April 18, 2026
December 2025 marks a particularly significant moment for the Hotel Boite di Corte, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this December.
Built as a holiday resort it combines design, nature and wellness
Corte delle Dolomiti is a diffused hospitality project in Borca di Cadore, in the heart of the UNESCO Dolomites, and today is one of the most interesting scattered hotel projects in the Alps.
The former ENI Village, commissioned in the mid-1950s by President Enrico Mattei and designed by architect Edoardo Gellner, is a unique example of harmonious dialogue between modern architecture, natural landscape and Alpine culture. Built as a holiday and wellness resort for the company's employees, today Corte delle Dolomiti is a contemporary holiday experience, combining design, nature, wellness and discovery of the territory.
Hotel Boite di Corte’s 20th anniversary
The project includes the Hotel Boite, the Residence Corte, the Corte SPA, the Corte Mountain Lab camping and adventure park in a private forest. Each property is suitable for families, couples, sports enthusiasts and travellers in search of cultural and regenerative experiences. December 2025 marks a particularly significant moment for the Hotel Boite di Corte SPA, which celebrates its 20th anniversary.
©studiovetroblu
Special Christmas Eve and New Year celebrations
The season opens on Christmas Eve, with the Christmas Eve Dinner in the Hotel Boite's Restaurant 942, which is open to both guests and non-residents. On Christmas Day, 25 December, there will be a traditional Christmas Dinner, while 31 December marks the arrival of the New Year with the New Year's Eve Dinner, a gourmet experience designed to celebrate the New Year in an elegant and convivial atmosphere.
A unique backdrop of Dolomite peaks
On Saturday 27 December Corte SPA will host a concert by the pool, followed by the presentation, in the Hotel Boite’s conference room of the prototype of the new lamps designed by Studio Mandalaki of Milan with Gellner's original 1960s furnishings. 2026 also opens with an agenda full of events: from the concerts of the Dolomiti Blues & Soul Festival, every Thursday in January, to immersive experiences such as Camminyoga Yoga and Apnea workshops, and meetings dedicated to the mountains and personal
growth. Corte delle Dolomiti is not just a place to stay, but a living space for encounters, culture and wellbeing, where the past dialogues with the present and the Dolomites provide a unique backdrop.
Published in Hospitality
In Caorle, near Venice on the Adriatic Coast, Christmas is a state of mind that slowly takes shape.
Christmas lasts until 6 January
Until 6 January 2026, the Adriatic town of Caorle once again lights up its Christmas Time, confirming itself as the place where Christmas lasts the longest and is experienced to the full. The Christmas itinerary is almost two kilometres lomg, a luminous path that accompanies the visitor past 85 small houses inspired by a fishermen's village, with the aroma of wood and spices, and sudden glimpses of the sea. Here Christmas is not in a hurry, it invites you to slow down, to stop at a shop window or climb on the Ferris wheel to admire the city from above, wrapped in warm lights and golden reflections.
Live cooking demonstrations
The 2025 edition brings with it some new features that further enrich the experience. Among them, the new Maestri di Griglia (Grill Masters) area which is a declaration of love for food as a time of sharing. Here the fire becomes the protagonist, with live cooking demonstrations, intense aromas and a gastronomic culture that speaks to all the senses.
Even the Grinch comes to Caorle
But the real twist is the village of Chinonsò, an upside-down and ironic world that brings the Grinch to Caorle. This is not just a set design, but a theatrical experience ith actors, mimes, and artists transforming the streets into an open-air set. This is an invitation to look at the holidays from another perspective, without losing their magic, but adding a touch of irreverence.
A skating rink and animations
Alongside these novelties, Caorle best-loved rituals are the skating rink, the videomapping on the facade of the church and the animations that create an atmosphere that runs all the way to Epiphany. And then there is the sea which makes every moment unique, yt another element in this celebration which attracts visitors and is savoured slowly.
Published in Cities & Regions
Unexpected Maranello with a digital guide to the home of Ferrari where every year more than half a million visitors enter the temple of the F1 racing myth.
Maranello is a living community
For many the journey ends between the museum and the factory gates, without going any further. Yet Maranello is much more than an automotive icon: it is a living community, made up of people, trades and traditions that resist time and tell of the territory's most authentic identity.
