The best of Puglia: 7 must-see cities

The votes are in, and Puglia will be the location of our first boutique hotel! We are very excited about this destination for so many reasons. Puglia offers rich history, gorgeous beaches, fascinating towns and archeological sites – all in a sublime, warm climate. Who could ask for a better travel destination? Here are a few of our favorite highlights from this amazing region.

 

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel - Best of Puglia

Lido Baia delle Zagare, Gargano. Photo by ENIT.

 

 

About Puglia’s past

Puglia is located in southern Italy, forming the heel of the boot, and it has a long and storied past. The ancient Greeks and Romans, along with other major powers of the day, invaded this region, conquered and colonized it. Luckily for us, travellers nowadays can expect a more serene atmosphere, with clear ocean and gorgeous sunshine. Puglia is a major tourist attraction for both Italians and foreigners.

 

 

Puglia’s cities and archeological sites

Puglia is known worldwide for its gorgeous architecture. Because it was conquered by a wealth of major powers throughout history, its landscapes incorporate a mixture of influences. Puglia is home to many old towns, balconies, doorways and arches that give you insight into these different civilisations. Features with Roman, Greco and Messapian influence are often side by side, bringing history to life.

 

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel - Best of Puglia

Ostuni, the white town.

 

 

Here are a few must-see cities

  1. Ostuni – This is a unique and architecturally all-white town, providing the perfect photo opp.
  2. Otranto – As one of Puglia’s sea-front towns, Otranto offers stunning views.
  3. Gallipoli – Get a taste of history by visiting this Puglian island town, surrounded by defensive walls that were built in the 14th century.
  4. Santa Maria di Leuca – Located on the southern tip, this town contains quaint sea-front villas.
  5. Alberobello and Locorotondo – These towns are known for their classic, fairytale-like old-town centres and trulli. Trulli are conical roofs made entirely of local limestone. They were built by peasant farmers, and some date back to as late as the 15th century.
  6. Lecce – This Puglian city is known for its beautiful Baroque churches.
  7. Bari – This is the Puglian capital known for its ambiance and excellent dining. The Saracen conquest left many of its structures with a kasbah influence.

 

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel - Best of Puglia

Città di Otranto

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel - Best of Puglia

Basilica of St. Giovanni Batti in Lecce

 

 

What we love most about Puglia

There are so many exciting things to do in Puglia. Whether you want to relax on the beach or scuba dive for the first time, you can do it all here. Below is a list of awesome attractions to keep in mind for your visit.

  • Torre Guaceto – This is an area with a beautiful sand dune stretch, olive groves and clear water. It is the perfect location for cycling, walking or scuba diving.
  • Gargano promontory – For a diverse landscape, visit this area that is full of sandy beaches and cool lagoons.
  • Alta Murgia national park – This is a great location for tourists to take day-long hikes to see castles and prehistoric tombs. It is also home to a cave that has 30,000 dinosaur footprints!
  • Salentine peninsula – Located at the southernmost tip, this area offers gorgeous sea caves and coves for a quick dip.
  • Otranto Jazz Festival – If you visit during the summer, you must check out this festival and get a feel for the traditional dance, the Pizzica.
  • Castel del Monte – Built by Frederick II of Swabia, these castles are a must-see.

 

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel - Best of Puglia

Castel del Monte. Photo by Guglielmi.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel - Best of Puglia

Centuries old olive tree

 

We want you to be just as excited as we are; and we hope this blog did that! Puglia is home to so many stunning sites and amazing activities. Whether you are planning a family trip, a romantic getaway or you are riding solo, Puglia should be next on your agenda. Stay tuned for our next two blogs, where we explore arguably the best part of travel – the wine and food. :)

 

Cheers,

Marcus & Kristin

The 12 best british boho pubs where you can sleep

In the last years UK has developed its pub culture, pubs have improved their food concept and enlarged their service by stylish rooms. Great pubs became gorgeous boutique hotel pubs. Here is our best pick of british boho pubs.

