Villa Mangiacane
C. Italy: Tuscany: San Casciano
For lavishness, comfort, and a homelike ambience set amongst the breathtaking rolling hills of Chianti Classico, look no further. Villa Mangiacane is a 16th century villa turned deluxe hotel that has outstanding service and amenities located a mere 20-minute drive from Florence. With 26 rooms (14 doubles and 12 suites), each accommodation is uniquely decorated with an eclectic mix of antiques and art from all over the world. Accommodations, whether in the main villa or vineyard villa, have something special to offer visitors, such as a private garden with outdoor Jacuzzi or terrace with views of Florence. The main villa has two large terraces used as lounges or dining areas, and the top terrace can become an exclusive dining space if a group of guests occupy all five surrounding suites. The palatial Mangiacane Royal Suite is a must for honeymooners - the room comes complete with a cupola Jacuzzi tub, double headed light therapy shower, and VERY large silver four poster bed!

There is an elegant formal dining room in the main villa where guests can enjoy innovative Italian cuisine. Another great dining space is the large country kitchen where guests can partake in Italian cooking lessons and later dine on their creations in a less formal setting. The main villa's cellar includes yet another private dining space that is ideal for wine tasting and small parties. Also in the cellar is the Naduschka Spa that includes an indoor heated swimming pool in a "Roman like" setting, Jacuzzi, sauna, steam or hammam, relaxation area, gym, and treatment rooms. Many of the beauty treatments provided at the spa are created by grape seed oil and other natural products produced onsite.

Wine and olive oil are produced on the 300 hectare estate and the grounds also include gardens and two outdoor swimming pools, one of which has a "Nikki beach" feel with sand and a mobile bar. A complimentary shuttle to Florence is provided for guests throughout the year beginning April 1, 2008, and jaunts to Siena and surrounding medieval villages are less than one hour away by car.