The Maranello of restaurateurs, artisans, farmers and families
It is from this awareness that Unexpected Maranello was created, a project promoted by the Municipality of Maranello in collaboration with Unexpected Italy, a travel-tech start-up that has a UN award for its ethical and responsible approach to tourism. Financed by the Modena Foundation, the project aims to reveal what often remains invisible to the eyes of the hurried visitor: the Maranello of hoteliers, restaurateurs, artisans, farmers and families who guard the soul of the city day by day.
Discovering a city through its people
Behind the magnificent racing engines and the charm of the legend there lives a human fabric of passion, skills and deep roots. Unexpected Maranello tells the story of the city through its people and it does not limit itself to narration, but stimulate new virtuous practices, encouraging environmentally and socially sustainable behaviour: from the short supply chain to energy efficiency, from inclusion to accessibility.
A digital guide with stories, interviews and images
The heart of the project is the creation of a digital guide dedicated to Maranello, which collects stories, interviews and images selected by the Unexpected Italy team. A guide designed to offer a new look at the city and to encourage travellers to stay longer, to discover places of taste, craftsmanship and local traditions. Alongside the stories, the platform proposes themed itineraries, a food and wine section dedicated to typical local products, and a calendar of events in the area from fairs and festivals to cultural
events and markets for experiencing Maranello throughout the year. Unexpected Maranello is an invitation to experience a city that combines innovation and tradition, tourism and community, building a model of shared and sustainable value.
Published in Experiences & Tips
Autentico Hotels enthusiastically announces a new and important milestone: Monaci delle Terre Nere officially enters the collection as its first property in Sicily.
Autentico has 23 luxury hotels in Italy
With this new entry, the collection's portfolio reaches 23 luxury hotels throughout Italy, a number that confirms the brand's constant growth and its commitment to enhancing the excellence of independent hospitality. Located at the foot of Mount Etna, on a 25 hectare estate of vineyards and citrus groves, Monaci delle Terre Nere perfectly represents the values that distinguish Autentico Hotels: identity, territory and sustainability. An ancient 18th-century monastery now transformed into a charming relais, it is an example of natural and discreet luxury, a place of silence, harmony and authenticity.
An ancient monastery becomes a resort
At the entrance lava stone paths accompany the guest into a world of intense colours, citrus scents and breathtaking views of the volcano. The ancient monks' dwellings, restored with the utmost respect for the context, are now contemporary rooms and suites where natural materials and designer furnishings blend with the history of the old monastery The resort's cuisine is a homage to the most authentic Sicily, with dishes that celebrate the organic produce from the vegetable garden and from small local producers, while the wines come from the estate's vineyards, conveying the volcanic soul of the territory.
Enhancing the value of independent Italian hospitality
The entry into the Autentico Collection is greeted with particular satisfaction by CEO, Mario Cardone, who comments: "Welcoming Monaci delle Terre Nere into the Autentico family means bringing into the network the voice of a Sicily that is contemporary but deeply tied to its roots. The resort fully represents the values of excellence, authenticity and identity that drive our collection. It is an achievement we have been longing for and is a fundamental step on our journey to enhance the value of independent Italian
hospitality.”
“Authenticity is the new luxury”
Giovanna Manganaro, general manager of Monaci delle Terre Nere, underlines how this new collaboration enhances a common project: "Being part of Autentico Hotels means sharing a vision that puts people, places and traditions at the centre. We are convinced that authenticity is the new luxury, and this network will allow us to make authentic, contemporary and welcoming Sicily even better known." The entry of Monaci delle Terre Nere is a journey of discovery of the wonders of Italy, a place where guests can feel truly at home. This new stage enriches the network’s mosaic of authentic hospitality and confirms the role of Autentico Hotels as a benchmark for those seeking exclusive travel experiences rooted in the territory. For information: www.autenticohospitality.com
Published in Hospitality
As the capital prepares for the festivities, the Hilton Rome EUR La Lama and Hilton Rome Airport offer the magic of Christmas and the sparkling energy of New Year's Eve.
