In the Abruzzo region L’Aquila and the Apennine mountains are only an hour from Rome. 

Central Italy for winter sports enthusiasts

In the central Abruzzo Apennines, L’Aquila and the Apennine mountains offer numerous outdoor opportunities for a day in the mountains, and they are also ideal for extended stays. In the Velino-Sirente Regional Park, Campo Felice and the better known Ovindoli, are popular destinations for winter sports enthusiasts, and together with Campo Imperatore and Grotte di Stiffe, they are part of the Skipass dei Parchi ski area.

Away from the crowds

For an experience without crowds in Campo Felice, Centomonti is a cross-country skiing complex consisting of 12 miles of tracks for the classic and skating techniques, and suitable for all types of skiers. There is also a reserved area for snowshoeing with ski-hiking itineraries and a track dedicated to dog sledding which is particularly popular.

Instructors and equipment can he hired

It is possible to enjoy these activities accompanied by an expert instructor and hire all the necessary equipment on site. Reachable exclusively on skis or snowshoes the Tana del Fondista, is a great choice for an unusual and refreshing break. On the Altopiano delle Rocche - Piani di Pezza plateau, in the territory of Rocca di Mezzo the Nordic skiing slopes are among the longest in the centre-south of Italy.

Exciting activities all year round

In Ovindoli it is possible to find facilities equipped for all kinds of sports such as paragliding, archery and free climbing. The Gole di Celano is one of the most beautiful canyons in Italy, located between the municipalities of Celano, Aielli and Ovindoli. Halfway between Rome and Pescara, it is the ideal place for walking, trekking and outdoor excursions. Horseback riding is another popular passtime in the Val D'Arano, while there are numerous mountain bike trails throughout the area.

Events throughout the year

Among Ovindoli's many annual events CioccOvindoli is the chocolate festival held in December. Ovindoliamo, held every August, celebrates wine with an eno-gastronomic itinerary in the little town of Ovindoli. The Ovindoli Mountain Festival celebrates the mountains in January with outdoor sports activities on the snow and excursions along the local trails. 

A Tuscan seaside destination with golden sands, Viareggio is known as the home of Carnival and has a rich programme of 2025 events.

Allegorical floats along the seafront

From 8 February to 4 March 2025, the carnival in Viareggio lasts for a month, with masked parades, shows, exhibitions, parties and vigils. Gigantic allegorical papier-mâché works created by Viareggio artists make their way through the crowds accompanied by figures who, on targeted soundtracks, contribute to the narration of the theme chosen by the artist.

Six exciting masked parades

There are six Masked Parades scheduled, day and night. On Saturday 8 February, following the opening ceremony and flag-raising at 3 p.m., the first float will parade at 5 p.m., ending the day with a fireworks display. On Sunday 16, the parade will be at 3 p.m., while on 22 and 27 the floats are planned for the evening, at 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. The penultimate event will be on Sunday 2 March at 3 pm, while on Shrove Tuesday, 4 March, the sixth Masked Parade will close the parade programme together with an award ceremony and fireworks display.

Political and literary figures on the floats

Since 1873, the characters of the floats have been enchanting, telling the story of every era through the satirical and metaphorical language typical of Carnival. Italian and non-Italian characters, emblems of a frenetic contemporaneity world full of contradictions on which the artists invite us to reflect, are in position on the floats and inspiration is also drawn from international literature such as Frankenstein, The Little Prince or The Lord of the Rings.  But Viareggio’s Carnival is not just floats, at weekends the Feste Rionali enliven the neighbourhoods with music, traditional dinners, and events for children, including a kid's singing talent contest, and the Carnival evenings also feature concerts, masked balls in prestigious locations and theatre shows.

Cortina is preparing for the 2026 Winter Olympics by doubling the Skibus service for the 2025 winter season. 

