News - What's on in May
01/05/2011
May we introduce you to this month’s Italian events . . . . .
As Italy’s resorts, towns and cities begin welcoming its tourists, the months become jam-packed with festivals, sport and entertainment. Here’s my pick of the bunch this month. . . . .
Three Gulfs Regatta (13 May)
Established in 1954 and now an annual event, this race from Naples to Capri and back is considered a classic amongst the offshore rendez-vous. Starting at midnight in front of the Castel dell’Ovo in the beautiful Napolitan bay, it finishes in the same place 170 nautical miles later after visiting the bays of Naples, Salerno and Gaeta. More than 100 contestants are expected this year for this spectacular day in history.
Drive the Amalfi coast and stay at Perla di Positano 1 & Perla di Positano 2, a cool and fresh retreat with breathtaking panoramic views of Positano.
ART (30 April – 8 May)
ART is considered one of the most prominent European arts and crafts fairs and now with its 75th edition, is set to be the biggest and best Florence has yet seen.
Where to stay? Casa Vallecchio’s particular hilltop location allows it to steal an unprecedented march on its rivals - what better way to start the day than a dip in the fabulous pool, followed by a leisurely breakfast in the shaded poolside pergola, with a view of Florence’s Duomo in the distance?
Festa dei Ceri (15 May)
It wouldn’t be right to list May’s events without the standard Italian ‘festa’ (festival). This month, I have cherry-picked one of the most bizarre and yet most fun celebrations in Gubbio, Perugia. This incredible annual spectacle sees three teams of extremely fit and healthy young men race through the city to the Cathedral carrying heavy wooden statues that represent the three Saints of the city.
Amidst much revelry, it is a day of fun, spirit and wonderful Italian decoration!
Where to stay? Woven into 40 acres of the rough landscape of Perugia, woodland, olive, fruit and Cypress trees, Villa Etruria welcomes you to your own Italian Country estate. Seated high within the peaks and Tiber valley, a phenomenal 450 m above sea level, seclusion and tranquillity go hand in hand here.
Superbike World Championship (6 – 8 May)
Ferrari fans must wait for their time at Monza’s Autodromo Nationale until September, however May is the month for Ducati fans who will travel worldwide to worship at the Tempo della Velocita (Temple of Speed) for the Superbike World Championships.
Where to stay? With the magical lakes of Como, Varese and Maggiore just a short drive away from Monza, Casa dell’ Architetto is an ideal base. Occupying an enviable position on Lake Como, of course then offers all guests the most breathtaking views of Ossucio and the only island of Como, Isola Comacina, all from the comfort of your own private terrace.