Following our summer visit to family in England, we spent a week with friends in Italy. The boys were thrilled to explore a new place and, naturally, indulge in as much pasta and gelato as they could manage. Here are a few snapshots if you’re interested…
We discovered a pair of stone houses belonging to a wonderful family just outside Montepulciano. The property boasted a lovely pool, a total of six bedrooms, and aromatic lavender bushes — a true dream come true.
Our group comprised five kids and seven adults, including the delightful Sharon Beesley, seen above:) The first evening of a group getaway always brings a bit of anxiety for me as the planner — will the children get along? Will the grown-ups bond? Will we fall into the trap of trivial conversation? Thankfully, everyone found their groove right away, which made me very happy.
Mornings were typically quite relaxed, with folks enjoying cereal, sipping coffee, and diving into books. The celebration above erupted when one of the dads figured out how to use the video game system. Kids are still kids, no matter where they are, haha.
In the afternoons, we would swim or play card games by the pool. In this moment, we’re enjoying a game of Cheat. Any other game suggestions?
The view was absolutely stunning, and we held numerous handstand competitions.
This photo made me chuckle: just as I snapped a picture of Toby and his friend, Anton swam over and posed. His little expression, haha!
We also ventured out to explore the local area. Each region in Italy boasts its own unique dishes and ingredients, and one day, the boys and I headed to Pienza, a nearby town recognized for its pecorino cheese. We enjoyed crostini topped with sharp, nutty aged cheese, along with an arugula salad paired with younger pecorino that had a mild and grassy flavor.
One of the meals we cherished most was ravioli with butter and sage. Often, it’s the simplest meals that are the best, wouldn’t you agree?
As a quick note, my packing method involved bringing a collection of lightweight button-up shirts and a selection of jean shorts and skirts. I mixed and matched throughout the entire trip. This particular shirt was a particularly lovely shade of blue.
One night, a couple of us adults slipped away to the Podere Ciona winery located in the heart of the Chianti Classic wine region. During our hour-long journey through the Val d’Orcia, which is filled with rolling hills, sunflower fields, and quaint hilltop towns, I kept exclaiming, “Oh my gosh, you guys, wow, omg, the view, I feel like I’m having an out-of-body experience.” At times, I genuinely felt as if I were dreaming. It was just so breathtaking and expansive. A surreal experience.
The winery is managed by a couple — Lorenzo, an Italian, and Jennifer, an American (and former New Yorker). We sampled their rosé, white, and red wines while enjoying frittata, grapes, bread, and cheese. How beautiful is the scenery?!
At night, we would engage in Rummikub, watch movies, or simply gather to converse.
Eventually, we bid farewell to our friends and spent our last night at a hotel on the Tuscan coast, a two-hour drive north of the Rome airport, where we were catching our flight the following day. I thought about just reserving an airport hotel, but decided it would be better to squeeze in one last adventure.
I’m glad we chose that option because our hotel (which was very cozy but had poor food, just a heads-up) sat atop a hill near a small beach club. The club was bustling with Italian families, teenage boys, and older couples. I loved seeing every woman, regardless of age, shape, or size, sporting a string bikini — everyone was just enjoying life, swimming in the sea, and soaking up the sun.
Additionally, this group of friends playing cards touched my heart. Could this be us in 25 years?
Thank you, Italy, for such a wonderful week! Naturally, many moments are unrecorded: sibling disputes, mosquito bites, jet lag, long drives, and the unfortunate stomach bug I caught in England that had me feeling quite ill on the first night, etc. But it was all worth it a million times over. Italy, we adore you.
P.S. Five family vacation ideas, along with the top tip for enjoying family travel.
**Discovering Italy: A Week-Long Itinerary**
Italy, a land brimming with history, culture, and gastronomy, provides an unforgettable experience for travelers. Whether you’re passionate about history, cuisine, or art, Italy has something appealing for everyone. Here’s a week-long itinerary designed to help you explore some of Italy’s finest offerings.
**Day 1: Rome – The Eternal City**
Kick off your Italian journey in Rome, the national capital. Start your day at the Colosseum, the emblematic symbol of Imperial Rome. Next, proceed to the Roman Forum, the focal point of ancient Rome. In the afternoon, visit Vatican City, home to St. Peter’s Basilica and the Sistine Chapel. Conclude your day by taking a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets of Trastevere, where you can relish authentic Italian fare.
**Day 2: Rome – Art and Culture**
Devote your second day to delving into Rome’s artistic and cultural wonders. Visit the Borghese Gallery, which features works by Caravaggio, Raphael, and Bernini. Spend the afternoon at the Pantheon, one of the most well-preserved ancient Roman structures. Don’t forget to stop by the Trevi Fountain, where tossing a coin can assure your return to Rome. In the evening, savor a traditional Roman dinner in the vibrant Campo de’ Fiori area.
**Day 3: Florence – The Cradle of the Renaissance**
Take a morning train to Florence, the epicenter of the Renaissance. Begin your explorations at the Uffizi Gallery, home to masterpieces by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Botticelli. Visit the Florence Cathedral, renowned for its breathtaking dome designed by Brunelleschi. In the evening, enjoy a sunset from Piazzale Michelangelo, which offers sweeping views of the city.
**Day 4: Florence – Art and Architecture**
Continue to explore Florence by visiting the Accademia Gallery to see Michelangelo’s David. Spend the afternoon wandering the historic center, stopping by landmarks such as the Ponte Vecchio and Palazzo Vecchio. Take a leisurely stroll through the Boboli Gardens, a stunning example of Italian garden design. Finish your day with a Tuscan dinner in one of Florence’s famous trattorias.
**Day 5: Venice – The City of Canals**
Journey to Venice, a city constructed on water. Start your day with a visit to St. Mark’s Basilica and the Doge’s Palace located in Piazza San Marco. Experience a gondola ride through the breathtaking canals, offering a unique perspective of Venice’s stunning architecture. In the afternoon, check out the Rialto Market and cross the renowned Rialto Bridge. Treat yourself to a seafood dinner in the Cannaregio district.
**Day 6: Venice – Islands and Art**
Dedicate your day to discovering the islands of the Venetian Lagoon. Visit Murano, well-known for its glassmaking, and Burano, distinguished by its vibrant houses and lacework. Return to Venice in the afternoon and visit the Peggy Guggenheim Collection, which showcases modern art. In the evening, savor a Venetian aperitivo along the Grand Canal.
**Day 7: Milan – Fashion and Innovation**
Wrap up your Italian adventure in Milan, the fashion and financial center of Italy. Visit the magnificent Milan Cathedral and take a stroll on its rooftop for breathtaking views of the city. Explore the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, a historic shopping arcade. In the afternoon, visit the Santa Maria delle Grazie to observe Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper.” Conclude your trip with a farewell dinner in the trendy Brera district.
This week-long itinerary provides a glimpse into the diverse experiences that Italy has to offer. From ancient ruins and Renaissance masterpieces to contemporary fashion and culinary delights, Italy guarantees a journey filled with discovery and wonder.
