The Corte della Maestà is an Antica Residenza in the medieval village of Civita di Bagnoregio – and one of Marie-Louise Sciò’s secret tips. © Studio GDS

Situated in southern Tuscany, Porto Ercole doesn’t conform to the general perception of a celebrity hotspot: Unlike Saint-Tropez, it doesn’t have a wanna-be celebrity catwalk. But it has Il Pellicano, the legendary refuge for international jet-setters who come to escape the masses and enjoy the lovely view of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Charlie Chaplin and Jackie Kennedy have stayed here, now it’s favored by people like Josh Hartnett and Margherita Maccapani Missoni. Marie-Louise Sciò, Creative Director and CEO of the Pellicano Hotels Group, is the tastemaker who ensures that many years after it opened, the legendary luxury hotel is still talked about, albeit very discretely: “We stand for luxury that whispers rather than shouts.”

What is your favorite travel destination?
Italy.

What other countries or cities inspire you?
Helsinki, Finland - because of the architecture.

An unforgettable sight?
The Northern Lights.

Where are you going to next?
Austria!

The "Il Pellicano" in Tuscany draws you in with its casual, Italian charm. © Pellicano Hotels Group

Which hotel do you keep on returning to?
The "La Colombe d'Or" in Saint-Paul-de-Vence.

Your favorite classic hotel?
The "Claridge's" in London.

What’s your favorite hideaway?
The "Corte della Maestà" in Bagnoregio.

Any other favorite hotels?
The "La Perla" in Corvara in Badia.

Fragrant Swiss pine, soft throws and lovingly chosen details await guests at "La Perla" in Corvara, Badia. © Gustav Willeit

What places would you like to explore in the future?
Places that haven’t been explored yet!

Where do you like to dine?
In Rome.

Your favorite dish - and in which restaurant?
The "Piatto Romano" in Rome - and all the vegetables there!

Describe your perfect travel day?
Driving with good music.

Claridge’s in London’s Mayfair is a favorite haunt of stars and heads of state – which may have contributed to the hotel affectionately being called the “Annex to Buckingham Palace.”© James McDonald

Which three beauty products are essential when you’re traveling?
Augustinus Bader face cream, eye cream, and lip balm.

What do you always have in your case?
A scarf.

Recommended holiday reading?
“The Creative Act. A Way of Being,” by Rick Rubin. Or a biography – I love biographies!

Is there a film location that made you want to travel there?
"Badlands" by Terrence Malick.

The famous La Colombe d’Or on the French Riviera. © provided

A song that reminds you of a holiday?
"Sì, viaggiare" by Lucio Battisti.

Your vacation look?
I don't have a standard look!

What is your ultimate tip for a relaxed holiday?
A good travel companion.

Which personality would you like to welcome in your hotel?
An interesting personality!