Cottages To Castles - News

Featured location

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 22:00:00 GMT

The countdown to the Olympics has well and truly begun, so we thought we would serve up our very own Olympic trip to Italy....... and head to Lazio......

Our news

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 22:00:00 GMT

Enjoy San Vito Lo Capo, the renowned tourist resort of Sicily with its gold sandy beaches when you stay at Villa San Vito. This wonderful property sleeping up to 10 guests is a Mediterranean hideaway with awesome views and a fabulous swimming pool...

What's on?

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 22:00:00 GMT

The sole island on the magical Lake Como opens the summer season with a bang when it celebrates St John’s Day in June. Spectacular pyrotechnics, music, boat processions and culinary events mark the day when Barbarossa, the ruling body of Como set fire to the island in 1169...

Featured property

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 22:00:00 GMT

Perched 250m above sea level, Villa Pettineo offers panoramic views and is the perfect Sicilian hideaway. The wonderful swimming pool with 360 degree views offer a wonderful place to simply relax and listen to......

Did you know?

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 22:00:00 GMT

- Italians love pasta so much that on average, each Italian consumes about 25 kg of pasta annually.

- The oldest known film festival, took place in Venice in 1932.

- The largest Christian church in the world (St. Peter’s Basilica) is located in Rome and the construction for the project took about 120 years (from 1506-1626).

Featured location...

Sat, 31 Mar 2012 22:00:00 GMT

A ‘trulli’ fabulous Italian hot spot and one of Italy’s best kept secrets, Puglia has it in spades (and buckets) when it comes to a perfect summer holiday . . . . . . .

Our News...

Sat, 31 Mar 2012 22:00:00 GMT

Cottages to Castles are so excited to welcome two wonderful and very different properties to the collection...

What's On?

Sat, 31 Mar 2012 22:00:00 GMT

As we spring into April, so too do the flowers, the blossom and the lush green scents that tell us summer is just around the corner. Spring is a truly beautiful time to experience the Italian lakes and Como...

Featured property...

Sat, 31 Mar 2012 22:00:00 GMT

A simply perfect base to explore the Renaissance towns and cities nearby of Orvieto, Todi and Spoleto

Did you know...?

Sat, 31 Mar 2012 22:00:00 GMT

The word ‘Siesta’ comes from the Latin meaning of the sixth hour... The automobile is one of Italy's greatest products...

Featured location

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 22:00:00 GMT

Featured on countless films seen all over the world, within some of the most famous of novels and penned by the most illustrious of poets the Napoletana Riviera truly is an inspiring and breathtaking part of Italy with something for everyone...

Our News...

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 22:00:00 GMT

Love Cottages to Castles? Then Like our fantastic new Facebook page! We will be featuring useful travel tips and tricks when heading to Italy, where to go, what to see and who to meet along your way. We would invite all who wish to share their experiences and suggestions on our wall....

What's on?

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 22:00:00 GMT

The most religious and celebrated event in the year is marked by some of the most marvellous and memorable processions and Passion plays up and down the country...

Featured property...

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 22:00:00 GMT

Nestled in the rolling hillsides and within the heart of Chiantishire, the country retreat of Cottage Pineta is hidden away ready to welcome its guests...

Featured location - Sicily

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 22:00:00 GMT

The perfect Italian summer hotspot, there is certainly more to Sicily than sun, sea and Palermo. So if you have the January blues, let us whisk you away for we’re heading Wild West to the little known north-western coast and the picture perfect town of Castellammare del Golfo. Bursting with energy and activity during the summer months, here are our top five tips . . . . . . . .

Our eductional in southern Italy

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 22:00:00 GMT

Whilst most were Christmas shopping and preparing the turkey, the lucky team at Cottages to Castles, namely Daniela and Sarah headed to Italy to visit some of our new properties and explore some of our more unexplored regions

What's on?...America's Cup

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 22:00:00 GMT

This April sees the prestigious America’s Cup 2011 – 2012 take place on the coast of Naples, bringing the world’s finest sailors to the region as they compete in the state of the art AC45 wing-sailed catamarans.

Featured property - Villino San Remigio

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 22:00:00 GMT

When Stendhal described Lake Maggiore as having “unequalled loveliness” I am certain he was actually describing the majestic 17th Century Villino San Remigio. This elegant villa that sleeps up to 16 guests dominates what seems the entire western side Lake Maggiore, offering one of the best viewpoints on the lake.

