When your Italy travels take you to a famed gelateria in San Gimignano, know that you’re in for a treat. Much more than a joy for the taste buds, Sergio Dondoli’s gelato in San Gimignano is a haven of local flavors, top-quality ingredients and award-winning innovations. Patrons travel from around the world to visit the best gelateria in San Gimignano. Here’s why you should too. 

The shop 

While Gelateria Dondoli (or Gelateria di Piazza) is known worldwide as a gelato destination and certainly the best gelateria in Italy, the experience of visiting the shop is intimate and personal. You’ll find the gelateria tucked down a winding alleyway in Piazza della Cisterna in San Gimignano, one of Tuscany’s many piazzas.  Step inside – or join the line – and be prepared to be delighted by the creations by Master Gelato Maker Sergio Dondoli. 

@gelateriadondoli_official

The man behind the gelato  

To understand Dondoli’s mastery, we must also understand the importance of homemade gelato in history. The first person to introduce gelato from Italy to France was Catherine de Medici, future wife of Henry II King of France, in the 16th century. Catherine had worked with alchemist Cosimo Ruggieri as part of a cooking contest to create this creamy dessert and the rest, as they say, is history. Today, Dondoli carries on the tradition as one of the 10 Master Gelato Makers in Italy.  

Dondoli is especially known for his experimental, original and unusual flavors. Some of the most notable include Crema di Santa Fina® (cream with saffron and pine nuts), Champelmo® (pink grapefruit and sparkling wine), Dolceamaro® (cream with aromatic herbs) and Vernaccia Sorbet. 

Read more: 10 stunning Lake Como towns you need to visit

@gelateriadondoli_official

Since he began making gelato in 1984, Dondoli has been recognized with numerous international awards. He won the prestigious MAM (Master of Art and Craft) award in 2016, the Italian equivalent of the “Living National Treasure” Japanese Prize, and the French “Maître d’Art” Award. Only 75 Artistic Masters were awarded this honor in Italy, and Sergio is the only Gelato Master to have received this important award. Dondoli also took part in “Identità Golose” (Tempting Identities), a gastronomic event in Milan between February 1-4, 2009, as a member of the “Creatività Gelate” (Frozen Creativities) group.  He also recently published a book, I, Sergio Dondoli, an autobiographical account of his passion that includes his recipes.   

@gelateriadondoli_official

The gelato 

Not surprisingly, Dondoli makes his gelato using highly selected, top-quality ingredients, often local to the region. For example, his DOP Saffron has earned the protected designation of origin from San Gimignano and Vinsanto. Dondoli also uses “Tonda Gentile” Hazelnut from the Langhe region and Bronte Pistachio. Dondoli is the only gelato maker to use Amedei chocolate, awarded the Oscar in London as the best chocolate in the world for five years. He uses raw milk from cows adopted by Gelateria Dondoli at Camporbiano Farm, and local, organic fruit whenever possible. 

When you consider the appeal of gelato compared to ice cream, you can imagine why these flavors are so special. Gelato has more milk than cream and uses lower quantities of fat than ice cream. Because gelato has less air in the base, it is denser and packed with more flavor than ice cream.       

@gelateriadondoli_official

We can’t wait to try… 

With so many tempting creations at this gelateria in San Gimignano, how do you choose? We have our eyes on some of the most innovative flavor combinations using aromatic herbs such as Rosemary Baby® (Raspberry and Rosemary) and Venere Nera® (Blackberries and Lavender). We can’t wait to sample the pairings of sweet, spicy and bitter, including Sangue di Bue® (spicy chocolate and sour cherries), Michelle® (saffron cantuccini, Avola almonds, honey and bitter orange peel), Biske Rata® (white chocolate, pumpkin seed oil, and cookies) and Crema de’ Pazzi® (bitter orange peel, Grand Marnier, dark chocolate and almonds). 

@gelateriadondoli_official

The class 

After your visit to this gelateria in San Gimignano, you may want to dig your spoon deeper into the world of gelato. Should you have more time on your travels, you can take the Dondoli Gelato Class to learn more about and make gelato. You’ll have a quick lesson followed by trying your hand at making a Fiordilatte (raw milk) gelato and a seasonal fruit (persimmon, banana, strawberry, lemon or melon) gelato.  

