THE SUMMER JEWELS OF ITALY

Tuscany’s famous charms include picture-perfect rolling countryside, world-class wines and gastronomy, and deeply historic medieval towns and cities. Florence is not to be missed of course, but it is the smaller Tuscan city of Siena which lights up each summer, playing host to one of the world’s most dramatic and historic sports events, the Palio di Siena.

Taking place twice at the start of July and mid-August, 10 of the city’s Contradas (districts) compete against each other in a dramatic, barebacked horse race around the Piazza del Campo, preceded by a historic pageant, reflecting this centuries-old tradition. In addition to the race itself, the city bursts into life with extravagant feasting and celebrations for days either side.

This year, Flexjet aircraft Owners can enjoy a ringside seat for the spectacle of the Palio, with a curated Flexjet Owner event built around the July race. This includes a prime viewing spot from a private apartment in the Piazza above the start line, along with a memorable weekend itinerary, including exquisite hospitality and live music.

Flexjet Owners travelling to Siena or elsewhere in Tuscany can fly into Florence Airport (LIRQ); Pisa International Airport (LIRP); or Grosetto Airport (LIRS).

The timeless glamour of Lake Como

The Italian lakes bring together many of Italy’s iconic pleasures in the summertime, and while there are five lakes in the country’s famous Lombardy district, Lake Como evokes an atmosphere all of its own: An opulent, Belle Epoque glamour that draws discerning visitors from all over the world to its glistening shores.

Ornate villas and palaces shine like jewels along the shoreline, featuring floating swimming pools, baroque gardens and waterfront balconies, from which you can relax with an aperitivo as you watch the yachts and motorboats zipping across the water.

Flexjet favourite Villa d’Este is one of Italy’s top luxury hotels, set in 25 acres of enchanting gardens and parkland near Cernobbio in the lake’s southwestern branch. It has been a favourite destination for the European aristocracy since it was transformed into a luxury hotel in 1873, originally built in 1568 as the summer residence of Cardinal Tolomeo Gallio.

Flexjet Owners reach Lake Como from Lugano Airport (LSZA) just across the border in Switzerland, or from Milan’s Linate (LIML) or Malpensa (LIMC) Airports.

The beguiling Amalfi coast

Overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Gulf of Salerno, Southern Italy’s glorious Amalfi coast is a 50km azure sweep, with the famously vertiginous and winding coastal road threaded by impossibly pretty pastel-coloured towns and villages, including Positano, Amalfi, Ravello and Praiano.

Overlooked by Vesuvius, the whole area is bathed in history, and studded with grand palazzos and exclusive hotels. Just a short boat or helicopter ride away the islands of Capri and Ischia beckon, each offering a unique appeal.

The city of Naples is around 60km up the coast with Naples Capodichino Airport (LIRN) the gateway to the area for Flexjet Owners.

Glitz & glamour in Costa Smeralda

Along the northern stretch of Sardinia – Italy’s second largest island after Sicily – lies Costa Smeralda, with the 10km stretch of coastline between the Gulf of Cugnana and the bay of Arzachena renowned for its magnificent white sand beaches, crystal clear waters and exquisite scenery.

This area of Sardinia sees glamorous travellers congregate every summer, well-served by an array of exceptional properties and resorts, alongside world-class golf and Michelin star restaurants.

Sailing is another big reason to come here, with Porto Cervo’s Yacht Club a regular mooring point for some of the world’s top superyachts during the season.

While Sardinia has three airports, Olbia Airport (LIEO) is the best located for this part of the island and offers dedicated facilities for Flexjet Owners and other private aviation users.

Pantelleria’s untouched elegance

In contrast to Sardinia or Sicily, Pantelleria offers a quiet and largely unknown Italian island escape. This UNESCO World Heritage site has a more austere elegance and charm, with its rugged coastline of intricate lava rock formations and secluded coves, set in dramatic contrast against the azure Mediterranean.

The volcanic island is studded with steaming fumaroles, thermal springs and mud spas, with its clear waters a paradise for divers, and archeological treasures beneath the sea. The rich soil provides a bountiful harvest, with capers a particularly prized local delicacy.

Flexjet partner Sikelia Luxury Retreat offers the island’s most exclusive place to stay – an elegant, whitewashed oasis with serene spa treatments, contemporary interiors and just 19 exquisite suites. It also serves imaginative cuisine at its restaurant, or via a private chef’s table experience offshore on the hotel’s Tunisian fishing boat.

While small, the island does offer its own runway at Pantelleria Airport (LICG), so Flexjet Owners can jet directly in and out of this undiscovered gem.

Make your Italian escape with Flexjet

Wherever you choose to fly this summer, our Flexjet European fleet offers an exceptional way to get there, including the super-midsize Praetor 600 and ultra-long-range Gulfstream G650.

To discover more about our European programmes, contact our team using the form below or call us on +44 (0) 203 856 8151.