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Whenever I need a break from everyday life, when I want to switch off, clear my mind, and the hustle of the big city becomes too much, and my longing for Dolce Vita grows louder than ever, there’s only one thing that helps: book a hotel in Italy, throw a few favorite things into your weekend bag – and hit the road! Honestly, it’s the best way to leave stress behind: just go somewhere. Even if it’s only a weekend getaway – the amount of recovery is huge. Like here, at one of my all-time favorite hotels overlooking Verona: Relais Fra’ Lorenzo Verona, which I want to share with you today.

The trip to Verona wasn’t even planned – it turned into a completely spontaneous adventure. We had been staying in Bolzano, a city I know and love, because it’s just so charming. And when we were supposed to head back to Munich, I felt absolutely no desire to return to the daily grind. What I really wanted was to go in the opposite direction – south. The temptation to do the unexpected, to just follow desire instead of reason, was too strong. So we did just that: instead of heading home, we packed our bags in Bolzano and drove to Verona. And it was amazing! I remember thinking – wow, this is what freedom feels like. Just keep driving as long as you want. And it was so worth it – Relais Fra’ Lorenzo Verona has definitely become one of the most beautiful discoveries in my hotel collection.

RELAIS FRA LORENZO VERONA – MOST EXCLUSIVE TERRACE IN THE CITY

This hotel is perched on a hillside, offering a stunning view of Verona and the San Leonardo hill with the Santuario della Madonna di Lourdes. I absolutely loved sitting here on what must be the most exclusive terrace in Verona, sipping my morning coffee and soaking up the warm Italian sun after breakfast. You feel the exclusivity in every little detail – everything has been designed with so much love and attention. And what really sets Relais Fra’ Lorenzo Verona apart is the peace and quiet. Here, you can truly unwind. And when you’re in the mood for city life again, you’re only minutes away from the center of Verona.

By the way, I’ve never believed in the saying You take yourself wherever you go – I think it’s simply not true. Through my many travels, I’ve realized how much new places and experiences can change us. I already told you about one of the most powerful experiences I’ve ever had – at Cabo de São Vicente – and the transformation that happened there. Sure, that was a rare and intense moment, but I believe every journey changes us, enriches us, and adds another puzzle piece to who we are. When you’re in a place like Relais Fra’ Lorenzo Verona, feeling the Italian sun on your skin and gazing over the rooftops of Verona – it does something to you. Something truly special.

Oh, and I absolutely have to tell you about our bedroom – it was unbelievably beautiful! The entire hotel felt like a little jewel you could admire endlessly. Normally, I take way more pictures of the places I stay – but this time, it was so stunning I completely forgot. Sorry! Next time I’m here, I promise to show you more. Or even better – go see Relais Fra’ Lorenzo Verona for yourself. It’s absolutely worth the trip!

By the way, I slept so well here – the tranquility outside the city really lets you get deep, uninterrupted sleep. I had totally forgotten what it’s like to not be surrounded by city noise. Waking up was something special too – it’s amazing how, in places like this, every little moment becomes its own experience. The next morning, I woke up and the first thing I did was open the window – the view of the terrace at Relais Fra’ Lorenzo Verona and the city beyond… I’ll never forget it.

So tell me – do we really take ourselves everywhere, or do new places and journeys change us? Let me know in the comments!

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