Europe, France Heather Lindstrom Europe, France Heather Lindstrom

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat: A French Riviera Paradise on the Côte d'Azur

This sparkling beauty was the first stop on our European holiday and has long been on my travel bucket list. Nestled on the glamorous French Riviera Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is a haven of exquisite beauty and timeless elegance. This exclusive peninsula boasts a perfect blend of natural landscapes, opulent villas, and a vibrant Mediterranean atmosphere that has captured the hearts of discerning travelers for decades.

 
 

Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat: A Riviera Paradise

 
 

This sparkling beauty was the first stop on our European holiday and has long been on my travel bucket list. Nestled on the glamorous French Riviera Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is a haven of exquisite beauty and timeless elegance. This exclusive peninsula boasts a perfect blend of natural landscapes, opulent villas, and a vibrant Mediterranean atmosphere that has captured the hearts of discerning travelers for decades.

Following 2 days of airline travel, plus a few extra twists and turns to navigate the rental car, Scott and I were thrilled to arrive at the glamorous
Hotel Royal Riviera. A warm welcome, sun-splashed riviera views, and a chilled bottle of prosecco awaited us.

Steeped in history, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat exudes an aura of sophistication and refined luxury. Along its winding streets, majestic Belle Epoque villas stand as a testament to the area's prestigious past. These magnificent estates, surrounded by manicured gardens and framed by striking architecture, captivate visitors with their timeless charm.

Renowned for its stunning coastline, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat offers visitors a postcard-perfect setting with crystal-clear azure waters, secluded sandy coves, and luscious greenery. Breathtaking cliffside paths wind their way between fragrant pine groves and colorful gardens, rewarding visitors with breathtaking panoramic views overlooking the shimmering sea.

Saint Jean Cap Ferrat has been renowned for attracting numerous notable residents over the years. Some of the famous individuals who have called this exclusive French Riviera peninsula home include King Leopold II of Belgium, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, iconic actress Elizabeth Taylor, renowned fashion designer Karl Lagerfeld, and current Russian oligarch Roman Abramovich. These well-known figures have added to the allure and prestige of Saint Jean Cap Ferrat as a coveted destination for the elite.

Hot Tip: Walk the seaside path from the Hotel Royal Riviera (turn right as you exit the hotel) to experience the true beauty of Saint-Jean-Cap- Ferrat. Have lunch and people watch above the marina or bask in the sunshine of the beach club at Hotel Royal Riviera or the Paloma Beach Club.


The allure of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat extends beyond art and nature. The town's vibrant dining scene delights discerning palates with a tantalizing array of culinary experiences. From Michelin-starred restaurants to charming local bistros, visitors can indulge in the freshest seafood and Mediterranean flavors paired with world-class wines.

The iconic Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, perched atop a hill overlooking the bay, houses an impressive collection of fine art and splendid gardens inspired by different civilizations. The villa's breathtaking gardens, featuring colorful rose bushes, fountains, and statues, beckon visitors to immerse themselves in enchanting beauty. Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild is a stunning French Riviera villa with Mediterranean views and well-maintained gardens. Once home to Baroness Béatrice de Rothschild, it is now a museum showcasing her art collection and luxurious furniture. The gardens, inspired by French, Spanish, and Japanese styles, are famous and offer a peaceful experience. Visitors can explore and enjoy classical concerts, stepping into a different era of elegance and relaxation. Stop by the Beatrice Tea Room on property for a proper tea, a meal, or a glass of rose’.

 

With its unparalleled beauty, historical richness, and refined lifestyle, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat is a sanctuary where one can bask in the glory of the French Riviera. Whether you seek a haven of tranquility, a playground for the senses, or a place to unwind in sheer luxury, this idyllic peninsula promises an unforgettable experience for discerning travelers in pursuit of perfection.