 

The Tommyfield is a cool little pub with great local food in London Kennington with 6 attached rooms, well-priced and nicely decorated. @ThreeCheersPubs

 

Tommyfield - boho pubs

The Tommyfield in London Kennington. Photo by pub.

 

Tommyfield - boho pubs

No. 6 was our room at the Tommyfield in London Kennington. Photo by pub.

 

 

 

The Wheatsheaf Inn is a chic gastropub set in the pretty Cotswolds village of Northleach with 14 well designed bedrooms in eclectic décor. @WheatsheafGL54

 

Hotel Wheatsheaf Inn - boho pubs

The Wheatsheaf Inn in Cotswolds. Photo by pub.

 

Wheatsheaf Room - boho pubs

Our bathtub at The Wheatsheaf Inn in Cotswolds. Photo by pub.

 

 

 

The Stapleton Arms with its 4 bedrooms, nestled in a sleepy village called Buckhorn in the North Dorset, is worth a special trip. Local ale, farm ciders and delicious homemade pork pies. @StapletonArms

 

Stapleton Arms - boho pubs

Stapleton Arms. Photo by pub.

 

Stapleton Arms - boho pubs

Our bed at Stapleton Arms. Photo by pub.

 

 

 

The Village Pub in Gloucestershire adheres to the compulsory Cotswolds palette of moss greens and muted greys, both the pub and in the 6 bedrooms. @The_Village_Pub

 

The Village pub - boho pubs

The Village pub. Photo by pub.

 

The Village pub - boho pubs

The Village pub. Photo by pub.

 

 

 

The Wild Rabbit is a Cotswolds boutique hotel pub offering rustic chic, open fires and 12 pared down style rooms with honest creature comforts, from the owner of Daylesford Organic, the organic empire in Gloucestershire. @wildrabbitpub

 

Wild Rabbit - boho pubs

Wild Rabbit. Photo by pub.

 

Wild Rabbit Room - boho pubs

Wild Rabbit. Photo by pub.

 

 

 

The Kingham Plough, a bolthole in the heart of the quaint village of Kingham, is full of personal charm and has strong links with local farmers, home-made bread and baked beans that don’t come from a tin. The 6 rooms are individually decorated, unfussy with sweet-smelling Penhaligon’s products. @kinghamplough

 

The Kingham Plough - boho pubs

The Kingham Plough. Photo by pub.

 

The Kingham Plough - boho pubs

The Kingham Plough. Photo by pub.

 

 

 

The Devonshire Arms in Somerset is a former hunting lodge from the 17th-century. Everything’s fresh from the countryside and the portions are robust, the most of the 9 seagrass-floored bedrooms overlook the green.

 

Devonshire Arms - boho pubs

Devonshire Arms. Photo by pub.

 

Devonshire Arms Room - boho pubs

Devonshire Arms. Photo by pub.

 

 

 

The Bell in Ticehurst is much more than a remarkable pub, it has all the trappings of an urban boutique hotel, eclectic and playful, each of the 7 bedrooms inspired from regional history and folklore. @bell_ticehurst

 

Bell Pub - boho pubs

The Bell in Ticehurst. Photo by pub.

 

Bell Pub Room - boho pubs

The Bell in Ticehurst. Photo by pub.

 

 

 

The Queens Arms in the stunning countryside of Somerset is a 18th-century pub hidden away in a sleepy village with 8 bedrooms in contemporary rustic chic. The contemporary lunch and dinner menus change weekly to reflect the availability of local produce. @QueensArmsPub

 

Queens Arms - boho pubs

The Queens Arms. Photo by pub.

 

Queens Arms Room - boho pubs

The Queens Arms. Photo by pub.

 

 

 

Harbour Master at the quayside in Aberaeron is a boutique hotel pub in Wales with 13 stylish rooms. They serve good fresh local food and drinks in a buzzy atmosphere. Cooking is simple and unfussy, allowing the flavours of the quality ingredients to shine through. @hmaberaeron

 

harbor master - boho pubs

Harbour Master. Photo by pub.