Whats on in December...

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 22:00:00 GMT

December is a real treat for the senses for anyone visiting Italy, not to mention the traditions and celebrations – all squeezed into just 31 days

Property Spotlight - Casa del Grano

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 22:00:00 GMT

The Times claim it is one of the top five farm stays in Italy. Its guests have it down as ‘perfection’. We say Casa del Grano is a true Italian experience in the heart of southern Italy, that should not be missed.

My favourite...

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 22:00:00 GMT

Almost floating above the waters amongst the yachts and fishing boats, this wonderful restaurant has a passion for simple local cuisine and boasts their preservation on the regions traditional gastronomical secrets.

Introducing ......Villino San Remigio

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 22:00:00 GMT

Completing this most magnificent estate is the ancient Roman Chapel that lies hidden amongst the trees. Licensed for Catholic wedding ceremonies, it makes for a perfect venue for those small and intimate weddings.

Whats on in November...

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 22:00:00 GMT

Italy picks up pace in November with music and celebration sweeping the country, from opera houses to the chef’s kitchen we have something for everyone this month. Here’s my pick of the bunch this month. . . . .

My favourite...

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 22:00:00 GMT

What does Prince Charles, Jamie Oliver and Elton John all have in common? Or let me approach this another way........ who hasn’t yet heard of Dario Cecchini, the famous butcher of Panzano?

Property Spotlight_Casa dell'Architetto

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 22:00:00 GMT

Combine the classic elegance of Lake Como with vintage-inspired architecture, almost atop the lake floating effortlessly and you can begin to appreciate Casa dell’Architetto.

Introducing......Casa Momi

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 22:00:00 GMT

Our quest this month has led us through the lush green and classic landscapes of Tuscany and right to the heart of the Chianti Classico region. For those in search of peace and tranquillity, then look no further for we have found you the ultimate escape in Casa Momi.

Whats on in October?

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 22:00:00 GMT

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. . . . .

Property Spotlight - Villa Monica

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 22:00:00 GMT

For those in search of true peace and tranquillity, sharing it only with the local crickets and birdlife, we would like to invite you to the top of Umbertide, to the beautiful stone built home of Villa Monica.

My favourite

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 22:00:00 GMT

It was my last evening in Rome, it was warm and the tourist crowds had all but opted to rest their feet and fill their bellies at the nearby pizzerias and cafe bars. I stood for a moment, alone almost wishing I could relieve the scene where Marcello Mastroianni and Anita Ekberg frolicked in the waters of the Trevi in the film La Dolce Vita...

Property Spotlight - Casa Rosa

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 22:00:00 GMT

Once upon a time a husband and wife decided to holiday in Italy, choosing to stay at one of Cottages to Castles beautiful homes. A love affair began and four years later, each time experiencing one of our properties, Neil and Jen decided to put down their roots at the idyllic Casa Rossa.

My favourite...

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 22:00:00 GMT

Located almost exactly halfway between Florence and Siena, Panzano is a rather magical and vibrant little hilltop town, unbeknown to most tourists to this area of Tuscany.

Introducing...Caigherardi

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 22:00:00 GMT

Caigherardi is the very fabric that makes up such a historic and rustic Umbria. This true classic, stone built farmhouse oozes Italian charm, history and character and offers such flexible accommodation for either the lone traveller, couples, families or larger groups of up to 16 guests.

What's on in September...

Wed, 31 Aug 2011 22:00:00 GMT

We are now at the height of summer and there is simply too much to choose from when it comes to things to see, do and experience in Italy. I have done my best to pick out what I believe are THE most spectacular true Italian experiences . . . . .

Property Spotlight - Villa Concetta

Sun, 31 Jul 2011 22:00:00 GMT

This beautiful pastel pink home is elegant and stylish yet very easily a home from home with its comfortable furnishings and is fully equipped for all Cottages to Castle guests.

My favourite...

Sun, 31 Jul 2011 22:00:00 GMT

Over the centuries poets and writers have attempted to capture the beauty and majesty of Lake Como in their works, yet none have ever quite seemed to do it justice. Until you have stood and marvelled at the reflection on the water of the snow-capped peaks from one in a million magnificent viewpoints, Lake Como is just a dream away.

What's on in August?

