April – September 2024
EV ICON ITALY – YEAR I
Italy is a mosaic of cultures, traditions and unique landscapes. Every region, village and corner of this extraordinary country has a story to tell. It’s about listening and letting yourself go. This journey relaxes and stimulates, inspires and teaches. Exploring this incredible variety connects you with the beauty of diversity, craftsmanship, tranquillity, creativity and magic. In Italy, contrasting experiences are just a short trip away. Even with only a week’s holiday, you can collect a wealth of memories and experiences.
This summer, our all-female team of travel bloggers had the privilege of joining the “EV Icon Italy – Year I” project by Emma Villas. We travelled through Italy’s wonders, staying in villas and residences full of charm. We learned to listen to the unique corners of these properties—the frescoes, the furnishings and the landscapes. Sometimes we even heard from the villa owners, who have invested in these iconic homes to welcome their families and guests.
We experienced moments that revitalised us and strengthened our bond with nature. They motivated us to plan the next stages of this project, which will conclude its first season in September.
SICILY: A SWEET BEGINNING
Our journey began in Sicily at Villa Amore, where the first recipe was a mix of lemon scents, orange blossom and sea air. Sunrise yoga sessions filled us with energy and calm as we began our adventure. Horse riding among olive groves, surrounded by the scents of Sicily, was unforgettable.
Villa Majoli was another highlight, where a private chef prepared an exquisite Sicilian dinner. The colours of the sunsets and the magical atmosphere made it a time we will always cherish. We will be back to this beautiful island.
For Villa Amore click here. For Villa Majoli click here. For more information about the experiences click here.
PUGLIA: TRADITIONS AND PASSIONS
In Puglia, we first stopped at Masseria Samali, where we immersed ourselves in rural life. A picnic with fresh produce from the estate brought us back to childhood with freshly picked tomatoes, the scent of warm bread and the sound of cicadas. It was a peaceful moment that felt far from our usual routines.
We also enjoyed a pizzica dance performance in the garden of the masseria. The fast rhythms and passionate dancers created pure magic. At Trulli Biancapetra, we experienced the charm of staying in a trullo, feeling like we were in a place truly outside of time.
For Masseria Samali click here. For Trulli Biancapetra click here. For more information about the experiences click here.
TUSCANY: ELEGANCE AND SERENITY
Tuscany greeted us with beautiful landscapes and historic residences. Villa Metelliano became our elegant and tranquil retreat near Cortona.
Every corner of the villa, with its refined furnishings and unique details, had a story we shared with our growing community of “quiet luxury travellers.”
We then visited Villa Il Pozzo, which offered pure relaxation. Its pool and shaded spots were perfect for reading or meditation. We can still recall the scent of flowers and herbs.
At Antica Villa Merelli, we experienced true Tuscan life. The traditional architecture and welcoming interiors provided the perfect backdrop for intimate evenings around the kitchen table. We shared local dishes, stories, dreams and plans for the next stage of our journey.
Read the full article here: part one and part two. Discover quiet luxury at Villa Metelliano here.
For Villa Metelliano click here. For Villa Il Pozzo click here. For Antica Villa Merelli click here. For more information about the experiences click here.
LIGURIA: DESIGN ON THE CLIFFS
In Liguria, we stayed at Villa Ponti, perched on the cliffs. The villa is a tribute to architect Gio Ponti, with elegant design, bright spaces and stunning sea views. The waves, sea air and vibrant colours made every moment feel like a dream. It was a sensory journey through Ponti’s architectural genius, enhanced by the natural surroundings.
For the full article click here
For Villa Ponti click here. For more information about the experiences click here.
LOMBARDY: YOGA BY THE LAKE
In Lombardy, we stayed at Villa Eden on the shores of Lake Maggiore. Our goal was to find balance for body and mind in this charming residence. We embraced nature and harmony in yoga sessions with Tamara, set against the beauty and tranquillity of the lake.
For the full article click here
For Villa Eden click here. For more information about the experiences click here.
EMILIA ROMAGNA: FOOD AND WELLNESS
Returning home through Emilia Romagna, we felt welcomed by the warmth of Tenuta Bagni De Consoli. We focused on wellness with massages, sessions with a personal trainer and traditional cuisine. The villa offered a balance of comfort, relaxation and fine dining.
Villa Santa Maria Maddalena was the perfect setting for a surprise candlelit dinner for dear friends. With the help of the Emma Villas booking team, we arranged an evening of soft lights, fine food and magical atmosphere—a memory they will treasure forever.
Un ricordo che porteranno per sempre con loro; a noi il piacere di aver condiviso tanta bellezza e cura per i dettagli.
For the full article click here: part one and part two.
For Tenuta Bagni De Consoli click here. For Santa Maria Maddalena click here. For more information about the experiences click here.
UMBRIA: A HAVEN OF PEACE
Al Belvedere, just 20 km from Perugia, was the ideal spot for our Umbria visit. The villa’s panoramic views, lush surroundings and peaceful atmosphere made it hard to leave. We embraced “slow living,” enjoying every corner of the property and the beauty of the Umbrian countryside.
For the full article click here
For Al Belvedere click here. For more information about the experiences click here.
LE MARCHE: A BEAUTIFUL ENDING AWAITING SEPTEMBER
At Dimora Montefiore in Le Marche, we ended the summer portion of our journey. The beautifully restored 19th-century villa offered the ultimate relaxation. Thanks to Emma Villas, we were pampered by wellness expert Elisa, and in the evenings, a talented chef treated us to unforgettable meals.
For the full article click here
For Dimora Montefiore click here. For more information about the experiences click here.
AN ICONIC SUMMER
The summer is not over yet. After a short break, we will continue our journey in September to complete EV Icon Italy Year I. From April to September, this journey has been a captivating adventure, and we hope you have enjoyed it too.
We are already planning new destinations to share on our blog and social media. Our aim is to inspire your travels to new places.
Whether it’s a holiday, a special anniversary or a family reunion, choosing the right destination is about trust. We, with the Icon Italy team, will always work to earn the trust you place in our travel stories and continue to highlight the essence of quiet Italian luxury that Emma Villas offers.
Exceptional residences and unforgettable, authentic experiences are at the heart of our vision to make every holiday unique.
For more information, email [email protected] and [email protected].
EV ICON ITALY – YEAR I RETURNS IN SEPTEMBER.
Stay connected.
