Every bend in the road gives way to breathtaking views, new undulations of green fields, rows of cypress trees, and hilltop villages that often escape our rearview mirror. There are more places recognized by UNESCO on this earth than in all of Australia or South Africa. Seven towns in Tuscany have been designated World Heritage Sites: the historic center of Florence (1982); the square of the Cathedral of Pisa (1987); the historic center of San Gimignano (1990); the historic center of Siena (1995); the historic center of Pienza (1996); the Val d’Orcia (2004), and the Villas and Gardens of the Medici (2013).
Cradle of the Renaissance
The Florence Cathedral, Santa Maria dei Fiore, is recognized as the architectural work that triggered the Renaissance
Some villages in the countryside still retain the Tuscan feel of Borgo, providing the perfect base for restful relaxation after a day of exploring or a long lunch. There are many activities offered by the enclave: hiking, cycling, cooking classes, wine and olive oil tasting are the order of the day, although you can simply enjoy the views with a book in hand and a glass of Monterosola . This is without a doubt the Italian dolce vita.
The Arnolfo Tower, in the Palazzo Vecchio.
Florence is the capital of Tuscany and the most populous town, with 369,745 inhabitants. It is one of the most magical cities in Italy and the birthplace of Renaissance art, as well as being one of the most romantic destinations in the world. From the Duomo to the Ponte Vecchio, Florence has endless magical corners at sunset.
Idyllic countryside
The heart of Tuscany is those blue misty hills that seem to come out of a painted painting by Leonardo or Raphael
The Ponte Vecchio is the oldest bridge in Florence, known for its pastel-hued shops that cling to the banks of the Arno River. A steep walk up Piazzale Michelangelo offers visitors to the city one of the most spectacular views of urban Tuscany, with the distinctive Duomo dominating the skyline.
Pont-Aven, the corner of Brittany where Paul Gauguin dynamited Impressionism
Pont-Aven, Tuscany.
Neat rows of sangiovese vines, olive groves, untidy swaths of woods, the occasional stand of stone pines, and the deep green spears of cypress trees punctuate an idyllic landscape.
Ancient Tower Via Tornabuni
The way of luxury
Located in one of the most exclusive streets of Florence, Via Tornabuoni, it is a charming historic mansion. On its façade, a medieval tower dating from the 13th century stands out. The Antica Torre Tornabuoni is one of the most luxurious properties in Florence and this five-star luxury accommodation right in the center of the city. 
Via Tornabuoni.
Dimora Lever
Art collection
In the heart of Florence, on Via della Scala, stands this elegant property offering exceptional five-star accommodation just minutes from the city’s most historic monuments. A beautifully restored 18th century villa, Dimora Palanca has been linked to the arts for many years and this vibrant artistic heritage is clearly represented throughout the property. Respecting its artistic roots and impressive Florentine heritage, Dimora Palanca houses a collection of more than fifty pieces of contemporary art by Tuscan artist Paolo Dovichi. Some rooms feature exquisite frescoes and intricate stucco work where architect Stefano Viviani has successfully created a modern reflection of Dimora Palanca’s original character.
Dimora Palanca houses.
Le Fontanelle Hotel
Relax in the countryside
Nestled amidst the rolling Chianti hills is one of Italy’s most exclusive country resorts, Hotel Le Fontanelle. An immaculately restored rural retreat in a former 13th century abandoned village. Located on two hectares of land, it offers its guests unforgettable 5-star hospitality in the heart of Tuscany. Centered around a grand stone villa, resting on a hill overlooking olive groves and vineyards, it is one of Tuscany’s best kept secrets.
Le Fontanelle Hotel.
Monterosola
Authentic tuscan landscape
Monterosola is an elegant privately owned wine estate in the heart of the Tuscan countryside. Situated between the world famous wine regions of Chianti and Bolgheri, Monterosola’s majestic five-storey stone estate is just a short drive from the legendary hilltop town of San Gimignano. The views from Monterosola are truly enchanting with endless hills, vineyards, olive groves and centuries-old forests stretching as far as the eye can see on the horizon. 
Monterosola.
Vallepicciola
All the colors of Chianti
Vallepicciola is immersed in the rolling hills of Chianti Classico, just 10 minutes from Siena. 105 hectares planted with care, carefully choosing the best locations for the Sangiovese, Pinot Nero, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Chardonnay vines.
Vallepicciola.
Grandma Ciana
Traditional cuisine
Nonna means ‘grandmother’ and Nonna Ciana’s traditional recipes have been designed to delight guests with a collection of homemade pasta dishes that have been passed down from generation to generation. In this cooking course, in addition to learning, you delve into stories, traditions and anecdotes that extol Italian cuisine. 
Grandma Ciana’s traditional recipes.
Viareggio and the Piazza e de Russie
With sea views
Located on the Tuscan coastline, Viareggio is an hour and a half train ride from Florence and is the perfect base for exploring the Cinque Terre, a centuries-old swath of seaside towns on the rugged Italian Riviera.
Located in the heart of Viareggio’s Art Nouveau seaside district, Hotel Plaza e de Russie is a sophisticated 5-star design hotel affiliated with the Relais & Chateaux association. An elegant palace overlooking the sea, which has been completely redesigned in a masterful combination of contemporary design and cosmopolitan charm.
