Set on Italy’s lush, unspoiled Monte Argentario peninsula, Il Pellicano is the embodiment of La Dolce Vita. A playground for the international jetset since the 1960s, it is the place to hide out and relax on the Tuscan coast. This year Il Pellicano celebrates its 50th anniversary and it has certainly not lost any of its splendour during these years. Founded by Patricia and Michael Graham in 1965, the 18-room property and its nine adjacent cottages were purchased by Roberto Scio, a frequent visitor and close friend of the couple, in 1979. Over the years, Il Pellicano’s glamorous atmosphere has attracted prestigious regulars, from Hollywood stars to the cream of the European elite, such as Jackie Kennedy, Gianni Agnelli, Charlie Chaplin, who owned a cottage, the Casiraghi and Missoni families and many others. This iconic hotel has also been immortalised by great photographer Slim Aarons. In 2006 Roberto Scio’s daughter Marie Louise became the hotel’s new creative director and she has been responsible for masterminding a major renovation. I had the pleasure of celebrating my birthday in this chic hideaway last spring and enjoyed the fantastic food and relaxed atmosphere tremendously. With its new chef, Sebastiano Lombardi, and General Manager, Marco Filippi, Il Pellicano is moving into a new future with great confidence. I am sure this legendary hotel will be on the A-list for many years to come.

Copyright 2015 Mart Engelen