Summer love- exploring Italy's treasures

Italy is a word that conjures the most wonderful parts of our imagination. The incredible history, food, wine, art and music of each region has weaved its way into every country around the world and is very much a piece of the fabric of every culture in some special way. Follow along as we reveal the magic of summer, the Italian way.

A beloved destination by both locals and visitors, the Italian Lakes are a highly sought after experience during the summer season. Located in the northern part of Italy and south of the Swiss Alps, many visitors seek to travel to Lake Garda (Lago di Garda), Lake Maggiore (Lago Maggiore), Lake Como (Lago di Como) and Lake Orta (Lago Orta). Additional lakes are in the area for additional exploration.

The lakes in the summer offer numerous activities including sailing, swimming, tours on foot and by boat to the many historic villages and towns overlooking each lake. Historic villas and lush gardens create picture perfect moments no matter how you are experiencing them. Laura, owner of Lake Como for You, is an expert in tours and experiences around the lakes and was asked about her recommendations. She mentioned the incredible San John's fireworks display that takes place at the end of June every year on Comacina Island. It is an event that brings in large crowds, but it is beloved by the people and not to be missed.

After enjoying all the lakes have to offer, head north about 3.5 hours for the refreshing mountain air and a memorable stay at Ciasa Salares. Located in the Dolomites, the property re-opens for its summer season on June 14th through the end of September. This family-owned luxury property offers the opportunity to connect with nature as you are surrounded by the serenity of the mountains and lush trees at every angle. The

We continue our journey through the mountains by traveling approximately one hour west, where we find ourselves at Gardena Grodnerhof, a Relais & Chateaux hotel. The property is also a 5 star hotel located in South Tyrol and their chef Reimund Brunner is a recent recipient of a Michelin Star.

Thirty minutes west, we find another wonderful destination within the Dolomites- Como Alpina Dolomites. Located within Alpe di Siusi, a UNESCO heritage site, this 5 star luxury hotel transforms in the summer into a mountain sports destination. Surrounded by green, bright sunny days and fresh mountain air are rejuvenating.

As you make your way south of the lakes and Dolomites, you will find yourself in one of the many wine regions of Italy. There are so many incredible wineries and types of wine available that we were unable to focus on just one. To refine your search, Winedering offers wine experiences (tours, luncheons, seminars, tastings, etc) throughout all of Italy.

You have had a wonderful day touring with Winedering as you set sail for your next destination. How do you get there? The answer is the Italian way, with style! Moreno Moretti and his expert team at Italy Charme can plan a vintage car experience. Imagine your hair blowing in the wind as you make your way to Tuscany for your next stay.

Here, we find a perfect place to rest after the long journey from the Dolomites, the Italian Lakes and after enjoying numerous wineries. Located in Tuscany, you wlll find yourself at Il Bottaccio. This 5 star boutique property in Tuscany looks and feels like a work of art, with stone walkways, sculptures in the garden and Tuscan charm throughout.

Sicily is our last stop on our tour of Italy. Home to cities as famous for their cuisine as their stunning views, history and experiences, Palermo, Marsala, Catania, Syracuse, Messina, Cefalu and Taormina are just a few of the possibilities. An expert in Sicily that we connected with, Francesca of True Italy Experience, offers an eight day itinerary that really captures the heart of Sicily. The tour provides a tremendous amount of highlights including a trip to Mount Etna, time to walk through the historic streets of Taormina, multiple UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a Greek archeological site visit, tastings including local honey, chocolates, wine and so much more. The tour is tremendous and touches every part of the Sicilian experience.

We hope you have gathered hotels, ideas and the links to experts to create the summer Italian experience of your wildest dreams. Ciao!