La Posta Vecchia
C. Italy: Lazio: Palo Laziale
Located about 12 miles north of Rome's Fiumicino Airport (a 30 minute drive) and 20 minutes from the port at Civitavecchia, La Posta Vecchia is situated on a bluff overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, surrounded by 6 acres of private park. This former residence of J. Paul Getty - originally built in 1640 by a noble Roman family as a post house - is furnished with priceless art objects and antiques dating to the 16th and 17th centuries. From the way you are greeted by the staff upon arrival until your departure, the feeling of this very deluxe and tranquil property is that of being a guest in someone's private mansion, not a hotel.

The library has an abundance of books - many of which were collected by Mr. Getty - for the enjoyment of the guests. All accommodations are different, with many offering sea views, and several connecting to other rooms. There is an indoor swimming pool, beauty center for a range of treatments including massages and facials, meeting room, a private beach, park, and helipad. There are several sitting rooms and a very lovely room where drinks are served, a room too beautiful to be called a "bar".

Breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea can be served on the seaside terrace during warm weather months, and although dress is not necessarily formal, proper attire is requested. The gazebo is a popular spot for romantic dinners for two and is often booked weeks in advance. The hotel's The Cesar Restaurant has been awarded a Michelin Star, making another reason for a visit to this one-of-a-kind property. There is a private Roman museum located directly beneath the hotel that was discovered during excavations and can be visited by guests.