Try Lake Como - or one of the resorts along it - such as Bellagio. It's really peaceful. Also why not try a Thermal Resort such as Abano Terme which is in the Eugean Hills between Padua and Verona. There are some lovely hotels there, but as I just spent two overnights there on a choir tour about 15 years ago, I can't give any precise names. I do remember however enjoying a deluxe hotel's thermal pool for a few hundred lire and the message has stuck!

You could also look up the Hotel Paris in Bellaria (not far from Rimini) - very comfy and peaceful stay ... but has many guests from Alsace, so good food and quiet atmosphere and nice pool.

Thanks so much for the quick response.

I've been looking at the Italian Lakes and trying to choose between them so it's good to have a recommendation. I've also read about Abano Terme and the thermal resort is very appealing. My only concern is that whilst I desperately need some relaxation / recouperation, I wouldn't be driving out there and wouldn't want to feel cut off. Would you say that once you're there that's it, or is it accessible to other places / excursions should I have the energy? Any info on Abano Terme much appreciated.

When looking at Italy I've kind of narrowed it down to between the Lakes and maybe somewhere on the Neopolitan Riviera although I'm wondering if the latter would be too busy - any advice?? Ischia looks lovely if a little expensive which is something I need to consider, it's got to be a reasonable holiday if possible.

I would really value everyone's opinion hear and look forward to reading any more suggestions

Lou

I suggest that you look on the websitehttp://www.tas.it/abano_uk.htm for a start. There is an email address to send questions to - http://info@itas.it .

Abano Terme can be reached from Milan easily by train ... that implies that Verona, Brescia, Bergamo, Padua and Venice could also be good rail starting destinations. From Milan to Terme Euganee-Abano-Montegrotto (the name of the station) takes about 3 and a half hours. You could find out more about train times using my preferred train site http://www.deutschebahn.de which offers searching in English too.

How does a lakefront hotel on Lake Como, on an all-inclusive basis, quite often with no single supplement, all for approx. £450 per per person for one week in August, less in September sound? (Depending on where you're flying from).

The hotel is a 3*, comfortable, with views across to Bellagio. There's a ferry terminal virtually on the doorstep to take you on little 'jaunts' around the lake. There's also a lakefront swimming pool, and being all-inclusive, all your food and drinks are pre-paid, perfect for a relaxing holiday with the option of excursions to Milan and St Moritz or simply your own ferry rides across to Bellagio and about.

My mother went last August and thoroughly enjoyed it, a good mix of ages too. The hotel was more homely than fancy with friendly welcoming staff!

Let me know if you want any more info.

Last year we stayed at a rather "old fashioned" hotel in Montecatini Terme. The town has some famous and very elaborate spas, is set in lovely countryside about half an hour drive at most from Pisa airport. There were direct trains to Florence, Pisa, Lucca, Viarregio. Also a hundred year old funicular that took you up to the old town with fantastic views and nice walks. The hotel had a lovely swimming pool in very attractive garden, and a (chargeable) shuttle service to Pisa airport. It is called the Astoria. As it says on it's website- it wouldn't suit everyone, and we did find it a bit sedate!

Thanks so much for all the tips / website info etc, it really is very helpful. Will definitely research all the places that have been suggested here.

TOTP: Would be interested to know the name of the hotel you are suggesting if poss? Many thanks
Lou

Hi Lou

Yes, no problem. It's the Britannia Excelsior at Caddenabia http://www.hotelbritanniacadenabbia.com/inglese/

It's on sale with Shearings, you can't get the details on the website, you'll need to ring them on 01942 824824 (Reservations), ask for their 'holidays by air'.

I only know about the price as I'm a travel agent and have sold a few holidays there.

Let me know how you get on

Thanks so much to everyone for all your help / suggestions, especially totp for the suggested hotel.

Am pleased to say that we've now booked a holiday to Riva on Lake Garda and can't wait!

Thanks again

Lou

You have GOT to check out Pitigliano ! ! (Tuscany)
Here are some pictures I took and towns near by
http://community.webshots.com/user/burroughspics

Lou, I also have Chronic Fatigue and enjoyed a break at Bardolino on Lake Garda. I am going to try the Riva area next May so if you could review your hotel it would be great.