Everyone has probably fantasized about living in a real castle. With towers, drawbridges, moats, and fairytale gardens. Across Italy, from north to south, you'll find the most original and splendid interpreter of these unique buildings. Over the centuries, thousands of wonderful castles have been transformed into exclusive resorts where you can sleep, relax, and explore in royal splendor. Here is a sneak preview:
Torre di Bellosguardo
Nowhere in the world is a name more evocative and romantic than Bellosguardo, meaning “Nice look” —difficult to properly translate into English as so many Italian expressions can be. This hill, opposite the hilltop town of Fiesole, is deemed by many to have the best view over Florence, the jewel of the Renaissance. This is, for example, where Galileo Galilei contemplated the stars. The Florentine mansion dates back to the 12th century and overlooks the most breathtaking view of the city. From its wide windows you feel like you could touch the Brunelleschi’s dome of Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral or the Palazzo Vecchio tower. The owners belong to the noble Franchini Family and the tight winding roads that lead you up to Bellosguardo hill are one of a kind. In walking distance you can visit Florence Nightingale’s house, Villa Colombaia, where who is considered the first nurse of history – the lady with the lamp- was born from an English family.
Castello di Spessa
Welcome to the Castello di Spessa, once frequented by the original Latin lover Giacomo Casanova himself. The setting in one of the most bewitching areas of Friuli Venezia-Giulia makes this castle-turned-hotel the ultimate escape. Once a luxurious noble residence of the 12th century, the castle overlooks the vineyards of Capriva Del Friuli. The rooms are furnished with Venetian furniture of the 18th and 20th centuries. As a guest, you can take a guided tour of the medieval cellars, complete with tastings of delicious local wines.
Castello Orsini di Nerola
A medieval castle perched on a hill a few miles from Rome, Castello Orsini of Nerola is now a refined 5-star hotel. If you are in the mood for romance, this castle is the ideal place for a special mini break. Spectacular views of the Sabine countryside await from the ideally placed outdoor swimming pool and jacuzzi.
Castello dal Pozzo
The former house of Marquise Dal Pozzo d’Annone is a magnificent location to relax and unwind, only a stone’s throw away from Malpensa Airport of Milan. Containing 45 rooms, 3 restaurants, a choice of bars, and outdoor pool, the luxury hotel on Maggiore Lake reflects the elegance of the Neo-Gothic era. In the 19th century Maggiore Lake was frequented by the European aristocracy and even today one can perceive the romantic charm of its past. Guests are immersed in the timeless atmosphere and pampered by the shimmering blue of the lake and the luxuriantly green surrounding hills. Legend has it that a ghost roams the castle - the daughter of a nobleman who ruled the area in the 1400s was locked in one of the towers after trying to elope with a man her father had not chosen for her. She died in the tower and is fabled to appear in the window as if looking out toward the lake for her long-lost love.
Castello di Spedaletto
Visitors can choose from an amazing number of things to do over a weekend stay at Castello di Spedaletto, nestled in the phenomenal Val d’Orcia, close to Siena. Pienza is within walking distance and Bagno Vignoni, the medieval thermal bath city St. Caterina da Siena visited, is nearby. Monticchiello, perhaps one of the most unknown spectacular villages in Tuscany, is just a few miles away. And the Val d’Orcia, painted with the crete (clays) of Siena, are perfect for biking to enjoy its vineyards. Whatever you decide to explore, you will never forget this trip!
Castello di Guarene
The ancient Castle of Guarene, built at the behest of the nobleman Carlo Giacinto Roero, is today a luxury 5-stars-hotel, rich in history. Enjoy SPA, restaurant, garden, wellness center, and panoramic view that embraces a wide territory of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, including the Alps and the Langhe, with its famous vineyards.
Castello di Calatabiano
Calatabiano Castle is a spiritual place, a treasure of the Sicilian island. At the top of a hill more than 700 feet tall, the castle embodies an ancient Byzantine fortress that boasts 2,300 years of history. Even reaching the site creates memories, whether you walk the winding path or ride the glass lift. Nearby lies San Marco of Calatabiano beach that extends along the south coastal area between the mouth of the Alcantara and Fiumefreddo rivers. The sunsets here have inspired locals and villagers for millennia.
Barbara Benzoni
Barbara Benzoni was born in Milan and lives between Rome and Tuscany. She is devoted to USA, the land of courage and innovation. She’s Peter's super-lucky mum and Ale's wife. Cinema, art, good food and only beautiful things are the themes of her existence. With a degree in Italian literature and a Masters in Sports Management she can both enjoys books and basketball matches. In 25 years she has been organizing sport events all over the world and she’s been lucky enough to meet the greatest champs ever. Curiosity in everyday life and people are her drivers. Her personal icon is Mohammed Ali : "It's not bragging if you can back it up".