 

harbour master room - boho pubs

Harbour Master. Photo by pub.

 

 

 

Crab & Boar is located east of the village Chieveley in an enviable location with views over the Berkshire Downs. There’s a strong Mediterranean feel that leads to the 14 bright and stylish, individual themed bedrooms that have their own country charm. @crabandboar

 

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel - Crab & Boar in Chieveley

Crab & Boar. Photo by pub.

 

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel - Crab & Boar in Chieveley

Crab & Boar. Photo by pub.

 

 

 

Brook Green in Hammersmith, London is a former coach house that was turned into an excellent traditional pub that features 17 stylish bedrooms. @brookgreenhotel

 

Brook Green Pub - boho pubs

Brook Green Pub. Photo by pub.

 

Brook Green Pub - boho pubs

Brook Green Pub. Photo by pub.

 

 

#BoHoLover: Meet luxury aficionado Rosie Leach @rosie_routledge

We have asked luxury travel aficionado, Rosie Leach to share her thoughts with us about hotels and Amberlair. Just like us, she’s a #BohoLover (Boutique Hotel lover)!

 

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel Rosie Leach Sparkling Wine

 

 

How do you choose a hotel when you travel?

There are several important factors I take into consideration when selecting a hotel. In no particular order, location is key, be it beach front, city centre, etc. I tend to gravitate towards favourite hotel brands, as you generally know what to expect and the familiarity is comforting. Hotel rating is also important to me, as I am sure it is to many seasoned travellers. Recommendations and first hand experience from friends and a knowledgeable travel professional are also very important. Whilst I do not place too much emphasis on price, it is a consideration and it is important that your stay represents value for money.

 

 

If you had to choose 3, which were the most special hotels you have ever stayed at?

This is an incredibly hard question to answer, as there are so many great hotels in the world that are special to me and represent a home away from home. After much deliberation, here are my three in no particular order: The W in Maldives, the Belmond Cipriani in Venice and the Sandy Lane in Barbados

 

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel - Meet Rosie Leach at W Hotel in the Maldives #boholover

Rosie Leach at W Hotel in the Maldives.

 

However, I do feel that I need to mention Belmond Villa San Michele in Florence as a very close contender. Having just spent my birthday weekend at this wonderful hotel it would be wrong of me not to sneak it in!

 

 

What made them so special?

The W Maldives is where Mr. L and I had our honeymoon, so for that reason alone it was special. More specifically, from the moment you arrive by sea plane and are welcomed by the resident DJ playing some upbeat tunes and a cocktail on the jetty, you immediately relax and melt into your surroundings. It goes without saying, that the environment is stunning but our lagoon oasis room far exceeded our expectations from its size, to the personal cocktail bar, deck, plunge pool and direct access to the glorious water below.

A nice touch was the option to have a private BBQ on your own deck where staff discreetly serve you the dishes and drinks of your choice. As a surprise, I had also booked exclusive use for a day of the W’s yacht, ‘Escape’. We had a memorable day sailing around some smaller islands and dining in style. In the event of rain, a mixology course could be arranged at short notice and great fun! Another quirky aspect of the hotel was the ‘tuck boxes’ dotted about the island full to the brim of ice cream and soft drinks.

If you fancy a dance, the W features an underground club, ‘Fifteen below’, which boasts one of the largest, if not the largest collection of vodkas I have ever seen. As someone who is partial to the odd vodka and tonic, this was a real treat! The spa at The W is a sight to behold. Each treatment room looks out onto the ocean and includes its own deck and outdoor living area and shower, true bliss!

 

Belmond Villa San Michele in Italy.

Belmond Villa San Michele in Italy. Photo by hotel.

 

We have stayed a number of times at The Cipriani, not least combined with a trip on The Simplon Orient Express. Venice is, for many people, a magical place and it is no different for us. From the first moment we arrived by boat we fell in love with the hotel and the staff. Belmond hotels around the world are exceptional and it is a brand that I always seek out when visiting a location or, in fact, choose a location based on which of their hotels I would like to try next!! I am lucky to have stayed at a number around the world but would like to complete the set one day.

