Travel

Item Description

For the most discerning of travelers, we have put together what we hope will be the trip of a lifetime!

Concierge in Umbria is a boutique travel consultancy based in New York that specializes in personalized luxury vacations in Italy. Two people will be lavishing in Central Italy for four days and three nights at the luxury accommodation of Sina Hotel's Brufani Palace in the center of Perugia's historic medieval center.

Situated in a unique location; on a hilltop within the historical center of Perugia, at very close walking distance from the main historical sites, the 5 star deluxe Hotel Brufani Palace offers an enchanting view of the Umbrian valley. The Hotel Brufani Palace, with over a century of history, is the symbol of exclusiveness of which the city of Perugia is extremely proud . Throughout the years, the hotel has hosted illustrious guests, such as the Queen Mother of England, the Prince of Monaco, famous actors and politicians who have appreciated its beauty, expressing compliments for its superb view, refinement and courtesy. Hotel Brufani Palace is located in the capital of Umbria, a region rich in historical and cultural heritage, including over 800 medieval towns and villages such as Todi, Spoleto and Assisi. Umbria is also renowned for its gastronomic delights: black truffles, handmade pastas, salamis, delicious cheese and, of course, the Baci Perugina chocolate. The Brufani Palace has been the hotel of choice in this area for more than 100 years. With frescoed ceilings, original stone fireplaces and parquet floors, each room is individually decorated and elegantly appointed with antique furniture and carpets, gilt framed mirrors, crystal chandeliers, silk covered walls and crisp Italian linens. Most guestrooms have balconies or terraces overlooking the green Umbrian valley and the domes, medieval churches and roofs of the city. A newly installed pool at the fitness center offers underwater views of Etruscan ruins that were discovered when the pool was in construction. Hotel Brufani Palacewas built on the ruins of the ancient Rocca Paolina, which served as the papal address at the top of the Corso Vannucci, Perugia's elegant boulevard in the heart of the old city. * Fully air-conditioned * 94 rooms including 31 suites * Completely WI-FI * Each room equipped with individually controlled air-conditioning, safe, stocked mini bar, data port, direct dialing telephone, radio and satellite/cable television; * No smoking rooms available upon request * "Collins" restaurant, offers also al fresco dining during Summer time from its terrace and features Italian and regional Umbrian cuisine * 117 miles north of Rome, 96 miles southeast of Florence, 50 miles southeast of Arezzo Member of "The Leading Small Hotels of the World" Member of Virtuoso.

From Perugia you will travel to Florence for a week-long lavish experience at Villa I Pini. This is the time in your sojourn to invite old or new friends to join you in Firenze! Villa I Pini is one of those rare gems located just above Florence. This one has the best of both worlds in location as it is between Florence AND Fiesole...can you get better than that? This has been "in the family forever," as the owner explained. They are proud people and know the history of the hills, the villas that pepper these hillsides, their owners (which read like an Italian Who's Who) and the restaurants too. Recently renovated and outfitted with all the modern amenities one seeks in this day and age, I Pini provides the best in this part of the world...location, views of Florence and views of the hills around, spacious interior, antiques and tasteful furnishings. This spacious Villa, a converted rustico, is located on the same property as the original villa. Villa I Pini has two floors and has two large terraces. One is covered and has views of Fiesole, the other terrace (there are three actually) is not covered and also has views of Fiesole and a perfect place for dining al fresco...did we mention the pool? It has night lights too. Ground floor: Living room with comfortable seating and antique furniture, a dining room for 12+, kitchen (with microwave, gas oven, pizza oven and more) with eat in area and sitting area, powder room and a private suite that features a living room, double bed and full bathroom with enormous shower (with handicap accessibility). First floor: Piano room with view of dining room from balcony, bedroom with king size bed, a twin bedroom and a full bedroom and two full bathrooms: one is with shower and the other with jacuzzi and shower (the bathrooms "are divine" we have been told). There is also a large laundry room on this floor equipped with washer and dryer. The owner has outfitted the house with the best in linens, cutlery, plates, dishes...everything. Hostess to greet you speaks English and can recommend much. Amenities: Satellite TV, stereo with CD player, heating and AC, 12 acres of property and a pool with views. Some wonderful amenities easily arranged (and with an additional cost): Maid service, personal chef, or massage. Also a wine tasting at a nearby castle can be arranged. Horseback riding through the Tuscan countryside can also be arranged. The Villa is a 7 minute ride to the center or a 20 minute walk. The views from Villa I Pini are outstanding covering the center of Florence to the hills of Fiesole.

Your Private Italy itinerary will be hosted by Brian Dore and Maria Gabriella Landers, opera singers who spend much of the year exploring the hillsides and valleys of central Italy to uncover the secrets and hidden treasures of Italy's heartland. With regard to precise experiences, itineraries are created to suit your own interests. Suggestions might include cooking with local masters, shopping excursions for traditional handmade linens, the famed ceramics of Deruta and custom Italian clothing, vineyard tours and wine tastings, visits to small family-run farms and olive mills, truffle hunts, meeting local artisans, or visits focusing on the art, culture and medieval history of the region, or its esteemed gastronomic and enological tradition. Private personalized tours will be arranged by Concierge in Umbria hosts.

Molto grazie for the generosity of Countess Gina Tucci & Family, Maria Landers & Brian Dore of Concierge in Umbria, and Brufani Palace for this fabulous opportunity.

Item Special Note

There is a $1,500 utilities fee which must be paid in full to the owner of Villa I Pini before you travel. Private chef and maid service is available at winner's expense. With reference to Villa I Pini, please note that there is a permanent resident that lives in an annex (independent entrance) and the gardener in a separate house on the property. Subject to availability, your Villa I Pini stay will begin and end on a Saturday. Some blackout dates may apply.