Vista Verona Hotel

Verona, Italy

In Italy’s fair Verona, art, history, wine and food – and, of course, romance – reign supreme. All of which lie waiting in a grand palazzo, full of old-world opulence fit for the most sophisticated traveller

When it comes to romance, the setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet is hard to beat. Founded in the 1st century BC, Unesco-listed Verona is a city of 1,000 stories. The most famous may be one of star-crossed lovers, but it’s Verona herself we’ve fallen for. With such heritage and allure on the doorstep, finding an abode of the same calibre is a tall order – yet Vista Verona is match-made.

Since opening in 2022, Vista Verona has set new standards for luxury. A former palazzo turned opulent hideout, it’s the city’s only five-star-L status hotel. Glossy design work, thick marbles and a palette of maroon, ochre and royal blues set the tone, resulting in a tale of glamour. Each floor reveals a new chapter, from spritz-sipping in the rooftop infinity bar with panoramic views across terracotta tiles, to relaxing in the basement’s secret spa, complete with Verona’s only hotel pool. With just 16 rooms and suites, this boutique bolthole punches well above its weight.

Mere metres from the Roman ruins of Porta Leoni (Gate of the Lions), Vista serves as a great base from which to explore ancient streets and medieval masterpieces on foot. A ten-minute stroll takes you past Juliet’s Balcony to the café-lined Piazza delle Erbe and the prized art gallery of Palazzo Maffei. Or head across the river to Castel San Pietro for views that rival those from Vista’s rooftop.

You’ll be thankful for an appetite on your return. At penthouse restaurant Sottovoce, chef Fabio Aceti pulls out all the stops to celebrate regional produce. Expect a fine take on local favourite, risotto – with saffron and liquorice, perhaps. Each plate is a work of art, delicately balanced and paired with notable Italian vintages.

Verona’s captivating architecture and its most luxurious hotel will leave a lasting impression on your heart long after you’ve departed.

Words by Megan Dickson. Doubles from £541, including breakfast. +39 4511
170880, vistapalazzo.com. To book, visit https://slh.com/

Photo by Small Luxury Hotels