Increasingly efficient mobility for the Cortina area

This mobility plan was made possible by the efficient collaboration between Dolomiti Bus with the Municipality, Cortina Skiworld cable car consortium of Cortina d'Ampezzo, San Vito, Auronzo and Misurina and the Cortina Hoteliers. “This season is a crucial one for Cortina,- says Stefano Rossi, CEO of Dolomiti Bus. -By doubling the Skibus service, combined with innovative and sustainable solutions, we are enhancing the area and meeting the need for increasingly efficient mobility. It is a concrete commitment to offer a quality experience to those who choose Cortina, as well as better preparing for the Olympics.” 

“The measure will reduce urban traffic”

“This is an important step forward for our community, because thanks to the additional rides, the free LPT and the free Skibus service for ski pass holders, we can encourage both residents and guests to use public transport,” says Giorgio Da Rin, councillor for public works and the road system of the Municipality of Cortina d'Ampezzo. The measure will reduce urban traffic and make it easier and more sustainable to reach the centre, the main car parks and the Faloria and Tofana ski areas.

QR codes at all bus stops

Among the new features introduced, in addition to dedicated graphics that will make the Skibus immediately recognizable, is the introduction of QR codes at all bus stops, providing the location and times of the buses. The service is free for ski pass holders and will continue until 30 March 2025.

For a luxury stay in one of the world's most famous mountain destinations, the Grand Hotel Savoia Cortina d'Ampezzo has been a highpoint of elegance in Cortina since 1922.

“One of the world’s most sought-after mountain destinations”

The 5-star Radisson Collection hotel, which opened in the 2020/21 season, is located in a privileged position in the historic centre of Cortina. The perfect starting point for ski enthusiasts, the 120 kilometres of the Cortina d'Ampezzo Ski Area, as well as hosting the slopes of major sporting events such as the 2026 Olympics, are part of Italy's largest Dolomiti Superski area. “Following a major renovation and rebranding, we have consolidated our presence in one of the world’s most sought-after mountain destinations,- said Yilmaz Yildirimlar, area senior vice president central & eastern Europe, Russia & Turkey, Radisson Hotel Group.  -We are confident that our guests will appreciate the hospitality and high-level services that distinguish the Radisson brand.”

The hotel has 130 rooms and suites

Elegance, modern comfort and the Ampezzo style come together in this Art Nouveau property, creating an atmosphere that guests call a home away from home, said general manager Rosanna Conti. The hotel offers tailor-made experiences, from the choice of room to the Ski Concierge service, and from the Savoy Spa to the gastronomy. The Savoy Restaurant welcomes guests for breakfast and à la carte dinners, while the 1224 Terrazza & Bar Lounge is a scenic bistro and après-ski with 360-degree views of the Dolomites which is also open to outside guests.  The Grand Hotel Savoia has 130 rooms of different types: the Collection Room and Superior, Junior and Premier Suites and the Royal Suit on the 9th floor, with three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a terrace.

The Residence Savoia has 45 apartments

The hotel's Savoia Spa, from 5 p.m. adults only, offers personalized treatments and features a large indoor heated pool, Finnish sauna, biosauna, aromatic bath, Mediterranean bath and numerous relaxation areas. Among the services offered the state-of-the-art gym has a personal trainer or yoga teacher, and there is also a hairdresser's corner and a make-up area. The Residence Savoia, located opposite the hotel, has 45 apartments ideal for families with children. During the winter period the Rupi Clubhouse mini-club and the kids’club for children aged 3 to 12 entertain the very young with dedicated activities. Cortina is about 430 kilometres from Milan, 160 from Venice and 44 from the Austrian border. It can be reached by car, by train from Calalzo di Cadore or Dobbiaco, and by plane from Venice, Treviso or Innsbruck airports.

The Relais & Châteaux Vetera Matera, a new 23-room scattered hotel in the Sassi of Matera, will open on 15 March 2025.

Six new properties join the prestigious association

One of six exceptional residences to join the Relais & Châteaux Collection, the Vetera Matera will bring the number of new additions to the 2024 collection to 31. “For four generations our family has been committed with passion and dedication to the hotel and restaurant industry, offering unique and authentic experiences to our guests. In 2012 with the Bellevue Syrene 1820 we joined the prestigious family of Relais & Châteaux, an association that reflects our own approach to high quality hospitality, attention to detail and focus on the well-being of our guests,” says Adda Attanasio, director of sales and operations and owner of Relais & Châteaux Vetera Matera.

