I have enjoyed the luxury of five-star hotels in many cities of the world during my career, but this one takes the 'biscotti'.
Situated on a piazza on the banks of the River Arno and just a short walk from the city centre, it was originally an 18th century palace.
My stay there was 'co-financed' (not by the establishment) and I would certainly not usually be able to afford it now.
Walking in for the first time was something like entering Buckingham Palace whilst wearing no trousers. Not because of the (charming) reception from the staff, but because of the sheer awe and style of the surroundings. You kind of imagine Anthony Hopkins appearing out of the blue and checking in beside you. What to say? Good afternoon, Sir Anthony. Maybe: Well hello there, Dr. Lecter ;-)
Our room was 'rather large' with a separate dressing room and a bathroom that I would like to have dismantled and taken home.
The room's appearance was the very embodiment of Tuscan culture, with frescoes gracing the walls, period furnishings and a bed of almost adequate size for an orgy.
Particular mention should be made of the concierge. With 'olde worlde' grace, he was a sort of 'Tuscan Jeeves'. He would gently lower his spectacles a little before taking delight in charmingly answering all questions. He also took pleasure in proactively giving recomendations about places of interest that so many visitors to Florence often missed out on. On that note, it is worthwhile noting that an advance E-mail to the hotel will pre-book tickets to the Uffizi gallery for guests. This means that you have to queue for 20 minutes, rather than the 3+ hours that normal visitors have to gallantly endure.
I have to admit that we did not dine there because of fiscal considerations ;-). However, sitting outside at their piazza bar on a warm evening, slowly guzzling prosecco, was a memorable experience.
Complaints? The television in the room looked so out place within the graceful environment that we considered heaving it into the river below, with all the vigour of petulant rock stars.
The name of the General Manager is also not entirely unassociated with Florentine history: Dr Antonello de' Medici! read more