Our HOT TAKES:

To Stay: Hotel Royal Riviera or Grand Hotel du Cap Ferrat (A Four Seasons Hotel)

To Dine: La Table du Royal, Mademoiselle St Jean Cap Ferrat (the pastries!), Le Saint Jean, Jasmin Grill & Lounge, Le Cap

To Tea: Beatrice Tea-Room (and dining) at Villa et Jardins Ephrussi De Rothschild

To Sip: Bar Jasmin

To Beach: Paloma Beach Club or Private Beach Club at Royal Riviera

To Visit: Villa and Gardens Ephrussi de Rothschild

To visit this jewel on the French Riviera contact us!

Merci!

Heather

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Mexico Heather Lindstrom Mexico Heather Lindstrom

A Winter Warm Up in Los Cabos: Where the Desert Meets the Sea

Nothing warms us up quite like a sunny beach destination in the cold depths of January. As I’ve written in previous posts, Los Cabos is such an easy flight from California and I’ve been a regular visitor since the late 1980s. Despite tremendous development, plus a huge luxury boom in recent years, the turquoise seas, golden sands, and brilliant sunshine remain unchanged. For this trip, we stayed at Zoetry Casa del Mar for a touch of all-inclusive luxury. We were thrilled to have my sister, Dorie, and Michael join us for some well-deserved R and R Los Cabos style.

 
 

Zoetry Casa Del Mar on Curated Travel

 
 

Hola, friends! Nothing warms us up quite like a sunny beach destination in the cold depths of January. As I’ve written in previous posts, Los Cabos is such an easy flight from California and I’ve been a regular visitor since the late 1980s. Despite tremendous development, plus a huge luxury boom in recent years, the turquoise seas, golden sands, and brilliant sunshine remain unchanged. For this trip, we stayed at Zoetry Casa del Mar for a touch of all-inclusive laid back luxury. We were thrilled to have Dorie, my sister, and Michael join us for some well-deserved R and R Los Cabos style.

 
 
 

Things we love about Los Cabos

Where Desert Meets the Sea
Nestled at the southern tip of Mexico's Baja California Peninsula, Los Cabos is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends natural beauty, luxury, and enticing cultural experiences. Boasting a striking contrast between the rugged desert landscape and the expansive ocean vistas, this enchanting region invites visitors to indulge in a diverse array of activities and unforgettable moments.

Luxurious Retreats
Home to a myriad of world-class resorts, Los Cabos offers an indulgent escape for travelers seeking refinement and relaxation. Many of the resorts also feature exquisite spa facilities, championship golf courses, and gourmet dining options, ensuring a truly opulent experience for guests.

A few of our favorites: Montage, One and Only Palmilla, Esperanza, Le Blanc, Grand Velas, Viceroy, Chileno Bay, and Las Ventanas al Paraiso.

Culinary Delights
As a culinary hotspot, Los Cabos tantalizes the taste buds with a delectable fusion of flavors. The region's cuisine showcases a blend of traditional Mexican fare and international influences, resulting in a diverse dining scene that caters to all palates. Visitors can savor freshly caught seafood, savor authentic street tacos, or indulge in gourmet dining experiences orchestrated by renowned chefs.

A few of our favorites: Acre, Flora Farms, Sea Grill (Las Ventanas), Saltwater (Zoetry), Mezcal (Montage), Nido (Viceroy), 7 Seas Seafood Grill, Los Tres GallosThe Rooftop at the Cape and Sur Beach Club

Cultural Riches
Beyond the opulence and natural splendor, Los Cabos presents a rich tapestry of Mexican heritage and traditions. In the charming town of San Jose del Cabo, visitors can stroll through cobblestone streets lined with colorful colonial buildings, explore art galleries showcasing local talent, and savor authentic Mexican cuisine at traditional eateries. The vibrant energy of Cabo San Lucas, with its bustling marina and lively nightlife, provides a refreshing contrast, adding a vibrant pulse to the region's cultural scene. Ask about the weekly art walk in San Jose del Cabo. Currently, it’s every Thursday evening and not to be missed!