One of the things I love is that the concierges in particular seem to dedicate their lives to the properties and they are always a familiar, friendly face when you return. The hotel and the service at The Cipriani are great and I always love returning to the hotel’s large swimming pool for an Aperol Spritz after the hustle and bustle of Venice. The hotel always recognise their repeat guests with a room upgrade where available and a bottle of fizz and delicious desert creations in your room. It is an oasis of calm. Cips, one of the restaurants, as well as great food, boasts a stunning view across The Grand Canal to St Marks Square. Definitely worth booking and an extremely romantic setting.

We were fortunate to be staying at The Cipriani during last year’s Venice Film festival, which was very exciting. At every turn we ran into a movie star or producer, which combined with the surroundings of The Cipriani transported you back to the glamorous era of Hollywood!

 

Whilst I occasionally feel that I should try an alternative hotel in Barbados at least once, I never actually find the courage to do so – and why would I want to? Sandy Lane is a wonderful hotel, a home from home for us. We try to escape there for a long weekend or week at least two to three times a year and every time is as pleasurable as the last.

Whilst you enjoy your first cocktail of the trip on at the beach your luggage is unpacked for you, and as a complimentary service, any pressing is done. The rooms and bathrooms are generous in size and well-equipped, although you can also pre-order your favourite snacks and beverages. The breakfast is extensive and includes a juice bar, which is great after one of the complimentary workout sessions each morning for hotel guests.

The staff cannot do enough to make your stay memorable and tend to your every need, welcoming you back each time with enthusiasm, truly making it a home from home. Sunday brunch is something of a tradition for us now and due to the extensive menu, normally extends to the whole afternoon! The spa at Sandy Lane has an exceptional reputation which I can only concur with. The spa features a vast array of treatments using Aromatherapy Associates products, which I adore. Some of the treatment rooms have private outdoor plunge pools and sun terraces.

 

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel - Meet luxury aficionado Rosie Leach at Sandy Lane in Barbados. #boholover

Sandy Lane in Barbados. Photo by hotel.

 

 

If you had your own boutique hotel, what 3 things would you make sure existed?

My needs are relatively simple. One of my staple needs and something that can often sway my choice of hotel is an in-room Nespresso machine. In my opinion no machine comes close and it is a real pleasure to relax in your room or on the balcony/terrace with an espresso at any time of the day! A juice bar would also be a welcome addition to any hotel should I feel the need to detox. Finally, a good Sunday brunch with local live music would make any stay special.

 

 

Name 3 things you loved in hotels you stayed in before.

A complimentary packing and unpacking service, is a godsend, especially if you spend your life travelling. You can partake in a cocktail or grab some last minute sunshine whilst the packing or unpacking is done for you. Mr. L says he wishes the contents of my drawers were always this neat and tidy!!

Another hotel service I loved was in Cusco, Peru where guests are allocated a private butler who arrives at sundown to mix you the cocktail of your choice, I definitely recommend the Pisco Sours! Another service that I have experienced at several hotels is complimentary coffee, tea or other beverage brought to your room every morning with a newspaper of your choice at a pre-agreed time. A great way to start your day and delivered when you need it, no need to order and wait!

 

 

Name 3 things you wouldn’t want to experience in a hotel ever again.

One of the things that I cannot stand is lazy, apathetic staff that fail to provide exceptional service and go the extra mile for their guests. Sadly I have experienced this in several luxury properties and it really does have a negative impact on your stay. Another pet hate of mine is when the GM and or senior management of a hotel are hardly visible during your stay or introduce themselves as if it is the first time they have met you, even though you have stayed at the property a number of times before.

Another issue of mine which I am sure will resonate with the majority of seasoned travellers is painfully slow wifi which requires you to relog on each time. It is surprising in this day and age and surely with the widespread use of social media to ensure a robust and easily accessible wifi network can only be a positive move for hotels. Last but not least, I will never fail to see the point of having an empty mini bar in your room!! These are all of course first world problems but when travelling one has certain expectations, which I feel should be met.

