One of the most desirable travel destinations on the planet is the Côte d’Azur, also referred to as the French Riviera. It is without a doubt one of the most beautiful places in the world.  Thousands upon thousands of visitors descend on it every year, including many of the most famous of celebrities.  While summer is of course the best time to visit, any time of the year is really good as the Cote d’Azur has excellent weather almost year round.

It is also home to some of the greatest towns as well. Such as Cannes, Nice, St. Tropez and of course the principality of Monaco. In addition to Cannes being the home of the world famous film festival, it also offers an array of great beach activities. Then there’s Nice, which is actually the official capital of the region. There are almost always various concerts to enjoy along with its pebble beach, cospmopolitan bars, cafes and restaurants.

St. Tropez is generally recognized as the playground of the rich and famous, where millionaires, models and global jetsetters spend a great deal of time. Last but certainly not least, we have Monaco. Lovingly referred to as the toy kingdom due its tiny size, it is also home to some of the most grandiose casinos in the world, making it a gamblers’ paradise. Its tax haven status makes it an extraordinary luxurious place to visit with many fine hotels, shops and restaurants.

Perhaps some of the lesser publicized, but equally magnificent places in the Côte d’Azur are the villages of Cannes. These villages are definitely worth a visit:

St. Paul de Vence – It is one of the oldest and most historic towns in all the Cote d’Azur, renowned for its contemporary as well as modern art museums. For a great part of the year it is packed shoulder to shoulder with tourists.

Vence – This is a town that is inland on the Côte d’Azur. Throughout the years it has been quite popular with poets, writers and various other artists. It is surrounded by hills with magnificent views downward towards the Mediterranean. During the winter, it enjoys a mild climate due to hills protecting it from the cold. It is also richly steeped in history.

Mougins – About a quarter hour or so from Cannes itself, Mougins should definitely be on anyone’s to do list when visiting the Côte d’Azur. It is a truly beautiful medieval village. As is the case with most of the Côte d’Azur, Mougins has also been a place frequented by artists. It is also replete with pines, olives and Cypress trees. If you are there during the Cannes Film Festival, don’t be surprised to run into various Hollywood celebrities.

Grasse – Also known as the capital of perfume, this splendid village is home to a magnificent cathedral founded in the 11^th century. It also has other historic churches along with some great museums. Another must see while in the Côte d’Azur.

So there you have it, there are plenty of reasons why you should include the beautiful Côte d’Azur villages on your must see travel destination list.

By Becky

]]> http://www.thevillabook.com/blog/index.php/beautiful-villages-cote-dazur/feed/ 0 http://www.thevillabook.com/blog/index.php/travels-southern-tuscany/ http://www.thevillabook.com/blog/index.php/travels-southern-tuscany/#comments Fri, 06 Apr 2012 18:41:06 +0000 Susie http://www.thevillabook.com/blog/?p=253 Some of our loveliest Tuscan villas are situated in the beautiful Val d’Orcia, south of Siena.  For me personally, this region of Tuscany has so much to offer, with its stunning countryside and wonderful fortified medieval villages like Montepulciano, Pienza and San Quirico d’Orcia to explore, not to mention Siena itself.  Umbria is also within an easy drive, with the hilltop town Orvieto, with its magnificent cathedral, just over 30 miles from Montepulciano.  Or the ‘fairytale’ town of Pitigliano, definitely worth a visit and visible for miles from its dramatic position, perched high on a plateau, still in Tuscany but close to the Lazio border.

We are picking out just a few highlights to share.

Where to Stay:

Villa Val d’Orcia

Villa Vaiano

For a charming property, as well as being a great base for exploring  the hill towns and natural beauty of southern Tuscany and Umbria, look no further than the recently renovated Villa Vaiano.  Here you can enjoy rural Italian life in an area practically unaffected by tourism. Located  between two lakes: Lago di Chiusi, which is clearly visible from the property, and the larger Lago Trasimeno, which is only a short distance away, the towns of Chiusi, Sarteano and Chianciano are visible from the garden area, as well as Monte Amiata and Monte Cetona, two of the highest peaks in Tuscany. This villa has been divided into two independent units, one for each floor, offering the possibility to rent just the ground floor (for 6 guests), or the two floors together (for 10 people).  Whether it is for six or ten people guests will have the exclusive use of the grounds and swimming pool.

