Recognised as the number one expert for Italy and curator of luxury holidays for the likes of Jude Law and Stella McCartney, Merrion Charles has harnessed her expertise and incomparable little black book to create a brand new ultimate luxury Italian Grand Tour.
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The 15 night itinerary will allow guests to experience a selection of Italy's most famous landscapes, from the majestic Dolomites and the rolling hills of Tuscany to the magical Pontine Islands and cultural landmark of Rome, in ultimate luxury with every detail taken care of and no request too great. Even the seamless travel between destinations will be spent in the height of luxury either in helicopters or Mercedes Limousines.
Launching in the late spring, the trip begins with a helicopter pick up in Bolzano directly to White Deer San Lorenzo Mountain Lodge in the Dolomites. Formerly a 16th century hunting lodge for Italian aristocracy, this private chalet is located at 1,200 metres in the pristine woods of Val Pusteria and offers total isolation and privacy. It is home to the finest accommodation and exquisite Italian cuisine which uses only the best local, organic produce and is complemented by fine wines of the South Tyrol. Guests can enjoy hiking in the surrounding area or simply enjoy relaxing and enjoying the pool, sauna and nearby golf course.
After three nights, guests will be collected by helicopter from the private helicopter pad and taken south to Tuscany. Leaving the Dolomites behind them, this helicopter journey is a marvel in itself as guests travel over northern Italy’s stunning landscapes.
The next four nights will be spent at Conti di San Bonifacio which is set amidst the breathtaking countryside of Alta Maremma. This old farmhouse has been restored into a rustic yet luxury chic hotel with seven bedrooms which can be taken over exclusively. The restaurant is renowned for its outstanding food and wine made from the estate’s own vines. Guests can enjoy relaxing by the pool, hot air balloon rides, spa treatments, wine tasting and picnics in the surrounding area. This is the ultimate luxury destination to sit back and enjoy the delights of Tuscany.
Leaving the rolling hills of Tuscany behind, guests will be picked up in a private vehicle and taken to the crystal waters of the Pontine Islands. The next five nights will be spent exploring the islands of Ponza, Ventonene and Procida aboard the Blue Deer San Lorenzo Sea Lodge, a real life manifestation of the finest Italian taste and passions for sublime luxury. The 74 ft catamaran was designed to fit the needs of those who appreciate the highest standards of luxury. It is home to four luxury cabins, a large lounging area and open saloon which offers panoramic views which can be enjoyed whilst dining on the highest quality dishes all prepared by the on board chef.
After five glorious days exploring these magical islands, dining at the best restaurants on the best tables, guests will be picked up and transferred to Villa Aquasanta in a Mercedes Limousine for their final three nights of all out luxury. Just ten minutes outside Rome, this spectacular villa is an oasis of beauty, peace and tranquility with lavish interiors and beautiful gardens with plenty of outside dining areas.
Merrion’s little black book ensures that guests get insider access to the most sought after museums, galleries and restaurants including private tours of the Sistine Chapel, private tour and dinner at Palazzo Pamphili and dinner at Pierluigi, the first fish restaurant in Rome, where it is impossible to get a table. Merrion offers an unbeatable way to experience not only Rome, but the whole of Italy through this magical tour.
15 nights costs from $155,260 for x 6 people (Private jets from and to the UK can be arranged upon request). www.merrioncharles.com
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