Dying for a little sun, relaxation and the best ice cream known to man right about now?
What you need is trip to Italy – it has got everything you wish for – and then some.
We have fallen head over heels with Kid & Coe here at HerFamily HQ – if you have yet to hear of it, we are talking the family friendly version of Airbnb – with perfectly curated, stylish family homes located all over the globe, complete with toys, books, high chairs, cots, scooters; you name it, these properties come with it.
Which, of course, means less packing for you, less stress and more time to just lowers those shoulders and let the holiday feeling sink in.
Fancy a little Dolce Vita? Here are five Italian properties we wouldn’t mind spending a week at right now:
1. Puglia
This astonishing property includes modern and ancient sculptures, a heavenly pool and hot tub, and a trullo ideal for a family stay.
The kids will love playing in the grounds and going for pool dips, and you can soak up the sun and sea-view on the loungers nearby.
The residence is near Ostuni in Puglia, with beachesa short drive away. Car rental is recommended in this area, which is largely rural; it allows you to explore the beautiful Puglian countryside and beaches, not to mention restaurants.
For more information and to book, click here
2. Tuscany
This family home 50 minutes from Florence in the Florentine hills in Tuscany is a great spot for a combination city/country stay, with a pretty courtyard with herbs and palm trees, and cooking lessons for the kids. Go hiking in this laid-back, unspoiled countryside, explore hill forts and medieval towns, or enjoy in-villa cooking lessons.
The local bakery is a must-visit, and there are also seasonal festivals celebrating the local truffles, the grape harvest and fresh pressed olive oil are great fun. The Volterra festival in August has Medieval fights and more.
For more information and to book, click here
3. Colmegna, Italian Lakes
There is a wide selection of shops, bars, and restaurants nearby. Less than 5 miles from the Swiss border, the villa also provides easy access to Lugano and Locarno, and Lake Como and Milan are just an hour away.
The large open plan living makes the villa perfect for family breaks, and parents can relax and leave the baby gear at home; a travel cot, high chair, and stroller are provided for guest use. After a day spent shopping in Milan or visiting islands by ferry, dine on the terrace and watch the sun set over the lake.
For more information and to book, click here
4. Rome
This apartment in an ancient villa has windows on four sides, bringing in plenty of light. The views are stunning, with two sunny balconies overlooking one of the best squares in Rome – meaning you have an abundance of restaurants, coffee shops, stores, supermarkets and a farmers’ market on the doorstep.
This residence is great for tots, with wooden toys and a lot of Italian kids books. The nursery has a crib with an organic bamboo mattress, and a high chair and baby bath are provided.
Even better? The property is walking distance from amazing parks (Villa Ada, Villa Torlonia and Villa Paganini) with playgrounds.
For more information and to book, click here
5. Lake Como
Get ready for some Clooney spotting.
This contemporary lakefront villa has an infinity pool, private mooring, stunning kitchen and wonderful garden. Inside, the house has an open plan family living space and lounge with a panorama window – just wait till you see the views of Lake Como. The house sleeps eight, easily accommodating two families in comfort.
The kids will love the beach access a few steps down from the garden, or the pool, of course. All the bars and restaurants on Lake Como are child-friendly – the Italians love children and the ice-cream parlours? To die for.
The residence is near the village of Acquaseria and about 6 kms north of Menaggio, with Lake Como at its feet. There are two great local restaurants within walking distance and the property is 10 minutes to Menaggio and the Ferry Port.
For more information and to book, click here
