Best PoolsDestination: family-friendly villasDestination: GreeceDestination: ItalyDestinationsExperiencesFamily TravelGolf HolidaysSki ChaletsWellness RetreatsYoga Luxury villa rentals for fitness enthusiasts by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande June 15, 2022 written by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande The perfect villas for those who want to continue their fitness and wellness regimes while on vacation. Luxury retreats fitted with equipped gyms, saunas, massage rooms, tennis courts, golf courses, and all you need to feel healthy and fit. San Lorenzo Mountain Lodge, Dolomites, Italy Fancy a round of golf? But not in the local golf club…in your very own, private golf course? Is this even possible?? Yes, it is at our chalet in the Dolomites. A full 18-holes experience. San Lorenzo Mountain Lodge is the only lodge in the Alps to offer its guests a chance to play 18 holes in a unique and unforgettable environment or to practice and take part in golf academies on an international level, at an altitude of 1200 metres above sea level. This luxurious retreat promises an unsurpassable experience. Voted many years in a row “Best Chalet in Italy”, it offers our Guests the experience of a lifetime. A magical abode suitable for up to 10 Guests equipped with an outdoor pool, indoor Spa, a well-stocked wine cellar and a helipad. Let yourself be spoiled by the professional cuisine of your private Chef or the personalised Concierge services tailor-made uniquely to your wishes and expectations. For info and bookings: https://passepartout-homes.com/property/san-lorenzo-mountain-lodge/ San Lorenzo, Dolomites Masseria Pettolecchia Piccola, Puglia, Italy Amongst aromatic gardens and with a beautiful sea-view, stands Pettolecchia, a luxury villa located in the Italia region of Puglia. Guests will enjoy the heated pool and a well equipped outdoor Technogym. You can keep up with your fitness regime by booking a private Pilates or Yoga instructor, a personal trainer, a beauty therapist or a masseuse. Golf enthusiasts will be offered exclusive access at the world renown 18-holes golf course, San Domenico Golf commanding spectacular views of the Adriatic Sea. For info and bookings: https://passepartout-homes.com/property/masseria-pettolecchia-piccola/ Pettolecchia Piccola Alegria, Mykonos Newly built and perfect for several families, groups of friends and VIPs traveling with an entourage or for events, the villa overlooks 3 stunning beaches and features 13 luxury bedrooms each with an en suite bathroom. Located in one of the most exceptional parts of the island, The villa is just 300m from the cosmopolitan Kalo Livadi beach. Known for its acclaimed gourmet restaurants and quality beach services, its the summer’s “place to be”. The villa offers a fully equipped TechnoGym fitness room with stunning views of the sea as well as a luxurious Spa and massage room with sauna, steam bath & infrared sauna to rest after a session.. Don’t want to train alone? Why don’t we organise a personal trainer for you. Choose from fitness trainers, yoga, pilates, aerobics, dance, aqua gym or Tai Chi. If you like swimming, the panoramic lagoon shaped pool is the place to be. 22m in length, you can definitely do a lap or two. The pool can be heated and offers a jacuzzi area with 6 independent seats. For info and bookings: https://passepartout-homes.com/property/alegria-mykonos/ Alegria, Mykonos June 15, 2022 0 comment 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
DestinationsExperiencesFamily TravelTravel Tips 5 Places Where You Can Experience the Midnight Sun by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande May 18, 2022 written by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande Now that the summer solstice has passed and summer is officially here, this is the best time to experience the magic of witnessing the midnight sun. This natural phenomenon occurs because at this time of year, the tip of the earth is titled towards the sun. This means that any regions north of the Arctic Circle (latitude 66°) experience a period of uninterrupted sunlight when the sun doesn’t set and there are 24 consecutive hours of sunlight. The peak period for midnight sun is from the summer solstice (June 21st) until the middle of July. But the further north you go, the longer it lasts: north of the Arctic Circle the sun shines continuously from around May and lasts until as late as August. While you have to travel north of the Arctic Circle to witness the complete midnight sun, any regions just below it experience very long summer days and a spectacular sunset that lasts for hours, which is an amazing spectacle in itself. Witnessing the midnight sun is a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience. Here are 5 places where you can see the magic of the midnight sun: 1. Norway There are two spots in Norway which are popular destinations to observe the midnight sun. The Svalbard Islands are an archipelago and the northernmost region in Europe that is inhabited. Here the sun doesn’t set for four months: from late April to late August! The other popular spot to experience the midnight sun is in Hammerfest, the world’s northernmost town. The sun shines continuously here from May until the end of July. During this period there are many midnight sun cruises organised specially for the many