 

 

How do you feel about the Amberlair concept?

Amberlair is an interesting, unique and exciting concept which I am honoured to have been invited to be a part of. I am looking forward to finding out where the first location will be! I can see how it would work in principle and I like the fact that it has multiple stakeholders who all have an input into the hotel from the location, to the décor, to how it is run.

 

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel - Meet Rosie Leach #boholover

 

 

Where are you off to next?

I am off to Barcelona for the weekend. This is my first leisure visit to the city so I am looking forward to it.
I am also excited to be sampling the delights of the W hotel. From Barcelona I am flying back to Marbella and looking forward to visiting Finca Cortesin on Mrs O’s recommendations, it looks great and I cannot wait to try it. Following a short visit to the UK, I am off to Malta, a place that I have enjoyed and loved from the first time I visited some four years ago.

Following 15 years in corporate travel as Global Brand Manager and General Manager, in Africa, the Middle East and West Asia, Rosie decided to take a career break to pursue her passion for travel and study for an MBA.
Rosie Leach is most likely to be found on the ski slopes in winter (one of the advantages of being based in Geneva!) or alternatively, somewhere in Africa, a continent where she has lived and feels most at home. Travel is an education and an adventure so, although on a personal, rather than professional level, Rosie loves to share her travel experiences hoping to provide inspiration to others. Follow along with her travel adventures on Twitter.

5 famous Italian vineyards: The best wine cellar is your stomach

To truly understand the wine produced in Italy, you have to travel to the Italian vineyards. You have to feel the earth in your fingers, taste a sample straight form the barrel—all the while laughing and lingering with your Italian host. This is the only way to experience Italian wine the way it was supposed to be experienced.

This is what we learned on our recent five-week trip to Italy. We had the chance to explore the wines of Italy, and get to know the winemakers behind this ancient elixir. Here are some of our favorite stops throughout our journey:

 

 

Emidio Pepe

We met Emidio Pepe and the whole family at his famous Italian vineyard in Abruzzo. Chiara, Emdios granddaughter, showed us around and explained us in detail how they produce their wine: organic, eco-friendly for 50 years.

They even produced “Bio” wine, the European certification for organic production, before the certificate was invented. They pick any grape by hand and still stamp the wine by foot! They only use glass coated containers (no steel) to keep the wine as it should be without any ingredients or bitter tastes.

If the harvest of any season is not satisfying, they don’t even produce wine. They just sell the grapes! They don’t want any bad wine production in their 50 year production history. Their wine cellar stills contains vintage bottles from the last 50 years. In 2014 they had their 50-year anniversary.

 

 

 

Casa Sola

Fattoria Casa Sola is a gem in the heart of Chianti Classico, spreading out over the hills with 30 hectares of vineyards and 40 hectares of olive groves. The surrounding property is serene and lush, and two houses, tucked between cyprus trees, allow guests to enjoy classic farmstay accommodations.

The land here has been producing vines since ancient times, and the Gambaro family operates Casa Sola with a sense of tradition, passion and dedication that surpasses most. It is a highlight on any agrotourism trip.

 

 

 

Le Filigare

Le Filigare is a stunning hamlet on a hill in Chianti that was built back in the 17th century. It is a perfect setting for thriving vineyards, with a landscape that caters to the specific needs of the vines. Here, they have a limited production of the best quality wine, grown on 11 hectares of land.

At Le Filigare, guests can stay at apartments and villas outfitted with traditional Tuscan elements. Taste the incredible wines while you’re here and be sure to take a tour of the winery.

 

 

 

Avignonesi

Named after the original founders of this extraordinary estate, Avignonesi is defined by the Montepulciano terroir that gives the wine its rich, lively identity. The focus on the land and natural environment is reflected in the dedication of owner Virginie Saverys to biodynamic and organic farming of the vineyards.