Locanda del San Francesco, Montepulciano

If you are just passing through this area and looking for somewhere to stay the night, we stayed recently at this absolutely charming Locanda , dating from the 14^th century, and situated right in the heart of the beautiful, fortified hill town of Montepulciano.  It only has four bedrooms so we did suggest we could rent it as a villa …. but, unsurprisingly,  it is often fully booked!  The lovely owners, Cinzia and Luca, welcome you on arrival with a glass of wine, and will also provide light evening meals on request.

Vista Amiata,  near San Casciano dei Bagni

This impressive English owned villa, is situated on a hillside, with far reaching views over the Val di Chiana countryside to nearby Monte Amiata, particularly beautiful at sunset while having a drink, or dining under the pergola covered dining area. The medieval, walled town of San Casciano dei Bagni with its thermal springs dating back to Etruscan and Roman times is just 7 kilometres  away. The villa dates from the 18^th century and has been beautifully renovated to accommodate one or two families (there are kitchen and living rooms on both floors).  We loved the first floor main bathroom with the huge circular bath!

Where to Eat

Osteria Spirito di … Vino, Sarteano

If you are in the area of Montepulciano/Sarteano, around lunchtime, we discovered a great character-filled little restaurant, which is part of an Agriturismo.  It is accessed up a long, unsealed driveway, and appeared to be closed when we arrived – although word obviously got around that there were possible clients, as the lights came on almost immediately and we were ushered into a small room with gingham tablecloths and a fire in the corner, and enjoyed the most delicious crostini, fresh pasta and wine.  They don’t have a website but contact details are:

Osteria Spirito di … Vino, Loc. Fonte Vetriana, Sarteano.  Tel. 0578 238005

Another idea for a place to stay or even just visit

Among the number of beautiful properties we rent in the Val d’Orcia, several are on the famous La Foce estate, where the superb formal gardens, designed by Cecil Pinsent, are open to the public from 3 – 7 p.m. on Wednesday afternoons.  The property dates from Etruscan times, and the main villa from the 15^th century, and was bought by Iris Origo and her husband in 1924, who farmed the land and formed a community there.  The estate still belongs to the Origo family, with both daughters owning villas there.  We are offering both their villas, Villa Montauto and Villa Donata,  as well as the main, historic villa  (ideal for special occasions).  For smaller groups of 2 – 6 people, there are also six separate apartments, surrounded by a huge garden, with large swimming pool and tennis court: Fonte, Bersagliere, Vespa, Beco, Tiglio and Ronda.

1. Paris … well, we had to start with Paris… the ultimate romantic destination, and what could be more romantic than staying at Le Bateau, a houseboat on the Seine, almost at the foot of the Eiffel Tower! Accessed by a tree-lined, cobblestone quai, there are expansive views of the Seine and the Beaux-Arts architecture of Passy from its deck-terrasse, where you can sit and enjoy a morning coffee or cocktail in the evening. The interiors are exceptionally spacious (800 sq. ft) and comfortable, with polished wood panelled walls and floorboards and a king-size bed in the cosy bedroom. The boat is equipped with TV and wi-fi internet connection, and there are two bicycles available for exploring Paris. Nearby sights include a twice weekly open-air market, a good selection of restaurants and cafés and, of course, the numerous historical sites in this fascinating part of Paris.Guide price: €2170 per week.

2. Venice is another personal favourite, and of all the places we have ever stayed in Venice, there is nowhere quite like Le Residenze for a truly memorable romantic break. Situated on Giudecca Island, directly facing San Marco across the lagoon, Le Residenze dates back to the 16th century when it was the home of a Venetian noble family. It has recently been renovated, retaining all its original grandeur, including wall frescoes and Venetian terrazzo floors, to create 11 superb apartments, a reading room and wine bar with working fireplaces and an impressive ‘winter garden’ lobby. The latter opens both to the front of the building and views of San Marco, and to the rear where there is a stunning three acre private garden, with swimming pool. Among the many guest privileges is the use of the adjoining Palladio’s Spa, as well as complimentary boat transfers (a 4 minute ride) to Piazza San Marco.
Guide price: €1200 per night. Minimum stay 4 nights.