Fitness and meeting areas and a Christmas Eve menu
In the EUR district, the imposing silhouette of Hilton Rome EUR La Lama dominates the cityscape like a futuristic symbol. With 16 floors and 439 rooms, Hilton Rome EUR La Lama also has a restaurant, bar, rooftop, wellness and fitness area and seven meeting rooms, as well as a direct connection to the La Nuvola exhibition space. Here, Chef Alessandro Pietropaoli’s gastronomic path is one of Italian traditions and creativity. On the evening of 24 December, the menu “The Night That Changes” accompanies guests on a sensory journey that delights the palate.
A fairytale atmosphere and live music
For lunch on 25 December, the atmosphere becomes fairytale, with “The Miracle of 34th Street,” a tale of flavours that combines comfort, elegance and the pleasure of a Christmas with a contemporary soul. On 31 December the hotel lights up with live music, DJ sets and a signature dinner designed to greet the New Year in style with a brilliant dedicated menu. Those wishing to extend the festivities can choose a stay with breakfast and late check-out, for a comfortable start to 2026.
The only hotel directly connected to Leonardo da Vinci Airport
Just minutes from Fiumicino Airport, the Hilton Rome Airport welcomes travellers and Romans alike with a festive programme that extends from 23 December to 6 January. Featuring iconic works of art, and the only hotel directly connected to Leonardo da Vinci Airport, the Hilton Rome Airport has 519 rooms, a restaurant, bar, swimming pool, fitness, parking and a conference centre for up to 800 people. It welcomes travellers and Romans with a festive programme extending from 23 December to 6 January with chef Danilo Corona’s “Nutcracker”menu for dinners and lunches on 25 and 26 December.
Ringing in the New Year in style
For New Year's Eve, the atmosphere becomes lively and convivial with welcome bubbles, and a menu based on fish and traditional desserts. And after midnight the age old ritual of cotechino and lentils brings in the New Year. For information and reservations This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and:This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Published in Hospitality
Valle d'Aosta’s extraordinary heritage has given it an evocative and well-deserved nickname: the Valley of the Hundred Castles.
In the Middle Ages the castles were symbols of power
Between the 10th and 15th centuries, the Valle d’Aosta region became a mosaic of small feudal lordships - Challant, Quart, Sarriod, Vallaise, Avise, Nus, Fénis - each with its own coat of arms and ambitions. As the central authority of the Roman era disappeared, the castle became for each lord a symbol of power, an instrument of defence and at the same time a political message.
Giving ancient castles a second lease of life
The geographic position of the region, a natural crossroads between Italy, France and Switzerland, helped fuel this race to build, resulting in the extraordinary constellation of manors and fortified constructions that today watches over the Dora Baltea and its tributaries: the Hundred Castles. With the arrival of the Savoy dynasty some were turned into administrative headquarters, others into residences, and still others into military outposts. Then, in the 20th century, silence and it is only in recent times that this feudal heritage was given a second life, transforming them into cultural poles, museums, hotels and event venues.
The Fortress of Bard: from history up to Botero
The gatekeeper of the valley, the Fortress of Bard, is a monumental military complex which in 1800 resisted Napoleon's siege for a fortnight, was then destroyed and rebuilt by the Savoys. Today, the Fortress is one of the most important cultural centres in the Alps, hosting exhibitions of and the Museum of the Alps.From 29 November 2025 to 6 April 2026, it will host the exhibition “Monumental Technique,” dedicated to Fernando Botero, with over one hundred works including drawings, paintings and sculptures
that tell the story of the Colombian artist's research into the relationship between form and matter.
Saint-Pierre Castle: from stronghold to place of science
With its fairy-tale silhouette, Saint-Pierre Castle is one of the symbols of the Valley. After a long period of neglect, it was completely restored and since 2021 has housed the Efisio Noussan Regional Museum of Natural Sciences. The ancient rooms now tell the story of Alpine geology, fauna, glaciers and the fragility of the mountain environment. Since 2024, they also house the oldest animal mummy in Italy: a small marmot dating back to the Neolithic period.
Verrès Castle: a stage for the arts
In the 14th-century Verrès Castle every year, the Historical Carnival features torch-lit processions with drums and costumed figures. The medieval halls becoming the setting for shows, music and performing arts.
Tour de Villa Castle: from a noble legacy to elite tourism
In the vineyards of Gressan, the Castle of Tour de Villa is a refined bed & breakfast and a prestigious location for weddings, events and meetings. The restored stately rooms welcome guests to an atmosphere that combines history and contemporary hospitality.