visitors who flock here. Midnight Sun, Norway, photo courtesy of Wikimedia.org 2. Sweden The town of Abisko, in Swedish Lapland, is located in Sweden’s far north. The midnight sun is visible here from the end of May until mid-July, making this a popular tourist destination during this time – as well as and during the winter months when the skies light up with the ‘Northern Lights’. The Midnight Sun, seen from the Torne River, photo courtesy of Imagebank.Sweden.se A midnight hike in Abisko National Park or through the mountains at Lapporten with the orange coloured skies as a backdrop is a truly special experience. The nearby town of Kiruna hosts the popular annual Kiruna Festival at the end of June, a non-stop musical celebration of the long summer days. 3. Iceland Iceland’s capital Reykjavik is the world’s northernmost capital city. Every year on summer solstice day it hosts a huge all-night music festival called Secret Solstice. Secret Solstice Music Festival, Iceland, photo courtesy of Iceland.is. To experience the complete midnight sun however, you have to head further north to the island of Grimsey which lies on the Arctic circle and can be reached by ferry from the town of Dalvik. While the island has a population of only 100 people, the island is also home to one million seabirds, and also has a huge Puffin colony. 4. Canada Inuvik in Canada’s Northwest Territories is the country’s most northernmost city. During the summer it has 56 days of sunlight, during which the sun never goes down. This is a heaven for birdwatchers as many migratory birds can be seen nesting here during this time. The city’s houses are painted in bright colours to offset the dark and gloomy days of the winter months. Each July the city’s Great Northern Arts Festival showcases a vibrant line-up of performers and visual artists from all over the region. Midnight Sun, taken at 2:30AM, July, Inuvik, photo courtesy of DestinationInuvik.com 5. The Faroe Islands The Faroe Islands lie at 60° latitude, just south of the Arctic Circle, which means they do not experience the complete midnight sun but they do have ‘white nights’ all summer long. This means that for four weeks from the summer solstice, the sun doesn’t go down fully but instead hovers around the horizon. As a result, there are almost no hours of darkness during the months of June and July. Instead, at night there is a prolonged sunset, casting the horizon in spectacular shades of red and yellow, creating a beautiful soft and radiant light which is definitely worth witnessing. The Midnight Sun, Faroe Islands, photo courtesy of FjordTravel.no By Isabel Putinja, Travel Writer May 18, 2022 0 comment 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Best PoolsDestination: family-friendly villasDestination: ItalyDestinationsFamily Travel Holiday Villas in Italy with Heated Pools by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande May 13, 2022 written by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande With summer fast approaching many of us are turning our thoughts to where to go for our summer holidays, particularly as we have not been able to travel for last two years. And what could be better than a couple of weeks in your own private villa in Italy. If you have young children and are looking to book a family get away, then a luxury villa with a nice, heated swimming pool is a must. It will keep the kids occupied for hours on end while you relax in the warm sunshine. To give you an idea of where you could stay, we have selected three beautiful villas with their own heated private pools. 1. Podere Vetrichina – Tuscany Located in Tuscany, Podere Vetrichina is set within pretty gardens and surrounded by 6 hectares of woods, offering a breadth of fresh air within the Tuscan countryside, in an ideal location and perfect for families or groups of friends looking for a break from the 9 to 5 monotony. Podere Vetrichina can accommodate up to 14 guests and in addition to the living areas within the villa, the extensive grounds are composed of the swimming pool area, the gardens and 3 outdoor dining areas.The villa has a fully-equipped kitchen, a dining room outfitted with a country-chic antique wooden table, two pellet fireplaces and two comfortable living areas.Four of the six double bedrooms, all with en-suite bathrooms, are located on the ground floor and have aged-oak flooring, travertine bathrooms, designer fittings, memory-foam mattresses and luxury Italian cotton linens. On the first floor you can relax in the large sofas in the villa’s upper level living area, while watching TV or playing a DVD. The other two double bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms are also on this floor. Each bathroom has professional hairdryers and natural toiletries, while extra beds and highchairs are available for children upon request. The villa is also equipped with air conditioning throughout. A focal point of the garden is the 120 cubic metre swimming pool which is open from May 1st until mid-October. It has a minimum depth of 1.30 metres and is surrounded with deck chairs for the sun worshippers amongst you, while those of you who want to stay out of the sun can find shade under the canopy. Podere Vetrichina 2. Masseria il Trullino – Puglia Newly built a few years ago, Masseria il Trullino is located in Puglia, nestled amongst 400 year old olive