings will be held both indoors, in addition to outside in the property’s garden.

Rates at luxury Palladio Hotel & Spa begin at 400 Dollars.

To make plans and stay at the Palladio Hotel & Spa in Venice, Italy and visit the BAUERs Venetian Garden, contact The Life of Luxury for help in booking your reservations. You want to keep up with the latest luxury travel news? Then follow our luxury blog.

Positano is a hillside village found on the scenic Amalfi Coast (Costiera Amalfitana), in Campania, Italy.

The stunning Amalfi Coast covers approximately 50km along the southern side of the Sorrentine Peninsula. The popular area is famous for the iconic town of Sorrento.

How would you like to own your own luxury house on the Amalfi Coast? Now you can for a price the of one and a half million Euro (USD $2,025,000).

The luxury house features a gorgeous terrace that overlooks the sea.  Sit back with a cocktail or coffee and enjoy beautiful, evening sunsets over the island of Li Galli and the Faraglioni of Capri.

Just 10 short minutes from the center of Positano, you are close to a large beach that offers boat rental, diving school and terrific dining choices from several restaurants.

Want to take a day trip to the Capri? No worries, just hop on the ferry and enjoy everything Capri offers.

Positano is centrally located and you can easily reach the scenic towns of Sorrento (17 Kms), Amalfi 915 Kms) and Ravello (22 Kms).

You’re also close to both, local shops and restaurants.

This amazing Positano house size is 956 square meters in size, including the terrace that overlooks the sea.

If you are interested in learning more about this luxury  home for sale in Positano, Italy on the Amalfi Coast – please contact The Life of Luxury.

Boutique hotels have seen a dramatic increase in popularity all around the world, particularly in Europe.

People don’t always want to stay in a standard hotel but experience the culture of a country and staying in a luxury, boutique hotel. The allure of boutique hotels is the special attention given to detail in all their amenities and offered services.

So we’ve hand-picked a unique and independent selection of some of the most beautiful, charming and romantic boutique hotels in Italy. Italy is known as the center of western civilization, and continues to draws millions of visitors a year to explore its rich culture and history.

We hope you enjoy the following list and can truly experience Italy one if its boutique hotels, luxury hotel hideaways or romantic Italian retreats.

First is the Jk Place Capri, which is a gorgeous property set upon the cliffs and built high up, directly looking out to the sea. The ambiance of this resort is reminiscent of a chic, away-from-it-all backdrop that breathes tranquil bliss without ever actually leaving the urban area. Jk Place Capri feature just 22 available rooms, so plan well ahead. We hear that room #22 offers the best views overlooking the sea. With staff members like family, this resort is the ideal home away from home. Although more suited to couples and lovers looking for seclusion, JK Place Capri also offers a “chill out” venue for those traveling alone.

The Hotel de Russie (photo above) can be found the heart of Rome. It’s a five-star luxury haven that will cater to your every wants and needs. The staff will go that extra mile to indulge you even more. Despite the enormous size of the hotel with 122 total rooms, the Hotel de Russie hotel’s staff and attendants maintain a high standard of personal service. For vacationers who belong to the “lonely hearts club band”, find your way to The Stravinskij Bar for a chance to meet interesting and famous personalities. Le Jardin de Russie’s Pasta-Tina de Ceci con Gamberi is a must-try! One last piece of advice for dieters, celebrated chefs Fulvio Pierangelini and Nazzareno Menghini will make it hard for you to curb your appetite. Enjoy!

The Castello di Vicarello is an out-of-town “Castle in the Clouds.” If you are gifted with patience, then your dedication will not go unrewarded. Upon entry towards the Castello di Vicarello castle’s manor, you will drive through beautiful vineyards and olive groves. As you approach, you’ll realize a magnificent stone building that is reminiscent of medieval times. There are only 6 suites available for accommodation. It would be best to make travel arrangements beforehand, that way you get to pick which suite you’ll stay in. If it’s an arrangement just for two, set your sights on the Sassi as it’s perfect for couples with romantic inclinations.

The Chiesina boutique hotel is another choice if you’re going with your entire family and money is not a problem. We highly suggest you stay at the Chiesina. This 2-story mini-castle will make you feel like royalty indeed as your suite will be catered with wine straight from the vineyard and fruit bowls served at your behest or on schedule. Though the attendants here are warm and friendly, be warned that they’ll be more likely to spoil and indulge you with your vices rather than your virtues!