Published in Cities & Regions
Vipiteno in Trentino-South Tyrol welcomes skiers and snow-lovers and has kicked off its winter season with new slopes, funslopes, tobogganing and more.
Kilometres of ski runs and fun for all
The Monte Cavallo/Rosskopf ski resort has reopened and will remain open until 6 April. Skiing at Monte Cavallo is an experience designed for everyone. Families will find a true paradise in the Kinderland area for the little ones with snow games and treadmills, while skiers of all levels can choose from numerous blue and red slopes. One of the most popular downhill runs is the impressive slope down to the valley: 5.5 kilometres of excitement alternating between sunny plateaus, changes of direction and stretches through the forest.
A 10-passenger per cabin gondola lift
Martin Schaller The entire area offers 20 kilometres of slopes spread over ten tracks served by three modern, fast and comfortable lifts. Dominating the scene is the Monte Cavallo gondola lift, inaugurated three years ago and now the pride of the area. Starting from the north side of the centre of Sterzing in just a few minutes it is at an altitude of 1,862 metres. Equipped with 10-passenger cabins, it can transport up to 2,300 people per hour .
Modern facilities and a Funslope
The construction of the gondola lift marked an important renaissance for the entire area, opening up new perspectives for local tourism. Thaks to investments it has been possible to increase the snow output, improve the slopes and inaugurate modern facilities such as the Alpin Chalet Rosskopf with its panoramic terrace. The novelty for winter 2025/2026 is the Funslope with parabolics, waves and small jumps, designed for young and old in search of fun.
Refuges serving typical Suth Tyrolean food
There are eight refuges serving typical South Tyrolean dishes and Italy's longest toboggan run, ten illuminated and snow-covered kilometres, is perfect for an adrenaline-filled adventure down to the valley floor. For those who love special thrills, Monte Cavallo offers Sunrise Skiing every Friday from 26 December 2025 to 27 February 2026, with a gondola lift open from 7am. And when darkness falls, there is night tobogganing, every Friday from 7pm to 10pm. Not to be missed are the WOW Weeks, with one
free day of skiing when purchasing ski passes for three to five days, and the winter's top events: the Skitest (24-25 January), the Hausberg Festival (28-29 March) and SKIDS - The Snow Festival, from 1 to 4 April, dedicated to Europe's young champions.
Published in Leisure
The Val Senales valley in the Trentino Alto Adige region is Italy’s ski season at its best.
Open from 29 November
With the arrival of December, the Val Senales valley turns into a true Alpine fairytale setting, with glistening white slopes and scents heralding the festive seasont. From 29 November, the Alpin Arena Senales reopens its entire area to snow enthusiasts, offering a start to the season marked by pure beauty and mountain authenticity.
Suitable for skiers of all levels
Situated between 2,011 and 3,212 metres asl, the Alpin Arena Senales offers a skiing experience that goes beyond sport, becoming a sensory journey through breathtaking landscapes. Here the wide, airy ski runs allow skiers of all levels to experience a feeling of total freedom: gentle curves, descents that invite you to let go, and views that suddenly open up to snow-capped peaks.
Also cross-country skiing, winter hiking and snowshoeing
The area has 42 kilometres of slopes served by 11 lifts. Two symbolic stretches are the eight kilometres of the Talabfahrt, leading all the way down to the valley in a succession of evocative landscapes, and the black Leo Gurschler, intended for more expert skiers and perfect for those seeking a technical challenge. With more than 1,200 metres of altitude difference between Maso Corto and the glacier, the destination also lends itself to alternative activities such as cross-country skiing, winter hiking and snowshoeing on fresh snow, ideal for those who wish to explore the mountain at a slower pace.
Christmas excitement for young and old
The valley is not only sport and nature: December is also the month for traditions, lights and the festive Christmas atmosphere. The small towns and areas around the ski lifts come alive with events, with many moments dedicated to families. And here, in the tranquillity of the Schnalstal Valley, you find yourself far from the most crowded destinations. The Maso Corto area, the heart of the ski resort, is also an ideal starting point for those seeking comfort and proximity to the lifts. There are facilities designed to accommodate sportsmen, families and beginners, with dedicated services such as ski schools, children's areas, equipment rental spaces and introductory routes on easy and safe slopes.
