On a recent content trip to Italy, SLH’s Social Media Manager Lucy Kell journeys from the lagoons of Venice to the snow-blanketed Dolomites with travel-loving tastemakers Callie Thorpe, Chrissy Rutherford, India Cardona and Natasha Ndlovu – staying at specially selected Considerate Collection hotels along the way.
Making an entrance
Gliding into Venice on limoboat is non-negotiable, especially when you’re staying at Ca’ di Dio, our elegant new Venetian hideaway. Pull up to the hotel’s private dock on a hybrid-electric water taxi and feel like a film star as you step into the foyer.
Design is in the details
Imagined by renowned designer Patricia Urquiola, the detail throughout Ca’ di Dio showcases the best of Italian craftsmanship, from jewel-bright Murano glass lamps to locally-made fabrics. Don’t forget to look up at the spectacular chandelier in the former-chapel-turned lobby.
Images by @natashandlovu
Soak it all in
The enchanting canals beckon for a morning of sightseeing, from the Rialto Bridge to the Church of San Giorgio Maggiore. Come sundown, saunter back to Ca’ di Dio for cicchetti and Select Spritz in the cosy Alchemia Bar. Don’t forget to save room for soufflé…
Video by @theindiaedit
Onwards & upwards
A scenic train journey into the mountains takes you to South Tyrol, where summit-level FORESTIS awaits. Snow-dusted peaks stretch out in every direction from this perfectly poised spa hotel, which is deeply in tune with the elements.
The suite life
The Tower Suites at FORESTIS bring the outside in, with re-purposed wood, stone basins, crisp fabrics and clean lines. Our top tip? Try sleeping with the curtains open to wake up with the gentle morning light.
Forest bathing
Start the day with a guided Wyda class, the millennia-old yoga of the Celts. Take an afternoon plunge in the outdoor cedar-wood tub of Plose mountain water. Wind down with an early evening spa treatment.
Culture trip
Bask in the beauty of the local town of Brixen, taking in the baroque cathedral, Bishop’s Palace and the designer boutiques along the narrow medieval streets.
Images by @theindiaedit
Curtain fall
The sun sets on a magical few days, leaving you relaxed and restored – and already plotting your return…
Video by @calliethorpe