“Family traditions that have been handed down for generations”

“Kicking off this new hospitality project in one of the oldest cities in the world with the endorsement of Relais & Châteaux is an honour for us, and a confirmation of our commitment to keep alive family traditions that have been handed down for generations. It is also a renewed opportunity for growth and comparison with other professionals who, like us, put passion and their hearts into their work.”

New entries around the world

Opening in March 2025 is the new Relais & Châteaux Hotel Diepeschrather Mühle, a dream come true for multi-starred chef Nelson Müller, one of the most creative and pop masters of contemporary haute cuisine in Germany. Other new entries include an eco-resort in the Campos de Jordão botanical reserve in Brazil, a boutique hotel devoted to the nature and traditions of the Elqui Valley in Chile, a typical Norwegian forest mansion with a spa and breathtaking views of the Storfjorden, and The Modern, Chef Thomas Allan's restaurant inside the MoMa.

“70 years in constant pursuit of excellence”

“For 70 years our association has been in constant pursuit of excellence, with the aim of promoting a unique sense of belonging through hospitality and gastronomy. I am delighted to welcome these six new Relais &Châteaux associates which are committed to sharing and preserving the cultural, culinary and natural heritage of their region” said Laurent Gardinier, president Relais&Châteaux.

The city of Modena is fast becoming a new tourist hub with its Michelin-starred restaurants, history and luxury offerings.

A Michelin star for the ALTO Restaurant close to Modena

In November to mark the occasion of the presentation of the Michelin Guide 2025 Italy held in the Pavarotti Freni Theatre in Modena, the ALTO restaurant, housed on the rooftop of the 4-star Superior Executive Spa Hotel in Fiorano Modenese, in the province of Modena, received its first Michelin Star. This milestone marks an important recognition for the entire hotel team, and in particular for Mattia Trabetti, executive chef of ALTO. “Thus is a special day, one that we will never forget and will carry in our hearts. Our commitment has been rewarded, but we will continue to dedicate ourselves with the same passion and dedication that got us here. This star is just one step on our journey.” 

History and a unique UNESCO site

The ALTO food and wine experience is the perfect break on a tour of Modena and its surroundings. In the Emilia-Romagna region, just an hour's drive from Bologna, Modena is a thousand-year-old city known for its gastronomic excellence. It also has a rich historical and cultural heritage. Not to be missed is the city's UNESCO site, which includes the Cathedral, the Civic Tower and Piazza Grande. The ancient capital of the Duchy of Este, Modena has always been linked to music and it is the birthplace of the legendary tenor Luciano Pavarotti and numerous other artists. 

balsamic vinegar

The Modena area offers a wealth of opportunities for food lovers

The city is world-famous for its balsamic vinegar, its “black gold” which comes from processing the must of local grapes in traditional vinegar cellars, many of which are open to the public for guided tours. Speaking of grapes, numerous wine cellars can also be visited, to complete the experience with a tasting of the famous Lambrusco DOP wine. Parmigiano Reggiano DOP is another excellent product typical of the area, and visitors should also schedule in a visit to a cheese factory. 

The home of luxury and sports cars 

Modena is the heart of the Motor Valley, an area renowned for the production of luxury and sports cars, such as Ferrari, Maserati, Lamborghini and Ducati. Visitors should not miss exclusive experiences such as visits to museums, factories and collections that tell the story of these brands of excellence. Even more exclusive experiences include track driving at the wheel of high-speed engines, or a slow tour in vintage cars, which is also ideal for incentive trips. From 22 to 25 May 2025 the Land of Motors will host the 7th edition of the Motor Valley Fest which will feature a rich programme of conventions, round tables, exhibitions of cars from the Motor Valley brands, themed meetings, parades and tastings.

There are numerous places to visit around Modena

ALTO overlooks the Modena hills and the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin of the Castle, symbol of the town of Fiorano and guardian of the miraculous fresco of the Madonna and Child. Fiorano Modenese is also known for being the home of ceramics. The Palazzo Ducale in Sassuolo, the summer residence of the Dukes of Este, is one of the most important Baroque buildings in northern Italy. In nearby Formigine, the castle is an example of the architectural evolution of a Medieval fortification into a Renaissance stately residence. It can now be visited and hosts numerous cultural events. 

