I don’t know about you but we’re always having to look for something to do at the weekend with guests who’ve flown in to experience our “bella vita”. Something typically Italian that reaffirms the grass-is-always-greener feeling one often gets when one is on holiday in a beautiful, far-flung corner of the
world. “Aaah, this is the life! You’re so lucky to have this on your doorstep”, our visitors frequently say (while we beam with pride and play down the small frustrations of daily life in Modena!).
Well, 600-year-old Il Borghetto near Verona is one such place. I discovered this little gem quite by chance. An hour and a half’s easy drive towards Lake Garda from Modena brings you to this picturesque village perched on the River Mincio. The ancient water mills have been converted to suites, simple but
tastefully furnished in the traditional style, each one with a well-equipped kitchenette (very useful for families). Breakfast isn’t included in the price (€170 per suite per night) but there are two bars in the village. There are also plenty of high-quality restaurants (is there another kind in Italy?) dotted around the village so you’re rather spoilt for choice.
Valentina at Reception is extremely courteous and helpful. There’s plenty for the kids to do in the area, from the obvious Gardaland to the extraordinary gardens of Parco Sigurtà. Lots of cycle paths, or a winery route to follow as well. We opted to walk around the centre of Verona followed by an opera at the spectacular Arena di Verona.
So if you need a short break from the peace and tranquility of Modena, head out to Il Borghetto where time stands still.
Here are the details: Il Borghetto
Vacanze nei Mulini. Via Raffaello Sanzio 14/A, Valeggio sul Mincio, Verona.
Website: www.borghetto.it