3. When asked to recommend romantic breaks, apart from the cities like Paris and Venice, we always immediately think of Santorini, and any time from Easter to the end of October is a great time to go, maybe avoiding the crowded high season months of July and August, if it is a romantic break you are after! And of course, you must make sure you stay in a villa with a Caldera view … somewhere like the aptly named Fira Dream would be perfect. Perched high on a clifftop above the spectacular Caldera, this 17th century ‘canava’ has been refurbished to the highest of standards, yet without losing its traditional, simple Cycladic style. Access is via a courtyard into a large living area with high vaulted ceilings. From here, a handmade stained glass door leads to the master bedroom with circular bed and a Jacuzzi set with mosaic glass tiles. The villa has two terraces to take full advantage of the breathtaking views and sunsets. The village centre of Fira with a great selection of bars and tavernas, some again in magnificent cliffside locations, is just a few minutes walk away. Airport transfers and a continental breakfast each morning are included in the rental price.

Guide price: €340 per night. Minimum stay 3 nights.

4. The Greek Islands offer so much in the way of romantic properties, you are spoilt for choice, but Petra Villa on Patmos, recently added to our programme, did catch our attention as being an idyllic retreat for a quiet, romantic break. The villa dates back to 1542 and is one of the oldest houses in the traditional village of Chora, known as one of the most picturesque villages in Greece, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its maze of narrow, cobbled streets and white-washed houses, cars will need to be left in a car park at the entrance to the village, from where it is a 5 minute walk to the villa. Quaint and charming , the interiors are furnished with antiques, yet offer all modern comforts, including air conditioning, wi-fi access and home cinema. A traditional patio at ground floor level is furnished with a large marble dining table, sofas and chairs, while a furnished roof terrace right at the top of the house, has amazing views to the sea and the famous Monastery of St John.
Guide price: €800 per night (can request special rates out of high season for just one couple). Minimum stay 3 nights.

5. If asked to suggest a totally unique and extraordinary out of season romantic break, by the sea, in Europe, we would have no hesitation in suggesting the magnificent Palazzo Santa  Croce  in Positano. Situated high above the town (about 10 – 15 minutes walk down to the town centre and beach), there are wonderful views over the picturesque town, the dramatic coastline and the sea. Dating from the 1700’s, the property has been wonderfully preserved and still features the original lacquered doors, painted ceilings and original stucco work. It also has a fascinating history of famous guests, including Picasso, Steinbeck and Alberto Moravia. The current owners have restored the building to all its former glory and more! Among the many exceptional features are the two master bedrooms, with their frescoed ceilings, decorated and furnished in opulent Baroque style, with enormous paintings, columns, mirrors and silks. There is a large terrace, furnished for relaxing and dining outdoors (and with a long hydro-massage tub!) and, on a lower level, a luxurious spa, with heated pool, with fountain and contra-flow jets for lumbar and cervical massages. Breakfast is served each morning with juice squeezed from the property’s own lemon and orange trees, home-made marmalade and home-baked pastries….. don’t be put off by the price of such perfection – the owners will reduce the price for couples staying. And if the romantic break leads to a wedding, there is even a consecrated chapel!
Prices on request. Usually one week minimum stay, but shorter stays allowed out of high season.

6. While on the subject of Palazzos and Italy … there is always Rome to consider too. Here we are renting a luxurious and unique apartment in a 16th century Palazzo, right in Via Condotti, one of Rome’s finest shopping streets, and a 5 minute walk from the Spanish Steps and the Trevi Fountain. Steeped in history, and one the residences of Emperor Napoleon III, who lived here in 1830, the one bedroom apartment has been restored to all its former splendour. Entrance to the Palazzo is through massive wooden doors and along an arcade of Doric columns with ancient artefacts on display. Guests can reach the apartment by elevator, or by the grand marble staircase lined with antique busts of Roman emperors. The apartment (about 2350 sq. ft) has parquet floors, hand-stencilled walls, antique furnishings, huge oil paintings and 16th century tapestries. One painting in the bedroom, opens to access an exquisite marble bathroom! This has to be one of the most amazing places to stay in Rome, and definitely on the short list of a very special occasion. Continental breakfast each morning is included in the price.
Guide price: €1500 per night. Minimum stay 3 nights.

