You know how back in the days, explorers and wanderers encountered treasure maps and treasures sometimes just by accident?
Here's my story, how I found the gem called Byblos Art Hotell Villa Àmista.
It is all part of my #MiaGoesEurope tour (1st of many).
You may read the early stages of my tour here;
My first destination; Holland, visiting Savannah Grace
Here a story of how I came up with the idea of Interrail and some very useful tips for those who consider the same:
#MiaGoesEurope tour and Interrail Tips
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| Facade of Byblos Art Hotel |
How did I end up in there?
I had been traveling through 8 countries already: Finland, Holland, Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Austria, Slovenia, and Croatia and it was time to make plans for the rest of my trip - for how long, that I didn't know yet.
On my previous post, I told about this moment;
It was a cold, rainy day in Croatia when I woke up in Zagreb and since I had had my share of cold weather already I wanted to go somewhere warmer. So I started to browsing weather forecast maps in order to find my next destination. I then noticed that Italy seems to be warm and beautiful and it was one of the countries I wanted to see anyway as I've never been to Italy, and yet heard stories about it ever since I was a little girl!
After some serious browsing, I realized that the best way to get going was not actually by train but by bus (Flix bus) and it was departing already at 9.30 am from Zagreb. This and would go all the way to Trieste, Italy in about 4+ hours. I had my Interrail train pass but by train, it would have taken about 10 hours to get there and by Flixbus it was so much easier. The bus had wifi so I decided to just pack up, hurry up and make it to that bus and find myself a hotel while traveling through Slovenia to Italy. I was torn between Venice and Verona. I found wonderful hotels in both places. I just couldn't decide. Then I asked myself, what it is that I really enjoy and would love to see right now and the answer was clear, I wanted to see beautiful, green, lush gardens and nature so I decided that Verona it is. However, time flew on that bus and we arrived at Trieste before I managed to book any hotels or train seats (as i had 1st class Interrail pass, I had to book a seat to each train in Italy).
So I got off the bus, took my insanely heavy backpack and my sports bag and was just standing there, wondering what did I just do. Well, I wanted an adventure, now I got one. I was just standing there, the sun was shining (YAY!!) and I was totally clueless as to what to do next. So I decided to go to the train station since it was right there, next to the bus station. Maybe there's a wifi so that I could book a hotel and then decide to which train I'll hop on. To my great surprise, there was no wifi, hotspots etc. there. Now what?
Ok, I got to Italy but how do I book a hotel if I don't have the internet? Well, the only option I could figure out was to call my (adult) son to Finland and as him to sign in to the www.hotels.com with my password and book a hotel on my behalf. However, at that point, the only hotel that had impressed me enough for me to remember parts of its name was "Art or Bablo, byblo or something" (as I really was in a hurry when browsing those hotels on that bus as it was approaching the destination, Trieste, Italy so fast).
My son found the Byblos Art Hotel from the list of hotels I had recently browsed and made a reservation. YAY! Now, finally, I had a place to go to. I went to the ticket office and book seats to trains to Venice and from Venice to Verona.
Finally in Verona
I was so happy to finally get to Verona's train station, the weather was amazing and everything looked like SUMMER, which I had been waiting for to experience coming from cold Finland; green, lush and somehow so calming. But... it wasn't that smooth sailing all the way as there happened to be a long line of people waiting for a taxi!
I stood there for good 30-40 minutes with my giant backpack and sports bag, sweating and of course, no water left, wondering why am I wearing long jeans instead of some summer clothes? (Obviously, since trains are quite cold..)
Finally, I get a taxi and I was on my way to Byblos Art Hotel, which I remembered nothing about except that it seemed interesting, it was 5 stars and in Valpolicella area, which as an area intrigued me and it's only about 20 min drive from the city of Verona.
Arriving to the BYBLOS ART VILLA AMISTÀ HOTEL
I was enjoying the views on the back seat of the taxi when all of a sudden the driver says "Here we are." and we turned into this fantastic driveway and I think my jaw literally dropped!
I thought I've seen it all but no, I have not. This majestic place is incredible!
I had no idea that the Byblos Art Hotel had such an amazing, carefully, with love maintained the garden area, and then, I saw the fountain... ok, I was sold! On top of that, I noticed that there is a beautifully renovated church in the courtyard of the hotel, absolutely charming.
