Rome not only welcomes refined tourists with its rich traditions and culture, but also with its sensory and social paths, beautiful landscapes, friendly hospitality and quality services.
If your clients are seeking silence and solitude not far from the city centre, they will find locations that speak to the city’s history through fascinating these itineraries, archaeological discoveries and ancient roads.
North of Rome is the village of Bracciano, which combines protected natural beauty with a fascinatingly mysterious history. Not far away is the famous medieval Orsini Odescalchi Castle, which hosts international wedding parties. Within the protected area of the Veio Park, stop at Casali del Pino, an organic farm with restaurant and rooms owned by Ilaria Venturini Fendi, an exponent of one of the most important families of Italian fashion.
The ancient medieval town of Viterbo, less than an hour’s drive from Bracciano and known throughout the world as The City of the Popes, has ancient origins and is the largest medieval historic centre in Europe.
For a refreshing break, the Terme dei Papi, a monumental swimming pool of over 2,000 square metres and fed by the Bullicame spring, is located a few kilometres from the heart. The pleasure of diving into the steaming waters in the winter months makes this place unique and evocative as well as healthy. The wellness centre includes spa treatments, natural grotto, massages, beauty treatments, specialist medical services, indoor pools, whirlpools and an indoor hotel.
Moving from the centre of Rome towards Tivoli, clients shouldn’t miss visits to the splendid Villa Adriana and Villa d’Este, both declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Villa Adriana, commissioned by Emperor Hadrian as his residence starting from 117 AD, testifies to the sovereign’s interest in the most innovative architectural trends of the time. Today, it’s still a fascinating window into the splendour of the places of power of ancient Rome.
Villa d’Este is one of the symbols of the Italian Renaissance, an architectural and scenographic jewel, famous all over the world for the splendid fountains that decorate it, characterised by precious and suggestive water features and for being the most beautiful “Italian garden” of Europe.
One hour south of Rome, near the splendid village of Sermoneta, visit the Garden of Ninfa, a perfectly successful mix of plants and trees from all over the world, with streams and ponds weaving around medieval ruins to create an unforgettable sight. Archaeology enthusiasts cannot miss a visit to the Archaeological Park of Ostia Antica, within the Natural Reserve of the Roman Coast. Upon their arrival, guests will be transported to a typical ancient Roman city, with ruins that give visitors a glimpse into the daily life of the past.
Inside the park, it is also possible to enjoy a horse ride, such as those organised by the Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel. At the end of the tour, you will reach the medieval village to taste an aperitif based on local wine and cheeses right next to the medieval castle of Julius II.
There’s plenty to fill a classy day trip before you fly back home, too. Visitors can experience luxury shopping inside the Tax Free Mall, within the International Boarding Area E of Rome Fiumicino Airport, which is unmissable, with more than 50 shops dedicated to the best international and Italian high-end brands. If your clients’ destination is a non-EU country, they can make the most buying items with the usual VAT rate of 22% taken off – resulting in extraordinary savings compared to downtown prices.
What’s more, management at Rome Fiumicino Airport has put significant measures in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The airport has been the first in the world to be certified with the “COVID-19 5-Star Airport Rating”, by international air transport rating agency Skytrax, and – among other certifications – has been the first among EU airports to obtain the Airport Health Accreditation by Airport Council International.
Admiring the unique scenery of the Eternal City, La Pergola, is a must. The views from the rooftop terrace of the Rome Cavalieri, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel, the first and only three Michelin-starred restaurant in Rome, are impossible to beat.
Guests can enjoy more views from the historic Grand Plaza Hotel, whose restaurant offers Mediterranean cuisine that embodies the original flavours of the area.
For an aperitif in the charming and luxurious St. Regis Rome, visitors should try Lumen Cocktails and Cuisine, in which cocktails are served in glasses signed by contemporary artists.
Another iconic and exclusive address is the Jardin de Russie, in Via del Babuino. From the elegant dining room, full of refined classic-inspired details to the verdant outdoor terrace at the foot of the Pincio, surrounded by impressive pine trees and flowering citrus trees, Le Jardin de Russie offers refined Italian cuisine in an exclusive setting.
There’s no safer way to travel in 2021 than venturing beyond the heart of Rome and exploring the Eternal City’s nearby archaeological sites, UNESCO Heritage attractions and scenic spots. #enjoyitalyresponsibly
Lead image: Tivioli – Villa d’Este © Stuart Crump
To find out more about Rome and Italy, visit: www.italia.it and/or visitaly.com.au
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This article is a LATTE exclusive and was prepared in partnership with ENIT – Italia National Tourist Board.
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