Exclusive Places to Visit, Things to do and Experiences in Italy, Greece, Spain and Croatia

Have you always dreamed of being able to spend a week of complete relaxation without having to move from home? Exploratory holidays are not for you? Do you always need another holiday after an on-the-road holiday? We know what you are talking about and we have the right solution for you.Read on.We don't all have the same tastes: those who love adventure, those who love to explore and discover all the anecdotes of a location, those who want to try out all the restaurants in the area and those who have a different holiday concept.If for you holiday means not having to dress up, never having to make a move, having all the comforts at your disposal: this article is for you!Today we want to offer you Villas with Private Spa where you can relax in total privacy.In this article a selection of the best villas in our catalogue (we remind you that in each of our villas you can have on request chef, maid service, personal trainer and much more)Let's start with our ranking: 1. VILLA LE BUCHE: SARTEANO, TOSCANAVilla le Buche is a beautiful luxury villa with private pool and wellness centre for rent in Tuscany, 5 km from Sarteano.The property is located within an important farm with wine and olive oil production and lends itself well to the organisation of weddings, events and an unforgettable holiday surrounded by vineyards, olive groves, woods, tranquillity and absolute relaxation.Villa le Buche offers its guests a unique and exclusive ambience: from the private swimming pool with panoramic views to the private spa accessible from both the interior and the pool.Upon entering the spa you will find changing rooms with bathrooms where you can change, showers to freshen up before starting your wellness programme, a relaxation area with chaise lounges, sensory showers, sauna, hydro-massage, a swimming pool for swimming against the current and what else? Come and find out by booking Villa Le buche, we still have a few tricks up our sleeve for you 2. VILLA MERAVILLA: MODICA, SICILIA Villa Meravilla is a fantastic villa with a private pool for holiday rental in Sicily. It is located between Modica and Scicli, the baroque art jewels of the Val di Noto, a UNESCO heritage site.Besides being an excellent base for visiting the amazing area of south-eastern Sicily, Villa Meravilla offers peace and tranquillity to its guests. The luxuriant garden with its infinity pool overlooking the surrounding hills pampers the body and mind of those who stay there. To complete and make everything even more magical, there is a wellness area with sauna, Turkish bath, hydromassage tub and emotional shower.Oh, we almost forgot: you can relax while listening to your favourite music thanks to a Sonos sound system. This is music to your ears!  3. VILLA TENUTA LONCIANO: SESTO FIORENTINO, TOSCANAVilla Tenuta Lonciano is a beautiful and imposing stone farmhouse dating back to the 18th century, situated in a quiet and panoramic position: from both the whirlpool and the sauna you can admire the surrounding Tuscan landscape.The property is entirely fenced off and is surrounded by 82,000 m2 of land with fruit trees, aromatic plants, pastures and woods of oak, fir, cypress and olive trees.The house is well furnished and very comfortable: it is the perfect place to relax in close contact with nature and Italian history. Have these villas impressed you? Write to us to book your stay.If you haven't found your dream villa yet, you can browse all our villas with spas in our Collections:PRIVATE SPA RETREATS © Rebecca Taizzani

Corfu Island is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Greece. With its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and warm climate, it's no surprise that people flock to this island every summer. In this guide, we'll be focusing on what makes Corfu Island famous: its beaches. From the best beaches to the hidden gems, this guide will help you plan the perfect beach vacation to Corfu. The Best Beaches in CorfuWhen it comes to beaches, Corfu Island has a lot to offer. From sandy beaches to rocky coves, you'll be spoiled for choice. Here are five of the best beaches in Corfu:Canal D'Amour Beach: This beach is famous for its unique rock formations and crystal-clear water. It's a great place to relax, swim, and take in the stunning scenery.Glyfada Beach: This sandy beach is one of the most popular on the island and offers plenty of amenities, including sun loungers, umbrellas, and bars.Paleokastritsa Beach: This picturesque beach is located in a stunning bay surrounded by cliffs. It's a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy a more serene experience.Sidari Beach: This lively beach is ideal for those who love to try new activities, such as banana boat rides and parasailing.Agios Georgios: This stunning beach is