I've stayed at about 250 hotels around the world and I must say during the last 5 years I've never booked a hotel based on such a small amount of information about it, and what a wonderful surprise it was to see that I actually hit the jackpot with this booking.
"A villa of the XVI century, that was inspired by the tradition of the Veneto region has been re-interpreted to become an elegant luxury hotel and host an impressive permanent exhibition of contemporary art."
Link to Byblos Art Hotel's website (click here)
I stepped out of the taxi and immediately there was a staff member greeting me, helping me with my (heavy) bags as there are some stairs to climb in order to get to the entrance and at that point, I had traveled 11 hours so I barely had the strength to get myself up there... I was a bit ashamed as I felt almost as a homeless person to step into this fascinating, stunning hotel and wearing sports gear and being (at least felt like it) dirty and sweaty. But no worries, I was kindly greeted by Laura, the lovely receptionist. She had some difficulties finding my reservation, which quite often happens if you book a room via hotels.com as they don't deliver any information of you to hotels but being a professional, as she is, she found my reservation and escorted me to my room.
In case you'd like to book a room use the following link instead!
BYBLOS ART HOTEL Reservations (click this to open the link)
I have recently become more and more interested in interior design and art and it was such a pleasant surprise to realize that this gem is actually both hotel and an art exhibition/museum, presenting art that is both modern and also from the past.
I even found some familiar pieces there; The Ball chair by Finnish designer Eero Aarnio, I absolutely love that chair! (Always wanted one!) I also later noticed that there's furniture designed by another Finnish designer, namely Eero Saarinen, who was actually born only about 5 km from my Finnish home (in a place called Hvitträsk), what a fun coincidence!
One word, well, two:
INCREDIBLE & FASCINATING!
MY ROOM
Finally, I got to my room after a long day of traveling. I immediately felt in peace. It took a few seconds for me to comprehend what I saw as I really didn't remember what kind of room I booked and it was quite a surprise to see all the colors etc. but very quickly I came to conclusion: I Like it!
I found my room to be relatively small compared to many other hotels I've stayed at, but for me, traveling solo, it was perfect. The more I looked around, the more interesting details I saw.
As a Finn, I'm used to Scandinavian style, which is wide, open spaces, quite minimalistic, light surfaces, quite a lot of wood, light colors and since I travel quite a bit in Asia, in there the most common material is dark wood and warm, dark colors in general with some bright colors to make a statement. Compared to these, Byblos Art Hotel is totally different and perhaps that is the reason why I'm so fond of it.
I noticed that even the ceiling of my room had been painted beautifully. The minibar was designed by Anna Gili, and I immediately loved it due to its feast of color and interesting form.
For me, the view is always a very important factor in terms of how I find my room and here I certainly had the view I enjoyed, beautiful Italian garden! Loved it!
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| Pic. 1: View of my 1st window Pic. 2. The desk, coffee table & minibar of the room Pic. 3. Part of my bathroom |
So, I soon got my bags delivered to my room as well as a bottle of Cava. I took a shower and was quite ready for bed, after all, I had traveled from Croatia, through Slovenia all the way to Verona/Valpolicella that day. I loved the bed in the room; great quality, decent size, good pillows (very, very important for me!) which all meant I slept like a baby and it was much needed sleep!
Only thing I found a bit difficult were the sockets by the bed as naturally, I wanted to charge my phone and laptop and sockets were under those lovely nightstands, but not a problem, I managed to move them a little, but I can imagine that for someone else it might have been a minor stumbling block.
There are total of 59 rooms in the hotel.
I had a Superior room (20/22 m2), which in my opinion, seem to be quite similar to Deluxe room (25/28m2) types.
They both have same amenities: Design accessories, Byblos Home furniture, Beatriz Millar and/or Begonia Montalban masterpieces, Anna Gili minibar, LCD TV, pay TV, safe, A/C, desk, lovely garden views, luxurious marble bathroom, bathrobe, slippers, make-up mirror, bathtub w/ shower. There's also a small table and couple of chairs to sit and enjoy a drink, watch the view or for example enjoy in-room dining.
