Shakespeare may have had some immortal words for Verona but a sojourn in nearby Byblos Art Hotel is likely to leave guests a little speechless.

Located five miles out of the Romeo and Juliet city, this beautifully restored 15th-century villa will have art and design aficionados drooling with its lavish collection of antique furnishings and classic canvases from some of the world's leading artists.

Salvador Dali, Proust and Cindy Sherman are all represented amid glittering chandeliers, opulent ceilings and individually decorated guest rooms making this a truly unique hotel experience.

A little more subdued is the adjoining restaurant, which makes up for restrained decor with a daring blend of regional and international ingredients on the menu.

When the mental activity of art criticism takes its toll, there's opportunity to exercise the body as well with a gym, pool and spa in the hotel's extensive grounds.

Further afield, Verona itself and nearby Lake Garda offer some satisfying walks and cycle rides.