Read Our Exclusive Articles About Lifestyle.

In an undefined time, someone laid the first stone to build what would later become one of the most beautiful castles in Tuscany: the castle of Montegufoni. From that moment on, he remained there, watching over the Tuscan countryside like a grandfather does with his grandchildren. He defended that place on the hill with all his strength, bowing to the attacks of the Florentines without ever surrendering. Its 'wounds' were tended to by the Acciaioli family, and brick by brick the castle was transformed: halls, external cottages, chapels and so on and so forth. Montegufoni was no longer a pile of stones, it was alive. This was the beginning of what can be defined as the golden age of the castle: from an unknown place to a meeting point for important people such as the King of Naples, Cosimo de Medici and many members of the Florentine high society. As the years went by, Montegufoni became more splendid, so much so that it was the eccentric George Sitwell who fell in love with the structure. The marriage between George and Montegufoni was the epitome of a dream marriage, something to make the happy endings of the best romantic films envious. Sitwell lavished attention on the entire castle, giving special treatment to some of the rooms: the walls of the bedrooms have the honour of housing the masks and harlequins of the illustrious Gino Severini. Since 1972 the Posarelli family has been taking care of this structure, trying to keep intact the great history of this idyllic place but adapting it to modern needs. Today's redesign takes us to the second floor of the castle in the flat Montegufoni 27. The flat can accommodate up to 5 people and offers a double panoramic view: on one side the inner courtyard, on the other the infinite Tuscan panorama. During the spring season everything is framed by colourful flowers, creating an unforgettable palette of colours. Once you open the door it is impossible not to notice the attention paid to the furnishings: the soft colours that bring out the brightness, the modern furnishings in cold colours contrasting with antiques in warm tones. Down a few steps you will find yourself in front of a large open space comprising a sitting room, dining room and kitchen. The mirrors behind the sofa give depth to the room, without making it dispersive and impersonal. The open space is overlooked by three rooms: two double bedrooms and a bathroom with a large shower.

Colours, scents, sensations. From the delicate white marble of Carrara Cathedral to the massive walls of Lucca and the narrow streets of Montefioralle: Italy is a wonderful country that offers cultural heritage, food, hospitality and above all, iconic clothes. Talking about fashion in front of the "Venus of Botticelli" or the "Tondo Doni" might seem frivolous, but it is not, because fashion is art, and like art it expresses the need for a new perspective, a new content of social and cultural reality. Haute couture is not a fad to be dispensed with: it is just a way to export Italy to the world, to represent our way of being, our essence. It is true that a dress or an accessory is just a garment, but we should not forget that the garment is nothing more than our unveiling, our personality. To use an oxymoron: to dress is to lay bare one's self. So why not take advantage of your stay in one of our villas to go home with a piece of Italy?We've seen that you've lightened your suitcase and have already prepared a place in your wardrobe. Read on to find out where to buy your new favourite item!FLORENCEIf red is your favourite colour and studs fascinate you, just a few steps from one of the most photographed bridges (Ponte Vecchio) there is a shop for you. We are talking about the timeless Valentino Garavani, who had the honour of dressing Lady Diana. Continue along this street and let yourself be carried away by the store windows: you are in Via Tornabuoni, one of the most exclusive streets in Florence, renowned for its luxury boutiques. Don't resist the colourful patterns of Emilio Pucci and the new textures of Prada. From Villa Nora it takes only 30 minutes by car. Don't miss this opportunity. LECCIO If you like the tidy creativity of the man who dared to make a woman wear a suit, this blurb is for you. Giorgio Armani's boutique is waiting for you with open doors. If, on the other hand, you are a more extravagant type, a lover of nonchalant vitality, Versace is the brand for you. Medusa head, bright colours, a "Safety Hair Pin Dress" worn at the premiere of the film "4 Weddings and a Funeral". Want to find out more? Run to the shop. If you have ever flown with Alitalia, you will certainly have come across Alberta Ferretti's uniforms, a reference point for many Italian women. With its refined materials it succeeds in representing a romantic and ethereal woman, who wants to express her personality without becoming part of the masses. Elegant, colourful, fluid and truly inimitable: this is how Ferretti's clothes stand out. Are you afraid of having to travel several kilometres to get to one of these shops? Don't worry: these staples of Italian fashion are all gathered in The Mall outlet. A must if you're staying at Villa Stolli. FORTE DEI MARMI If you've booked Villa Sophia or you' re relaxing in the garden of Villa Oliveta, treat yourself to a day of shopping on the streets of Forte dei Marmi. Once you arrive, the breeze and the rustle of the sea will guide you expertly through the various streets full of boutiques. Bottega Veneta and its "Bottega Green", Gucci with its unexpected minimalism and Missoni with its "put-together": a free and only apparently casual mixture and overlapping of stitches and patterns. What are you waiting for? Run and book. © Rebecca Taizzani