Hotel also has 4 suites;
JUNIOR SUITE MENDINI'S ISLAND;
which is on the top floor of the main building. This stunning suite of 43 m2 has original furniture by Mendini, Ron Arad and Philippe Starck, all very well-known, world-famous designers and architects. This room is really something else, like they say in hotel's website, it's like waking up inside Mendini's imagination.
Stunning views over the pool and garden.
I specifically loved the sitting corner that was overlooking vineyards.
There's also Anna Gili minibar here, as well as all those same basic amenities as in Superior and Deluxe rooms. On top of that, there's a bathroom with mosaic wall and crystal sinks.
This suite was bold, I'm sure there are people that absolutely love it and then there are people that would prefer more peaceful decor. I found it very intriguing. It had so many interesting details and for me, hopeless romantic and lover of wonderful sunsets that I am, the favorite was, of course, the sitting corner in the tower, i.e. a couple of steps higher than the rest of the suite.
JUNIOR SUITE MENDINI'S OPTICAL
This suite of 37 m2 is situated in a small tower, opposite the villa and it's decorated in red and yellow with horizontal lilac strips on the walls, and on top of that, the ceiling is red. Sounds maybe restless but it actually is beautiful. There are 6 mirrors there from different designers, Gili tiger-print mosaic, chair resembling a totem pole by Carla Tolomeo, and naturally all those basic amenities that all the room types have. There's also a luxurious marble bathroom here.
JUNIOR SUITE EXECUTIVE (35/40 m2)
The suite is elegant and, naturally, has plenty of design accessories, Byblos Home furniture, Beatriz Millar and/or Begonia Montalban masterpieces, as well as all the same basic amenities as the other room types as well, along with luxurious marble bathroom. There is also a beautiful design sofa there.
EXECUTIVE SUITE
I was given an opportunity to properly check out hotels executive suite and I have to say that it really was luxurious, elegant, stylish and beautifully designed. I'm sure you agree based on the photos below.
The bed of the suite is a masterpiece! Incredible bed head along with those blue fabric, what an amazing design! There was also a separate seating area, naturally furnished with various design accessories; Byblos Home furniture, Beatriz Millar and/or Begonia Montalban masterpieces, Anna Gili minibar and of course those basic amenities such as LCD TV, AC etc.
I specifically loved the kitchen, smart, cool design with fabulous art.
I loved the fact that there were window shutters there, so you get your room completely dark, which for me is crucial in order to get a good night sleep. So, after sleeping like a baby, on my first morning, I felt simply so happy when I opened the shutters and saw that beautiful garden view. I can only imagine the views in the morning from those suite category rooms...
I was quite eager to get to the breakfast area as I was told that they'd have also gluten free options, which for me is always a big bonus as it's not self-explanatory, not even in 5-star hotels to get any gluten free items. On my way there I got my first opportunity to see hotel's amazing art in daylight and I was even more impressed than the day before. This hotel really is a permanent exhibition of modern art, instead of just a place for guests to spend a night.
BREAKFAST
I was so hungry that I almost ran to get some food... well, just almost! I did take a moment to admire walls and hallways with stunning colors, there's something so captivating in them!
I stepped into the breakfast room and just like I always do, I chose a table I felt was the most inviting and sat on that same table every morning, just enjoying the peace and harmony with the charming Italian atmosphere.
Quickly one of the staff members came to ask if I'd like to have coffee, tea etc. Since I always carry my own tea, like you already probably know, I just asked for a pot of hot water, and naturally, my daily dose of pure protein, 2 fried egg whites and plain yogurt (into which I put my own protein powder). On top of these, I was offered a large variety of gluten free products. What a lovely gesture!
Breakfast was truly enjoyable and I always also pay attention to other guests, and to how they seem to like their breakfast and must say, seemed like everyone was really enjoying themselves. On my third (I think) morning, there was a family on the next table, with a kid about 3 years old. I loved how the waiter paid attention to the child as well, had a little chat with him, helped him to settle the iPhone so that it was easier for the little boy to watch his movie there. Minor gesture, but something that parents, for sure, appreciated. It was also nice to notice that the staff immediately remembers you and I got my gluten free plate of snacks every morning without having to ask for it and they even knew that I preferred to sit on that particular table.
