An unforgettable journey around Italy of unique hotels drawing inspiration from the famous "Grand Tour", discovering their philosophy, history and beauty. Beginning in the late 16th century it became fashionable for the aristocracy to visit Italy; from Venice to Florence and Rome as the culmination of their classical education. Thus, the idea of The Grand Tour was born; a practice which taught art, architecture and culture to the noblemen of the time. In England, where grand architecture was increasingly seen as an aristocratic pursuit, gentlemen often applied what they had learnt from the villas of Palladio in Veneto, the evocative ruins of Rome and the grand churches in Florence, to their own country houses and gardens, purchasing antiquities and paintings whilst in Italy. The Italy of today still remains a romantic destination. In this book, each reader will be able to travel on a modern-day Grand Tour, staying in the most inspiring and unique properties of the country, absorbing their infinite culture, majestic beauty, unique designs and charming stories. A journey through Italy in its full splendour. HIP Hotels was founded in the 1990s by award winning photographer, Herbert Ypma, and has sold over 2 million books in over 11 languages. HIP stands for Highly Individual Places - a must for every property featured in the books. The carefully selected hotels have to fulfil a certain criteria: they must be unique, characterful and charming, and off the beaten track. Our travel and experiential platform serves as a guide for an unforgettable journey where unique places will generate emotions and desires to live life at its fullest.