It’s her philosophy that enjoying healthy wine that takes on the natural characteristics of the land where it’s grown is good for us and it’s good for the land. This is a unique and beautiful destination, and one of our favorites!

 

 

 

I Pastini

Located in the Itria Valley in Puglia, Italy, I Pastini uses traditional Italian winemaking techniques to produce some of the best white wines in the region. Genuine wine production is the philosophy here, with modern amenities to aid in the process.

Grapes are grown to perfection in this breezy valley, and the staff here are incredibly knowledgeable and expert wine connoisseurs. They lead guided tours around the beautiful vineyards where you can take in the stunning backdrop and sip the delicious wine.

 

 

 

What is your favorite Italian vineyard? And what makes it so special? We would love to hear back from you.

 

The 6 best places to eat in style on Iceland

The food on Iceland is so delicious. On your next trip check out these 6 stylish Nordic restaurants to eat in style on Iceland, in and around Reykjavik. Never mind, if you can’t remember their names, the Icelanders make it easy for you. The meat and fish restaurant is called Grillmarket, the fish restaurant is called MAR and the red house restaurant is… Yes, painted in red.

 

 

Grillmarket

The Grillmarkaðurinn is a stylish Nordic restaurant in Reykjavik. Our recommendation is the delicious 7 courses tasting menu. They also serve whale fish meat! @grillmarkaðurinn

 

Grillmarket in Reykjavik, Iceland.

Grillmarket in Reykjavik, Iceland. Photo by Grillmarket.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel - Grillmarket Downstairs Reykjavik, Iceland

Grillmarket in Reykjavik, Iceland. Photo by Grillmarket.

Grillmarket in Reykjavik, Iceland.

Grillmarket in Reykjavik, Iceland. Photo by Grillmarket.

Grillmarket in Reykjavik, Iceland.

Grillmarket in Reykjavik, Iceland. Photo by Grillmarket.

 

 

Kol

KOL restaurant is casual fine dining restaurant with a big bar in close to the Hallgrímskirkja in Reykjavík. The design concept is sleek, elegant and a mixture of warm modern Icelandic feel with international touch wherein furniture of designer Tom Dixon play the main role. The name “KOL in Icelandic” comes from the unique charcoal oven which lends a rustic flavour to the dishes. The restaurant serves burgers, lamb, beef, oysters and foie gras. @kolrestaurant

 

KOL Restaurant in Reykjavik.

KOL Restaurant in Reykjavik. Photo by restaurant.

KOL Restaurant in Reykjavik.

KOL Restaurant in Reykjavik. Photo by restaurant.

KOL Restaurant in Reykjavik.

KOL Restaurant in Reykjavik. Photo by restaurant.

KOL Restaurant in Reykjavik.

KOL Restaurant in Reykjavik. Photo by restaurant.

 

 

Tryggvaskali

Tryggvaskáli is located in a former hotel with romantic private dining rooms, an hour drive from Reykjavik. They offer salmon, reindeer carpachio and gorgeous lamb filet. @tryggvaskali

 

tryggvaskali-6

Tryggvaskáli Restaurant in Selfoss. Photo by restaurant.

Tryggvaskáli Restaurant in Selfoss.

Tryggvaskáli Restaurant in Selfoss. Photo by restaurant.

Tryggvaskáli Restaurant in Selfoss.

Tryggvaskáli Restaurant in Selfoss. Photo by restaurant.

Tryggvaskáli Restaurant in Selfoss.

Tryggvaskáli Restaurant in Selfoss. Photo by restaurant.

Tryggvaskáli Restaurant in Selfoss.

Tryggvaskáli Restaurant in Selfoss. Photo by restaurant.

 

 

Red House

Rauða Húsið is famous for its tasty lobster and the lamb with a crust. It is also an awesome place to watch the Northern Lights. @raudahusid

 

Rauða Húsið in Eyrarbakki, Iceland.

Rauða Húsið in Eyrarbakki, Iceland. Photo by Red House.

Rauða Húsið in Eyrarbakki, Iceland.

