HOTEL INSIDER: A Stay at L’Albereta Resort, Erbusco
Set in the tiny town of Erbusco in the vineyards of Franciacorta is the perfect five-star relais, L’Albereta Resort. Striking the perfect balance of luxury and warmth, it feels like the perfect home away from home… if you were living in the home of your dreams. For a relaxing countryside escape, L’Albereta ticks all of the boxes.
DESTINATION: FRANCIACORTA 🇮🇹
Franciacorta doesn’t get as much love as some of Italy’s more famous wine-producing counterparts (Chianti, I’m looking at you!) but it’s a region that wows when it comes to natural beauty. Producing Italy’s exclusive sparkling wine (not to be confused with the lesser-expensive prosecco), Franciacorta is a wine-focused region that celebrates its natural surroundings. Set on the banks of Lake Iseo, it’s the perfect tranquil escape for true R&R.
We happened upon L’Albereta Resort unexpectedly during our rather impromptu journey from Venice to Milan. Unbeknownst to us, it was exactly what we were searching for. It’s a haven of tranquility set overlooking Lago di Iseo in the vineyards of Franciacorta, the perfect setting for unwinding and cozying up. L’Albereta offers a highly celebrated wellness program (in the Henri Chenot method) but is equally spectacular for those wanting a retreat that’s slightly more gluttonous. We stayed in a Junior Suite which offered ample space for us with a sitting area, outdoor patio, super plush bed and a bathroom that I practically wanted to live in.
There are a few restaurants nearby off property, but in true Relais & Chateaux fashion, the food and beverage outlets are exceptional at L’Albereta, with a mid-casual pizza restaurant, La Filiale, alongside of a Vistalago Bistro, plus Michelin-starred fine dining establishment Leonefelice. Before each meal, we sat outside on the deck overlooking Lake Iseo, with our aperitif in hand, blankets around us, and stars above. We dined at the bistro twice – both nights enjoying wonderful meals with exceptional service – and dined once at La Filiale for pizza. While I’m generally not a huge fan of pizza (I know, my husband raises his eyebrows every time I say that), I really enjoyed our mid-casual evening with red wine and perfectly light handmade pizzas.
Planning your getaway to Northern Italy? Here’s some inspiration for your trip:
- An unexpected journey from Venice to Milan
- Magical Italy: Two Days in Venice
- 8 Weeklong Itineraries for Central Europe
- A 48-Hour Guide to Visiting Franciacorta Wine Region (Girl’s Gotta Drink)
- The Unspoiled Charm of Lake Iseo (Boston Globe)