They had all the basic breakfast amenities there but on top of that, there were some extras that showed the quality and those well deserved 5 stars of the hotel, for example, selection of waters and juices etc. Due to my food allergies I always have pretty much the same breakfast, except here I actually had options because of the gluten-free product plate, loved it! Further, I'm pretty sure they would have delivered pretty much anything I asked for.
One thing I always emphasize when educating hotel staff is; Don't use words "No, we can't/No, we don't. " if you don't absolutely have to. I must say it was something I didn't hear at Byblos more than maybe twice, and for me, as a hospitality & luxury professional that is one of the main proofs that the staff knows what they are doing.
In most cases, the answer was something like: Let me see what I can do (with a smile of course). The staff was always smiling, always willing to serve you to their best ability.
INTERIOR OF THE HOTEL AND ITS ART
After my breakfast I wandered around for a moment, just to find out that I had actually hit the jackpot when booking this hotel. It was out of this world with its wonderfully decorated walls, beautiful art pieces, design furniture and even ceilings had paintings in them. Every single, even smallest of detail had been carefully considered, and I, as a hotels' quality evaluator truly appreciated it and enjoyed it all so, so much!
...As I can't help it, when I enter into any hotel, I automatically start searching for those little faults, things that could cause trouble or turn into an issue for some guests, stumbling blocks that could cause guests to have a negative experience etc. But here, I was able put my mind at ease as unlike in quite many places, here I couldn't spot such things (well, in all honesty, if I tried, I'd find them everywhere, that's part of being professional), but here, at least there weren't any obvious ones, so I was able to just enjoy the fabulous decor and beautiful design without having my mind working all the time.
I had a meeting with one of the staff members as they heard about my background and it such a lovely meeting and as a result, I got invited to stay a little longer. I truly appreciate the fact that lovely Chiara took the time to show me their various room types and told me more about the hotel. In my professional opinion, they really had created a masterpiece design-wise and hotel wise.
No matter where you are or what wall, room, hallway, ceiling, garden etc. you look at, you see art and beauty everywhere. I'm not an art expert by any means, but it seems like it's a mixture of art deco and contemporary, modern art, into the extent that some might be even a bit confused by it all.
The more time I spent there, the more I learned to love and appreciate it all. The hotel is so bold and sassy, which I absolutely loved!
The Byblos Art Hotel doesn't even try to be this traditional, peaceful place, full of harmony on the inside. It's maybe even a bit provocative and yet, absolutely stunning and intriguing. Their clown in the internet corner is such a character, and yet I can imagine, someone might say even a bit disturbing. There is a red man figure above the main entrance door (in the lobby) that seems to be falling from the second floor - how cool and clever is that?!
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| Pic. 1: Lobby Pic. 2: Sala Paolini (Meeting Room) Pic. 3. Veranda |
Another element that caught my eye were Vanessa Beecroft's nude female figures, these pale girls with red hair, they look almost like androgynes. These figures stand out on the walls of the vast hall, which actually is dominated by the chandelier (photo above), that is made with Murano glass.
I could go on and on about the artists and art that this hotel like no other has to offer, but since I am not sure whether all of you are interested in knowing more, I'll link the artists and info thereof hereto for those of you that want to know more. Even if you are not a big fan of art, I strongly suggest that you take a look what's behind the link as then you see who is responsible for the art that you see on my photos. The collections is one of a kind, trust me!
The Art Treasures and Artists in Byblos Art Hotel (click here)
GARDEN AREA
When you walk outside, into the garden area, you immediately feel at peace, it is very easy to forget that it's actually exterior of a hotel.
Everything is so well taken care of that it feels almost like a magic garden. I could've wandered around the place for hours. There were small nooks, benches, two wonderful gazebos, a pool area etc. Thus, plenty of places to just sit down and enjoy the views, the tranquility, and lush, green gardens.
The surroundings of the hotel are also exactly like I imagined the countryside of Italy, especially Valpolicella area to be. Vineyards as far as you can see, beautiful houses and churches, kind, warm people and gentle Italian sun warming you up. I couldn't have asked for a better place to stay.
