Doorways would like to introduce you to the

"Enchanted Waters of Italy"

Visit us at: www.villavacations.com

Return to Enchanted Waters

I just returned from Italy feeling wonderfully relaxed and refreshed. I call it my "enchanted waters" trip. Because virtually everywhere I went, from spectacular properties near the coasts of Puglia in the south to hilltop villas in Umbria, Italy's magical waters framed the experience.

The hills of Umbria near Todi, of course, are noted for their beauty. I stayed in a spacious and well-furnished villa overlooking the gentle curves of the Tiber River as it begins its descent to Roma and the lovely village of Todi (voted "the best, best place in the world to live" in a recent survey of American college professors).

In Casciano dei Bagni near Cetona -- where we have several remarkable villas -- I soaked in the warm, renewing waters of one of the town's spectacular world-class spas -- a treatment I wholeheartedly recommend for a quick recovery from jet-lag. Doorways customers can also stay in our beautiful antique-walled villa with a pool fed by the very same natural hot spring. This property is great also in the off-season, because there's a very intimate private spa.

And talking about beautiful waterscapes, I'm delighted to tell you that we can now put you and your friends or family in the six best -- and in my judgment, best-staffed -- villas in the spectacular Amalfi Coast town of Positano. On jutting promontories or cliffs above the sea, these unforgettable gems offer private beaches, breathtaking views out to the Galli Islands, and even a small boat to take you to the old harbor in the heart of the village. Stay in a very unique ocean-side residence, Torre d'Artista and enjoy a splendid location at the edge of Positano-one of the most picturesque beach resorts on the Amalfi Coast.

If you're in the mood for a romantic hideaway, book on the island of Ischia. We have three elegant - and intimate -- apartments on top of the Aragonese Castello. From there, you have a commanding view of the whole island for sunsets and sunrises you'll never forget. And when you're tired of playing on this island paradise of hot springs and naturally warmed pools, you can hop across the bay in a ferry or private boat to Naples, Capri or Pompei.

In Puglia -- a picturesque and still largely undiscovered area - the scent of the surrounding seas pervades every landscape. Ancient white villages and warm, open people seem to belong to a different age. I stayed in a traditional trullo with its distinctive conical roofs of quarried stone. Their shape hasn't changed in centuries and, surrounded by hibiscus and jasmine, these naturally air-conditioned dwellings are simply fairytale. Yet ours was equipped with every modern comfort -- including a sparkling pool. This particular vacation villa is minutes from beautiful beaches and clear waters of both the Adriatic and Ionic seas. So it's ideal for snorkeling and scuba -- no matter which way the wind blows.

Please take a moment now to make a virtual visit to these and other Doorways properties along Italy's turquoise seas, deep azure lakes and historic, meandering rivers. I think you'll find them as soothing and refreshing to the spirit as they are to the eye -- and the perfect place for your next European vacation. Return to Enchanted Waters.

Fondly,

Kit Burns, President
Doorways, Ltd.