It’s tough when your days begin with a decision. Do we drive north toward the Adriatic or south toward the Ionian Sea? Shall we have pranzo (lunch) in a hill town or along the shore? And what marvels await us along the way? This was how our days began at the Bar Colucci in the piazza of the quiet town of Crispiano in the heart of Puglia.

Location, location, location. One of the most important factors in choosing a hotel is its location. It may be remote, almost secret, or it may be highly recognizable – it all depends on what you are looking for in a specific trip. Here, let’s focus on two gems located in the heart of some of the most beautiful cities: Florence (Rocco Forte Hotey Savoy) and Rome (Rocco Forte Hotel de Russie). Andiamo!

Sicily, with its timeless charm and miles of captivating coastline, is irresistible. The sun-drenched cuisine, bursting with goodness and local character, equally ensures you return. Italy’s renowned chef, Fulvio Pierangelini, is the Creative Director of Food for Rocco Forte Hotels and has perfected Sicily’s most-loved dishes for the menu of the palazzo’s spectacular new restaurant, Florio, nestled in the leafy grounds of newly-opened Villa Igiea. Here, he shares with us why Sicilian cuisine will always have his heart.

Despite a global pandemic, investors, decorators, and visionary hoteliers have been busy preparing for a new wave of authentic, luxury hotels throughout Italy. Here are some of our favorite properties we can’t wait for you to discover.

We have scouted the country from the top of the boot to the tip of the toe for inspiring and unforgettable ways to make every trip impress itself forever on the minds and hearts of its guests. Here are just seven of our favorite Italian experiences. 

Just returned from an awe-inspiring trip hiking around the Dolomite Mountains and fell in love with this beautiful region of Italy. The Dolomites are located in between Venice and Innsbruck airport, just north of the famous Prosecco region.

My husband and I take a week-long trip alone every July. It’s very good for the marriage given the fact that we have four young sons. This year, we decided to explore some parts of Italy we’d never been to: Lake Garda and the Dolomite Mountains.

Italy consistently ranks among the top travel lists of globetrotters and it’s not hard to see why. The endless pursuit of “La Dolce Vita”…perfectly sun-ripened sweet tomatoes, soft white mozzarella cheese, and lazy, wine soaked lunches. The country that resembles a boot has an abundance of culture, charm, and history making it not just a “one and done” travel proposition, but a country that beckons for many a return visit.