trees. This traditional Italian country house offers a serene hideaway for a tranquil holiday with family and friends. On entering the main gate, you will find yourself standing in over two hectares of ancient olive trees and the villa itself is made up with the main building and a separate guest unit.The main building has an open-plan fully-fitted modern kitchen equipped two large fridges and the ancient oak kitchen table can sit up to 10 people when fully extended. The dining area has an impressive open fireplace, while the cosy living area is the perfect place to relax or watch television in the evening. At sunset, you can head up to the roof terrace for an aperitif and take in the spectacular panoramic views as far as eye can see of olive groves and white-stone villages. And on a really clear day, you may even spot the Adriatic Sea and Albania in the far distance. The villa has 5 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms and can accommodate up to 10 people with a master-bedroom with four poster king size bed, closet, cabinet, desk and an en-suite bathroom with shower, TV, Nespresso Coffee machine and access to a private garden. Then there is a twin/double bedroom with en-suite bathroom with shower, TV, desk and it also has access to the private garden. In addition, there are two twin/double bedrooms, sharing a spacious family bathroom with bathtub and separate rain shower. The two rooms can be interconnected, with one of the two rooms equipped with TV and DVD player and a desk.A second independent stone building is located just 30 metres from the main building and has a twin/double bedroom with en-suite shower and TV, ideal for teenagers, a nanny or visiting guests. The brand new private tennis court offers the opportunity to enjoy tennis with the family or play a few matches with friends before diving into the swimming pool to cool off.The pretty 10 x 4 meter heated infinity pool has an electric cover as well as an outdoor shower. The maximum depth of the pool is 1.50 meters. You normally don’t need to heat the pool during the hot summer months, but it can be heated by request with an extra charge. The pool is closed between 1st November and 1st May Masseria il Trullino 3. Casale Le Pratola – Tuscany Not far from Siena and Florence, located in the Chianti region of Tuscany, Casale Le Pratola enjoys a commanding and private hilltop position with 360 degree panoramic views of the surrounding Tuscan countryside. Casale Le Pratola is a luxurious Tuscan villa, bringing together the best Italian craftsmanship and design from the 16th century to the present day, and retains a multitude of original features including exposed walls and beams, handmade floor tiles, 18th century antique furniture and an original dove tower. The villa is set in 2 hectares of secluded gardens filled with vines, olives, cypress trees and local herbs and the infinity pool is surrounded by wide open lawn areas with views of the surrounding countryside. You can also relax on the sun loungers and deck chairs around the pool. At the heart of Casale Le Pratola is a central courtyard housing an original stone pizza oven and barbeque area containing a large table and chairs, perfect for al fresco dining. There are also two more terraces, the first is outside the dining room, and is a fragrant, pergola covered dining area with fantastic views. The second leads from the large sitting room and is a bar zone terrace with sofa, armchairs and candles looking out over the cascading water of the infinity edged swimming pool. Overlooking the courtyard is a large Italian designer kitchen equipped for parties and entertaining, containing a cooker, two ovens, two dishwashers, wine fridge and an adjoining utility room with laundry facilities. The villa can accommodate up to 10 guests and has 5 bedrooms, all with en-suite travertine bathrooms and air conditioning. There are 2 sitting rooms, a kitchen, dining room, games room, gym, laundry room and a stunning open plan galleried hallway. Leading off from the galleried hallway is the impressive sitting room which has an indoor bar area, perfect for relaxing after dinner, playing cards and listening to music or sipping drinks on the adjoining terrace and enjoying the sunset over the hills. There is also an upstairs sitting room with books, TV and DVD player and a great selection of films.The heated swimming pool has a safety cover which opens and closes quickly and easily by remote control. The pool can be accessed via two gates with locks as an additional deterrent to very young children. The pool is open from March to mid-October. Casale Le Pratola May 13, 2022 0 comment 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Destination: family-friendly villasDestination: ItalyDestinationsFamily TravelFood and DrinkVenues for special eventsWedding Venues Fab holiday villas with tennis courts by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande May 12, 2022 written by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande As the summer tennis season approaches, many of us look forward to stretching our legs and arms on the tennis court, and what better way to enjoy a game of tennis with the family and friends than when we’re on our summer holiday, particularly after being locked away for the last two years. If you are thinking of taking the family away to Italy this summer, then