Local life

Our Local Specialist in Sicily, Chiara, shares her top picks for the best food, activities, villas and more, all on the Italian island of your dreams.

Sicily boasts multiple world heritage sites, immense coasts and an active volcano. See our top five wonders of Sicily and explore our exceptional Sicilian villas.

Zakynthos (known to many as Zante) is a captivating Greek island in the Ionian Sea that effortlessly balances natural splendour with authentic Greek culture. Whilst the island is celebrated for its iconic Navagio Shipwreck Beach, there's a wealth of experiences waiting beyond the tourist trail—from secluded coves accessible only by boat to traditional mountain villages where time seems to stand still.

Learn more about renowned chef Christian Puglisi, and his upcoming unique cookery retreat at our Sicilian villa, Rocca delle Tre Contrade. In this blog, immerse yourself in the flavors of spring, traditional Sicilian cuisine, and a special recipe from Puglisi.

Nestled in the heart of Tuscany's rolling hills, San Gimignano and Siena represent two of Italy's most captivating medieval destinations. San Gimignano is a small walled medieval hill town in the province of Siena, famous for its medieval architecture and preservation of about a dozen tower houses, whilst Siena captivates visitors with its Gothic grandeur and vibrant cultural heritage. Together, these destinations offer an unforgettable journey through Tuscany's rich history, stunning landscapes, and authentic Italian culture.

Mykonos isn't just another Greek island – it's a mesmerising blend of sugar-cube architecture, turquoise waters, world-class dining, and an energy that shifts seamlessly from peaceful morning wanderings to sunset cocktails and legendary nightlife. Whether you're seeking romantic hideaways, family-friendly beaches, historical treasures, or that famous party scene, this comprehensive guide reveals everything you need to know about experiencing Mykonos at its finest.

From Tzatziki to Moussaka, Greek cuisine is renowned the world over for a reason. Read our traditional Greek recipes guide and cook up your own Mezze feast.

Deciding where to stay in Tuscany represents one of the most consequential decisions of any Italian holiday. This isn't a region with a single character—Tuscany encompasses radically different experiences stacked within 23,000 square kilometres. Renaissance masterpieces and medieval streets in Florence differ profoundly from cypress-studded vineyards in Chianti, dramatic coastlines at Monte Argentario, or the ethereal landscapes of Val d'Orcia.

Join us as we dive into the wonderful sights you can see on a boat trip from Zakynthos, from sea turtles and shipwrecks to gorgeous beaches you’ve only ever dreamed about before.

Planning a trip to Palermo and wondering where to stay? You're not alone. Sicily's vibrant capital welcomes over 900,000 visitors annually, yet many arrive without clarity on which neighbourhoods suit their travel style, what accommodation offers genuine value, or how to avoid the tourist traps that plague Italy's popular destinations.

Discover the fascinating connections between the histories and cultures of Sicily, Puglia, Greece, and Corsica in our A-Z Mediterranean destination guide.

The breeze is warm as it gently caresses your face. You look out across the shimmering sea and feel an overwhelming sense of calm - there's nothing quite like the Italian coast. Here, we explore some of the many coastal gems that Italy has to offer.