That’s Amore
Italy’s Top Honeymoon Destinations
Arguably the most romantic country in the world, Italy serves up enough glamorous seaside resorts, pristine coastlines and imposing architecture to rival the other countless choices for a picture-perfect postnuptial getaway, and Rome-based hospitality brand Access Italy (accessitaly.net) will ensure that even the highest expectations are met.
With resources covering the entire Italian Peninsula, Access Italy has planned holidays for everyone from Ben Stiller to Oprah Winfrey, and its services are sought after by newlyweds requesting non-pedestrian experiences such as private tours of the Sistine Chapel, Tuscan vineyard tours on horseback and bespoke Amalfi Coast sunset cruises.
Founded more than 30 years ago by Angelo Amorico, the company is now co-run by Angelo and his sons Marco and Simone Amorico, who are carrying on the tradition of providing customized itineraries that incorporate local authenticity with modern luxury. “Many of our recent clients are requesting honeymoons that originate in Rome,” says Simone. “Ancient monuments and art masterpieces set the tone for such an important trip.” From sipping prosecco with the best rooftop views at Eitch Borromini (eitchborromini.com) and devouring delicious spaghetti carbonara at local favorite Da Francesco (Piazza del Fico, 29), to enjoying the all-marble hammam at Grand Hotel Via Veneto (ghvv.it) or staying at a Minotti-appointed Villaway (villaway.com) private villa or the most romantic courtyard suite at Hotel de Russie (roccofortehotels.com), every aspect of your ideal stay can be tailored.
And while Positano and Venice are longstanding newlywed go-tos, Sicily has emerged as a frequently requested honeymoon destination, according to Simone: “With views of Mount Etna, ancient Greek ruins, charming cobblestone streets and intimate beaches, Taormina is the top Sicilian romantic spot.” In Taormina, sister resorts Belmond Villa Sant’Andrea, which boasts a private pebble beach, and Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo (belmond.com), set amid a jaw-dropping, open-air classical theater, offer sophisticated, luxurious interiors with the perfect cinematic settings.
All this, plus the knowledge that wherever your Italian travels take you, a bowl of wedding-diet-ending pasta awaits, paired with a full-bodied red.
Written by ANDREA STANFORD.