Beach Vibes

 
 
 
 

A Milestone Birthday Dinner for Dorie!

 
 
 
 
 

Los Cabos captivates travelers with its spellbinding landscapes, luxurious comforts, vibrant culture, and thrilling adventures. Not to mention the delights of whale-watching in winter from our patio.

 
 
 

Sunsets Los Cabos style!

 

Thanks for traveling with us!

If you are considering a sunny getaway to Los Cabos we have lots of ideas for you.

Contact us to make your travel dreams come true!

 

More on our Travels in Mexico:

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Cruise, Curated Travel, Europe, France Heather Lindstrom Cruise, Curated Travel, Europe, France Heather Lindstrom

Setting Sail On the French Riviera!

Just a quick check-in during a flurry of packing and prepping to catch a flight to the French Riviera tomorrow bright and early. Scott and I will land in Nice, and spend a few days enjoying the Riviera while based in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Later we will board the Seabourn Sojourn in Monte Carlo for the 10-Day Tyrrhenian Treasures & Malta with a sparkling itinerary. Stops include Italy, France, Malta (a first for us!), and end in Spain where we will finish up with a few relaxing days in Barcelona before heading home. We are honored to be invited to host this cruise for the Virtuoso Voyages group onboard. When I tell you this cruise sold out fast - it was sold out one day after I posted our announcement!

 
 
 

Just a quick check-in during a flurry of packing and prepping to catch a flight to the French Riviera tomorrow bright and early. Scott and I will land in Nice, and spend a few days enjoying the Riviera while based in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. Later we will board the Seabourn Sojourn in Monte Carlo for the 10-Day Tyrrhenian Treasures & Malta with a sparkling itinerary. Stops include Italy, France, Malta (a first for us!), and end in Spain where we will finish up with a few relaxing days in Barcelona before heading home. We are honored to be invited to host this cruise for the Virtuoso Voyages group onboard. When I tell you this cruise sold out fast - it was sold out one day after I posted our announcement!


If you have travel on your horizon and need tips here is an article that may be helpful in preparing for international travel. DM me with questions about our specific itinerary or the regions we will be experiencing along the way.

Follow us on Instagram @curatedtravel (see the feed below).

Thanks for following and

Bon Voyage!!

Heather

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Curated Travel, Travel Advisor Heather Lindstrom Curated Travel, Travel Advisor Heather Lindstrom

Celebrate! Announcing our Forbes Travel Guide Endorsement!

We are thrilled to announce that Curated Travel, as an affiliate of Cadence, has been named a Forbes Travel Guide-endorsed agency. FTG is the only independent global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants, spas, and ocean cruises. The coveted Five-Star, Four-Star, and Recommended awards are earned through incognito inspections on FTG’s hundreds of exacting quality and service standards. We are honored to be recognized by the global authority on luxury hospitality for our commitment to providing our clients with exceptional experiences.

 
 
 

We are thrilled to announce that Curated Travel, as an affiliate of Cadence, has been named a Forbes Travel Guide-endorsed agency. FTG is the only independent global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants, spas, and ocean cruises. The coveted Five-Star, Four-Star, and Recommended awards are earned through incognito inspections on FTG’s hundreds of exacting quality and service standards. We are honored to be recognized by the global authority on luxury hospitality for our commitment to providing our clients with exceptional experiences.

Learn more about the esteemed Forbes Travel Guide:

Forbes Travel Guide Star Award Winners for 2023

 
 
 
 

As the founder of Curated Travel, I cannot emphasize enough how grateful we are for our clients. Our clients are the lifeblood of our company and inspire us to continue providing exceptional services. From our first interaction to the moment you return home from your travels, we strive to create unforgettable experiences that exceed your expectations. Our business thrives on word of mouth and referrals, and we know that satisfied clients are the foundation of our success. So to all of our clients, past and present, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude.

Thank you for choosing us as your dedicated travel partner. We look forward to continuing to serve you for all of your future travel needs.

