The Different Faces of Italy

Italy is known for its natural landscapes, local cuisine, unique architecture, and artistic legacy. As each region is steeped in its own history and customs, it's important to explore which luxury holiday destinations and experiences will fit your personality. At Le Collectionist, we strive to make every holiday one-of-a-kind by offering an enormous selection of unique homes and experiences, tailoring everything to your preferences. Wherever you decide to go, you’re sure to walk away with a deep understanding of the cultural heritage of your destination. These are just a few of the endless possibilities for your luxury holiday where you can practise your own traditions, or start new ones when you visit Italy.

Blending in with the wild in Tuscany

For a classic experience, hang your hat in Tuscany, known for its beautiful landscapes. Nestled in an oasis of lush gardens, steps from the Tyrrhenian sea, Villa Costa Toscana is a classic Italianate villa that embodies the beauty and tradition of Tuscany. If the weather is nice, take lunch prepared by a personal chef in the gardens, taking in the view of the palm trees and turquoise sea below. The winter garden is a perfect place for afternoon tea. In the evening, gather around the palatial stone fireplace which bathes the great room with warm light after the sun has gone down. 

If you need a change of scenery from the quiet solitude the villa provides, an equestrian club is minutes away. Canter along the beach, through the woods, or along ancient Roman roads. If you feel adventurous, cross the river and continue through an olive grove until you come to an ancient spring. Legend has it that the Roman god Saturn threw a lightning bolt into the spring, imbuing it with the power to calm the soul.

Stylish adventure in Lake Como

If you’re looking for excitement, explore Lake Como. Perched in the mountains, Villa Deluca lies on the site of a medieval watchtower. Over a century old, it has been revitalized with modern Scandinavian and Japanese design. Handcrafted wood and marble create the sleek, modern ambience of the dining room and large, glass windows offer panoramic views of the breathtaking surroundings past the edge of the infinity pool. Lounge on the terrace with a glass of wine and watch the sunset over the vast forest and crystal waters. 

If you need to decompress, have a session in the gym, carved into the cliff face with a view of the valley. Then, take a dip in the jacuzzi before heading to the sauna. Walk down to the private dock where you’ll find the boat captain waiting to take you out on the foggy, winter waters of the lake. If you want to tour the area on land, we have classic cars for rent, including a Ferrari 250 GT Lusso, of which only 350 were ever made. Spend an afternoon exploring the beautiful, winding mountain roads in one of these incredibly rare cars for a rarefied experience.

A traditional refuge in Puglia

If you are looking for good food and great wine, visit the farming region of Puglia. A haven from the modern world, Masseria Miria lies at the centre of an old farm, with scenic fields and vineyards melting into the countryside. Allow yourself to be transported as you relax in front of the rustic, stone fireplace with a good book. Then, head downstairs to an ancient cellar that has been converted into a gorgeous Turkish Hamam. In the evening, seek refuge in the walled lemon grove, filled with beautiful winter-fruiting trees.

For a day trip, visit the nearby vineyard which supplies Masseria Miria’s house wines. Tour the cellars, carved into solid limestone before heading upstairs to the historic manor for a local tasting. The vineyard takes a unique approach to its craft, forgoing the use of wooden barrels in order to preserve the original taste of its distinctive wines. This delicious and traditional experience is the perfect opportunity to take home a piece of the land and culture of the region.

Artistic inclinations in Venice

For art lovers, seek out the classics in Venice, the floating city, with a history dating back twelve hundred years. Resting on one of the city’s classic canals, Palazzo Botticelli is a monument to the heritage and beauty of Venetian culture. In the shadow of San Pietro di Castello, a seventh-century basilica that was once the cathedral of Venice, this home was originally built as a boathouse for the archbishop. Lovingly restored to its original glory with an eye for detail by interior designer Ilaria Mianit, it has been transformed into a home that reflects the history of its artistic surroundings. The traditional craftsmanship of the building is complemented by the elegance of its interior design, featuring exposed brick, salvaged wood, eye-catching seminato floors, and a collection of modern art contrasted by baroque design touches. If you feel bold, take to the water and explore the famous canals of the city via your private dock.

If you want to explore the home’s connection to art in the city, take one of our private tours of the classic museums which the designer drew inspiration from during the restoration. Spend the morning at Palazzo Grimani, which inspired the stunning green floors of the dining room. In the afternoon, walk to Ca’ Rezzonico to see the works of Canaletto, whose paintings of the city contain a depiction of Palazzo Botticelli during the eighteenth century which was used as a reference for the restoration. If you are looking for a home with deep ties to art and history, this house will give you a beautiful experience and a window into the past.