Byblos Art Hotel

Do not tell anyone but there is a quiet little walkway on the right of the pool restaurant. Follow the stairs up and you will find a small chill-out area with Jacuzzis and sun-loungers, ideal for those searching isolation and maybe romance. 

The old city of Verona is achingly picturesque. Quiet alcoves of Cyprus trees and bubbling fountains hide amidst winding streets which team with architectural delights. Nestled in the countryside, just 15 minutes from the centre, the Byblos Art Hotel awaits.

A gloriously decadent 15th century Venetian style villa houses a dizzyingly impressive modern art collection. A businessman fashioned out of chewing gum hangs in an eternal despairing free-fall from the lobby ceiling, gleaming statues of Kate Moss guard the entrance, Anish Kapoor's works in metal bend light in wild directions and Damian Hirst’s colorful memento moris are a quiet reminder not to take your stay for granted. 

The rooms are plush and creatively designed, the mini-bar well considered. A stroll through the corridors, eating rooms and spa is a testimony to the skill of the hotel's designer Alesandro Mendini who has eloquently merged past and contemporary artistic styles. The gardens were an especial treat. An intricate network of secluded lawns and alcoves overflowing with plant-life lead on to a swimming pool where one can blissfully pass a day lounging beneath the Italian sun. Evenings are for a foray into the old town with the quick shuttle bus. The operas put on at the main arena are spectacular and there are many good restaurants and bars to try.