The Adriatic Coast in Emilia-Romagna, which is also called Riviera Romagnola by Italians, is simply the perfect holiday destination. Whether you are seeking a spot where you can have a lot of fun or you'd rather prefer spend your days relaxing on the beach, the Riviera will satisfy all your desires. Actually, there is always something to do, as the activities and the places to see are many. Families, elderly people, children and groups of young friends will find endless ways to have fun! That's why in a few years places like Riccione, Rimini and Milano Marittima have turned into exclusive tourist destinations for the summer, where even VIP love to spend a holiday away. Do you want to discover the best things to do on the Adriatic coast? Keep reading and check out the list of the most beautiful beaches and the best places to enjoy the nightlife in Emilia-Romagna! If you like dancing until the morning lights, the Riviera is the perfect place for you! Every evening, international DJs play in some of the most famous Italian clubs and organize some amazing parties. There is nothing better than spending the night in a seafront club dancing under the stars! Riccione is certainly the best known city for nightlife lovers. Clubs like "Villa delle Rose", "Baia Imperiale", "Byblos" and "Peter Pan" are sassy discos where high-level guests like to have elegant evenings. Instead, the town of Milano Marittima hosts the splendid "Pineta" club, a chic place with a glass ceiling where the first lights of dawn create some spectacular effects. The party already starts in the afternoon in "Papeete Beach", a beach club organizing parties under the sun everyday, featuring music and excellent cocktails. After dinner, the location changes and the party moves to "Villapapeete", a disco with commercial music that offers a dreamy atmosphere. However, if your idea of the perfect holiday includes infinite days on the beach, don't worry: the Adriatic Coast offers innumerable options to relax by the sea! Each city offers various areas, each suitable for different kinds of visitors like families, couples or groups of friends. The beaches on the Riviera are appreciated for being equipped with every comfort, like bathing establishments with children areas, bars, restaurants and even DJ sets with music in some cases. The main seaside destinations are Rimini, Riccione, Cervia, Cattolica, Cesenatico and Milano Marittima , which offer lots of miles of golden beaches. Many of them also boast the "Bandiera Blu" (Blue Flag) award due to their cleanliness and beauty. These are actually the most charming beaches of Italy! © Alice Pilastri

Gallipoli is a gem in Salento, as well as a top tourist destination for the young in Southern Italy and one of Apulia's best towns.The stunning beauty of this commercial port derives from the numerous invasions that interested it and left visible traces of architecture in its streets. Today, this tourist city presents a splendid historic center nestled on an island in the middle of the sea, protected by ancient stone walls and connected to the modern district with an arched bridge. This village is made of contrasts, as modernity combines with timeless glimpses and natural wonders mix with modern entertainments. This makes Gallipoli the perfect summer destination for all visitors, as it is suitable for both families and groups of young friends. Would you like to discover more about this town? Here is a summary of the things you need to see and do if you are staying in Gallipoli! Also, don't forget to book one of our holiday rentals near this center, like Cotriero Apartments! Don't worry: Gallipoli will offer you plenty of places to see! The city presents two harbors, located near the Greek Fountain and in the old district. While centuries ago they were important commercial ports in the Mediterranean, now the ancient port is a tourist attraction hosting cultural events and festival. Above, the imposing Angevin Castle stands on its waters and invites visitors to explore its towers, halls and internal corridors. Another old costruction is the defensive city wall, which now embellish the center's look and protect it from high sea tides. After all, the old town centre hasn't changed much in these centuries. The paved alleys are suggestive streets passing between historical buildings and they all converge in the square of the famous Greek Fountain, a monument built in the Renaissance. Here, the restaurants overlooking the sea are special places to stop to eat some local dishes and to have a tour between beautiful tourist attractions, like the Cathedral of Sant'Agata and the Church of San Francesco d ' Assisi. Don't forget to visit the fish market, where you can buy fresh food from local fishermen to prepare your