Villa Augusta ★★★★

After a long drive along the somewhat desolate road leading to the hotel, the sudden appearance of a vibrantly green and charmingly antique courthouse will make you feel like you’re entering a pure oasis. From the moment you arrive at the lobby, it becomes apparent that the preservation of an older, simpler way of life is successfully maintained at the Villa Augusta.

The iconic chateau design is especially prevalent in the Deluxe Room, where everything from the bed frame to the lamp stand is graced with classic oval forms and winding shapes. Floating upon the cloud that is your queen size bed, softly embraced by the faint smell of roses and delicate floral fabrics, you begin to wonder if these rooms were designed by angels. Then comes the delectable breakfast in bed, at which point you can confirm that you have in fact entered a heavenly realm.

The sense of celestial harmony is carried through the hallways and lobby, where subtle yet endearing qualities magnify the overall tones of serenity - from opulent flower bouquets to hints of neoclassical art. In the Villa Augusta, it is difficult at times to tell where the courtyard finishes, and the villa begins, as the garden and building seem to naturally meld into each other. Indeed, the way the Parc Restaurant opens out into the hotel’s garden, allowing you to enjoy your dinner with a view over the waterlily pond, demonstrates the clear bond between the inside and outside of this grand resort.

In David Mollicone’s distinguished restaurant, be prepared for a session of sinful gluttony as you are presented with the multi award-winning chef’s choice of freshly caught fish, expertly seasoned salads and aphrodisiac desserts. This is a dining experience that will permanently raise standards, leaving you unable to settle for anything other than absolute excellence.

The sweet secrets of living a long and happy life can be discovered when several qualities come together in perfect harmony - sunshine, comfort, healthy meals, good wine and even better conversation. Whilst the latter depends on the company you choose to bring, the incredible staff at the Villa Augusta provide you with enough of nature’s little luxuries to make sure you’re living like royalty.