Rauða Húsið in Eyrarbakki, Iceland. Photo by Red House.

Rauða Húsið in Eyrarbakki, Iceland.

Rauða Húsið in Eyrarbakki, Iceland. Photo by Red House.

 

 

MAR

MAR is the best lobster soup restaurant in Reykjavik. Forget the soup at Saegreifinn! @marrestaurant

 

Amberlair crowdsourced crowdfunded boutique hotel - MAR restaurant in Reykjavik, Iceland.

MAR restaurant in Reykjavik, Iceland. Photo be MAR.

MAR restaurant in Reykjavik, Iceland.

MAR restaurant in Reykjavik, Iceland. Photo be MAR.

 

 

Dill

Dill offers culinary meals with fresh ingredients in a modern industrial chic atmosphere in the Nordic House in Reykjavik. @dillrestaurant

 

Amberlair crowdsourced crowdfunded boutique hotel - Dill restaurant in Reykjavik, Iceland.

Dill restaurant in Reykjavik, Iceland. Photo by Dill.

Amberlair crowdsourced crowdfunded boutique hotel - Dill restaurant in Reykjavik, Iceland.

Dill restaurant in Reykjavik, Iceland. Photo by Dill.

dill-restaurant-3-x

 

 

What is your favorite place to eat on Iceland and why do you love it? Let us know!

 

Smart travelers aren’t afraid of Tuscany in the winter: It’s hunting time

The wild boar is fresh and the cheese is rich. Truffles and mushrooms and chestnuts abound. Even in the cool temperatures of winter, when the rainy days are not uncommon, Tuscany comes alive with bright colors that put every other winter destination to shame. And, when the tourists all but disappear between the ancient cities of Florence, Pisa, Lucca and Siena – it’s then that locals come out of the woodwork, unhindered by throngs of wine-hungry crowds and restaurants serve up the season’s finest ragùs.

 

porc and lentils in tuscany, italy

 

The star of that meaty pasta sauce is the wild boar, or il cinghiale, as its known locally. Hunting season is between November and January throughout Tuscany, and locals take this season very seriously, especially when it comes to wild boar who wreak havoc on wine and other crops before harvest time is through. As an animal that is known for eating pretty much anything, the boar has few natural predators anymore, which means that Tuscans have no qualms about making sport of taking them down and cooking them up. Birds and rabbit are also hunted at this time of year.

 

 

Hotel Monteverdi

Via di Mezzo, Castiglioncello del Trinoro, 53047 Sarteano

Hotel Monteverdi is a haven on a hilltop. Its three buildings maintain their original 12th century authenticity, while the interiors (including each artistically adorned guestroom) blend modern sophistication and ancient charm. Almost exactly halfway between Rome and Florence, this may be one of the best small luxury hotels of the world. (rooms from 375 €)

 

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel Hotel Monteverdi - Smart travelers aren’t afraid of Tuscany in the winter: It's hunting time

Hotel Monteverdi, Italy. Photo by hotel.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel Hotel Monteverdi - Smart travelers aren’t afraid of Tuscany in the winter: It's hunting time

Hotel Monteverdi, Italy. Photo by hotel.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel Hotel Monteverdi - Smart travelers aren’t afraid of Tuscany in the winter: It's hunting time

Hotel Monteverdi, Italy. Photo by hotel.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel Hotel Monteverdi - Smart travelers aren’t afraid of Tuscany in the winter: It's hunting time

Hotel Monteverdi, Italy. Photo by hotel.

 

Hunting is a region-wide tradition that doesn’t look like it’s going anywhere anytime soon. For travelers who are lucky enough to plan a winter visit to Tuscany, hunting is a distinct possibility, complete with traditional dress, dogs and a final feast to celebrate the hunt. And for those who opt out of the hunting and want to move straight to the eating, winter is when the dishes of the region come to life. Tuscans eat what’s in season, which means you won’t be disappointed.

