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.

In 1952, the Ceschi a Santa Croce family, direct descendants of the Fogazzaros, built the present villa, restoring its elegant cultural spirit. Since then, it has welcomed notable guests including Cecil Beaton, Prince Michael of Kent, Rudolf Nureyev, Salvador Dalí and others drawn to its timeless charm.

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.

• Air-conditioning is featured in the communal areas and master bedroom only.
• The sixth bedroom is a study with a sofa-bed which can be converted into a single bedroom, on request
• There is a resident housekeeper - staff accommodation is on the lower ground floor (with a separate entrance). The laundry room is for staff’s exclusive use only (no personal laundry).
• Please supervise children when using the swimming pool. 
• Events are on request only and subject to specific rules regarding catering etc - please contact us for further details at the time of booking.
• The pool is not fenced, so children should be supervised when outdoors.
• Please note home security devices may be installed at the villa, please enquire for further information.