Fancy spa hotel with heritage on a hill outside Bologna
Palazzo di Varignana / Castel San Pietro Terme / Italy
A sometimes overlooked region in Italy is Emilia-Romagna which to me is so strange. This region has so much to offer but many times tourists (like me) tend to focus on the southern neighbour, Tuscany. In Emilia-Romagna you’ll find cities like Parma, Piacenza, Modena and Bologna. And right outside Bologna, in the hilly countryside (eat your heart out, Tuscany!) is where you’ll find this place, Palazzo di Varignana.
This is a place you arrive and then you don’t leave. And the reason why? You have everything you will ever need right at your fingertips. We are talking a world class spa, a beautiful outdoor pool area, great Italian food, an amazing garden and all headlined by an 18th century villa, that is the focal point. And don’t get me started about the surroundings. This resort is located on a hill top with a view that is to die for.
When the current owner, Carlo Gherardi took over the estate it was in huge need of some tender love and care. A massive renovation was started of both the villa and the surrounding gardens, olive grooves and vineyards. Today you’ll find a really attractive resort with 140 rooms spread over several buildings. Oh, and did I mention the spa? And the pools? And the food? Yes, I did but it is all worth to mention again, and again, and again…
The historic Varignana Villa in the setting sun.
I wish this was the car we arrived in but it wasn’t. It belongs to the hotel.
The view form our balcony of one of the neighboring villas and the lush, hilly surroundings.
One of the favorite parts of this hotel was the garden. And I am not even a garden person. :-)
This is one of those photos where you can almost smell the flowers and hear the cicadas playing.
M is working on his swimming technique. Looks good but I am very biased.
One of the many pools at the extensive pool- and spa area.
Which sun bed to chose…?
RG inside info
This place is perfect if you…
…just want to relax. If you don’t want to worry about where to go, what to do, where to eat… This is a resort that kind of has it all and all you have to focus on is to continue to move the parasol so it is in the right position.
My favorite thing about this place…
…the garden is great, the food, the scenery but I think I will have to say the spa- and pool area. It is just too good!
What not to miss when staying here is…
…to stop and smell the roses (or whatever flowers it is they have in the garden). This is a place that is all about relaxation. But if you want to venture out, nearby Bologna is a great day trip. And if you do, make sure you are hungry. This is a city that takes food seriously (ok, what Italian city doesn’t…?).
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