Sun, 31 Jul 2011 22:00:00 GMT

Introducing...Le Selvole

Sun, 31 Jul 2011 22:00:00 GMT

Properties such as Le Selvole are very few and far between; able to offer such flexible accommodation for either the lone traveller or for the larger groups of up to 20 guests. And in the heart of the Chianti region, it offers excellent value for money.

What's on in July?

Thu, 30 Jun 2011 22:00:00 GMT

May we introduce you to this month’s Italian events . . . . .

Introducing...

Thu, 30 Jun 2011 22:00:00 GMT

This month, we are not just introducing you to a wonderful new property but to an entire region of Italy. Known also as the ‘green heart of Italy’...

Property spotlight - Residence Via Assisi

Thu, 30 Jun 2011 22:00:00 GMT

Located in the San Giovanni quarter, just a stone’s throw from the Basilica of Saint John Lateran, the Cathedral church of Rome, not to mention the countless other attractions in this area, this two-storey apartment is a little city gem.

What's on in June?

Tue, 31 May 2011 22:00:00 GMT

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. . . . .

Introducing...our Sicily property collection

Tue, 31 May 2011 22:00:00 GMT

This month, we are not just introducing you to a wonderful new property but to an entire Italian island.

My favourite...

Tue, 31 May 2011 22:00:00 GMT

This month, I am going to indulge in a true guilty pleasure of mine . . . . . shopping! And not just any type of shopping, we’re in Italy and therefore shopping is a sport and an art form all rolled into one.

Property spotlight - Le Chiuse

Tue, 31 May 2011 22:00:00 GMT

The owners of Le Chuise had a wonderful vision for this once hidden collection of farm dwellings that, with love, a little Italian passion and a keen eye for design is now a beautiful holiday retreat...

What's on in May

Sat, 30 Apr 2011 22:00:00 GMT

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. . . . .

Introducing ......Villa Splendida

Sat, 30 Apr 2011 22:00:00 GMT

We are always looking for those hidden gems and our quest takes us far and wide throughout Italy to find the most wonderful of holiday homes for you.

My favourite . . . . .

Sat, 30 Apr 2011 22:00:00 GMT

So every month, one of the team will let you in on their very own favourite Italian treat. This month, Jonathan takes his turn to reveal a Sicilian gastronomic treat.

Property Spotlight - Villa Bianca

Sat, 30 Apr 2011 22:00:00 GMT

This stunning, art-nouveau Villa has been carefully renovated and beautifully refurbished, retaining all of its original character and charm.

More to April than just Easter celebrations . . . . .

Thu, 31 Mar 2011 22:00:00 GMT

April is one of the busiest in the Italian calendar, far too many to mention so I have picked out a few of my favourites that give a real taste of Italy...

Introducing Villa Mille Desideri

Thu, 31 Mar 2011 22:00:00 GMT

This month, I am so excited and absolutely delighted to introduce to you this 17th Century Tuscan idyll that has been lovingly restored with passion and flair...

My favourite...

Thu, 31 Mar 2011 22:00:00 GMT

Be it the food (let’s face it there is plenty to choose from), the breathtaking land and seascapes, the people, the fashion, the culture and history, the cars, the traditions . . . . . oh, the list is endless.

Property spotlight - Il Cerreto

Thu, 31 Mar 2011 22:00:00 GMT

The talented owners of Il Cerreto had insurmountable vision, imagination and passion when they began the renovation and restoration of this 16th Century farmstead...

Spring into step in March . . .

Mon, 28 Feb 2011 22:00:00 GMT

It is the season of the carnival with many towns and cities becoming a wash of colour and celebration.

Introducing Villa Leopoldina

Mon, 28 Feb 2011 22:00:00 GMT

This month, we make our way up the rounded hills garlanded by cypress trees, through the immaculately kept vineyards and olive groves set amidst misty hillsides, past the acres of tall sunflowers...

My favourite...

Mon, 28 Feb 2011 22:00:00 GMT

It goes without saying that the entire team at Cottages to Castles have a real passion for all things Italian!

Property spotlight - Villa Tropicale

Mon, 28 Feb 2011 22:00:00 GMT

This month, we fly south to the beautiful island of Sicily. Nearer to North Africa than Rome, Italy’s southern most destination enjoys more sunshine than anywhere else in Europe.

Introducing...

Mon, 17 Jan 2011 22:00:00 GMT

If your summer holiday wish list involves a high standard of holiday accommodation and on a wonderful stretch of the Italian coastline, then these delightful apartments await your arrival!