The Principe Forte Dei Marmi is the ideal place to be to soak up the sun’s rays. This chic hotel definitely brings a new meaning to a simple relaxing vacation. Featuring 28 pad-inspired rooms to choose from, we recommend a corner room which offers access to the best views. Open-clad, sun-kissed tan and beach ready is the usual dress code anytime, anywhere. While the 67 Sky Lounge hotel bar on the rooftop is the perfect place to unwind (unless you prefer a poolside bed massage), in high summer, live DJ’s reign and transform the hotel into one big party.

The Il Salviatino hotel sets high on the hills overlooking Florence. This 15^th century inspired mansion is a beautiful mix of exposed brickworks, classic design and striking architecture. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by your dedicated ambassador to look after your every wish. Choose from 45 luxurious rooms. Among boutique hotels, this one is not for those traveling on a budget, but their signature cocktail (classic dry martini shaken to perfection) is surely worth its weight in gold.

The Hotel Cipriani offers its guests 79 suites and rooms that feature open lagoon views. Imagine cruising through Venice on board the Cipriani’s private boat, Shirley, which is available upon reservation. Not in the mood for a boat ride? Try their Olympic-sized swimming pool instead which is the first and only in Central Venice.

The Bvlgari Hotel organizes special tours and excursions to Italy’s most exclusive destinations. Bored of standard modes of traveling. Let the Bvlgari Hotel help. Choose from limousine, yacht or private plane. For pasta lovers, try your palate at Chef Andrea Ferrero’s classic Italian cuisines which are simply to die for!

The Maison La Minervetta hotel is a cliffside beauty that offers 12 rooms, each with sea-facing fantastic views. To accentuate the hotel’s quirky nautical appeal, almost all rooms come with bedrooms with medium-sized boat models of different sorts For those who travel in pairs and staying away from the public, 200 meters away from the hotel is La Tonnarella where private beach reservations are available upon request. There’s even stairs from the hotel that lead directly down to the sea. Be prepared for the climb back though!

If you would like to book your next vacation to Italy and stay at one of the above mentioned luxury boutique hotels, please contact The Life of Luxury and we assist with your travel reservation.

Rated as Italy’s number one wine by Liv-Ex, Masseto 2010 has just been released for sale to the Italian and international markets.

Masseto 2010 is a cru wine and was exclusively produced merlot grown in a Masseto vineyard of just 7 hectares in Italy. Masseto has rightfully become one of the world’s most outstanding wines.

Ornellaia Production Director and Winemaker Axel Heinz was quoted, “Cool weather conditions in 2010 resulted in the wine’s remarkably elegant expression and ultra-rich aromatics. It appears a deep, near-opaque red, and the nose exhibits great depth of fruit highlighted by refined hints of spice and mineral.”

Inside the winemaking cellar, each individual vineyard parcel is personally vinified separately by Axel Heinz himself. The Merlot is next exposed to the important process of time. The separate lots of Merlot grapes next mature for 12 months in new barriques.

After the blend is assembled, the wine is returned back to a barrel where it is stored for 12 additional months. Once completed, Masseto ages in the bottle for another 12 months.

Then after three full years after first harvested, Masseto 2010 is ready for release and to be enjoyed by wine lovers around the world.

Masseto is produced in very limited quantities and through a rigorous quality-selection process, the end product ensures the highest-possible quality of wine.

Masseto continue to achieve ackowledgements in the wine industry. After only twenty years since its first vintage back in 1986, several of the key awards includes: Wine Spectator awarded Masseto 2001 its highest score, 100/100, and Wine Advocate gave 99/100 to Masseto 2006. Also, Masseto consistently achieves high rankings in Italy’s main wine guides, Gambero Rosso, Espresso, Veronelli, Duemilavini AIS, and Luca Maroni.

With the release of their latest wine – Masseto 2010, we expect the string of much deserved awards to continue for Masseto.

If you are interested in purchasing a bottle of the new Masseto 2010 cru wine from Italy, please contact The Life of Luxury and one of our product specialists can assist you.