@gelateriadondoli_official

Just a taste 

Dondoli’s gelateria in San Gimignano is just a taste of the culinary riches of Italy’s Tuscany region. Read about seven ways you’ll celebrate Tuscan food with Luxury Gold and the essential guide to Italy for foodies. 

Still hungry? These 5 Michelin Star chefs are celebrating local culture through food. 

Memorable travels often stay with you for one or two incredible experiences: a time when you were immersed in the people, culture, history and food of a place. At Luxury Gold we call these experiences Passport Moments, and we want to share our favorites with you. So we asked our Luxury Gold travel experts for their top 5 Passport Moments. Here’s what they had to say: 

Private cruise around the Island of Capri, Italy 

What better way to soak in the splendor of Italy than on a private cruise through sparkling blue waters around the dramatic coast of Capri? Delve into hidden coves and visit the White Grotto, a tucked away treasure that few get to see. Admire the stalactites that dangle over the entrance of this stark white cave. Then, wind your way along the dramatic coastline of craggy rocks, the Faraglioni sea stacks and the Punta Carena lighthouse. You can almost hear the tempting siren call from the tales of Ulysses from this storied and stunning locale.   

Capri, Italy

 Game drive in Kruger National Park, South Africa 

On your South Africa travels, venture deep into the heart of one of the world’s largest game reserves on a thrilling three-day safari in Kruger National Park. Your game drives in a private, open-air safari vehicle will have you on the lookout for the Big Five: lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant and the African buffalo. Your guides, an experienced ranger and tracker, are true experts and will share fascinating insights on the local wildlife. With multiple game drives scheduled, you will embark on exciting evening game drives that are followed by sundowner drinks around a campfire. You’ll also seek out leopards, crocodiles, hippos and elephants as the mist rises on a morning game drive. 

Sunrise at the Taj Mahal, India 

No trip to India would be complete without a bucket list visit to the Taj Mahal. Luxury Gold makes your experience even more memorable as you view one of the greatest monuments in the world at sunrise. Bask in the majesty of the Taj Mahal as its marble domes and columns are framed in warm hues of pink, orange and yellow. With the light of dawn and fewer visitors, you can fully appreciate its gleaming white grandeur in peace, only accompanied by the quiet calls of birds and monkeys. Take in its scale from a distance and get close standing within its dramatic architecture as you reflect on this monument of love and flawless architecture built by an emperor in memory of his beloved queen.  

Sunrise at Uluru (Ayers Rock), Australia  

Take in another unforgettable sunrise in Australia at Uluru. On our Inspiring Australia tour, you’ll experience two stunning sunrises at this sacred site. Watch the glowing red hues change as the sun rises behind the majestic Uluru. In this remote area, reflect on how this land is sacred to the Pitjantjatjara, the Aboriginal people of the area. 

Bask in another spectacular sunrise the following day. You’ll watch the dawn break over Uluru enchanted by the magical ‘Field of Light’ art installation by celebrated artist Bruce Munro. This garden of 50,000 hand-crafted, colored spindles of light, spread out across the space of four football fields, will enchant you with its vibrant splendor. Wander through the deep violet, ochre and white illuminated paths. Then, from atop a dune, watching the dawn creep across the desert plain and light up Uluru. 

Your visit to Uluru will be made even more memorable by your stay at Ayers Rock Resort. 

@exploreuluru

Geiranger Fjord boat safari, Norway  

We return to Europe for our final top Passport Moment with Luxury Gold. On our Timeless Scandinavia tour, deep within the fjords of Norway, embark on an adrenaline-fueled, fun and informative boat ride taking a close look at cascading waterfalls and remote mountain farms that cling to steep mountains. From the comfort of your craft, cruise up to dramatic cliffs with an average drop of 800 feet. Here small farms sit at the top, almost untouched in modern times and only accessible by boat and foot. This energizing and exciting RIB-boat ride is the ideal way to experience Norway’s natural beauty. If you’d prefer a less adventurous visit to Geiranger fjord, join a kayaking trip. You’ll glide alongside the fjord’s magnificent peaks and waterfalls, called the Seven Sisters and the Suiter, with an experienced guide. 

