Karen Kristin from Katlin Travel Group recently traveled with Waterstone to two beautiful and diverse regions of Italy. The magical vistas found in the Dolomites and the warm breezes and sunny beaches of Sanremo in Liguria are certainly “less-traveled” Italian destinations that advisors might consider for their clients.
Corvara – The Dolomites
Corvara, located at the foot of the mighty Mt. Sassongher in the Badia region of the Dolomites, just a two-hour scenic drive from Venice, is a lovely village to walk and experience the local Ladin culture. The Costa family owns and manages the five-star luxury hotel, La Perla, in Corvara, providing a rich, cultural experience, warm, heartfelt hospitality and all the conveniences of modern luxury travel.
La Perla has 54 charming rooms, the most spacious being the Romantik Rooms with balconies and stunning views. Like the public areas, the rooms have an authentic feel, blending antique furnishings with modern heated bathroom floors and luxury linens.
Karen Kristin from Katlin Travel Group recently traveled with Waterstone to two beautiful and diverse regions of Italy. Here is her report.
Foodies will love La Perla. Its three restaurants, boasting organic and locally sourced foods, include La Stua de Michil, a Michelin-star restaurant headed by chef Nicolo Laera. I wholeheartedly recommend a cooking class with chef Nicolo to create local Ladin dishes, which, when purchased off the menu, contribute funds to the Costa Family Foundation, supporting the rights of the world’s underprivileged.
Regardless of the season, the beauty of the Dolomites makes Corvara a skier, hiker or cyclist’s dream. Our “moderate” summer hike with guide Anatoli led us to some breathtaking views and concluded with a delicious lunch at a local farmhouse, sampling homemade goat cheese. The Wellness Center at La Perla is a welcome retreat after any outdoor activity, and clients will be rejuvenated by its relaxing atmosphere, natural products and holistic massages.
The Dolomites make Corvara a skier, hiker or cyclist’s dream.
Not-to-be-missed activities include an entertaining and educational tour of Mahatma, La Perla’s wine cellar with over 30,000 bottles, and the Costa family’s 600-year-old ancestral home across the street from the hotel.
Sanremo – The Italian Riviera of Flowers
A 45-minute scenic drive along the Mediterranean coast from Nice to Sanremo sets the scene beautifully for a relaxing stay at the Royal Hotel Sanremo. The sea vistas and poolside lunch comprising fresh salads, seafood, homemade pasta and pizza were a delightful introduction to this culinary-rich region.
Built as the winter home for European aristocracy in 1872, the Royal Hotel Sanremo has a history in keeping with the grandeur of its architecture, furniture and artwork on its walls. It has 126 beautifully decorated rooms and suites, three restaurants serving everything from haute cuisine to simple local fare and a heated outdoor sea-water swimming pool with a children’s section overlooking the Mediterranean.
Exploring the medieval city: The guided tour of Sanremo uncovers historic treasures in the surrounding villages.
Sanremo is a charming seaside town to explore at your leisure, but don’t miss the guided tour that uncovers authentic gastronomical and historic treasures in the surrounding villages. Snack on local cheeses, salami, meats, wine and the best Italian gelato while meeting the families who have been serving these treasures for generations.
The Royal Hotel Sanremo has 126 rooms and suites, each with views of the Mediterranean sea.
Nearby is The Mall Sanremo Luxury Outlets offering a unique shopping experience. It is home to some 22 luxury fashion brands offering 35 to 70 percent savings on last season’s fashion lines. Be sure to pass on additional My Luxury Wallet benefits to your clients, only available through travel advisors.
Remember, less than an hour from Nice and Monte Carlo, Sanremo is an excellent pre- or post-cruise destination, as well as a great shore excursion.
The Royal Hotel Sanremo has three restaurants serving classic, traditional and authentic cuisine. Shown here is the setting for breakfast on the terrace.
Contact Lynne Partridge (lynne@waterstonemarketing.com) at Waterstone for special requests, including VIP amenities provided on behalf of the advisor at both resorts.
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