Published in Cities & Regions
A journey through mysteries, sacred art, spirituality, music, legends and authentic Naples with guided tours, and Italy's First Sanctuary of Lourdes.
A sanctuary of peace and wonder overlooking the Gulf
The rediscovery of Naples’ spiritual paths and most mysterious atmospheres is intertwined with a rich programme of guided tours, meetings and concerts. The journey starts in the Church of San Nicola da Tolentino, one of the city’s little-known but intense highlights - a sanctuary of peace and wonder overlooking the Gulf.
A faithful reproduction of the grotto in Lourdes
The church on the Corso Vittorio Emanuele is considered the first Lourdes sanctuary in Italy. Founded in the early 17th century and entrusted over time to the Augustinians and Vincentians, since 1873 it has a faithful reproduction of the Lourdes Massabielle grotto. This pilgrimage destination is home to more than three thousand votive offerings testifying to graces, hopes and personal stories of intense devotion. The itinerary leads visitors through the Baroque rooms, the ancient panoramic cloister and the miraculous chapel, offering a unique insight into the profound relationship between faith and daily life in Naples.
A controversial and enigmatic figure
Alongside this spiritual itinerary, the city dedicates an important in-depth study to the fascinating and controversial figure of Prince Raimondo di Sangro di Sansevero, one of the most enigmatic personalities of 18th century Europe whose myth continues to feed the city's imagination, interweaving art, alchemy and the quest for knowledge.
Concerts and immersive experiences
Sacred music becomes a further thread in this journey into Neapolitan spirituality with the Napoli Musica Sacra Festival. With choirs and orchestras each concert is held in historic churches, becoming immersive experiences in which the centuries-old architecture amplifies the harmonies. These cultural and spiritual itineraries, promoted by the City of Naples and supported by the Campania Region, invite visitors to explore a city that has surprised around every corner. From mysteries and art to music and faith, the deepest soul of Naples slowly reveals itself, with the sweet and irresistible power of its millenary stories.
For information:www.napolimusicasacrafestival.it
Published in Leisure
For those who wish to experience Christmas in the most authentic way, the ideal solution is to stay in a Masi del Gallo Rosso farm.
Preserving the essence of South Tyrolean farm life
The Advent season is South Tyrol is a time of pure magic with the famous markets of Merano, Bolzano, Bressanone and Vipiteno. Far from the hubbub of the cite, these village markets invite you to rediscover the warmth of traditions with handicrafts, Alpine music and typical homemade sweets. And for those who wish to experience this period in the most authentic way, the ideal solution is to stay in the masi del Gallo Rosso, holiday properties that preserve the essence of South Tyrolean farm life.
@Ansitz Lidl2 Old estates and charming farmsteads
The Stardust Market in Lana is one of the most atmospheric and here it is possible to stay at one of the most charming farmsteads in the area, the Greiterhof, located just a few minutes from the centre of Lana, where guests are given a warm welcome. Not far away, at Ansitz Lidl in Tesimo-Prissiano, visitors will discover this beautifully restored 14th century estate where farmer Stephanie pampers them with local products for breakfasts.
ph credits Frieder BlickleCross-country skiing and tobogganing
Those wishing to experience Christmas in Castelrotto, one of South Tyrol's most beautiful historic centres, can stay at the Gschlunerhof farm in St. Oswald, from where it is possible to walk to the village and its market. For snow lovers, the Alpe di Siusi is just a stone's throw away, with cross-country skiing and tobogganing slopes. Also close to Castelrotto, just a few kilometres away, you can stay at the Edelansitz Zimmerlehen farmstead in Fiè allo Sciliar, a carefully restored architectural jewel that also houses a typical farmhouse tavern where you can enjoy local dishes over a glass of South Tyrolean wine.
The simplicity and authenticity of a Masi del Gallo Rosso Christmas
Amidst the scents of cinnamon and wood, golden lights and rustic authenticity, Advent in South Tyrol at The Gallo Rosso association promotes about 1600 agritourism farms in South Tyrol guaranteeing a return to the simplicity, beauty and authentic joy of Christmas. For information: www.gallorosso.it
Published in Hospitality
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