Dreaming of la dolce vita? Get ready to embark on an unforgettable Italian excursion this summer with our guide to some of the beautiful country’s most picturesque destinations, curated by noted travel journalist Yolanda Edwards. From a hideaway in the breathtaking Dolomite mountains to a charming boutique hotel in the heart of Rome to an opulent villa on the shores of Lake Como, and beyond, keep reading to discover where to go, what to do, and what to wear for a very stylish summer getaway.
Yolanda Edwards is the founder of the travel lifestyle magazine and newsletter Yolo Journal. The former creative director of Condé Nast Traveler, her work has appeared in many other national publications. Based between New York and Rome, the travel expert spends most of the year traveling, often in France, which she is writing a book about. Follow her idyllic adventures at @yolandaedwards.
All photos ©Enrico Costantini for Forestis
A breathtaking, spy film-esque lair nestled in the Dolomite mountain range in northeastern Italy, Forestis Dolomites is located 30 minutes up Mount Plose from the town of Bressanone in the South Tyrol province. The design is brilliant—minimal, sexy, and so tastefully done you won’t want to leave. There is so much to do to keep you there, thanks to gorgeous rooms, an incredible spa, bar, and restaurant. Everything at Forestis is focused on being surrounded by nature, and they intentionally designed the property and its amenities to frame it. Many of the rooms have outdoor beds, and in the summer you can ask for them to be made up if you want to sleep under the stars.
MOUNTAIN WALK
“For a refreshing walk through the DOLOMITES’ breathtaking forests, slip into refined, monochromatic activewear. An understated-yet-luxe bag holds essentials for your adventure!”
DRINKS EN PLEIN AIR
“FORESTIS inspires minimalism, and this strong-but-subdued look from THE ROW is an effortlessly chic choice for relaxed drinks on the terrace.”
DRESSY DINNER at the HOTEL
“I love this timeless JIL SANDER dress and colorful BOTTEGA VENETA bag; they’re well suited to the hotel restaurant’s elegantly futuristic atmosphere.”
I absolutely adore the Hotel Locarno! Even if you’re not staying there, it has a lovely garden terrace that makes for a great place to enjoy aperitivo. Its location is super central—just a block from the crowds of the Piazza del Popolo—a fact that is hard to believe once you’re on its small, quiet street, which you’ll likely have to yourself. The hotel’s rooms have been lovingly restored and decorated with just enough antiques to make a beautiful statement without making it feel like a period piece.
Hotel photos ©Hotel Locarno
AFTERNOON STROLL
Through ROME
“For a look that’s both sporty and chic, I love this lightweight A.L.C. polo-and-shorts combo paired with luxe sneakers from quintessential Italian brand BOTTEGA VENETA; they’re perfect for a day spent exploring the city.”
PEOPLE WATCHING
at the PIAZZA
“I’m always inspired by people who dress up on vacation, so I try to do the same. I like to keep things comfortable, though—this LA DOUBLEJ caftan dress and AQUAZZURA flats do just that.”
©Bvlgari
DRINKS at the BVLGARI BAR
“This vibrant MISSONI dress is great for a Negroni at the new It bar in town—and is a thoughtful addition to your suitcase since it’s lightweight and won’t wrinkle! Add elegance by pairing it with accessories in complementary hues.”
DINNER at ROCCO
RISTORANTE
“Feel like a classic film star on your own Roman holiday in this romantic look from BRUNELLO CUCINELLI, featuring luxe, artisanal details. For a modern update, add sleek, minimalist accessories!”
©Rocco Ristorante
EVENING STROLL to the FONTANA DELL’ACQUA PAOLA
“One of the prettiest walks in the Eternal City deserves a bold outfit like this utilitarian-yet-chic BRUNELLO CUCINELLI look—especially for the incredible views and photo ops at the top.”
Recently named the World’s Best Hotel—a notable feat considering it’s only been open for two years—Passalacqua is the most elegant yet comfortable and welcoming luxury stay I’ve ever experienced. Just an hour’s drive from Milan on the shores of Lake Como, this opulent, 18th-century aristocrat’s estate has been transformed into a boutique destination that feels more like a lakeside villa than a traditional hotel. And while there’s just the right amount of formality (a gorgeous nosegay presented to you upon arrival; waiters in black tie in the evenings), there’s also a familial feeling—breakfast is served buffet-style within their open kitchen. Given its villa layout, staying there feels like attending an elegant house party, yet there are plenty of cozy, intimate rooms where you can peel off from the indoor or outdoor dining areas and have dinner served.
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