Property spotlight - La Vigna della Corte

Tue, 04 Jan 2011 22:00:00 GMT

This month, we visit La Vigna delle Corte in the undiscovered area of southern Lazio. Backed by majestic mountains and surrounded by hillside vineyards and olive groves, this truly stunning home offers more than just a wonderful holiday villa and swimming pool.

Happy New Year!

Fri, 31 Dec 2010 22:00:00 GMT

A new year brings with it new experiences and an entire 12 months in which to explore Italy from top to bottom.

My favourite...

Wed, 22 Dec 2010 22:00:00 GMT

My favourite...

Thu, 02 Dec 2010 22:00:00 GMT

It goes without saying that the entire team at Cottages to Castles have a real passion for all things Italian!
Be it the food (let’s face it there is plenty to choose from), the breathtaking land and seascapes, the people, the fashion, the culture and history, the cars, the traditions . . . . . oh, the list is endless.

Babbo Natale, Christmas markets and shopping . . . . . .

Wed, 17 Nov 2010 22:00:00 GMT

December is a real treat for the senses for anyone visiting Italy, not to mention the traditions and celebrations – all squeezed into just 31 days.

Introducing...

Wed, 17 Nov 2010 22:00:00 GMT

We are always looking for those hidden gems and our quest takes us far and wide throughout Italy to find the most wonderful of holiday homes for you.
This month we are delighted to announce our most recent arrival . . . . .

Accommodation tax in Rome

Tue, 16 Nov 2010 22:00:00 GMT

ACCOMMODATION TAX IN ROME TO START 1st JANUARY 2011...
The City Council of Rome has approved the introduction of an accommodation tax in Rome. The tax will go towards better organising the city's urban services. It will be implemented from the 1st January 2011 and is payable by all people staying in accommodation in Rome at the conclusion of each stay, whether the booking was made before or after the 1st January.

Review – Chianti Inside Out

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 22:00:00 GMT

Last month, we sent a small group of guests to see Enzo Minopoli, owner of Chianti Inside Out; the response was fantastic!

My favourite...

Sun, 31 Oct 2010 22:00:00 GMT

It goes without saying that the entire team at Cottages to Castles have a real passion for all things Italian! Be it the food (let’s face it there is plenty to choose from), the breathtaking land and seascapes, the people, the fashion, the culture and history, the cars, the traditions . . . . . oh, the list is endless.

The fall in Italy...

Sun, 17 Oct 2010 22:00:00 GMT

Autumn is truffle season in Italy, where the world’s greatest chefs and gastronomes pile into the northern and central towns to purchase what some refer to as a ‘food of the gods’.

Property spotlight - Casale degli Olivi

Fri, 15 Oct 2010 22:00:00 GMT

This month, we are invited to the rather grand and truly idyllic location of Casa degli Olivi, in Reggello, Florence.

Multi-region search facility

Wed, 13 Oct 2010 22:00:00 GMT

Look what we’ve done now..... Destination Italy? But when it comes to planning your perfect break in 2011, you can’t quite decide on the ideal spot?

Property spotlight

Wed, 08 Sep 2010 22:00:00 GMT

Here at Cottages to Castles, we are extremely proud of the wonderful collection of beautiful homes we are able to offer to our clients throughout this multi-faceted and vibrant country. Every property is personally inspected by the team, to ensure it reaches our exacting standards and allows us to ensure each description conveys all the property has to offer.

My favourite...

Wed, 08 Sep 2010 22:00:00 GMT

It goes without saying that the entire team at Cottages to Castles have a real passion for all things Italian! Be it the food (let’s face it there is plenty to choose from), the breathtaking land and seascapes, the people, the fashion, the culture and history, the cars, the traditions . . . . . oh, the list is endless.

September in Italy...

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 22:00:00 GMT

September is a great time in Italy for all gastronomes! Every town and village has its very own ‘Sagra’ or festival celebrating art, culture and, in autumn it’s all about the food. Great for gourmet food lovers, choose a festival to suit your palette . . . . . from mushrooms, truffles, chestnuts, chocolate, grapes and of course, wine. There is also a huge mix of festivals based on history, culture, art and sport. These colourful Italian celebrations are a big part of life throughout Italy, so go ahead start exploring. Take a look at our top four picks for this month . . . . .