7. If the idea of a Mediterranean Island appeals, offering sunshine and beauty out of high season, then our small villa, Pequena Deja, in the charming village of Deia on Mallorca might appeal. A former artists’ colony, Deia is a beautiful stone-clad village with no less than three Michelin star restaurants (and lots of other restaurants and tapas bars), art galleries, boutiques and fabulous sea views. There is even a small beach, two kilometres from the village, an 18-hole golf course 20 minutes away and Spa facilities at the nearby Residencia Hotel. Our very pretty, traditional stone house here is about 15 minutes walk from the village. Formerly a Priests’ sanctuary, the house retains its authentic charm, with white-washed walls, original exposed ceiling beams and painted wooden shutters. There is a terrace with swimming pool and sea views.
Guide price: €2275 per week. Minimum stay one week.

8. Also by the sea, and offering much in the way of authentic charm, is our Dubrovnik Apartment. It is hidden away in a quiet street, just steps away from Stradun, the main promenade in the old town. The Rector’s and Sponza Palaces, the Cathedral, St Blaise’s Church, Europe’s oldest pharmacy (housed with the Franciscan Monastery), Mariin Drzic Theatre, museums and art galleries are all within a short walk, as are Dubrovnik’s finest restaurants, cafés and the ferry to the beaches on romantic Lokrum Island…. a perfect base for exploring this captivating city. The interiors of the apartment are very tasteful with exposed stone walls, original ceiling beams and flooring, and an antique ‘Windof’, used for open fire cooking more than a hundred years ago. The apartment is equipped with all modern amenities and the owner can arrange for breakfast delivery for guests on request.
Guide price: €250 per night. Minimum stay 4 nights.

9. St Tropez is fabulous out of high season, and we have the perfect small villa, L’Escale Beach, right by the sea, for couples looking for peace and privacy, yet easy access to St Tropez village, just 15 minutes drive away. The pretty bougainvillea-filled garden at the front of the house has a heated pool, and direct beach access to L’Escalet Plage. There are two large covered terraces to relax or enjoy meals ‘al fresco’.
Price for 2 people out of high season on request. Minimum stay one week.

10. Last, but not least, London is also a great city for a romantic break and we are offering some very charming, quintessentially English-style apartments in an Edwardian building in Cadogan Gardens – just behind Sloane Square and a quick stroll away from the Kings Road, Sloane Street and Knightsbridge. The Draycott Apartments are part of a boutique hotel and guests will benefit from hotel facilities, including a 24 hour reception and room service. Additional thoughtful touches include complimentary tea and biscuits in the drawing room at 4 p.m., a glass of champagne at 6 p.m. and hot chocolate at 9.30 pm.! A stay here is really like a home away from home, in particularly relaxing, hospitable and luxurious surroundings.
Guide price: €325 per night. Minimum stay one night.

1. Wimbledon Lawn Museum and Tour

Tennis fans wouldn’t want to miss the Wimbledon Lawn Museum and Tour. Here you can learn about the game’s history through interactive exhibits and also see famous tennis memorabilia which belonged to some of the most famous players. See the tennis trophies and watch film footage about the prestigious Wimbledon tournament. Then go on a guided tour which takes you to the most recognisable and exclusive places in the grounds.

2. Trent Park Equestrian Centre

Located in North London this lovely Euestrian centre offers riding lessons, events and parties for adults and children of all levels of riding ability. There are dressage competitions, pony camps for kids and jumping clinics for those who want to improve their jumps. The stables are open every day of the week, except Mondays. On weekdays they are open from 10am until 8.30pm and weekends from 9.00am until 4.00pm.

3. Wembley Stadium Tour

Take a tour round the famous football stadium which saw the English team win the World Cup in 1966, the Live Aid concert in 1985 and the FA Cup Finals. View behind the scenes in the changing rooms, walk out of the Player’s Tunnel and sit in the Royal Box or England Manager’s seat. You also get to see the trophies and the Exhibition of Champions. Tour ticket prices are from £9 for children and £16 for adults.