 
 
 

Heather Lindstrom, Curated Travel

 
 
 
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Curated Travel, Europe, France, Travel Advisor, Cruise Heather Lindstrom Curated Travel, Europe, France, Travel Advisor, Cruise Heather Lindstrom

Exciting News! We Will be Hosting A Virtuoso Voyage with Seabourn Ultra Luxury Cruises - Monte Carlo to Barcelona - October 2023 - Join Us!

How does frolicking on the French Riviera sound about now?

In October, Scott and I plan to set sail on the luxurious Seabourn Sojourn from Monte Carlo to Barcelona on a 10-day cruise with stops in Elba, Amalfi, and Taormina (Italy), Valletta (Malta), St. Tropez and La Ciotat (France), as well as Palamos (Spain) before disembarking in Barcelona on this spectacular itinerary.

 
 
 
Picture calm cerulean waters, stunning beaches, traditional fishing villages, and family-run wineries — not to mention megalithic temples, ancient Pompeii’s ruins, and the world’s oldest underground necropolis.
— Seabourn
 

How does frolicking on the French Riviera sound about now?

In October, Scott and I will set sail on the luxurious Seabourn Sojourn from Monte Carlo (Monaco) to Barcelona on a 10-day cruise with stops in Elba, Amalfi, and Taormina (Italy), Valletta (Malta), St. Tropez and La Ciotat (France), as well as Palamos (Spain) before disembarking in Barcelona on this spectacular itinerary. We have been invited to host the Virtuoso Voyages clients aboard who will receive specialized VIP amenities.

 

View destinations in the gallery below:

 
 

What we love: Seabourn provides all-inclusive, luxury cruising, refined to its purest form. Hand-selected itineraries transport you to unique ports beyond the reach of larger ships.

•  Intimate ships with a private club atmosphere

•  One of the highest space-per-guest ratios in the industry

•  The youngest and most modern fleet in the industry

  • A culinary partnership with famed chef Thomas Keller.


 
 


Virtuoso Hosted Voyages Perks:

As Curated Travel clients, you will receive these added benefits of the Virtuoso Voyages program when you book with us:

  • Dedicated onboard hosts (That’s US! - Heather & Scott Lindstrom from Curated Travel)

  • Private welcome cocktail party/reception

  • Exclusive shore excursions, from VIP tours to outings with a private car and driver (see below for a special experience on October 13)

  • Shipboard credits and specialty dining options


On this cruise, you also receive an Enhanced cruise experience for Virtuoso Voyages clients - October 13, 2023 - in Palomos, Spain:

“VIP Virtuoso Voyages Discover Palamos, one of Spain's most prominent ports. The day begins with a drive from Palamos to beautiful and ancient Gerona, a city in the northeast of Spain on the Costa Brava that boasts Roman-era walls and contains the most valuable heritage sites in the Catalonian region. The tour takes guests into the medieval city located on the banks of the river Onyar, where guests will see the famed “Tapestry of Creation” in Gerona’s 12th-13th century Cathedral and visit the nearby Bonastruc Jewish Center which chronicles the history of the Jews that lived in this city during the Middle Ages. Guests will also learn how the “Aljama”, or self-governing communities of Moors and Jews living under Spanish Christian rule functioned, and their traditions. After the visit, it will be time for a wonderful luncheon of delicious Catalonian specialties complimented by local wines at Restaurant Cal Ros. Guests will have some time at leisure to stroll the narrow, picturesque streets of the medieval village of Palsand and browse its many colorful shops.”


Learn more about the 10-Day Tyrrhenian Treasures & Malta Cruise

and contact us to book.

Current Promotion: Receive up to $ 2,000 USD Air Credit per Person, a Two-Category Suite Upgrade with a Reduced 10% Deposit.


OR-

Is Alaska more your style??