 

 

Conti di San Bonifacio Wine Resort

Localita’ Casteani 1, 58023 Ribolla

Built in the traditional Tuscan style, this luxury boutique hotel and its authenticity are steeped in 1,000 years of history, with roots in the Counts of San Bonifacio – a group who later were depicted as the warring subjects of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. The hotel encapsulates a true Tuscan getaway with breathtaking landscapes and the quiet charm of tradition married with the ease and comfort of modern amenities. (rooms from 240 €)

 

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel Conti Di San Bonifacio - Smart travelers aren’t afraid of Tuscany in the winter: It's hunting time

Conti Di San Bonifacio, Italy. Photo by hotel.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel Conti Di San Bonifacio - Smart travelers aren’t afraid of Tuscany in the winter: It's hunting time

Conti Di San Bonifacio, Italy. Photo by hotel.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel Conti Di San Bonifacio - Smart travelers aren’t afraid of Tuscany in the winter: It's hunting time

Conti Di San Bonifacio, Italy. Photo by hotel.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel Conti Di San Bonifacio - Smart travelers aren’t afraid of Tuscany in the winter: It's hunting time

Conti Di San Bonifacio, Italy. Photo by hotel.

 

But vegans beware: while the rich late harvest olives, truffles and mushrooms do make their way into Tuscany’s hearty dishes, in the winter, the cuisine caters to meat lovers. Cinghiale, of course, is available in abundance and makes the perfect ragù. And pecorino is even said to be creamier this time of year, since sheep are munching on green pastures. Whether you’re hunting wild boar, truffles or simply great wine, Tuscany in the winter is a paradise for travelers looking to avoid crowds and understand local life at its purest. Though you won’t need to escape from snow during the winter months in Tuscany, you may still want to cozy up by the fire and sip a bold red or huddle around an aromatic dinner table with your travel companions once the days turn to dark.

 

 

Poggio Ai Santi

Via San Bartolo 100, 57027 San Vincenzo

Complete with three houses that separate the few number of guest rooms, this boutique hotel stands quietly above the seaside with a landscape of olive trees. As an adult-only escape, Poggio Ai Santi focuses on tranquility and comfort. (rooms from 149 €)

 

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel Poggio Ai Santi - Smart travelers aren’t afraid of Tuscany in the winter: It's hunting time

Poggio Ai Santi, Italy. Photo by hotel.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel Poggio Ai Santi - Smart travelers aren’t afraid of Tuscany in the winter: It's hunting time

Poggio Ai Santi, Italy. Photo by hotel.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel Poggio Ai Santi - Smart travelers aren’t afraid of Tuscany in the winter: It's hunting time

Poggio Ai Santi, Italy. Photo by hotel.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel Poggio Ai Santi - Smart travelers aren’t afraid of Tuscany in the winter: It's hunting time

Poggio Ai Santi, Italy. Photo by hotel.

 

Although the countryside is filled with agrotourism accommodations as well as B&Bs and plenty of Italian Palazzi-Style luxury hotels (similar to the french Louis XIV kitsch), your chances are slim if you’re looking for a unique escape at a boutique hotel.

 

 

Casa Soleluna

Località San Martino a Bocena 359, 52044, Cortona, Arezzo

Rustic ambiance and a warm, welcoming atmosphere make Casa Soleluna one of our top picks in the region. Located in the Tuscan countryside of Arezzo, this boutique hotel exudes natural tranquility and allows guests to become connected in many ways with the local terroir. (rooms from 80 €)

 

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel Casa Soleluna - Smart travelers aren’t afraid of Tuscany in the winter: It's hunting time

Casa Soleluna, Italy. Photo by hotel.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel Casa Soleluna - Smart travelers aren’t afraid of Tuscany in the winter: It's hunting time

Casa Soleluna, Italy. Photo by hotel.

Amberlair Crowdsourced Crowdfunded Boutique Hotel Casa Soleluna - Smart travelers aren’t afraid of Tuscany in the winter: It's hunting time

Casa Soleluna, Italy. Photo by hotel.

 

What is your favorite boutique hotel in Italy? We are curious!