Published 28th Jun. 2021
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Nestled in the Italian hills of Emilia-Romagna, only a short drive from Bologna, Palazzo di Varignana is an 18th century villa which has been restored to its original grandeur to house a luxurious hotel and spa.
There are 140 rooms and suites spread across the resort, each offering comfortable and chic interiors and making the most of natural light and beauty of the surrounding area — perfect for a picturesque Italian holiday. The larger rooms and suites come with private terraces or balconies, showcasing the stunning surroundings.
With four magnificent venues for dining, including outdoor seating areas for savouring your meals al fresco over the summer months, you are spoilt for choice at Palazzo di Varignana. For a sophisticated evening, the extravagant Il Palazzo restaurant - with its gourmet dishes created from lovely local ingredients - is the perfect place. For a more relaxed evening, head to Le Marzoline to enjoy a traditional Italian trattoria style eatery.
Begin your days by exploring the six trails around the resort, where you'll find yourself winding through whimsical woodlands, gliding through gorgeous gardens, or lazing by leisurely lakes. Swim in one of the five spectacular outdoor pools or challenge your partner to a game of tennis. Unwind in VarSana Spa, indulging in a holistic, personalised treatment that will leave you feeling wonderfully relaxed. Conclude your evening by sipping your way through the extensive cocktail list in the intimate Lounge Bar.
Why We Love It
With its five outdoor pools, tennis courts, al fresco dining and gorgeous gardens, there are oodles of opportunities to soak up the sultry Italian evenings during your stay.
The Grand Hotel Majestic - set within gorgeous gardens on the lovely Lake Maggiore - is among the oldest and most prestigious hotels in Bologna. The Palazzo it sits in was designed by architect Alfonso Torregiani during the first half of the 18th century and built by order of Cardinal Prospero Lambertini, who later became Pope. The palazzo is in fact built on top of an ancient Roman road, part of which can be seen within the hotel.
The 106 rooms - all with sublime city views - are decorated in a classic Italian style offset with spacious contemporary bathrooms and modern amenities. Featuring delicate antiques, Venetian decor and exquisite chandeliers, the interiors are in keeping with the aristocratic theme that the hotel emanates. Thanks to a fourth-floor refurbishment, the hotel now also boasts a new range of Junior Suites and Deluxe Rooms complete with a classic 18th century French decor.
The hotel is famous for its I Carracci restaurant. Here, you can tuck into traditional, regional recipes while seated under a ceiling of fabulous frescoes. The Morandi Wine cellar, meanwhile, provides a wide range of fine Italian and foreign wines. With over 300 to choose from you'll be sure to find one that delights.
With both Piazza Maggiore and the famous Due Torri within walking distance of the hotel, begin your days with a tasty meal in the breakfast room before setting off to explore the city on foot.
Why We Love It
The frescoes adorning the ceiling of the I Carracci restaurant are a delight, as are the tasty regional recipes on offer here.
Italy is a holiday hotspot (for good reason), so our help in navigating the crowds is invaluable. From snapping up hard-to-come-by Vatican tickets (at the quietest times of day) to organising an archaeologist to guide you around Pompeii, our consultants have the insider intel to make your trip unforgettable. Stuck on where to stay? Our vetted accommodation options range from family-run ‘trullis’ in Puglia to big-name hotels in Venice. So, whether you're an adventurous family or a couple on a romantic retreat, we can find the version of Italy to suit you.
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