Ville Castelli Dimore proposes an itinerary to discover the timeless charm of the Veneto region’s historic residences.

A noble residence with holiday apartments

Padua, also known as Urbs picta thanks to its cycle of 14th-century frescoes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the first stop on the cultural itinerary proposed by Ville Castelli Dimore. A few steps from the Scrovegni Chapel, one of Giotto's masterpieces, stands Palazzo Mantua Benavides, a 16th-century noble residence. This place of peace and elegance in the city centre is also a journey through history with its charming suites, each of which is unique and has precious furnishings. It also offers refined apartments equipped with all comforts for holidays dedicated to art and beauty.

Exquisite frescoes and wine tastings

Renaissance painting is the protagonist at Villa Roberti, some twenty kilometres away, which is an ideal destination for a one-day visit. Situated in Brugine in the province of Padua, this 16th-century villa has frescoes by Giambattista Zelotti and Paolo Veronese in the main hall. Another must-see is Villa Emo Capodilista in Selvazzano Dentro (PD), in the Euganean Hills which was designed and frescoed by Dario Varotari, a pupil of Veronese. Here art meets flavour, thanks to the tastings organized of the excellent wine from the historic La Montecchia winery.

Sleeping under Giandomenico Tiepolo's frescoes

The Veneto itinerary of Ville Castelli Dimore through culture, art and beauty continues to Vicenza, the city of Palladio, who left some of his greatest masterpieces here, including the beautiful Teatro Olimpico. And on the outskirts of the city is the 18th-century Villa Valmarana ai Nani which offers art lovers an exclusive experience: sleeping under Giandomenico Tiepolo's magnificent frescoes. In fact, the villa houses one of the most important painting cycles of the 18th century, frescoed by two of the greatest artists of the day: Giambattista Tiepolo and his son Giandomenico. For information: www.villecastellidimore.com/en

There is Christmas magic to be enjoyed at the Adler AKI Family Resort Plose in Bressanone.

Bressanone is a destination for all the family

Bressanone has mountain charm and deep-rooted Christmas traditions, and is an ideal destination for families. From 28 November the Christmas Market will animate the old town centre with colourful decorations, carriage rides and activities designed for little ones, such as creative workshops, and special encounters with Father Christmas. The main square will host an ice-skating rink and immersive shows such as Colors 2 - The Journey Continues, embodying the spirit of Christmas.

ph credits: Andreas Tauber Weihnachtsmarkt

Games and fun for kids of all ages

The AKI Family Resort Plose by Adler is a five-star retreat set in the snow-covered nature of  Plose. Located in Meluno in the Eisack Valley, at an altitude of 1,000 metres asl, the resort enjoys panoramic views of Bressanone.  Designed for the comfort and enjoyment of the whole family, the AKI Games World and the AKI Kids Club have stimulating play-educational activities, also outdoors, aimed at younger guests. Children will also delight in the wood workshops where they can create candles and stars for Advent, while the Enchantment of Flames offers unique moments with marshmallows and hot drinks around the bonfire. 

ph credits: Alex Filz

An adults-only spa nestled in the forest

The resort's Spa & Wellness area has heated pools, water attractions and saunas suitable for the whole family. Thanks to the proximity to the Plose ski resort, guests can enjoy winter activities such as skiing, tobogganing on the RudiRun run, snowshoeing and skating on frozen lakes. Guests can also relax in the Adults-Only Spa which is nestled in the forest or take part in guided hikes and e-bike tours.

Childcare facilities and kids’ play areas

The  Adler AKI Family Resort Plose in Bressanone offers over 80 hours of childcare per week for children from one month old, a 24-hour baby-food corner and an educational programme with indoor and outdoor activities, play areas, creative workshops and a wellness area for the whole family. To complete the holiday experience, the cuisine combines Alpine and Mediterranean traditions, with gourmet dishes for parents and special menus for children. For information: www.aki-plose.com