we have a number of villas that would be perfect for a family break that also have their own private tennis courts. And to whet your appetite, we have selected three such villas. Masseria il Trullino – Puglia Masseria il Trullino, situated in Puglia, nestled amongst 400 year old olive trees. This traditional Italian country house offers a serene hideaway for a tranquil holiday with family and friends.Newly built a few years ago, the masseria was crafted by able artisans using “Pietra Leccese”, the local stone, by applying traditional techniques, resulting in a unique masterpiece of arches and 4 metres high vaulted ceilings. It was extended and completely restyled under the supervision of Apulian Architect Raffaele Centonze in July 2020. On entering the main gate, you will find yourself standing in over two hectares of ancient olive trees and the villa itself is made up with the main building and a separate guest unit. In the main building you will find an open-plan fully-fitted modern kitchen equipped with all the usual appliances, utensils and two large fridges. The ancient oak kitchen table can sit up to 10 guests when fully extended. The dining area features an impressive open fireplace, while the cosy living area is the perfect place to relax or watch television. Both the kitchen and dining area have access to the internal courtyard as well as the lawn and olive grove, and the kitchen leads to a utility/storage room equipped with a washing machine, dryer as well as a guest toilet with a shower. As regards the sleeping arrangements, you will find a master-bedroom with four poster king size bed, closet, cabinet, desk and an en-suite bathroom with shower, TV, Nespresso Coffee machine and access to a private garden. There is also a twin/double bedroom with en-suite bathroom with shower, TV, desk and it also has access to the private garden. In addition, there are two twin/double bedrooms, sharing a spacious family bathroom with bathtub and separate rain shower. The two rooms can be interconnected, with one of the two rooms equipped with TV and DVD player and a desk. A second independent stone building is located 30 just metres from the main building and has a twin/double bedroom with en-suite shower and TV, ideal for teenagers, a nanny or visiting guests. The brand new private tennis court, completed in May 2022, offers the opportunity to enjoy tennis with the family or play a few matches with friends before diving into the swimming pool to cool off. There is plenty of room for al-fresco dining, relaxation and entertainment during the summer months, from sun-loungers to sofas, and there are two shaded dining areas located in either the landscaped gardens or in the main courtyard. At sunset, you can head up to the roof terrace for an aperitif and take in the spectacular panoramic views as far as eye can see of olive groves and white-stone villages. And on a really clear day, you may even spot the Adriatic Sea and Albania in the far distance. Masseria il Trullino Castellare de’ Sernigi – Tuscany The second villa is Castellare de’ Sernigi in the Chianti region of Tuscany, which is an enchanting country estate that can accommodate up to 14 guests. The villa is situated at the edge of a medieval hamlet and has six elegantly furnished en-suite bedrooms with a seventh bedroom that makes for an ideal kids or teenagers’ room. Step through the front door into a spacious entrance hall with a designer wooden table as centrepiece. Continue walking and you will find a dining room with an original fireplace and large table for up to 20 guests, a fully equipped professional kitchen and pantry. There is also a utility room as well as a simple twin bedroom with en-suite shower. A further twin/double bedroom with en-suite shower and bathtub can also be found on the ground floor. Head down to the lower ground floor, and you will find a wine and olive oil cellar where you can help yourself …at an additional fee. Up on the first floor of the villa are two sun-kissed and bright reception rooms with large windows offering stunning views. The remaining 5 bedrooms are also located on the first floor, all of which are spacious, with wooden beams and antique furniture and equipped with en-suite bathrooms and air conditioning. Being summer, you will want to be outside as much as possible and there is plenty of outdoor space for relaxation, entertainment and al-fresco dining, including an open air theatre for concerts in the summer. The villa has extensive grounds surrounded by olive trees, flowers and Mediterranean vegetation, which include a private swimming pool and red clay tennis court which is only a few hundred meters from the villa and surrounded by cypresses and olive trees, typical of Tuscany. The tennis court is at the complete disposal of villa guests on request, and for any information you can ask Enzo and Annagloria, the owners of the Villa. Castellare de Sernigi Villa Altaserra Wine Resort – Tuscany The third villa we would like to highlight is the beautiful Villa Altaserra Wine Resort also situated in Tuscany, which is an imposing eight bedroom Tuscan historic villa is steeped in history, offering panoramic views of its vineyards and the Chianti Hills. It is as perfect for entertaining guests today as it was when the Medici family hosted visitors here hundreds of years ago. On entering the ground floor