Hotels from Merrion Charles

Italy is home to many excellent hotels but reading a brochure or a review can be misleading. Getting it right is essential and with the expert and impartial knowledge provided by myself, the stress and worry is taken away. A stunning view, superb cuisine and luxurious rooms are in full view to find but this must be combined with charm, character and excellent, friendly service. By experiencing every hotel in person I have first hand knowledge of which hotel works best for my clients and I have many others up my sleeve!

Palazzo Avino

Ravello, Amalfi Coast

“Palazzo Avino might be the nicest hotel I have ever stepped into. Beautiful marble, beautiful views, and gorgeous staff.”

With Antonio at the helm, the concierge service at Palazzo Avino is second to none. Steeped in history, with its incredible staff and tradition of discreet yet highly professional hospitality, Palazzo Avino continues to attract and appeal to the most discerning of travellers. Try out the Palazzo Avino beach club and of course a private boat trip whizzing along the ocean to Capri!

MONTEVERDI

Castiglioncello di Trinoro, Val d’Orcia, Tuscany

My Tuscan idyll – with its far reaching views to Monte Amiato, an exceptional Spa and totally relaxed atmosphere, the Monteverdi ‘experience’ is one I would recommend to all my clients – a Tuscan dream come true in every sense of the word.

Hotel Monteverdi is the latest restoration in Castiglioncello del Trinoro, the village that hosts Monteverdi Villas. Located in the centre of the village, this beautiful restoration encompasses three buildings containing eighteen boutique hotel rooms. Each room is completely individual, visually stunning and luxurious.

“If I had to pick a winner thus far it would be Hotel Monteverdi… I think this property is the most beautiful we have stayed in. It gave you an instant feeling of peace and feeling at home whilst obviously being looked after. The food, staff and wine matching with meals were sublime.”

With its dreamy views, stunning interiors and charming staff, Monteverdi offers the finest oasis of beauty, health and wellness in the travel world. Once here one really does not wish to leave this Tuscan idyll.

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The Place Firenze

Piazza Santa Maria Novella, Florence, Tuscany

This is THE place to stay in the centre of Florence and manager Claudio Meli sets the very highest standards. The Place Firenze is home from home, boutique at its best and quintessentially a dream. Enjoy a spritz in the chilled outdoor ‘lounge’ on Piazza Santa Maria Novella as you watch the world go by.

The Place Firenze does not feel like an hotel – it is more like a private home where guests can relax in a truly hospitable environment with charming staff and every comfort one could wish for. It is neither traditional nor minimalist – it is simply mesmerising.

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Belmond Cipriani

Venice

An icon of the luxury boutique world, the Cipriani for me is special because of its personal service and relaxed atmosphere. Roberto, famed concierge at the Cipriani for decades, will greet you on arrival and ensure your stay from start to finish is more than memorable.

“There’s no doubt the pool at the Cipriani is one of the major benefits, it really is fabulous.”

After a day’s exploring Venice, guests can enjoy the experience of returning to Guidecca Island on their own private water taxi and then a Bellini in the gardens of the Cipriani.

Il Salviatino

Florence

“I just love Il Salviatino – the location, the view, the utterly fantastic staff and the relaxed atmosphere. Stylish but not over the top, personal and yet discreet, extremely comfortable and tranquil, Il Salviatino more than lives up to mine and my clients’ expectations. A great honeymoon venue or as part of a tailor made tour during spring or autumn. ”

Situated in the hills behind Florence, with beautiful gardens, pool, SPA and a wonderfully friendly feel, Il Salviatino fits perfectly into my portfolio.

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Il Locarno

Rome

Chilled, a little bit bohemian, a great meeting place in central Rome and privately owned, I have worked with Hotel Locarno for eleven years and, with its superb renovations and improvements of 2018, it is even more appealing and comfortable than before. It is well priced and if you book through me there is a high chance you may get an upgrade!

“So Locarno was brilliant.. particularly central location and a much needed garden to sit in between jaunts and at the end of each day. And a great cocktail menu! It wouldn’t have been the same without the garden…food was great … Rupert Everett was there every day!”

