THE ITALIAN GRANDTOUR

Experience Tuscany in a classic car

Florence is the ideal starting point for the trip. From here, you can explore the Tuscan countryside in style in a charming vintage car. Remote villages, picturesque vineyards in Chianti and spectacular views characterise this unforgettable experience. After returning to Florence, you have the opportunity to discover the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. Giotto’s bell tower offers a marvellous view over the rooftops, while highlights such as Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus in the Uffizi Gallery, Michelangelo’s David and the impressive Renaissance architecture should be on your list. A walk across the Ponte Vecchio, through the Boboli Gardens or along the Palazzi Pitti rounds off the visit. The crowning glory is a dinner in the Irene Restaurant with a view of the Piazza della Repubblica.

On to Rome

The journey continues to the Italian capital Rome. Here, the Hotel de la Ville, a Rocco Forte hotel, awaits guests in the immediate vicinity of the Spanish Steps. The magnificent 18th century palazzo offers a luxurious residence. Rome also offers extraordinary experiences: a journey through the dark chapters of the city’s history reveals stories of heretics, intrigues and swindlers, complemented by visits to appropriate locations such as taverns where Caravaggio once fought his battles. Villa Borghese, the Trevi Fountain, Palazzo Barberini and the exclusive shopping street Via Condotti are also in the immediate vicinity.

Apulia: Rustic luxury at the Masseria Torre Maizza

The Masseria Torre Maizza, a Rocco Forte Hotel, is located between Bari and Brindisi. This historic farmhouse from the 16th century combines rustic charm with modern luxury. Here you can enjoy traditional dishes prepared according to family recipes, become part of the community at the dining table, play golf on the hotel’s own course, relax in the private beach club or enjoy the sunset with a cocktail on the roof terrace of the Bougainvillea Bar.

Sicily and the elegance of Palazzo Gangi

Next stop is Sicily, where the princess of the 300-year-old Palazzo Gangi gives an exclusive reception. A private guided tour of Palermo reveals the fascinating history of the city and its influential families, including the Florios. The highlight of the stay is a dinner in the elegant Louis XVI Hall of Villa Igiea, a Rocco Forte Hotel.

Relaxation at the end of the journey

Finally, the sun-kissed Mediterranean coast beckons at the Verdura Resort, also a Rocco Forte Hotel. Here, relaxation takes centre stage, while the sea and the Mediterranean landscape provide the perfect finale. This trip can of course be customised by Rose Travel, for example with a detour to Capri, which is currently experiencing a real renaissance. Here you can choose between the traditional Grand Hotel Quisisana and the modern Capri Palace, both of which promise unique stays.