4. Sports Bar at the Hilton Metropole

The Hilton Metropole which is based near London’s West End and Oxford Street is also home to one of the classiest sports bars in London. Here you can enjoy a beer or cocktail in an informal atmosphere while watching sporting events on large plasma screens.

5. World Rugby Museum at Twickenham

Twickenham is the largest dedicated rugby union venue in the world, seating an incredible 82,000 spectators. Here is also where you’ll find an unmissable rugby museum. Take a trip here to view rugby memorabilia, learn about the history of this popular sport, see the Rugby Wall of Fame and also take a peek behind the scenes in a tour of the stadium.

6. White water rafting centre in Lee Valley

This is the perfect attraction for the more active sports fan. Lee Valley is actually one of the 2012 Olympic venues and offers one of the best white water venue of its type in the world. Also available here are canoeing or paddle boating but you might have to rush your visit here before the world-class athletes take over!

7. Herne Hill Velodrome

This is a track cycling venue in south London which has been operating since it hosted races in the 1948 Olympic Games. It is one of the oldest cycling tracks in the world, having been built in 1891 and a very popular visitor attraction. There are regular races as well as public sessions and coaching sessions. There are also racing events sometimes held at night and special cycling sessions for kids only.

8. Sandown Park Race Course

This horse racing course located in the outer suburbs of London hosts jump events and flat horseracing year round. Many major sporting events like the Coral Eclipse and Tingle Creek race are held here. The venue also hosts other events like Ladies Day and Music Nights. There is also a chance to meet the horses before the races, place a few bets and enjoy a meal at the race course.

9. Marylebone Cricket Club Museum at Lord

The museum is one of the stops on the tour of Lords, the most famous cricket ground in the world. Among the displays is The Ashes a small urn with a long cricket history, the stuffed sparrow “bowled out” by Jehangir Khan in 1936 and the cricket uniforms of some of the greats.  In the museum theatre you can see historical footage of the greatest moments in cricket.

10. Crystal Palace National Sports Center

This is where many Olympic champions train and the venue which covers 200 acres of parkland has been functioning since 1964. The complex holds a stadium which can hold 15,500 spectators, athletic tracks, a swimming pool, diving pool and sports halls and dance studios. The building is also a very attractive listed heritage building so don’t forget to bring your camera.

Enjoy your trip!

By Becky

I can’t think of a nicer destination for a really relaxing, pampering beach holiday than Parrot Cay - this 1000 acre paradise feels about as far away as you can get from the stresses of city life. On arrival at Provo airport, you will be whisked away by hotel staff in an air conditioned mini-bus for the 15 minute ride to the dock, then onto the hotel’s speedboat for the 40 minute trip to Parrot Cay. From the minute you arrive, it is as if a spell has been cast as you enter this tranquil, slow paced paradise. Whether it is something to do with the fact that most of the staff are gentle Balinese, or the wonderfully indulgent Como Shambala Spa, or just the sheer beauty everywhere, it is quite overwhelming.  There is a choice of one, two and three bedroom villas, all with small, heated pools and many with beach frontage to the magnificent white sand beach. For any bookings for travel between 15th May and 31st October 2012, guests who book 7 nights will only pay for 5 nights. Breakfast will be included every morning.

For those looking for total privacy and seclusion, there are also the privately owned villas at Parrot Cay. These are located a 5 – 10 minute buggy ride from the main resort, allowing guests full access to all the resort facilities. At one of these villas you get all the resort offers, plus even more space and their own private beach and butler services included. For all bookings for stays before 21st December 2012 (except Easter and Thanksgiving), we are offeriing complimentary Full Board – with the option of dining in one of the resort’s two restaurants for all meals, or in the privacy of your villa (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner from the Room Service menu).

Then, also for escapists, we are offering a new ultra luxurious villa on the very private Leeward Estate, close to Grace Bay Beach on Providenciales.  The villa has its own private beach frontage, plus several swimming pools, a cinema and numerous other amenities… glass bottom kayak, snorkelling equipment …. For bookings until Easter, to entice those desperately in need of some summer sun, we are offering groups of up to six people a private chef for all meals, pre-stocking of groceries and daily transporation for shopping and excursions.