Rosa Alpina

San Cassiano, Dolomites
Luxurious and hedonistic with superb hospitality and service, Rosa Alpina is a dream summer and winter destination. With its Michelin Restaurant, indoor pool and SPA and a truly veritable reputation, Rosa Alpina is a jewel in the crown of the Dolomites.

“We had the most wonderful time in the beautiful Rosa Alpina with our two small children. It was the most wonderful holiday thanks to Merrion who organised it all for us from start to finish. When we weren’t skiing there was so much else going on. The food was absolutely outstanding and the staff made us all feel so welcome and at home.”

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La Corte della Maestà

Civita di Bagnoregio, Nr Orvieto, Lazio

Bolstered by whimsical furnishings, an enchanting garden and antiques and art, La Corte della Maestà is a sophisticated haven of tranquility, luxury and exquisite hospitality.

“Neither Lisa nor I had done much research on this one, my absolute trust being in Merrion. It was well above expectations, the owners were charming and it was wonderful to have breakfast in the garden with their two young labradors.”

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I Conti di San Bonifacio

Maremma, Tuscany

“I arrived here and really did not want to leave! This idyllic property is the ultimate location in which to switch off, relax, enjoy the views of Maremma, drink fine wine and feel totally at home.”

Conti di San Bonifacio Wine Resort was originally acquired by Count and Countess Manfredo who fell in love with Tuscany and chose the property as their private summer residence. The old farmhouse was restored into the most gorgeous rustic yet chic villa, vines were planted on the estate and with the ultimate in good taste and style the Count and Countess created what was to become magical Conti di San Bonifacio Wine Resort. Originally there were just three rooms but as the years went by the Count and Countess recognised the potential of promoting the property as a luxury destination when they were away and they therefore turned it into a seven bedroom private ‘resort’ as we know it today.

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Palazzo Grillo

Genova, Liguria

Nestled within the fascinating streets of the caruggi of the historic centre of Genova, Palazzo Grillo is the prefect destination from which to explore this rich and vibrant city, steeped in heritage and cultural delights..

“The staff at Palazzo Grillo are absolutely charming and nothing is too much trouble and …there are also other delightful surprises that await one at Palazzo Grillo – but those remain a secret for you to discover when you visit this magical little Genoese treasure!”

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Villa Cordevigo

Near Lake Garda, Veneto

“Unspoiled nature and a very unique atmosphere of calm”

I am proud and honoured to include this wonderful boutique home within my very carefully selected portfolio of hotels. A special and memorable property oozing in elegance and charm where one can totally unwind and switch off.

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I have over 50 hotels in my portfolio, hotels where you benefit from my relationship with the hoteliers. As my client you will pay no more booking through me BUT you are very likely to be given an upgrade and/or the best room available.

“Hi Merrion, All good – in fact, exceptionally good!! IL Pellicano was ‘out of this world’ and beyond amazing – perhaps the highlight of the trip – albeit difficult to actually select which hotel we enjoyed the most. We often reflect on and talk fondly about the Villa we stayed in at Hotel Monteverdi – what an upgrade that was!!!! We absolutely loved IL Salviatino and we were very pleased you recommended that we stay on the hill overlooking Firenze. Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni – well, what superlatives does one select?? We are delighted, happy and privileged to be staying here in Bellagio in such an amazing Hotel – an absolute joy. We have had a very special, enjoyable and memorable holiday in wonderful Italy and this is largely due to the outstanding hotels that you recommended. Thanks again for your helpfulness, kindness, decency and professionalism. It has been an absolute delight and pleasure dealing with you. I shall be lauding your praises far and wide. Warm regards and best wishes.”

Mr & Mrs Phil TunstallAustralia

“I am thrilled, proud and honoured to be mentioned in ‘Always Italy’ – a fabulous new publication by Frances Mayes in conjunction with Ondine Cohane.

I would highly recommend anyone to purchase this beautiful, informative and highly researched ‘encyclopaedia’ about Italy. Beautifully illustrated, written from the heart and the perfect gift for any Italophile!”