An Italian B&B: Borgata Cantone Country House

I'd be hard-pressed to choose a favorite aspect of my visit to Italy earlier this month. After all, I was in the birthplace of focaccia and espresso! But if I had to pick just one thing that will live vividly in my memory forever, it would be Borgata Cantone. This stunning Italian B&B in the countryside was my home away from home for the duration of my trip, and my only regret is that I couldn't transplant the building and its grounds back to LA with me! 

Husband-and-wife proprietors Emanuel and Vicki have lovingly restored an old villa in the ancient tradition of Mediterranean hospitality. Bedrooms are bright and breezy, bathrooms boast a mix of modern amenities and old-world charm, and common spaces are comfortable and inviting. As for the outdoors, even though this part of Italy gets quite hot during the day, the shady gardens cool the house and surrounding property by at least 10 degrees. Oh, and did I mention there's a pool?

Of course integral to the B&B experience is letting your hosts pamper you—a responsibility that Emanuel and Vicky take very seriously! Imagine enjoying made-to-order omelets and cappuccinos in the quiet of the garden before setting out for a day of exploring. Later, return sweaty from your adventures to a crisp, cool bed turned down for a nap. Then wake, climb the stairs to the roof, and watch the sun set over the Ligurian hills as you sip aperitivo. I'm pinching myself as I write this because Borgata Cantone really was like a dream come true. If you're looking for an Italian B&B experience, Borgata Cantone is it! 

Photos: Anne Sage. P.S. The full rundown on the photography and styling workshop I attended in Italy is now up. Check it out and sign up for next year's!