There is a large supermarket about 1,5 km from the hotel, I went for a nice walk and got some items there. What a wonderful landscape and loved those little streets, where you can see real, local living, houses, children at the school yard, little alleys... This was exactly what I needed! Perfection!
Interesting details and facts of the hotel
(Information Source: Hotel's press info)
"Housed in the ancient Villa Amistà in Corrubbio di Negarine, in the heart of the Valpolicella, the exclusive five-star Byblos Art Hotel was inaugurated in September 2005.
The large building featuring a 15th-century facade by architect Michele Sanmicheli (1489-1559) had been abandoned for some time before being carefully renovated thanks to Dino Facchini' s and his family's passion for art. The owners of the prestigious Byblos fashion label have made accurate renovations both in terms of the architecture and the paintings and décor.
The complex renovation project was completely designed by Alessandro Mendini and his Atelier. The extensive garden, covering an area of twenty thousand square meters, was designed by Gianfranco Paghera and offers and evocative setting an "earthly paradise" with fountains and swimming pool.
The relaxing Espace spa makes use of the latest scientific advantages and offers recovery of fitness, health, and wellbeing.
The hotel has been furnished with a combination of three different figurative styles:
1) revision and design of furniture items, fabrics and curtains with particular care for the color system that was borrowed from Byblos prét à porter collections in order to create a contemporary update of the 16th-18th century iconography with inspiration from the typical paintings of Veneto region
2) addition of several furniture items, lamps and carefully selected famous design objects in order to create a real collection.
Like a museum, every object is completed by a precise caption.
3) finally, not only halls and common rooms but also guests' rooms are furnished with a collection of contemporary art, which is the result of the owners' love for art.
A precise combination of these different visual elements results in a fascinating set design, an accurate scenic, and museum-like setting to enable an outstanding hospitality where the glamorous prét à porter fashion label Byblos is melted into a synergy with the splendor of an ancient past and a modern spirit.
...In the Autumn of 2009 the hotel was granted the prize #Premio Villa Veneta 2009" for its remarkable conversion into a tourism and culture place that also offers and exhibition of contemporary art".
As you can all imagine, all the color and the beauty of the wonderful design is food for the souls of friends of art. And what is even more fabulous; some of the furniture items and objects have been exclusively designed for the hotel, by world-famous architect and designer Alessandro Mendini, and, belonging to the BYBLOS CASA collection, they can also be purchased by the guests!
*****
RESTAURANTS & BARS of BYBLOS ART HOTEL
Restaurants of Byblos Art Hotel (click here)
RISTORANTE ATELIER
Open for breakfast and dinner
I had one of the best meals of my trips in this exquisite restaurant that doesn't feed only your stomach but your soul too. It has an atmosphere that is very peaceful and yet still very sense stimulating due to fabulous art pieces that you see all over the place.
It also has a lush garden along with water fountain, and I have to mention the XV century cellar taht features an exclusive selection of wines, including some vintage wines.
There's both regional specialties as well as international cuisine served here, so there's something for everyone and if you have a special diet like myself, they are more than happy help you with finding a suitable, tasty meal for you.
AMISTÀ 33
Open: Wednesday-Saturday 20-22.
I didn't get an opportunity to dine here, but this is how this beautiful restaurant has been introduced by the hotel:
"It's a place where the structure of the executive chef Marco Perez gives shape to his imagination. A kitchen that seeks simplicity made of respect for the raw materials, the intimate ties with their origins and pure love of nature, time to share with the guest the utmost pleasure is a game of flavors, scents, and sensations.
The dining room sees the intervention of the master Alessandro Mendini, who has created furniture and works in harmony with the hallmark of the kitchen. Perez to give the guests and experience that involves not only the taste but all our senses. Everything is part of a unique philosophy on which it was created, a real path that starts from the detail, through sensations and emotions, and arrives in the depths."
Check out the link below and you will see a wonderful presentation of this luxurious and yet inviting restaurant!
Link to Ristorante Amistà 33 (click here)
PETER'S BAR
This bar with a warm, very charming, yet interesting ambiance you find right on the left side when you step into the hotel. It has the same lovely colorful decor that you can see all over the hotel, its refined setting is dedicated to the American artist Peter Halley.
