18th Century Tuscan Residence Turns Spa Wonderland in Bologna
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Visitors to Italy are typically spoiled for choice when it comes to discovering history, culture, fine wine, top quality cuisine and breathtaking landscapes. One destination just outside Bologna though offers something rather unique to add to any guide of mus
18th Century Tuscan Residence Turns Spa Wonderland in Bologna
Visitors to Italy are typically spoiled for choice when it comes to discovering history, culture, fine wine, top quality cuisine and breathtaking landscapes. One destination just outside Bologna though offers something rather unique to add to any guide of must-sees in the country, as a new spectacular rest spot from the crowded centers of Florence, Siena, Rome and Pisa.Palazzo di Varignana was built in the 1700s as a private residence set amongst 75 acres of grounds. Since 2008 though its been undergoing a transformation in to a luxury spa resort overlooking the Emilian countryside. Architect Antonio Perazzi took to the palace in 2008 with a vision of transforming its land in to a garden of rose bushes, ginko biloba, hornbeam, maple, cherry trees, and dogwoods. Entered via a passageway of ash trees, the garden was soon listed in the “Great Italian Gardens” network, enhancing the reputation of the palace.Then in 2015, botanical, agronomic and architectural expert Sandro Ricci brought further expertise, leading to the opening of Villa Amagioia in June of this year. A smaller property for 10 guests within the Palazzo di Varignana’s grounds, the villa is entered via a tunnel or ivy, through the orchards. Set cozily in its own perfectly manicured gardens, the villa can be found buzzing with florists and early-arriving guests in bespoke suits ready for a wedding receptions on many a morning.At the center of the complex is Palazzo di Varignana’s most indulgent area, a sleek and modern spa like no other, with new elements about to be fully unveiled. If viewing the infinite horizon of the Bologna countryside from the hilltop wasn’t already spectacular enough, then imagine doing so from a three-tiered infinity pool.Accessed through the Palazzo Restaurant, with its romantic terracing, the blues and whites of the spa are a sight to behold. As well as the tiered main infinity pool, two other pools sit on either side, one for dedicated swimmers, the other for lounging. Sensory showers, a bio sauna, Finnish sauna, steam bath, ice fall, sound pool, Kneipp massage and whirlpools are all on offer too, leaving guests from the 90 rooms available spoilt for choice.The venue then, blends a traditional historic palace with national- renowned gardens and a world-class spa, all within an unblemished rural setting, a combination unlike any other in Italy. While wandering the nearby villages, locals were honored that the Palazzo di Varignana lay so close to their homes, a sign that the resort is not only authentic, but a jewel of the relatively overlooked Emilia-Romagna region.Follow us on Twitter – @Cultravel Read more
