From a unique Italian art exhibition and ancient maps to a gourmet ski trip, giant chocolate bars, jumbo hampers and last-minute gifts in this month’s round-up…
All wrapped up
Take a look at the stunning hampers from La Vialla in Tuscany which come in varying sizes. The bountiful Grande Famiglia Natale hamper costs £253.73. Order online at www.lavialla.it/uk/
Made for sharing?
Or maybe not… The Prendimé is an gloriously indulgent 500g chocolate slab made by the Tuscan chocolatier Amedei. The chic alternative to a box of chocs, it comes in dark, milk (£24), and with hazelnuts or almonds (£30) from Liberty’s or online at www.amedei.it
Treasure maps
Perfect for armchair explorers everywhere, this truly fascinating collection of historical city maps takes you on a journey across the globe through the eyes of those clever ancient cartographers. You’ll be amazed at the detail and the stories behind some of the destinations, which include iconic Italian cities like Rome and Florence. Published by DK, www.dk.com, RRP £20.
Ski, eat, sleep, repeat…
Enjoy some of the best slopes in Europe as well as gourmet delights served in local mountain huts. Stay at Hotel Sassongher in Corvara from €225 per person per night. www.sassongher.it and www.altabadia.org
Beyond Caravaggio
The master of light and shade, the influence of Italian painter Caravaggio spans the centuries. Beyond Caravaggio is the first exhibition in the UK to explore the Caravaggio effect, and is on at the National Gallery until 15 January. Find out more at www.nationalgallery.org.uk/whats-on/exhibitions/beyond-caravaggio
Le marche sos…
Visit Le Marche in 2017 and you can help this beautiful region recover from the recent earthquakes. Azienda Mastrocola (www.azienda-mastrocola.com) survived the quakes because it was built in accordance with the latest building regulations. For more info, www.le-marche-explorer.com