of this stunning, generously proportioned villa, guests are greeted by an entrance hallway with a useful wardrobe. The spacious living rooms include a piano room, a fireplace room and a chill out room with TV, as well as an attractive dining room. The large fully equipped kitchen benefits from a pantry and fireplace and leads out onto a lovely terrace with a gazebo for outdoor dining. The kitchen has all the facilities necessary for home catering, including a dishwasher, microwave and coffee machine. You will find five tastefully appointed king size bedrooms on the first floor with wood floors and en-suite bathrooms. There is air conditioning throughout this floor and an additional suite with two king size bedrooms sharing a bathroom is also available. Outside in the gorgeous, quintessentially Italian garden there are mature trees and a pretty private chapel, perfect for intimate ceremonies. A loggia faces a private swimming pool with its own showers and laundry facilities. And a game of tennis on the synthetic turf court next to the selvamaggio vineyard, surrounded by a lush nature as the sun goes down, will work up an appetite for a family dinner on the terrace with beautiful views of the Chianti Hills. Federal trainers are even available upon request should you be looking to improve your game. Villa Altaserra Wine Resort For more villas with tennis courts, visit our website. May 12, 2022 0 comment 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
ChristmasDestinationsGift IdeasShopping Luxury Christmas Candles by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande November 19, 2021 written by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande Light up your home with holiday season fragrances and fill your home with comforting smells of cinnamon and cloves, pine trees and mandarins. A selection of elegant Christmas candles, perfect gift for yourself or someone you love. Diptyque Biscuit Candle – Limited Edition 190gr £60 What do you smell when you think of Christmas? This limited Editions Biscuit candle reminds us of the aroma of holiday baking. Spicy and delicious, the scent is enriched with patchouli. Embellished with real gold, this luxurious candle come with an elegant golden lid. Goutal Une Fôret D’Or 185 gr €57 Close your eyes and imagine a winter walk through the forest, the fresh smell of pine branches and a house filled with the sweet aroma of oranges and mandarins. Dior Cannage £180 Epices d’Or fragranced candle with scents of elemi, cardamom, ginger, juniper berry, cedar and cashmeran in an elegant glass jar with ‘Cannage’ motif. The candles comes in a blue and gold Toile de Jouy-patterned gift box. Baobab Hazo Noely From €100 Nothing smells more christmassy than cinnamon. A festive candle with hints of amber and cachemire wood. The Hazo Noely scented candle is dressed up in a hand-made crochet crafted by the women in a Malagasy cooperative. Green leaf motifs stand out on the red raffia and are embroidered with red lurex. Jo Malone London Orange Bitters 200gr €58 Sweet and bitter orange mixed with sandalwood. Perfect by your bedside or bathtub to keep you company during the dark winter nights. November 19, 2021 0 comment 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Destination: GreeceDestinationsExperiencesFood and DrinkHoneymoon destinationsIdeal for Couples A long weekend in Santorini by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande October 20, 2021 written by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande A long weekend in Santorini is long enough to capture the mood, and be totally spellbound by its beauty. The island really lives up to its expectations. Voted repeatedly “best sunset destination, “best island in the world”, “best island in Europe” , “top Mediterranea holiday”, “most romantic getaway”, “most photographed places in the world”, I could instantly see why.As soon as we reached our holiday villa located on the highest point in Fira and stepped onto the terrace, our heartbeat stopped beating for a few seconds. We were unprepared for the beauty of what lied ahead of us. Whyhave we waited so long to visit it? Santorini is what remains of a dramatic volcanic explosion some 3,600 years ago and which created the current geological submerged caldera. Visible above water is the circular Santorini group of islands, consisting of Santorini, the main island, Therasia, Aspronisi , and the Kameni islands at the center with its hot spring waters. According to the Greek historian Herodotus, Santorini was initially called “Strogili” which means ‘round’ due to its circular shape and it is how the island looked like before the catastrophic volcanic eruption that completely changed the shape of the island.Subsequently it was named “Kallisti” – “the most beautiful”. The name Santorini was given by the Crusaders which named the island after the chapel of Saint Irene (Santa Irini).Nowadays, the official name of the island is Thera, but it is mainly known as Santorini which is how the Greeks refer to it, too. Santorini is the most visited island in Greece with around 2 million visitors a year. We traveled to the island in October 2021 and, despite pandemic travel restrictions, it was well attended. I cannot imagine what it may look like in high season or with no travel restrictions. I am glad we stayed during a relatively calm season as I cannot