known for its shallow waters, making it an ideal spot for families with children. Hidden Beaches in CorfuWith so many visitors flocking to the island each year, it can be hard to find a spot of sand that feels truly secluded and untouched. That's why we've put together this list of the best hidden beaches in Corfu, to help you escape the crowds and find the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun. Myrtiotissa: Located on the north coast of Corfu, Myrtiotissa Beach is a hidden paradise that is often overlooked by tourists. The beach is set within a small cove, surrounded by cliffs and lush vegetation, and is accessible via a steep path that winds down from the main road. The shallow waters and fine sand make Myrtiotissa Beach a popular spot for families with young children, while the secluded location and stunning scenery make it a great choice for those looking for a quiet escape from the crowds. Kontogialos Beach: Kontogialos Beach is a small, secluded cove located on the east coast of Corfu, near the village of Kontogialos. The beach is accessible via a steep path that winds down from the main road, and is surrounded by lush vegetation and towering cliffs. The crystal-clear waters and soft, golden sand make Kontogialos Beach a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, while the peaceful location makes it an ideal place to escape the crowds and soak up the sun in peace. Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat is the best time of year to visit Corfu?The best time of year to visit Corfu is from June to September, when the weather is warm and the beaches are at their busiest.How do I get to Corfu?The easiest way to get to Corfu is by plane, with flights available from major cities in Europe.Is there anything to do in Corfu besides visiting the beaches?Yes, there are plenty of things to do in Corfu besides visiting the beaches. The island is home to several historic sites, including the Old Fortress and the Palace of St. Michael and St. George. There are also several local markets and shops to explore. Corfu is a popular holiday destination known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. Whether you're looking for a secluded spot or a bustling beach, this guide has something for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Corfu today and experience the island's beautiful beaches for yourself!© Rebecca Taizzani

© Rebecca Taizzani Crete is a captivating Greek island known for its stunning landscapes, charming villages, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you love beaches, history, or gastronomy, this sun-soaked destination offers something for everyone. As the largest of the Greek islands, Crete is an ideal choice for a week-long escape. From ancient sites to pristine coastlines, there is no shortage of things to see and do. This article presents a complete itinerary for a week in Crete, helping you make the most of your time on this remarkable island. Day 1: Explore Heraklion Begin your Crete journey in Heraklion, the island’s capital. This city blends ancient heritage with modern life and offers a concise introduction to Crete’s history, culture, and gastronomy. Highlights include the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, which houses the world’s richest collection of Minoan artifacts and provides deep insights into this ancient civilization. Other must-see sites are the Koules Fortress, a Venetian coastal fortress with spectacular harbour views, and the 1866 Market, where you can sample local produce. Don’t miss St Mark’s Basilica and its art gallery, as well as the Historical Museum of Crete for a broader narrative of the island. End the day with a sunset stroll along the seafront, a quiet moment at the Cathedral of Agios Minas, and a meal at a traditional taverna to taste regional specialties.  Day 2: Visit the Palace of Knossos About 6 km from Heraklion, the Palace of Knossos is a centerpiece of ancient Minoan civilization, dating to around 1700 BC. This expansive site covers roughly 22,000 m² and comprises a central courtyard, royal quarters, administrative rooms, and craft workshops. Visitors can explore the ruins, admiring the architecture and notable frescoes, including those in the Throne Room and the Queen’s Apartments. Knossos is also linked to myths such as the Minotaur and the labyrinth designed by Daedalus. Early discoveries began in the 19th century with archaeologist Sir Arthur Evans, whose reconstruction work remains a topic of debate. Today, Knossos offers a compelling glimpse into the history and culture of one of antiquity’s most influential civilizations. Day 3: Towards Chania Travel along the scenic northern coast to Chania, a city where Venetian, Ottoman, and Arab influences shape a rich cultural tapestry. Its cobbled streets, Venetian harbour, and the iconic Egyptian Lighthouse welcome visitors. Explore the Jewish and Muslim quarters, admire historic architecture, and visit museums and seaside tavernas. Highlights include the Egyptian Lighthouse, Firka Fortress, and Neoria (the old Venetian shipyards). Don’t miss Splantzia Square, the heart of the Turkish quarter, as well as Chania Cathedral and the Folklore Museum, which together illuminate Crete’s past. Day 4: Discover Elafonissi Beach Embark on a day trip to Elafonissi Beach on Crete’s southwest coast. Known as the "Caribbean of the Mediterranean", its white and pink sands meet turquoise waters. The main beach offers sun loungers and parasols, while quieter coves and free beaches invite exploration. Opposite the shore is a small island also called Elafonissi, connected at low tide by a sandy isthmus. The island features tranquil bays, unspoiled nature, a lighthouse, and a chapel. The area is a protected habitat for loggerhead sea turtles and hosts diverse plant life. Conclude the day with a sunset that paints the sea with vibrant colors. Day 5: The Samaria Gorge Continue along the southern coast to the Samaria Gorge, a premier trek for nature lovers and one of Europe’s longest canyons. Located in the White Mountains National Park, the gorge was carved by the Tarraios River over millennia, reaching depths of up to 600 metres and narrowing to about 3 metres at the Portes crossing. The full-day hike requires solid preparation and reveals diverse flora—with more than 450 plant species—and the wild kri-kri goat, the park’s emblem. The route starts at Xyloskalo, offering expansive views, and ends in Agia Roumeli, where you can relax and sample local dishes. As a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Samaria Gorge combines adventure with natural and cultural significance.  Day 6: Discover Loutro Head east to Loutro, a secluded coastal village where nature and tranquility define the experience. Accessible only by sea or via a hiking path, this car-free settlement offers a sense of remoteness and authenticity. White-washed houses overlook clear blue waters, creating a postcard-worthy scene. Enjoy time on nearby beaches such as the central beach and Finikas Beach, dine on fresh seafood at local tavernas, and wander along quiet paths under a star-filled sky. Loutro’s pedestrian-friendly streets invite relaxed exploration, making it an ideal stop for those seeking a serene, nature-rich getaway. Day 7: Matala Matala, a charming village on Crete’s southern coast, draws visitors with its unique blend of beauty and history. At its heart is Matala Beach, known for crystal-clear waters and cliffs carved with famous caves. These caves were a bohemian retreat in the 1960s and 1970s, attracting artists and musicians such as Bob Dylan and Janis Joplin, and they remain a window into that era. Explore the lively village to feel the spirit of its past, and consider attending the Matala Beach Festival each June, which celebrates the area’s music and arts heritage. For those seeking nature and adventure, a visit to Red Beach—with its red sand and turquoise waters—offers a pristine coastal experience nearby. Matala combines relaxation, culture, and scenic beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Crete. Are you curious to visit this wonderful island? Below you will find some of our beautiful villas in Crete

The ski slopes in central Italy have just finished whitening, the temperatures have reached close to zero and the days are still short.Now you may be wondering what ice cream has to do with the cold season, you may be wondering why we are talking to you about ice cream in January.Oggi abbiamo deciso di scrivere un articolo sul gelato per due motivi: - To help you choose the best artisan gelato in Italy- Because it is never the wrong season for good ice cream ARTISAN ICE CREAM: THE ORIGINS Artisanal ice cream is undoubtedly a dessert known all over the world, and numerous tales, verging between fantasy and legend, have been passed down over time around its origins. Tracing the origin of ice cream is not easy, as there are many historical testimonies and references to the ancient custom of preserving milk and food by freezing them. There are also several disputes that have arisen over the centuries to claim the frieze of the inventor of ice cream.Not going into details, we can say that the inventor of ice cream goes by the name of Bernardo Buontalenti, a Florentine architect with a passion for cooking. He invented a very creamy dessert made of milk, sugar, eggs, honey and wine in the 17th century. Buontalenti's dessert is considered to be at the origin of ice cream, so much so that even today, this recipe - which took the name 'Crema Fiorentina' or 'Gelato Buontalenti' - is used as the basis for more modern ice creams. HOW TO CHOOSE A GOOD ARTISANAL GELATO WITHOUT FALLING INTO TOURIST TRAPS? Here is a vademecum to keep in mind when entering an ice-cream parlour:- Avoid ice cream parlours that have mountains of ice cream on display, quantity does not correspond to quality very often.- The table of ingredients must always be present. Whether it is a clearly visible sign or a book, it must be available and consultable by the customer. It is synonymous with seriousness, respect for the law and transparency towards the customer.- The ingredients of the ice cream must be few and well understood, if you read strange names it means that the ice cream is rich in elements that make it ultra-processed.- Be wary of colours that are too bright (although nowadays you can find bad ice-creams with absolutely perfect colours), masses that are too shiny or too opaque (in which case it could be a product that is too full of fat or too old).- The consistency of the ice cream should only be assessed when tasting and not when serving. An ice cream that you notice is too hard and firm at the time of serving may turn out to be silky and melting when you taste it. THE BEST ICE-CREAM SHOPS Now that you know what to look at to evaluate your ice-cream, here are some of the best Italian ice-cream parlours:Toscana Gelateria della Passera | FIRENZE Chiccheria | GROSSETO De’ Coltelli | PISA Dondoli | SAN GIMIGNANO [SI] Sicilia Cappadonia Gelati | PALERMO Puglia G&co | TRICASE [LE] Are you ready to come and taste real homemade ice cream? Book one of our villas, you won't regret it.   © Rebecca Taizzani

It's December, the Wham! song resounds through the streets (sabotaging your Whamageddon winnings), the shops are decorated, the squares lit up and you are looking for some presents.December is a month that exudes warmth (despite the cold weather), familiarity and conviviality. December in Italy means dinners with relatives, mulled wine while window shopping (be careful exaggerating, you might see double), afternoons in front of the fireplace, but above all: PANETTONE.Panettone is one of the typical Christmas sweets, but few people know its true history. In fact, the origins of this delicacy are lost in time and the birth of panettone is linked to numerous legends. THE BIRTH OF PANETTONE ACCORDING TO LEGEND The most famous legend claims that panettone was born at the court of Ludovico il Moro, Lord of Milan, back in the 15th century. It was Christmas Eve when, during a banquet, the official cook of the Sforza family inadvertently burnt a cake. To make up for it, Toni, the scullery boy who worked in the kitchen, decided to use a loaf of yeast that he had kept aside for Christmas. He processed it by adding flour, eggs, sultanas, candied fruit and sugar, obtaining a particularly leavened and soft dough. The cake was appreciated so much that the Sforza family decided to call it 'pan di Toni'.However, this is not the only legend linked to this Christmas cake, because according to other stories it was invented by Sister Ughetta or Ughetto degli Atellani. The only certainty is that panettone originated in the Middle Ages and is linked to the tradition, which was in force at the time, of preparing very rich loaves of bread at Christmas, which were served by the head of the family to diners. THE BIRTH OF PANETTONE ACCORDING TO HISTORICAL SOURCES1470: the first evidence of panettone. In a historical document, the 'rite of the log' is described: at Christmas, a large wooden log was put on the fire in every house and all the diners ate slices of wheat bread distributed by the head of the family, who kept one for the following year, as a good omen. That bread had, especially for the poor, a special value. In fact, bakers, except those who baked for the nobility, were forbidden to use wheat flour during the year as it was the prerogative of the rich.1549: Cristoforo di Messisbugo, a cook from Ferrara, lists the ingredients of a Milanese cake - flour, butter, sugar, eggs, milk and rose water - adding that it must rise well and be round in shape.1599: in the notes of a register of the Collegio Borromeo in Pavia concerning the expenses of the Christmas meal, there is mention of three pounds of butter, two pounds of sultanas and two ounces of spices that would be used to prepare '13 large loaves'. 1606: the first official definition of 'panaton', in the Milanese-Italian dictionary, is a large loaf prepared at Christmas. 1853: yeast is mentioned for the first time in the recipe for panettone, until then the cake had more the appearance of a focaccia. 1854: candied fruit is mentioned in the recipe for panettone and it begins to spread throughout northern Italy. HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT PANETTONE  The Classic Panettone has a few simple ingredients:Water Flour 0Salt Fresh eggs and/or pasteurised yolks Milk Butter Sugar Candied fruit (especially orange and citron) Sultanas Vanilla Natural yeast "De gustibus non est disputandum" so feel free to choose a chocolate or pistachio panettone instead of one with candied fruit (my personal favourite is an artisanal Rhum and Chocolate panettone). If you book one of our villas we can deliver the best panettone cakes in the area!What are you waiting for, there's still time!© Rebecca Taizzani

Do you feel unfit for this era? Have you always dreamed of living in the 1800s? Do you feel like a Dandy and are you always the most elegant when you go out? Or do you love petticoats, coiffed hair, crinoline and snow-white fabrics?If Bridgerton was your favourite TV series and you would like to experience a stay in a castle for yourself, this article is for you!In our programme we have different types of properties to ensure that the uniqueness of our clients is enhanced and respected. Here are the 3 best castles where you can stay to feel like a real 19th century nobleman. 1. CASTELLO DI MONTEGUFONICastello di Montegufoni is a magnificent property located in the Chianti hills that consists of 39 flats plus a large common room and a garden with swimming pool. The splendid castle dates back to the year 1100 and was renovated in the 1600s by the noble Acciaioli family. Worthy of note is the magnificent tower built on the architectural model of that of Palazzo Vecchio in Florence.The Castle can be rented exclusively (ideal if you are celebrating an event) or you can choose one of the various flats available. Staying in a flat you will have the opportunity to use the swimming pool, the outdoor spaces and enjoy the delicious dishes of the 'Ristorantino'. See how beautiful this living room is? Ideal for your 5 p.m. tea party. 2. VILLA PANERETTA Villa Paneretta is a wonderful villa for rent with private pool in Tuscany in the heart of the Chianti Classico region.The Villa is immersed in a 309-hectare property (woods, vineyards and olive groves) and is part of a magnificent historical structure dating back to the 13th century.Villa Paneretta is located adjacent to the ancient Castello della Paneretta and its cellars: as you enter the gate you will find yourself immersed in history, tradition and in close contact with one of the most famous and dynamic wineries in Chianti Classico. Don't you find it magnificent? 3. CASTELLO LEOPOLDO Castello Leopoldo is a marvellous castle for rent in Tuscany, perfectly suited as a castle for weddings and receptions or as an ultra-luxury holiday home with swimming pool. It is the ideal choice to offer its guests a stay filled with history.This splendid castle dates back to the 16th century, the style is romantic and the location is breathtaking: we are in fact in the hills of Campiglia marittima. The structure, which has retained its old-world charm, enjoys a beautiful view of the valley below and, on a clear day, of the island of Elba. The furnishings and decorations are in noble Tuscan style from the late 16th century. With its 10 bedrooms, Castello Leopoldo can accommodate up to 20 people.The castle is surrounded by a large, well-kept garden with a private swimming pool. Imagine the view from this terrace!© Rebecca Taizzani

If you are tired of renting the usual stunning but impersonal holiday villa, if you are looking for a distinctive solution that evokes the tradition of the place and encloses centuries of history within its walls, this article is for you.For your next holiday in Apulia book a Trullo. A Trullo is a type of conical dry-stone construction traditional to central-southern Apulia.Trulli can be composed of a simple room (unitary module), or by the combination of several rooms (modules), which are usually added by twinning around the central room.The modular construction unit of the trullo has a circular plan, on the perimeter of which the very thick dry-stone masonry is set.The great thickness of the masonry, combined with the very small number and size of the openings, ensures a very high thermal inertia, which guarantees a good conservation of heat inside during the winter and the coldest days, just as it mitigates the peaks in the outside temperature during the summer.The Trullo was originally a typical peasant building in which those who worked the fields could find rest. They were simple, bare rooms.The trulli we are proposing today, however, are slightly different, traditional yes but without sacrificing comfort: from the trullo with a private swimming pool, to the one with a Jacuzzi. Discover our selection of holiday trulli. TRULLO SANTO STEFANO Trullo Santo Stefano is a beautiful and traditional property with a beautifully restored trullo, near the village of San Michele Salentino. The trullo is nicely furnished in the style of the Puglia region and will guarantee a peaceful environment. The outdoor area is green and lush: you will find shrubs and plants typical of the Mediterranean vegetation.Here you will be able to enjoy complete privacy and the surroundings outside the property consist of one hectare of olive trees! TRULLO OAK Trullo Oak is a stunning holiday home in Puglia in the countryside near the town of Martina Franca.The interior is sober and well-maintained, with minimal furnishings that emphasise the magnificent vaulted ceiling with exposed stones.Outside, the Trullo has a large covered veranda next to the pool and various relaxation areas with stone seats. From Trullo Oak it is easy to reach the main towns in the area such as Martina Franca, Ostuni and Locorotondo, as well as beautiful beaches on the Ionian and Adriatic coasts.© Rebecca Taizzani

Whether you are staying in a masseria where Apulian oil was produced in ancient times, enjoying the sea view in your top-floor Jacuzzi or playing with your friends in the green meadows of a masseria in the open countryside, this article is for you. Today we take you to Puglia: home of taralli, rice tielle eaten on strips of fine sand or on crescents of pebbles. We want you to discover beaches nestled between cliffs or immersed in the Mediterranean maquis.  1. MASSERIA VILLA IL FRANTOIO, OSTUNI: TORRE GUACETO Masseria Villa il Frantoio is a magnificent villa for rent with a private swimming pool, nestled in a setting of thousand-year-old olive trees, just a stone's throw from Ostuni, Puglia: one of the most beautiful medieval villages in Italy.This beautiful property owes its name to the ancient underground oil mill located in the basement. This majestic piece of architecture can be reached from the outside via a spiral staircase. This particular ambience, with its very original charm, lends itself very well to events, dinners and wine and oil tastings. From Villa il Frantoio we recommend a visit to what many consider to be heaven on earth: Torre Guaceto. The Torre Guaceto beach is located within a protected marine area and a nature reserve. Its special feature? Apart from the crystal-clear colours of the water, the beach is entirely made of shells. Not many people are aware of this spectacle of biodiversity and peace. 2.  VILLA COTRIERO, GALLIPOLI: MARINA DI MANCAVERSACharming villa in the heart of Parco di Lido Pizzo a short distance from Gallipoli and the most beautiful beaches of Baia Verde. Thanks to its location, just 50m from the beach, it is an ideal place to spend a holiday immersed in the tranquility of the park while at the same time being able to reach the sea by foot.The property also has a swimming pool immersed in a garden measuring 700m², which is shared between the 2 units. 3. VILLA NIRACLO, CAROVIGNOVilla Niraclo is a fantastic vacation villa rental in Apulia. It’s very close to the sea, and to the cities of Carovigno and Ostuni. If you are looking for an Apulian-style villa with exposed stone and painted in neutral tones, Villa Niraclo is perfect for your vacation by the sea.With 6 double bedrooms total in the main villa and the annex, the property can comfortably accommodate 12 people. It offers the unforgettable chance to sleep in beds set into the stone. Each bedroom has its own private, complete bathroom. 4. MASSERIA LENTISCO, OTRANTO: TORRE DELL’ORSO Masseria Lentisco is a wonderful historic masseria surrounded by greenery and with a large enclosed garden. From the villa you can reach a beautiful bay: Torre dell'Orso. The bay of Torre dell'Orso is one of the most photographed locations in Salento. With the beauty of its silver-coloured beaches and the deep blue sea that contrasts with the landscape, Torre Dell'Orso remains a popular destination for tourists from Italy and the rest of the world. Torre dell'Orso is one of the marinas that have been awarded Blue Flags and Five Sails by Legambiente for their focus on environmental sustainability combined with the healthiness of the sea water and climate. Hurry up and book© Rebecca Taizzani

Umbria is a small but precious green heart of Italy. This region has protected its traditions with all its strength, preventing the contaminations of the modern world. When visiting Umbria, you will find an authentic atmosphere: Etruscans, ceramics, monasteries, national parks. Its historical, religious and natural importance is second to none other region, and the same goes for its rich and substantial menu of typical dishes.  WHAT TO EXPECT FROM UMBRIAN CUISINE? Protein first and foremost, from diametrically opposed sources. On the one hand, the absolute preponderance of meat in main courses and as a dressing for pasta; on the other, a rich biodiversity of pulses including lentils, black chickpeas, roveja, fagiolina, cicerchia and many others. Then fresh pasta without eggs, spelt and other ancient cereals, cheeses and sheep's milk ricotta, and home-made desserts to dunk in wine. WHICH DISHES SHOULD YOU ABSOLUTELY TRY? 1. Arvortolo: a golden fried pizza that is arvortolata ( flipped) several times during cooking to make it homogenous. They can be eaten on their own or filled with capocollo, porchetta or pecorino cheese. 2. Mazzafegato: a sausage made from pork liver, rind and other secondary butchery parts. All seasoned with fennel seeds, lemon and/or orange peel. 3. Cicotto: a special pork roast prepared with all the parts of the pig (ears, tripe, nose, feet, shin, tongue) washed and cooked in the oven for at least 12 hours. 4. Umbricelli: these are the typical pasta format of Umbria. Prepared only with water and flour, they are only meant to be served with a tomato sauce. 5. Strangozzi: these are very thick fettuccine, which do not have eggs inside their dough. They are usually seasoned with tomato and parsley. 6. Crescionda: a luxurious cocoa and amaretti cake consisting of three layers. The first is made of macaroons and flour, the second creamy made of eggs and milk, and the third with bitter cocoa. Mistrà (aniseed liqueur), rum, lemon peel, vanilla and cinnamon complete the ingredients. 7. Brustengo: this is a kind of sweet corn bread enriched with thin slices of apple and dried fruit at will. The good thing about brustengo is not only the taste, but also the nutritional table. It is traditionally gluten-free and sugar-free.  WITH WHAT TO ACCOMPANY THE DISHES LISTED ABOVE?  In Umbria, one not only eats well but also drinks deliciously and variously. There are several grape varieties typical of the area, which are increasingly appreciated internationally. Among the most famous are the Torgiano Rosso Riserva DOCG and the Montefalco Sagrantino DOCG, but wines such as Grechetto or Ciliegiolo are becoming increasingly popular. There are also special productions of wines with very interesting characteristics such as Orvieto abboccato, which is perfect for dessert, rather than Solleone, which is more fortified and has a strong personality. Umbria, therefore, also in this wine and food itinerary, has turned out to be a region with many hidden sides that have yet to be fully revealed. Why not choose Umbria as your next destination? Take a look here, don't let this opportunity pass you by.© Rebecca Taizzani

Breathtaking sets, luxurious locations, five-star resorts, characters with dizzying outfits, hidden stories, secrets and murders. But what are we talking about? The US series created and scripted by Mike White (you will certainly have heard of him with Dawson's Creek) with the aim of dismantling the myth of white Trumpian America with sarcasm. The White Lotus, is the title of the series that presents itself as a dramatic and satirical comedy that takes us for a week inside luxury resorts in Hawaii and Sicily. The series portrays the lives of staff members who have to satisfy the demands of wealthy clients every day, in parallel with that of a group of guests who have arrived to spend a week's holiday. The relaxation, the dreamlike landscapes, the luxury and the endless possibilities of entertainment, slowly bring to light more hidden sides of the different characters. Each episode focuses on the story of one of the characters: the first guest to come into focus is Shane Patton. Thanks to a flashback, we also meet other guests such as Rachel, Shane's wife. Together with them also Jennifer Coolidge who has arrived to scatter her mother's ashes and the Mossbacher family with their daughter's friend in tow. It is they who will animate the six episodes of the series. The plot is very intricate, gripping and exciting: it will keep you glued to the screen. We won't spoil the finale of the first season, but we do anticipate that in the second we move from the paradisiacal Hawaii to the breathtaking beauty of Sicily. But why are we telling you about it? For three main reasons:1. To let you discover the beauty of Sicily. In fact, we believe that the frames of the second series are a beautiful advertisement for a region that has so much to offer: from culture to culinary art, not to mention the splendid villas for rent where you can spend your holidays (we are obviously talking about ours).2. For the exceptional performances. Each actor is in full and fluid command of their role, everyone seems to enjoy the flow of White's writing, the way he delicately plucks the strings to change the tenor and vibration of his characters' social dynamics. They seem to be having fun, even when pain and anxiety creep in at the edges of a scene.3. For the message that the series wants to convey: a contemporary realistic fairy tale, in which different ages, different personalities meet and collide amid disappointments and disillusionments, in the continuous merry-go-round that is life in which apparently no one seems to want to take responsibility for what happens. The strength of The White Lotus lies in its desire to show human frailties, to mock wealth but without giving the contours of sanctity to those who are not rich. © Rebecca Taizzani