delicious lunch. Surely, one of the best times to visit Gallipoli is summer, when the sun shines on the white beaches and shines on the walls of the historical buildings. How can you resist the temptation to take a dip in the turqoise water? June and September are the ideal moments to visit Salento, because it is less crowded, temperatures are cooler and you will enjoy your holiday to the fullest. The so-called "Pearl of the Ionian" offers dozens of natural beauties and dreamy beaches in its large gulf, which extends between Punta Pizzo and Lido delle Conchiglie. In addition to these two bays, the most wonderful beaches to see are Punta della Suina, Baia Verde, Lido San Giovanni and Padula Bianca. This stretch of coast is easily accessible and is suitable for families with young children, as it offers many comforts and services. The sea bottom degrading gently and the lovely colours of the sea make the beauty of Gallipoli's beach simply unquestionable. Gallipoli is also one of the most popular destinations for young people looking for nightlife and fun! While the town centre is ideal for an aperitif or an after-dinner cocktail, Baia Verde is where you can find the most exclusive Italian clubs to dance all night long, like Praja and Zen. Music keeps playing during the day on the beach of Samsara, where young people gather to take part to spectacular beach parties. Finally, how can you leave Apulia without immersing yourself in its wonderful culture? In occasion of town events and festival, you will have the chance to listen to the traditional "pizzica" melodies, to dance on its notes and to taste some local food delights, like some "orecchiette" pasta or a delicious fish dish accompanied by an excellent local wine! © Alice Pilastri

The coutdown to December 25th is almost over it's time to think about gifts, Christmas celebrations and... what you are going to cook on the lovely Christmas lunch with the whole family! In Italy, numerous traditional dishes are cooked in the special occasion of Christmas day. Each region presents different recipes, as they refer to their ancient culture and local history. From North to South, from East to West, and even from a city to another, the typical flavors of Italian cuisine mix together to enrich meals with amazing colours and tastes. However, there are some "classic" recipes that cannot lack on Christmas tables, no matter where you are. Here's the list of the five best-loved traditional dishes in Italy, along with some travel tips to spend an unforgettable Christmas holiday! 1) Tortellini in broth Although tortellini are typical of Emilia-Romagna and Bologna in particular, this first course is always a must-have on Christmas day! The lunch cannot miss a delicious capon broth with homemade tortellini filled with meat, mortadella, ham, eggs, parmesan cheese and walnuts. Tasty and rich, this dish pleases everybody. There can also be some variations: as well as using some thin noodles instead of tortellini, people in Umbria, Marche, Tuscany and Latium usually choose the traditional "cappelletti". 2) Lasagna Whether they are accompanied with a Bolognese, Neapolitan or vegetarian sauce, lasagna still remain one of the best-loved dishes served on December 25th! The history of this recipe is century-old, it begins in Ancient Greece and it later moved to Italy, as the Romans conquered the area adopting the culture and food traditions of its inhabitants. Lasagna are made piling numerous layers of pasta and separating them with a sauce with béchamel, cheese and other ingredients that may vary according to preferences, such as vegetables, meat "ragù", pesto or ricotta. 3) Stuffed Capon Christmas holidays are the ideal moment to cook a tasty "cappone ripieno" for the entire family! While it was initially stuffed with animal innards, now people prefer to use pork or beef meat with eggs, sausages, ham, cheese and candied fruit. The place of origin of the recipe is Piedmont, but it is also proposed by many other regions and it is now considered a "luxury food". In Lombardy and Tuscany the "cappone" is stuffed, in Umbria and Liguria people boil it, while the animal is cooked roasted in Piedmont and in the Marches. 4) Capitone The "capitone" is the name of the female eel and it is traditionally prepared in Southern Italy. While in Molise it is stewed with garlic, in Campania and Latium the fish is fried and served very hot, usually in occasion of Christmas Eve's supper. A popular superstition is hidden behind this course: the eel is usually seen as the symbol of evilness because of its resemblance with the snake, so eating this fish on the day of Jesus' birth is associated with the victory of the good over the devil. 5) Panettone/ Pandoro Panettone or Pandoro? Whichever is your choice, it's certain that there is no Christmas day without a slice of these desserts at the end of the lunch! The Pandoro is typical of Verona and it presents a soft, golden dough covered with sugar. To make it more appetizing, you can also add some chocolate or cream! On the other hand, the Panettone is a cake made in Milan flavored with raisins and candied fruit, which also became the symbol of Christmas celebrations. Do not forget to taste this dessert! © Alice Pilastri

