This image is on holiday
Cremona
Under two hours from Milan, here bikes clatter along the cobbles
as locals sip espressos in the town square. Home to 164 violin
workshops, Cremona has a history of craftsmanship with professional
musicians travelling there from around the world to commission
local artisans to make bespoke violins. On average, a violin maker
will only make 10 violins a year because the process is so time
consuming – and the instrument will last a lifetime. As for
sightseeing, head up the brick bell tower (the tallest in Europe)
for views of the town and crowds flocking below. Here you’ll find a
handful of good restaurants, such as the appropriately named
Il Violino which serves up four different types of
risotto in spacious, deep-blue surrounds.
Where to stay: A 30-minute drive from Cremona,
Villa Bottini is a 19th-century delight fit with huge
iron beds and high ceilings. In the best rooms, guests are treated
to views of mulberry or magnolia trees lining the park, which also
features a lemon house and swimming pool.
The scene when: the family are relaxing in the
villa, which is located just north of Cremona. Unfortunately the
property is privately owned but it is currently for sale for €1.7 million for
any super fans with cash to burn.