 
 
 

In addition to the October cruise, we will also be hosting a Virtuoso Voyage for Seabourn to Alaska in July 2023! 7-Day Alaska Fjords & Canadian Inside Passage July 7-14. 2023. Departs Juneau, Alaska, and arrives in Vancouver, BC. Contact us to learn more and to book.

We would love to have you join us on either or both cruises!

Contact us to learn more.

Bon Voyage!

Heather & Scott

All images are shared with direct permission from Seabourn.

 
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Europe, Italy Heather Lindstrom Europe, Italy Heather Lindstrom

Envision: The Anticipation of Travel

I’ve read that half the pleasure of travel is the anticipation. I’m in that phase now with my upcoming solo trip to Italy. I find myself envisioning the sights, sounds, tastes, and even the rose gold hues of sunset over the Arno River bathing Florence. I can almost taste the cacio e pepe (we made it in a cooking class in Tuscany) and the gelato di caffe’. I’m checking the weather report daily (mostly highs in the upper 60s) to envision my daily clothing needs and am fully packed early for this trip.

 
 

“When you plan your next vacation, it can create positive emotions and expectations. If you have a vacation next week, this week you’ll probably be feeling better.” —Chun-Chu Chen, PhD

I’ve read that half the pleasure of travel is the anticipation. I’m in that phase now with my upcoming solo trip to Italy. I find myself envisioning the sights, sounds, tastes, and even the rose gold hues of sunset over the Arno River bathing Florence. I can almost taste the cacio e pepe (we made it in a cooking class in Tuscany) and the gelato di caffe’. I’m checking the weather report daily (mostly highs in the upper 60s) to envision my daily clothing needs and am fully packed early for this trip. Early packing definitely eases the pre-travel stress. Of course, it’s a challenge to pack for business casual/dressy events in a fashionable city like Florence, as well as explorations and adventures on the Italian Riviera. Once that suitcase is finally closed, it is what it is and I let it go.

This will be a business + pleasure trip for my Curated Travel. I’ve been invited to attend a luxury travel event in Florence, DUCO, followed by a 6-day small group trip exploring Lake Maggiore, Lucca, and Forte dei Marmi on the Italian Riviera. The itinerary looks dazzling.

 
“Everything about Florence seems to be colored with a mild violet, like diluted wine.”

— Henry James, writer (1869)
 



With so many of my clients traveling to Italy, I always appreciate the opportunity to explore and experience the best that Italy has to offer. It is also a perk to connect in real-time with my partners from Italy and around the world. These relationships are what enable us to make our client travel seamless and memorable. The truth is, this type of business travel is also a pleasure. And yes, sometimes I even wonder, “Pinch me, am I dreaming” (how do you say that in Italian)? The travel business is my second career and I couldn’t possibly be enjoying it more.

What are you envisioning for your next travels?

You can follow along with my Italian adventures below and on Instagram here.

Grazie Mille for being here!

Heather

 
 
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Travel Advisor, Travel Tips, Travel, Europe Heather Lindstrom Travel Advisor, Travel Tips, Travel, Europe Heather Lindstrom

Hot Tips for Preparing for International Travel (Revisited for 2025)

The travel industry is definitely booming and many travelers, tired of local haunts, are heading to far-flung destinations post-pandemic. At Curated Travel, our clients are headed to St. Lucia, Bora Bora, Cancun, South Africa, Germany, European River Cruises, the British Isles, Slovenia, France, and the always-popular Italy in the next several months. With 3 trips to Europe last year and Italy on my horizon later this month, I will attest that travel is back and more exciting than ever!

 
 

The travel industry is booming, and many travelers, tired of local haunts, are heading to far-flung destinations. At Curated Travel, our clients are headed to the Lake District of Italy, Bora Bora, European River Cruises, the British Isles, Slovenia, Portugal, Spain, France, and the ever-popular Italy in the next several months. With 3 trips to Europe last year and Italy on my horizon later this month, I will attest that travel is back and more exciting than ever!

