The art of slow travel has never gotten a more a luxurious makeover

There is a certain romance to discovering Europe at your own pace, where winding coastal roads, centuries-old architecture and leisurely afternoons become as memorable as the destinations themselves. Reimagining the golden age of European travel for the modern connoisseur, Anantara Hotels & Resorts has joined hands with legendary Italian automotive marque Alfa Romeo to unveil the Anantara Grand Tour of Europe – an immersive driving experience that celebrates the art of slow travel, cultural discovery and the finer pleasures of the journey.

Inspired by the 18th-century Grand Tour, traditionally undertaken by Europe's aristocratic and intellectually curious travellers, this contemporary interpretation brings together the worlds of luxury hospitality and Italian automotive heritage. The experience invites guests to explore some of the continent's most evocative landscapes behind the wheel of Alfa Romeo's celebrated automobiles, with carefully curated stays and destination-led experiences shaping the journey.

From the classic mid-century Giulietta to the contemporary Giulia sports sedan and Stelvio SUV, the itineraries offer a choice of iconic models. Those seeking a more spirited drive can opt for the high-performance Quadrifoglio variants of the Giulia and Stelvio, bringing a racing-inspired dimension to the experience. More than a road trip, the collaboration is conceived as a sensorial exploration of Europe's landscapes, gastronomy and cultural heritage.

An Italian escape, the Dolce Vita way

Leading the inaugural collection of itineraries is the Dolce Vita Tour, an invitation to experience Italy through the eyes of those who know it best. Beginning at Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome Hotel, the journey unfolds through the sun-drenched hills of Castelli Romani before tracing the luminous coastline of Sperlonga. From here, the route continues towards the dramatic heights of Ravello before descending along the cinematic curves of the Amalfi Coast, culminating at Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel.

The experience is as much about the pauses along the way as the miles covered. Guests can look forward to leisurely seaside lunches, intimate tastings at family-run vineyards and golden-hour strolls beneath Positano's pastel-hued skyline. Each stop offers an opportunity to savour the Italian art of living, with the country's celebrated culinary traditions and picturesque landscapes providing a fitting backdrop.

The partnership brings together two names united by a shared appreciation for craftsmanship, heritage and emotional connection. Their association first came to life during Anantara Concorso Roma 2026, a historic-car showcase that saw timeless Italian automobiles parade through the Eternal City. The Grand Tour builds on this synergy, combining Anantara's destination-led hospitality with Alfa Romeo's passion for design and driving performance.

A grander European tour on wheels awaits

While Italy sets the tone for the inaugural experience, the journey is only beginning. In 2027, the Anantara Grand Tour of Europe is set to expand into new territories, with itineraries encompassing the French Riviera, Málaga to Marbella, Dublin to Amsterdam and the Imperial Capitals Tour.

The latter promises a particularly evocative passage through Europe's historic capitals and enchanting towns, bookended by stays at Anantara Palais Hansen Vienna Hotel and Anantara New York Palace Budapest. Along the way, guests will navigate grand imperial boulevards and scenic routes, with curated experiences celebrating the continent's rich cultural tapestry through music, art and gastronomy.

Travellers can choose to embark on the complete Grand Tour or select individual itineraries, with optional connecting flights available to facilitate journeys between Anantara properties.

In an era when luxury travel is increasingly defined by meaningful experiences rather than simply the destinations themselves, the Anantara Grand Tour of Europe offers a compelling proposition. It is an invitation to rediscover the romance of the open road, indulge in the pleasures of unhurried exploration and experience Europe with a distinctly Italian sensibility.