Is there a better place to spend an unforgettable summer vacation than the Greek islands? We don’t think so! Greece is very renowned for its ancient history and the beautiful cultural heritage that it conserves in the main museums and archaeological sites. Athens is definitely a charming site to see at least once in a lifetime alongside the beauties found in the Dodecanese Archipelago. Moreover, some of its beaches are extremely beautiful, as the transparent waters of the Mediterranean Sea touch splendid sandy coastlines and impressing rocky cliffs. However, we all know that groups of young friends in their 20s are not looking for museums or culture when they travel abroad. Of course, they might appreciate charming landscapes or an interesting museum tour, but summer is when young people want to have fun, meet new friends of their age and enjoy an amazing nightlife. And yes, Greece can offer this and can transform their holiday into a real dream! Here’s a list of the best destinations to choose in case you’re a group of young people looking for fun: follow our travel tips and discover which islands are most suitable for your holiday! 6) Corfu Thousands of young groups choose this destination for their special holiday because fun is guaranteed and prices are moderate. You will always find a nice bar to have a drink, especially in the lively town of Ypsos. Disco clubs such as the Edem Beach Club, Montecristo or 54 Dreamy Nights will make you dance until the first lights of dawn, while pubs like Passoa or Mojitos will start setting your night on fire with some good cocktails! Looking for a holiday rental in Corfu? Choose our Villa Di Giovanni! 5) Ios Ios is a famous party island located between Naxos and Santorini. The main centre for nightlife is Chora, a beautiful town bursting with life in its eastern side and downtown, as it offers a wide variety of charming bars and nightclubs. The wild fun starts on the major beach party scene of Mylopotas and continues in clubs like Disco 69 or the Scorpion Club, where friends between 18 and 25 years old enjoy some crazy nights. 4) Santorini Santorini is one of the major destinations for couples because of its romantic and relaxing atmospheres. However, it is also a lively locality for young people looking for a good nightlife, as it offers many beautiful bars on the beach in Perivolos, Kamari and Perissa and some elegant disco clubs in the town of Fira. And what about an unforgettable apéritif in front of an amazing sunset behind the sea? You really don't want to miss this spectacular scene! 3) Rhodes More than one hundred bars, disco clubs and pubs is what you will find in the main towns of the beautiful island of Rhodes! Here, paradisiac landscapes will be the background of your relaxing days on the beach and the charming frame of your nights of fun. While "Bar Street" in Rhodes City offers bars with any kind of music, discoclubs like Paradiso Beach Club or Blue Lagoon will be open until 7am to make you dance on the music of the best-known DJs. 2) Zakynthos This wonderful Ionian Island presents some of the most photographed beaches of the world. Though it is definitely a romantic place to visit in couple, the summer season is when the best nightlife events are organized and when hundreds of visitors looking for crazy fun crowd its towns. If you are looking for wild dancing nights, you can't miss Tsilivi, Boschali, Vassilikos and their amazing clubs, while if you prefer enjoying a good cocktail in front of the sea you should spend an evening at the bars of Laganas. And why don't you take part to a buzzing boat or beach party? It's the best way to enjoy Zakynthos to the fullest! 1) Mykonos The island of Mykonos is the craziest nightlife destination of the Mediterranean. This “Greek Ibiza” is a wild mix of beach bars, parties on the beach, famous disco clubs and memorable nights dancing with the best DJs of the world. While Mykonos Town is a charming locality with typical Greek buildings and lovely mills to capture in a photo, those who are looking for great places to dance and make new friends are clubs such as Tropicana, Cavo Paradiso, Space Club and the Skandinavian Bar. Enjoy these endless nights in one of the livelier summer destinations and watch the dawn next to your best friends! © Alice Pilastri

The profession of the barber belongs to other times and it seems that the 21st century does not leave any room for it. However, it is such a pity that this ancient job disappears from our society., as it would take centuries of history away and delete an exceptional Italian tradition. The first barbers appeared in Ancient Rome, when these “tonsor” working for the rich dealt with beard cuts and hair stylings. It was a solemn ritual that introduced teenagers to the adult age, but it soon developed some coiffure fashion trends which were followed by Emperor like Neron or Traian! In the following centuries, the barber's figure started to affirm itself in Italian society, in which it worked as a hairstylist, barber, advisor, dentist, surgeon, psychologist, beautician and much more! His boutique's customers felt like home, as it was a relaxing and cozy place where they could chat with other gentlemen. These "men with razors" also diffused in England, especially in London, in Western