Hot Tips for International Travel

  • Pack your passport first (be sure it’s valid for 6 months or more post-return). Your passport is your most essential item for international travel. Take a picture of the info page and upload it to your phone in case your passport is lost during travel.

  • Check the website of your airline for luggage sizes and weight limits. If you can manage to pack your essentials in a carry-on only (and congrats!!) do it! If not, I strongly recommend packing a ‘capsule collection’ of basics and necessities in your carry-on in case of delayed luggage.

  • While you are checking the airline website be sure you have created your account and have the latest apps (including airline entertainment apps) downloaded before travel. Check-in 24 hours before travel and turn on notifications for any changes.

  • Contact your bank and credit card companies to alert them of your upcoming international travel and charges.

  • Call your cell phone company for the best international phone plan options during travel. Travel Hack: If you keep your phone in airplane mode for your entire trip, you can use your phone functions on free wifi at hotels, cafes, and airports with ease.

  • Purchase a universal adapter or two to use in the hotels for plugging in phone chargers and computers, or request one at your hotel. Check the voltage ratings in the small print on your electrical items. Most are rated for 100-240V; however, some are rated only for 125V (my blow dryer), which requires a converter from 220V to 110V US to European Converter.

  • Download WhatsApp on your phone for free international texting and video calling with family and friends (be sure they have the app too!). For our travel clients, WhatsApp is frequently used by our international travel partners to keep in close contact with tours/guides/transfers while you travel.

  • Bring your state driver’s license if you plan to rent a scooter during an excursion. If you plan to rent a car, an International Driving Permit is strongly recommended. It’s easy to obtain ahead of your travels from the American Automobile Association here.

  • For dining abroad, apps like TheFork are available internationally for easy booking. Use the Michelin Guide (one of our preferred partners) for more dining and travel inspiration.

  • Download a language translation app like TripLingo, or, better yet, learn the language before you travel.

 
 
 

UPDATE: Here I am, packing for my spring trip to Italy for 2 weeks at a luxury travel event. I couldn’t quite believe I was able to manage it all (fancy events included) in carry-on luggage only. Trust me, it was so freeing not to worry about my luggage arriving with me. It was also freeing not to be schlepping extra baggage around for 2 weeks.

Notes on Packing: After too many experiences with delayed luggage, I’m a recent convert to carry-on-only luggage (I use a small roller bag plus a Beis Mini Weekender and a small crossbody bag). If you do check bags I highly recommend creating a ‘curated capsule’ in your carryon of at least 2 multi-use outfits, 2 pairs of shoes, makeup/haircare basics, deodorant, toothbrush/paste, medications, and scarves/jewelry to change up your look. If you do check a bag toss in an Apple Air Tag to track your luggage. I’ve written several articles about the fine art of packing for longer trips. Read more about my travel advisor packing strategies, including the essential Carryon Capsule Collection here. If you are curious about how I survived for 6 days at my first luxury travel event in Italy with NO Luggage read here.

Spending power: Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere these days- including from your phone with digital wallets. That said, it’s always good to have some cash on hand, especially for tipping or smaller purchases. Also, you will want to tip tour guides and drivers along the way in cash.

You can exchange for cash at the airport OR you can request your transfer/taxi driver make a quick stop at a local ATM on the way to your hotel for lower exchange rates.

Please note, Apple and other payment apps are widely used in Europe these days so going as wallet-free as possible is a good security tip. My husband learned this the hard way when pickpocketed on his first day in Lisbon. For your cash, use a money belt or clip and never put your wallet in your back pocket. For women, I’m all about the cross-body bag.

HOT Tip: My husband has started bringing home some leftover currency like euros or pesos to ease our arrival on our next trip to the destination.

Notes on tipping: Tips are usually included in the meal price (check the receipt) so it is not necessary to tip at a restaurant unless service is above and beyond. In Europe, your server typically won’t bring your bill until you request it. Essentially, the table is yours for the evening if you like. That said, tours/transfers/guides do not include tips in the pricing. In Italy/France the common practice for transfers with a short drive is €10-20, for a long drive is €40-50, and for private guides, a full day is €50 and a half day is €30.

