An Essex Wedding - Jul/Aug 2019 (Issue 87)

ROMANTIC MUST-DOS ❤ A refreshing dip in the large pool (that can be covered with a retractable enclosure) should be one of the first things that you do after checking in, quickly followed by simply relaxing in the sunshine on the nearby terrace, or enjoying a cocktail at the pool bar. ❤ Honeymooners can take a walk around the grounds of the property, admiring the extensive views of the five-hectare park that it’s flanked by. ❤ Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a game arranged through the hotel at the nearby Colli Berici Golf Club, or the Asiago Golf Club. ❤ History lovers should take a tour of a typical Palladian-style villa, with many dotted around the surrounding countryside to choose from, or experience an open-air museum, or visit Marostica, which is crowned with a large ruined castle. ❤ Finally, the city of Verona, one of the most romantic in the world featuring Juliet’s balcony, where Romeo allegedly declared his eternal love, should be top of any honeymoon hot list. The second part of my trip involved a night at this four-star hotel nestled in the heart of the picturesque Berici Hills. It’s an elegant 18 th - century property, located a short distance from Vicenza, a city with UNESCO World Heritage recognition, and provides a quiet, tranquil gateway to the vibrancy of Venice. The 46 rooms and 6 suites feature traditional Venetian floors, exposed beams, high ceilings and pieces of antique furniture in keeping with its authentic Italian style. The Executive Suites are the perfect pick for honeymooners with their marble bathrooms, private balconies and uninterrupted views of the manicured gardens. WINING AND DINING The Ristorante La Loggia has been built across four rooms on the ground floor of the hotel with stunning vistas of the Berici Hills magnified through the tall windows. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served here, with the American-style buffet breakfast offering a large selection of fresh local fruit, cheeses and homemade pastries that can be enjoyed on the adjoining terrace during the summer months. Dinner sees the finest seasonal products used in local dishes (with the fresh pasta and ravioli tasting like nothing I have sampled before), accompanied by an extensive wine list, with help on pairing them – I was spoilt for choice! A long lunch or afternoon tea can also be enjoyed here, with delicious cakes and sandwiches served with the impeccable service which the hotel is well known for. VILLA MICHELANGELO VICENZA – STARHOTELS COLLEZIONE BOOK IT Prices at Villa Michelangelo Vicenza – Starhotels Collezione start from 130 euros in low season, starhotelscollezione.com/en/ our-hotels/hotel-villa-michelangelo-vicenza @hotelvillamichelangelo HONEYMOONS 117