fathom being ‘trapped’ by herds of tourists, especially those arriving daily by cruise ships, in the picturesque but narrow cobblestoned alleyways. Where we stayed We rented a Passepartout Homes accommodation, Santorini Mansion, a luxury private villa in the capital Fira, with outstanding views of the Caldera and an outdoor panoramic hot tub. Minutes on foot from the town and 15 minutes drive to the airport, it is perfectly located to explore Fira, and the nearby villages of Imerovigli and Firostefani. Rates from €1500/night, rich breakfast included. Villa sleeps up to 8 guests. Santorini Mansion villa Where we ate Franco’s Bar in Thira: great cocktails at sunset, stunning view of the caldera, nice selection of Greek classics, friendly service. Seltz Champagne Bar & Restaurant by Fleur de Miraval inside the historic five stars luxury hotel Katikies in Oia. Sophisticated Greek specialities, sushi and fine wines. Throubi located inside Andronis Concept Wellness hotel in Imerovigli, this gourmet restaurant is perfect for those seeking a fine dining and romantic experience. Volkan on the Rocks in Firostefani, a cafe, lunch, brunch and dinner restaurant offering Greek cuisine and great views of the caldera. In the evening, the terrace transforms itself into an open air cinema under the stars showing some ‘cheesy’ but all time favorite movies such as Mamma Mia or My Big Fat Greek Wedding. Breakfast at Santorini Mansion villa Where we sunbathed Seaside beach club located along the black sandy beach in Perivolos, Agios Georgios. Comfortable sun loungers sofas and cabanas, with excellent service. Champagne and sushi bar. Forty One 41 beach club in Perivolos. Another great option. A trendy club with comfortable sun loungers, cabanas, champagne and sushi bar service. VIP cabanas at Forty One 41 beach club What we did Take the cable car in Fira down to the old port and hop on a boat to Nea Kameni National Park, a tiny island at the centre of the Caldera. it is surrounded by warm, sulfur waters containing iron and manganese as well, known for their healing properties. Enjoy a bath in the hot springs. An unusual fun thing to do is to head to a fish spa and have your feet nibbled by tiny fish in a bowl. There a few salons in the capital. You can try visiting Fish Spa Kagal Wellness Centre. Expect to pay around €15/20 for 30 minutes. Our best tip Leave your high heels at home. Even if dining at a fancy restaurant in evening attire, wear sneakers or Birkenstocks! There is no way you can walk on the steep, cobblestoned paths in stilettos. You’ll thank me later. Lunch at Seaside beach clubSeaside beach clubSunset dinner at ThroubaLunch at KatikiesDinner at ThroubaFirostefani October 20, 2021 0 comment 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
Destination: ItalyDestinations Best beaches in Salento? It depends on the wind. by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande October 19, 2021 written by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande How to choose where to swim in Salento depending on the winds. The Salento region of Puglia is kissed by not one but two Seas. The Ionion Sea on the west coast, best for sunsets, and the Adriatic Sea on the east coast, best for sunrises.A narrow peninsula , you can drive from one coast to the other one in just over an hour. But deciding which beach to sunbathe depends less on your inclination and more on which wind is blowing. Salento is known for its sun, sea and winds (yes, plural). “Va’ dove ti porta il vento” – “Go where the wind takes you”, is what they say in Salento.Learn your Salento winds, I would say. There are 4 winds blowing, Tramontana and Scirocco, the two main ones, the Ponente and the Levante. Photo courtesy Locanda del Carrubo, Puglia Tramontana Tramontana is the wind which you will most likely experience and easily recognize. It’s a fresh, almost cold wind blowing from the north and literally means ‘across the mountains’. It blows down from the Alps along the Adriatic coast.During the summer, if the fresh Tramontana blows, head to the ionian coast where the sea will be flat and calm. Perfect to rent a boat and sail to Punta Prosciutto if you don’t like rough waters. Gallipoli, Porto Selvaggio and Punta della Suina offer wonderful Blue Flag beaches, comfortable beach clubs, Maldivian blue waters and stretches of unspoilt nature.If you cannot drive to the Ionian Coast during Tramontana, head to the inlets of Porto Miggiano and Porto Badisco, both of which are mesmerizingly beautiful and likely to have inviting waters. Lovers of water sports will be waiting for the Tramontana winds to surf, kitesurf or sail on the Adriatic. Some of the best spots for water sports are located in Frigole Torre dell’Orso, Torre Specchie and Le Cesine, south of Lecce. Scirocco If the Scirocco wind is blowing from North Africa in the summer months, the air will be warm and unpleasantly humid. This is the time you should head to the Adriatic coast , from Lecce until Otranto and don’t be alarmed if suddenly your car is covered by a thin layer of Sahara sand. Scirocco usually lasts luckily only a few days and is more frequent in spring and autumn when it can reach a speed of up to 100km/hour and cause damages. Ponente, Grecale, Levante The other three and less known winds are the Ponente, a warm and dry wind blowing from the west, the not so frequent