HOT TIP - When you leave your hotel, grab a business card with the hotel address and phone number included or snap a photo of it. If you get lost (and don’t happen to meet an English speaker), showing a taxi driver or a passerby the card with the address is extremely helpful, even with a language barrier. If you have an itinerary app (such as UMAPPED which I create for my clients) show them the hotel address on the app to keep it simple.

My Must-Haves 2025 -

Apple AirPods Pro 2 Wireless Earbuds (Noise-canceling)

Portable Bluetooth Speaker

Tote Bag

Makeup Case (and I love this hanging bag too - Toiletry Bag)

Compression Packing Cubes

Wide Brim Hat

 
 
 
 

I hope this list of tips for international travel is helpful as you prepare for your upcoming travels.

 

Ciao! Ciao!

Heather



Contact us to help make your travel dreams come true!



 
 
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Europe, Italy, Travel Advisor Heather Lindstrom Europe, Italy, Travel Advisor Heather Lindstrom

Lake Garda: Mercurial, Magical and Idyllic

Arriving at Villa Cortine Palace Hotel is an event in and of itself. Our driver whisked us through majestic gates, past antique statuary and formal gardens to this stately, historic property. It sits on 12 acres on the peninsula just north of Sirmione and is bordered on both sides by Lake Garda. This location yields the most amazing lake views from all angles.

 

Villa Cortine Palace Hotel Lake Garda

 

Here I am! Popping back in with a blog post on my trip to Italy back in April. It’s hard to believe I’ve already returned to Europe for two weeks since I last posted. Needless to say, I’m catching up and am excited to have some new favorite destinations to share!

Here’s the scoop: Lake Garda, the largest lake in Italy, was one of my absolute favorite stays of this trip. I was invited to visit by the wonderful team at Villa Cortine Palace Hotel as a pre-stay before the Travelux luxury travel event in Venice. Trust me, it was an unforgettable experience.

Arriving at Villa Cortine Palace Hotel is an event in and of itself. Our driver whisked us through ornate gates, past antique statuary and formal gardens to this stately, luxurious and historic property. It sits on 12 acres on the peninsula just north of charming Sirmione and is bordered on both sides by Lake Garda rimmed with majestic mountains.

As you can imagine, this location yields the most amazing lake views from all angles.

 

As we pulled up to the hotel, I was greeted by the staff and our host, General Manager Giacomo Grossi, with a welcome drink and escorted to my spacious, luxurious suite where gifts and goodies awaited.

 

This is a tour of my lake view suite. The view is stunning as is the Murano glass chandelier!

 
 

The next day, graced with sunshine, a scenic boat ride on Lake Garda and a festive wine tasting at Contithun were on the itinerary.

Our select group of international travel advisors was invited to experience the charms of Villa Cortine Palace. We enjoyed luxury accommodations, private tours of the historic hotel, grounds and gardens, gourmet dining with impeccable service at Il Molo, cocktails at Maria Callas bar & bistro, and enjoyed a wonderful time together thanks to our gracious host, Giacomo Grossi.

As you can imagine, we were all thrilled to be traveling in Europe again, and to be here was magical.

 

A tour of the historic Villa Cortine Palace Hotel

This video is a peek of the historical section of the hotel by our host, Giacomo Grossi.

Not only is the rich history of the property celebrated, but there are also modern touches like the luxurious linens, designer bath products, and the oh-so-chic beach club and dock.

 
 

My thanks to Giacomo Grossi for the fabulous stay and the introduction to magical Lake Garda.

I can hardly wait to introduce this property to my Italy-loving clients.

Villa Cortine Palace Hotel

To learn more about travel to Italy contact us.

Up next: Venice

Grazie Mille!

Heather

 
 
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