Villa Mangiacane

Once the home of the Machiavelli family, the 16th-century Villa Mangiacane has seen a lot of history, and was a suitably grand setting for one of the most infamous Italian families. These days the current South African owners have made it much more relaxed, it feels like an elegant family home—full of antiques, ancient murals and interesting modern art—you'll not miss the Zimbabwean sculpture collection in the Giardino delle Scultura. Set in the Chianti wine region, the hotel overlooks acres of countryside, yet is just seven and a half miles from Florence city center. (Take note that one cannot drive into the center of Florence, so it's best to take a taxi to and from.) The 26 rooms and suites have all been designed with Tuscan colors, art, antiques and marble, and most include a private garden area. However, there's a big discrepancy between rooms, so be sure to request the following picks when you book. I stayed in what is by far the best Junior Suite: number 36, and I'd also recommend number 3, another suite, which shares the best of the property's large semi-private terraces which overlook the Tuscan landscape. The public rooms are similarly well decked-out, full of antique objets, rugs and mirrors, with the occasional modern touch, like a zebra print footstool, thrown in. The gardens are manicured and jewel-like; love the outdoor infinity pool, which has tented cabanas in the summer and is a coveted spot for lunch. Dinner is a more formal affair, with delicious, seasonal Tuscan cuisine served up in the formal dining room, the Vinoteque cellar or, in winter, the cosy kitchen fire—you'll enjoy the olive oil and wines they produce on site. The Naduschka spa is an opulent, clever Italiante gem complete with arched ceilings and columns around the narrow pool, steam room, sauna and treatment rooms where you'll find Ayurvedic therapies, hot stone and deep tissue massages. The gym looks like a library; pretty but not really inspirational for a real workout! My two complaints? The breakfast is underwhelming and the staff unhelpful to advise you on what to do, where to eat, go and see. So, come armed with your own picks and recommendations!

Room rates from €370.