Villa Ai Colli Berici Italy

Grandeur, beauty and history are abundant in this comfortable and characterful villa which sits on a tranquil hillside overlooking the idyllic “Valley of Silence” on the edge of the historic city of Vicenza, easily accessible to Verona, Padua and Venice. Once lived in by a famous Italian author, it is now owned by his descendants and has hosted many distinguished guests over the years.
Villa Ai Colli Berici is just ideal for a group of friends or family who would like to explore this glorious part of Italy but would also relish spending days by the pool in a beautiful setting. The ancient trees in the lovely garden have shaded generations while roses, lilies and osmanthus bring sensory delight to contemporary visitors. The pool area, offering a fine view of nearby Villa Valmarana, has lounge chairs, a changing room and fridge for that post swim, pre-croquet refreshment.
A large sitting room opens onto the terrace for al fresco breakfasts and there’s a log fire for chillier days indoors. The pretty bow window annexe in the dining room has views of the garden, the perfect spot for a quiet read. Four of the comfortable furnished bedrooms are en suite while two have an adjacent shower room and bathroom – the master bedroom enjoys sitting and dressing areas and direct access to the garden and pool, tempting for an early morning swim.
Vicenza, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a beautiful town, mainly due to the fine architecture of sixteenth century architect Andrea Palladio. “La Rotonda” and Teatro Olimpico are two of his finest pieces but there is so much else to see and explore here. The splendours of Venice, only 45 minutes away by train, are sure to tempt you but there are other historic places to visit nearer home.
Padua is a picturesque Renaissance city of squares and bridges with magnificent Giotto frescoes in Scrovegni Chapel. Verona is known as one of the most romantic cities in the world – look out for Juliet’s balcony and the atmospheric Roman amphitheatre hosting concerts and opera productions.
Visit the canals of Treviso or sample some cheese in the hillside village of Asiago. Travel further afield to reach the crystal clear waters of Lake Garda or the seaside town of Chioggia. Villa Ai Colli Berici can be found on a hillside on the edge of Vicenza, in the Veneto region of northeastern Italy with great views across the “Valley of Silence”.
In a beautiful setting, you are within striking distance to all that Vicenza has to offer – the heart of the town is around 2.5km away, a leisurely stroll in around half an hour. Even closer are local restaurants and a good supermarket. Stop off for a coffee or lunch in the pretty café-bar in the nearby 17th century villa which is open to the public, just a very short walk away, famous for its Tiepolo frescoes.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Vicenza was a prosperous town under Venetian rule and much of its fine architecture survives, mainly due to sixteenth century architect Andrea Palladio whose villas give the town its distinctive character. Palladio’s greatest masterpieces are “La Rotonda” and Teatro Olimpico whilst Palazzo Chiericati houses the museum and art gallery. The town is also famous for its jewellery production whilst wine-lovers will be able to arrange tastings in the villa or visit vineyards in the surrounding area and Prosecco DOC wineries.
Of course, the wonderful city of Venice (70km) is around a 45-minute train ride away so take a boat trip on the Grand Canal, sip a coffee in St Mark’s Square or just follow the trail of  tiny squares and canals until you are away from the tourists. The romantic town of Verona (54km), also easily accessed by train, is associated with Romeo and Juliet and you can still visit that famous square and balcony.
Nearby Padua (37km) is a picturesque Renaissance city of squares and bridges, home to an ancient university and has a lively studenty feel. Book tickets beforehand for the popular Scrovegni Chapel and view the amazing Giotto frescoes or marvel at the world famous Basilica di Sant’Antonio da Padova. Browse in the markets around Palazzo della Ragione or picnic in the gardens near Corso del Popolo.
Bassano del Grappa (34km) is another great day trip, a pretty town known for its wooden 13th century Ponte Vecchio Bridge designed by Palladio. It’s situated where the flat Veneto plains reach the hills leading to the Alps. Call into the elegant medieval city of Marostica (29km) on the way back from Bassano to see the 14th century Piazzo Castello with its markets, bars restaurants and shops – a lovely spot to while away an hour or two. In the middle of the square is a huge chess board where people are the chess pieces!
The village of Asiago (64km) stands on its namesake plateau and is a popular holiday destination during winter and summer. It’s famous for its cheese, honey and jam and is a great place for outdoor activities – the old train road for walkers or cyclists connects it to the other nearby villages and there is skiing and snowboarding during the winter. At Excellence Luxury Villas we pride ourselves on going that little bit further for our guests. From private chefs to babysitters we can help you arrange those little extras that make it a truly memorable holiday. Simply fill in the
concierge request form or contact Excellence Luxury Villas Concierge Team who will be happy to help. We can typically help you arrange any of the following:
– Maid service/extra cleaning – Private chef/cook/catering- Welcome hamper/pre-stocked fridge- Local day-trips or tours- Airport pick-up/drop-off- Babysitting / childcare services
Extras included at this property:
– Breakfast preparation – laying out of table only (no cooking). Cost of food/drinks is extra, payable locally- Maid service (3hrs daily cleaning)- Courtesy kit in bathrooms
Extras available at this property (payable locally):
– Extra maid service- Extra towels- Extra laundry of bed linen- Pre-stocked fridge- Arrival dinner- Chef- Wine-tasting- Cookery classes
Please note that all extras are subject to availability and must be requested in advance of the holiday (prices on request). Due to some rural/remote locations, not all services will be available at all properties. However, we will always do our best to fulfil your requests!