Europe and even in the USA after the 19th century. Thanks to some ingenious entrepreneurs who love Italian tradition, many modern "barberie" have been opened. One of these is the “Blues Barber Shop”, a store in Via Cimabue, 36 in Florence which is managed by a Sicilian family coming from Marsala. It is a spacious shop designed in a 1930/1940s style, decorated with white and green stripes and with wonderful black leather armchairs. The longtime experience in this field mixes with the passion for blues music, which is the background of your pleasant hair-styling, beard cuts and face treatments sessions with first-quality products by "Proraso". Take care of yourself, discover this ancient tradition, book a session inside an Italian barbershop and make an amazing gift to your beloved gentleman in occasion of Father's Day! If you are looking for a property for rent in Florence, we suggest checking our villas and apartments in this city and choosing your favorite! © Alice Pilastri

A holiday is definitely the best way to relax and take a pause from work or study. This summer, give yourself a break, book a villa in one of Italy’s finest localities, enjoy your days at the seaside and explore the amazing nightlife of these cities. We propose a list of the ideal destination for a fun and relaxing holiday in Italy along with some suggestions about the properties you might want to book: -Versilia Source: Mountain Leon The cities of Viareggio, Lido di Camaiore, Forte dei Marmi and Marina di Pietrasanta form the “Versilia”, a part of Tuscan coast renowned for its nightlife and loved by thousands of young people. Further to the several shops and cafés on the seafront promenade, here you’ll find some of Italy’s best disco clubs, like “La Capannina di Franceschi”, “Seven Apples” or “Ostras Beach Club”. In summer, there are events and parties everyday with an average price of 10-25€. Moreover, there are many equipped lidos, in some of which you can taste a cocktail on the beach during happy hour. If you are looking for a vacation rental, choose Villa Oliveta! -Salento and Gallipoli Apulia blends the beauty of its crystalline sea with one of Europe’s best nightlives thanks to the amazing “Praja” or “Parco Gondar” in Gallipoli and to their international DJ. Daytime is animated by the famous “Samsara” beach parties under the sun, an ideal entertainment for people between 18 and 30 years old. If you are looking for a vacation rental, choose Villa Cotriero! -Riviera Romagnola The Riviera is never-ending succession of parties and clubs, especially in Milano Marittima and Riccione. These cities offer a thousand opportunities to have a twenty-four-hour fun, on the beach or on the nearest hills where the best-known clubs are located. “Papeete”, “Villa delle Rose” and “Cocoricò” are some historical and glamour locations hosting house, electronic and techno music DJs from all over the world. Here, it’s always time for parties: that’s why many people choose this place for their hen or bachelor celebrations, short stays or weekends. -Tropea Tropea (Calabria) is a popular touristic destination thanks to its beautiful white beaches, but it also assures a fantastic nightlife in its seafront disco clubs. Try “Coiba”, “Suite” and “Casablanca” clubs and enjoy a dream holiday! -San Benedetto del Tronto This locality in The Marches unites the relax on the beach with nighttime parties in its numerous clubs. It’s the most important center of the “Riviera delle Palme”, it has seafront of more than 6 km and it hides some historical and architectural beauties you absolutely need to visit! -Alghero Even Sardinia ensures a great nightlife experience. Alghero, a western-coast city belonging to the “Riviera del Corallo”, is the holiday destination of many young Italians, came here to enjoy its sea and to dance in a wonderful disco club until dawn! Here, you’ll find clubs such as “La Siesta” or “Il Ruscello”. The best period to visit this incredible city is surely July. If you are looking for a vacation rental, choose one of our luxury properties in Sardinia! -Ischia The charm of Ischia’s sea, old town center and landscapes make it an illustrious touristic destination in Italy. Moreover, there are many ways you’ll be able to have fun in clubs like “Riva Destra” or “Valentino”, overlooking breathtaking panoramas and stunning sunsets behind the sea! If you are looking for a vacation rental, choose one of our luxury properties in Campania! -Taormina Taormina (Sicily) is a historical center with splendid beaches and a well-known touristic destination for many young Sicilian and Italian people. The night animates with events and music, so get the most out of it going to “La Giara”, Caparena” or “Morgana” clubs. These beautiful locations organize exclusive events you really don’t want to miss. If you are looking for a vacation rental, choose Taormina Suite! -Isola d’Elba This Tuscan island offers natural beauties, a splendid sea and even some perfect clubs where young people can have fun! Cavoli beach often organizes beach parties, while the best-known disco clubs are “Club64”, “Giannino” and “Tinello”. However, they are not close to each other, so we suggest you to rent motorbikes or cars to visit the island with comfort and ease. © Alice Pilastri