Levante, which blows from the east and lastly the Grecale, a wind very similar to the Tramontana one blowing from North-East.. If Ponente is blowing, head to the tip of the heel and swim at Santa Maria di Leuca or the Maldives of Salento, instead when Levante is blowing the Ionian Coast along Gallipoli, Nardo and Porto Selvaggio is the place to be. Photo courtesy nelsalento.com In summary:Tramontana – from North to South – Ionian Sea is calmScirocco – from the South – Adriatic Sea is calmGrecale– from Northeast – Ionian Sea is calm and calmer from Otranto to LeucaLevante – from East – Ionian coast from Gallipoli towards TarantoLibeccio – from Southwest – Adriatic Sea is calmPonente – from West – Adriatic Coast is calm especially the beaches at the Alimini Lakes, Baia dei Turchi and the Ciolo inlet Our suggestions Tramontana° Porto Cesareo (Togo Bay Beach Club)° Torre vado° Castro° Santa Cesarea Terme Scirocco° Otranto (Le Capase Beach Club)° Laghi Alimini (Lido Tropea Beach Club)° Torre dell’Orso (Mora Mota Beach Club)° San Foca° Cesine (Ultima Spiaggia delle Cesine Beach Club)° Frigole (Lido Gold Beach Club) Recognizing the directions of the winds is no easy task. Luckily if you consult websites such as www.meteo.it, besides giving you weather forecasts, you will be able to check the direction and speed of the winds. Alternatively, you can download Windy.app, wind, waves and weather forecast app for surfers, kitesurfers, windsurfers, sailors, fishermen and other wind sport. Need advise on the best beaches and beach clubs in Salento? Just give our Concierge team a call, and they’ll be able make suggestions and reservations on best places to visit.[email protected]Our all list of holiday villas in Salento can be viewed here: https://www.passepartout-homes.com/holidays/Puglia/all Salento LU SULE, LU MARE e LU IENTU(Salento the sun, the sea and the wind) October 19, 2021 0 comment 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
DestinationsGift IdeasShopping Five of the Best Father’s Day Gifts by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande May 27, 2021 written by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande Don’t miss Father’s Day in the UK. June 20th, 2021. We have hand-picked five useful yet stylish and trendy gifts perfect for the Father who has everything. Saint Laurent Court classic SL/06 embroidered sneakers in smooth and metallic leather.Father’s Day is around the corner and a great opportunity to get your dad some stylish upgrades.The Saint Laurent Court Classic is an iconic shoe, it has become a lifestyle accessory. The white embroidered sneaker will be equally appreciated by the dad looking for comfort and functionality as well as the dad with style and glamour. The sophisticated style of Saint Laurent is an all-time winner and must have. Spoil your dad with this court classic at €495. Wilson custom racketsIf your dad is anything like mine, you will know there are things he just loves but will not buy for himself. The benefit is, he has you to ensure a spoil at the right time.Wilson’s custom rackets is one of these ideal gifts for your father/grandfather or favourite uncle. Spending their happiest hours on the tennis court, this unique gift will surely be part of awesome and joyful summer on the tennis court. Choose any sophisticated style, elegant colour palette and customise this gift to your favourite persons personal preference, making it unique, one of a kind and special. The price for this personalised gift ranges between $239.00 and $299.00 Celestron’s vintage-inspired 80mm Brass and Mahogany TelescopeAs stated by the designer this remarkable Father’s Day gift is not only a beautiful ornament, indicating exquisite style but also a true telescope, powerful enough for terrestrial viewing and astronomical observations. This will ensure an impressive showpiece in any father’s study.Elegantly and carefully created, this piece of art will light up not only the sky but a father’s heart. Not only bringing the stars to his eyes but ensure he will love you to the moon and back. Order this impeccable gift for £1 000. Classic Jacquard swim shorts with a linear tile printIf you are looking to spruce up his wardrobe, you cannot go wrong with the sophisticated style of Frescobol Carioca. Turn your dad in a true gentleman, an all -time darling and an adorable partner for a wonderful day in the sun. A subtle stylish garment that is extremely lightweight yet luxurious to the touch. The clean lines of this tailored swimming short with design details like a tailored front waistband, a modern and geometric take on wave-like shapes, is age appropriate and beautiful swimwear for a man who deserve to be your aqua man-hero – or even better Neptune, the King himself. Spoil your dad with these short for £220. Paul Smith & Leica Collaboration: The Leica CLFor any father who adores the world of photography, have an eye for detail and taste of style, this specifically designed camera will warm his heart and electrify the atmosphere. This limited-edition camera is a collector’s item, uniquely designed according to the finest details of Paul Smith.It is the perfect combination of style, modernity and a touch of nostalgia. The best way to ensure memories for a lifetime and moments of true connection, captured forever. It is the perfect gift for a creative dad, at £3 500. Blog post by Joe Bloom. May 27, 2021 0 comment 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail
BahamasDestination: BarbadosDestination: ItalyDestination: SpainDestinationsEventsExperiencesWedding Venues 5 Holiday Villas for the Best 50 Years old Birthday Party by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande May 7, 2021 written by Paola Fiocchi Van den Brande …or any other milestone event, really. Via Peduzzi Como – Lake Como, ItalyWake up each morning to one of the most spectacular views in Europe. Indulge in relaxed luxury in this timeless & transformed masterpiece, located in the mountains majestically overlooking Lake Como. The luxury villa is designed to fully immerse its lucky guests in the enormous mountain, lake and valley views.Perfectly suited for a personalised group of 14 guests, this villa’s personality will draw any guest in with the inviting atmosphere and prestigious liberty-styled design. This villa is ideal for a group to host a memorable event. Everything is arranged with exquisite attention to detail to make guests feel truly welcomed. From the lavish 8-bedroom hideaways, private pool area, spa facilities and breath-taking views, this villa captures any guests’ senses and truly treat them with a memorable stay. 8 bedrooms // 14 guests // Rates from €36300/week Lake Como Peacock Island – Berry Island, Caribbean BahamasThe philosophy behind the 3 villas of Peacock Island is “utmost comfort in privacy”. When guests open the front door, they enter an inner sanctum designed to engage the senses and nourish the soul. The flow between private interiors and exteriors of the island, embodies our idea of a sanctuary.Find your piece of paradise and embrace it with a group of friends or family. Host an unforgettable occasion on the sandy white shores, embrace the sensational atmosphere and create memorable moments. Peacock Island is generous with its offerings in every way, from its sea-view infinity pool, fitness centre, tennis court, private airstrip to a full complement of 13 staff. We might all be moving around less these days, but when we find a spot so beautiful there is a great temptation to stay. So why not bring your laptop, but also invite your friends and family and embrace life as it is. 7 bedrooms // 12 guests // Rates from $9250/night Bahamas Barbados Atelier House – Saint James, BarbadosThis 4-bedroom villa invites you to revel in your own private oasis. This location is set against a backdrop of a dramatic ridge in the village of Lower Carlton. The villa is designed as an exclusive and stylish break-away destination, providing you with ultimate interior & exterior accommodation experience.Dramatic walls and panels of floor-to-ceiling glass in the villa, frame the extraordinary natural setting and give the impression that guests can just reach out and touch the outdoors. The result is undeniably modern, and the contemporary design indoors showcases the vibrant green and crystal-clear water scenes alongside the heart felt warmth of the villa. Unwind with a group of friends, ease into a calm atmosphere, gather the unsurpassed views, unwind in the impeccable gardens and enjoy the tasteful pleasures of life. 4 bedrooms // 10 guests // Rates from £7700/week Barbados Leonor – Cap de Barbaria, Balearics – Formentera, SpainUnapologetically graceful with sharp corners and smooth lines, creating a traditional Balearics masterpiece. This newly built 7-bedroom villa boasts a stunning location overlooking picturesque sea-views and unspoiled landscape covered in a glimpse of red poppies and yellow field of flowers.Leonor has been specifically designed for groups looking for privacy, well-deserved get-away time, fresh & exciting energy, and romantic auras. Leonor provides an unparalleled guest experience – the meticulous planning of the architecture ensures guests can enjoy watching the sensational beauty of Ibiza’s sunrise and sunset from the comfort of your spacious living room. Leonor wants guests to fully embrace the large modern dining room, floor to ceiling windows, swimming pool and housekeeping. Whether you seek a comfortable and authentic modern venue, spiritual recharge, professional de-stress or a private family vacation, Leonor opens the door into a world far away from the everyday stress and hassle and bustle. 7 bedrooms // 18 guests // Rates from €33000/week Formentera Finca en Cordoba – Cordoba, Andalusia, SpainEnter this sculpted masterpiece and experience the surrounded hectares of field, meadows, olive groves and a variety of wild animals. This classic and enchanting finca was designed identically to a traditional Andalusian country house or ‘cortijo’.This privately-owned 10-bedroom estate can be found at the Cordoban foothills of Sierra Morena mountain range. Outside terraces, timeless gardens and the panoramic infinity pool, offer the perfect place to indulge the environment, while dining or relaxing. At night time, the outdoor ambience transforms the area into the ideal place for authentic dining and enjoyment with friends or family. Each element found inside Fina en Cordoba was carefully selected and beautifully placed within the halls of this villa – classic and charm enfolds this luxurious Spanish Fica. 10 bedrooms // 20 guests // Rates from €875/night Blog post by Joanette Bloom. May 7, 2021 0 comment 0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail