Savor (sa'v r) noun – to give oneself over to the enjoyment of: “to savor the best in life”.
Perhaps no destination lends itself better to this word than Italy. From the Dolomites to Capri, from Venice to Sicily, countless turisti travel the boot in search of a luxurious feast, particularly the edible kind. It may be a matter of taste, but your taste buds surely won’t be disappointed.
Many “epicurious” sojourners in Italy discover that most of the best dining experiences are not in the obvious places, but rather on “roads less traveled.” Say “ciao” to Rome, Florence and Milan...just for a day or two...and discover the secret locales of some of the most opulent dining and lodging experiences that the country has to offer. With just a small overnight bag in hand, jump into your Ferrari 360 Modena or enjoy a chauffeured ride courtesy of Pegasolimo and take the scenic drive to smaller cities and towns with big ideas about Italian cooking. Bellissimo!
Northern Exposure
Once you’ve worked up an appetite from all of the glorious shoe shopping in Milan, ditch the fashionistas and head out to one of Italy’s grandest hotels. The Villa d’Este Hotel, a former 16th-century aristocratic residence, could easily be the most romantic place on earth. The villa overlooks 25 acres of picturesque gardens with heart-stopping blue vistas of Lake Como. In the summer, light buffets are set on long tables within view of the gardens. Just a stone’s throw away, in the enchanted town of Bellagio, the Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni’s restaurant highlights Chef Ettore Bocchia’s passion for cuisine presented in an artful manner to awaken all your senses.
Alpine Appetite
Another night away from city lights promises to take you where few tourists can afford to roam...the Dolomites. From Lombardy to Piedmont, you will be mesmerized by the beauty of this environment, from snowcapped peaks to the diverse vegetation and vineyards, picturesque villages and clear water lakes. And at the foot of Monte Cervino, at an altitude of 6,500 feet, lies the Hotel Hermitage, a small magical world of its own. The Hermitage’s restaurant, La Chandelle, winner of numerous Italian restaurant awards, pairs Tyrolean cuisine with wines from the hotel’s massive stone vaults. Sample the region’s bounty via a luxurious private tour, or pamper yourself in the exotic Turkish baths. Whatever you choose, the Dolomites will stay with you forever.
Mangiare al Mediterraneo
Due west from fabulous Florence on the magical waters of the Mediterranean sits the jewel of the Italian coast – the Italian Riviera. The small fishing port of Portofino draws the big names and the even bigger boats of the beau monde and more. More than a few VIPs have signed the visitors’ book at the Hotel Splendido, a 16th-century monastery situated on a cliff over Portofino Bay. For handmade pappardelle with pesto and primo people watching, reserve an outdoor table at Ristorante Puny in the main square. After dark, grab a table on the terrace at Splendido’s Chuflay for a cocktail under the stars. An Italian Riviera getaway lingers in your heart and begs for a speedy return.
Island Ingredients
Well heeled Italians spend their summers, often barefoot, on the idyllic island of Sardinia. From the crystal clear turquoise water and pristine beaches to untouched nature and stunning architecture, the village of Smeralda in Northern Sardinia has it all and more. Well-appointed hotels, wellness centers, designer boutiques, world-class restaurants and exciting nightlife are only a few of the luxuries awaiting your arrival. The gentle rise and fall of the turrets at the magnificent Hotel Cala di Volpe give the impression of a lavish estate at one with its natural surroundings. Sip cocktails al fresco and dine at one of the hotel’s two restaurants, where the freshest ingredients grace the plates, and yachts glint at a distance in the Italian sun. Come for the weekend…stay for the entire season.
Southern Comforts
Room for one more? With the magnificent backdrop of Mount Etna, Sicily and the ancient city of Taormina welcome you. The Grand Hotel San Pietro can’t be beat for five-star service with all the amenities. In front of you, the sea and the sea alone...behind you, the age-old, enchanting town of Taormina. Find yourself immersed in magnificent gardens with the bright colors and rich scents of Sicilian flora: prickly pears, olive trees, oleanders, almond trees and carob trees. When you’re ready to dine, check out a venue with a glossy, airy atmosphere reminiscent of Rome during the heyday of Gina Lollobrigida. La Giara will awaken your soul with regional dishes. Follow up this experience with the bold statement of chef Andreas Zangerl and his kitchen at Casa Grugno, which is located in a stone-sided house. Both restaurants are absolutely divine. In Taormina and its environs it’s easy to experience la dolce vita.
Still not ready to stand in line at the Vatican? A yacht awaits you at the funicular landing in Capri. Crave a little vino? Join the premier winemakers in Radda in Chianti, and escape to a private villa overlooking the vast vineyards. Ravello, Sorrento, Verona, Lucca, Siena, Rimini, Sicily....so many places, so little time...or not. Andiamo! •