There's also exclusive Relax Oasis, furnished with lounge chairs along with two whirlpools. Here you can spend a day in complete privacy.
Link to Peter's Bar website (click this)
POOL BAR
For sun seekers and those who prefer relaxing by the pool, this bar offers snacks, lunch, fruit drinks and cocktails. I found the area extremely peaceful and service very quick, kind and professional, didn't try out any food items though as wasn't hungry while I was there.
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| Lifeguard on duty. |
OTHER AREAS AND SERVICES of Byblos Art Hotel
SPA
When you feel like you need to get pampered, there certainly is a place for you in this paradise in the middle of vineyards.
ESPACE spa has heated Jacuzzi pool, Sauna, Steam Room, Chromo therapy Mood-showers, Tanning Booth and a Fitness area.
It really is a unique venue of wellness. The beauty of the place on top of amazing, golden treatments really relaxes your mind and body, provide yourself with regenerating and unforgettable moments here. You won't even remember what a word stress means after it.
The beauty partner of the Espace Byblos is ANMIN.
ESPACE - Luxury Golden Spa (click this to open the link)
I only got to see one of the meeting areas, but based on that one I believe they are all very impressive, equipped with the latest technology and will, for sure, provide you with an excellent venue for meetings and events.
Byblos Meeting and Events (click here to open the link)
WEDDINGS
The moment I arrived at the hotel area I thought, this would be a perfect place for weddings. Based on what I was told by Chiara, there are many of them and I can only imagine how romantic, unique, luxurious and perfect a wedding reception here would be.
Byblos Luxury Weddings (click here to open the link)
*****
On my last morning, I had the utmost pleasure of meeting personally Mr. Luigi Leardini, the General Manager of the Byblos Art Hotel. A wonderful, charming, impressive, Italian gentleman who clearly is a strong leader who works closely with the owner in order to maintain hotel's high quality and to make guests so happy that they never want to leave - or if they do, they certainly want to return. I had a chat also with a couple of other guests and for them, it was already second or third visit to Byblos and I can completely understand why they keep returning here.
I stayed here in total for 4 days and was actually nearly sad to leave, although, I was really excited too as I was heading to beautiful Verona, the place everyone says to be the most beautiful place in the world, how lucky and blessed am I? VERY!
Oh, one more thing, Byblos Art Hotel provides its guests with shuttle bus rides to Verona and back, which is very handy. When went to Verona by bus and the when I noticed my laptop charger was forgotten to my hotel room, their shuttle bus/van driver took it with him and I met him nearby the Borta Borsari and I got the charger back - it would have been impossible to continue traveling as travel blogger without laptop so, extra thank you for this!
My stay at Byblos Art Hotel was truly fantastic. Everyone was discreet and yet so warm, caring and welcoming. I couldn't have asked for a better stay and I sincerely recommend, if you ever go to Verona area, check out this fabulous member of Small Luxury Hotels of the World Association
I bet you'll never see anything like it, and although it certainly isn't the cheapest hotel to stay at, it sure is worth it!
Thank you everyone at Byblos Art Villa Amistà for making this part of my #TouchseGoesEurope so perfect! I hope I get to meet you all again one day!
Di nuovo, grazie mille a tutti!
This stunning sunset at Byblos Art Hotel Villa Amistà was the end of one amazing day, but not only that, it's also the end of this blog.
As you all know I'm more than happy to answer to any of your questions relating to this hotel that had such a huge impact on my trip.
Many of you have asked me further information about previous hotels I've introduced on my blog and some of you have already even visited them because my stories have inspired you and that, my friends, more than anything, inspires me to continue introducing these luxurious hotels to you!
By the way, don't forget to follow Byblos Art Villa Amistà also on social media!
BYBLOS ART HOTEL on TWITTER (click this to open the link)
BYBLOS ART HOTEL on FACEBOOK (click this to open the link)
...and as always, I also attach a link to the hotel's special offers hereto, make sure you check them out if you are planning a trip to Valpolicella area in the near future!
BYBLOS ART HOTEL - SPECIAL OFFERS (click this to open the link)
Wishing you all a wonderful, sunny summer!
Be kind to others, be caring, remember, what goes around, comes around!
xoxo,
Mia
p.s. Next blog will come out within a month.
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