 If Europe calls, we’ve picked our favorite European cities to visit this summer. Still thinking about your must-visit destination? Here’s why a Luxury Gold tour will whet your wanderlust. 

According to the Chinese Zodiac, 2023 is the Year of the Rabbit. And this Sunday, January 22nd, we’re looking forward to ushering in the new year. Whether you were born in the year of rabbit, you’re embracing Chinese New Year’s traditions, or simply looking for a fresh start to 2023, join us in celebrating the year of the rabbit.   

@woutvanacker

The Chinese zodiac 

How does the Chinese zodiac work? This ancient zodiac assigns each person an animal based on the year they were born. The 12 animals are the rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, monkey, rooster, dog and pig. Each animal is linked to certain characteristics, much like the western zodiac. The animals also rotate each year. So, 2022 was the year of the tiger, 2024 will be the year of the dragon, and the symbol of 2023 is the rabbit.   

@pablomp

Year of the rabbit  

According to the Chinese zodiac, if your birth year falls in the year of the rabbit (2023, 2011, 1999, 1987, 1975, 1963, 1951, 1939, and 1927), you’re gentle, kind, a seeker of tranquility and have a grounded outlook on life. Rabbits are also said to be quick and skillful. Considering those aspects of their personality, we also dug into what’s to come for rabbits in 2023. 

@eastonmok

What rabbits can expect in 2023   

Some astrologists say rabbits should be prepared for adversity and ready to face challenges head on. 2023 may not be a smooth year, but because the sign of the rabbit is a symbol of longevity, peace and prosperity in Chinese culture, 2023 is also predicted to be a year of hope. Rabbits, while you may face the highest of highs and the lowest of lows in 2023, you can ride out the storms with your upbeat attitude. Perhaps a trip to one of our calm destinations will keep the positive energy going. 

Another outlook for rabbits 

However, other astrologists predict that 2023 will be a lucky year for rabbits with success in all areas and a time when they will come into their own. After commitment and dedication, they can expect advancements, achievements as a result of their efforts, and may see a boost in their career. Rabbits’ sharp financial sense also makes 2023 a good year to take a financial risk. In general, the year of the rabbit is an auspicious year for risk-takers. 

@sharonmccutcheon

In terms of relationships, this is the time for rabbits to follow their heart to start new romantic relationships as well as a year when they can expect existing relationships to deepen and achieve more harmony. It’s also a good year for rabbits to get married or have children. Similarly, because the rabbit is a symbol of fertility, 2023 is also a good year to start a new business or creative endeavor. Rabbits’ flexibility puts them in a good position to try anything unfamiliar. Rabbits should also focus their energy on their health and maintaining a balanced lifestyle for this year of healing. In summary, rabbits, this is the time you will see the results of your efforts. 

@ninjason

Welcome Chinese New Year 

No matter your sign, you can adopt the Chinese New Year traditions to ring in the new year. The Chinese New Year, or the Lunar New Year, is a time to say “goodbye” to the past year and welcome in the luck and prosperity of a new year. So, it’s no surprise that a common practice leading up to the new year is cleaning. By sweeping away the past and eliminating any old bad luck, you’re ushering in a fresh start and good luck. But be sure to finish your cleaning by new year’s day, as that’s a day of celebration and enjoyment. 

@hngstrm

Celebrate New Year

Now that your space is tidy, put up decorations. Fresh flowers and cumquats are said to bring prosperity. And because red is the Chinese color of wealth and good fortune, you’ll find red lanterns decorating many homes and shops that celebrate Chinese New Year. Gifts of money – crisp, clean bills only – are also given in red envelopes. To celebrate, families and friends join to offer sacrifices to ancestors and feast on a reunion dinner on New Year’s Eve. If you happen to be near a Chinese New Year festival, enjoy a performance of the dragon and lion dances. 

@yuweishaw

Festive foods 

One of the easiest and most fun ways to celebrate the Chinese New Year is feasting on festive foods. Long noodles, or longevity noodles, are a popular dish symbolic of living a long life. Spring rolls and dumplings are also eaten for good fortune. If your mouth isn’t watering from these Chinese dishes yet and you’re still dreaming of your next trip to Asia, check out some of Asia’s best food towns. 

@charlesdeluvio

Still thinking about how to welcome 2023? These are other New Year’s Celebrations around the world.