What do we really want from a holiday? What do we expect from the long-awaited vacation? What subtle pleasures would we like to see satisfied while we are far from everything and everyone?

It seems strange, but in the ranking of the joys that life reserves us, the holidays occupy a leading position, represent a moment of escape that we cultivate for long months, anticipating the moment of departure. The wait and the preparations are almost as important as the journey itself because they offer our brain a breath of oxygen, calm the anxieties and frustrations of everyday life, save us from the tedium of routine. Man is not born for monotony, but is a creature genetically predisposed to curiosity and discovery. This is why "unplugging" is used to generate opportunities and incentives that satisfy us, give us a positive charge of energy, make us feel good-humored.

But what are the things we look for away from home? Rest and relaxation for sure, warmth and sun, excellent food and excellent wine, fun and entertainment, a bit of culture and a bit of healthy and frivolous shopping.

For example, during the long and dark winter days I dream of the clear water of the pool and the gentle lapping of the water that touches the edge of the pool.

I dream of reading lying comfortably on a bed while my skin, caressed by the sun, is tinged with shades of gold.

I dream of having time to enjoy a sumptuous breakfast on the terrace, while, perhaps,the rest of the family is still asleep.

I imagine wearing some new clothes, which I bought for a dinner at La Darbia, or to meet friends and chat with them in the garden while the sun sets behind Monte Rosa.

The possibility of renting a boat and taking a ride on the lake, with the wind that ruffles my hair and a feeling of total freedom that takes me back to a time...

I also plan to get up early to go running, along the paths that descend towards Orta San Giulio, or take a regenerating walk in the woods, breathing in deeply the crisp morning air.

I also decide which photographs I would like to take and to post on my Instagram profile and so share with others the beauty of the landscape.

Or I look for local places and shops that are worth visiting to make some interesting purchases. For example, I could stock up on design objects in the Alessi shop...

And then I plan a trip to Milan, maybe to admire the paintings of the Pinacoteca di Brera or the famous Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci.

I can also organize the itinerary of a mountain walk, in the splendid Ossola valleys, where marmots are heard whistling. Surely you wouldn't miss a walk on the top of Mottarone, maybe to experience the Alpyland track.

Or I could book an e-bike tour (to avoid too much exertion) and, while we are there, an outing with the SUP (... Stand Up Paddleboard).

And then in the evening you cannot miss a refreshing swim in the heated swimming pool with a wonderful lake view.

I also want to be pampered by the staff of "La Cucina" or offered a delicious aperitif in the cellar and a toast to the future.

Or maybe laze in total idleness and get my dinner delivered directly to my room ... and enjoy my comfortable apartment that makes me feel so at home ...

Many exciting experiences await me in my perfect holiday ... in La Darbia, of course!
Which is a guarantee of happiness.