Relais & Châteaux is an exclusive collection of 500 of the finest charming hotels and gourmet restaurants in 60 countries. From the vineyards in Napa valley to the beaches in Bali, from the olive trees in Provence to the lodges in South Africa, Relais & Châteaux offers all the stops on the finest route for discovering each special place and country.
In all our properties, each maître de maison draws upon his unique experience and passion to share the authentic culture and tastes of his region with every guest.
Magical places and memories of a lifetime: whether it be a romantic weekend or to celebrate the important moments of life such as birthdays, anniversaries, honeymoon or family reunions.
Established in France more than 50 years ago, Relais & Châteaux has become a renowned reference of excellence in the hotel and restaurant world. The Association's mission is to spread its unique art de vivre across the globe by selecting outstanding properties with a truly unique character.
Relais & Châteaux Ambassadress 2010 My “passion” itinerary through Tuscany
Tuscany is the embodiment of the sort of sophistication that has always appealed to me - the sophistication of palaces, fine dining and landscapes, inspired by a region which, through its history, generosity and human genius, is the very embodiment of the art of living. I love driving through the vineyards, along narrow lanes, in search of villages set high-up on curvaceous hills topped by tall cypress trees. What I love most is the serenity of the residences and hotels, where you’re welcomed with tact and elegance.
The itinerary that I’m inviting you to discover offers the very essence of this atmosphere. Like me, you’ll never forget Florence and its wealth of artistic treasures. You’ll enjoy the infinite variety of its wines that reflect its rich soil. You’ll be overwhelmed by the ingenuity of those who built the villages of Asciano, Pienza and San Gimignano. And by the magical beauty of Sienna. Tuscany is a land of grace. It has convinced me that harmony between man and his environment is a condition for happiness on Earth.
*Approximate rate per person for a three-night stay in a double room with two meals consisting of: 1 romantic double room (including breakfast) at the Villa la Vedetta, 2 Discovery Packages (1 night in a classic or superior double room, dinner with beverages included and breakfast) at Borgo San Felice and the Certosa di Maggiano
Approximate price per person. You will need to reserve suggested onsite and local activities yourself
In the heart of Florence, the former Ciofi Jacometti palace, restored in a manner that faithfully respects its architecture and original frescoes, is home to the Relais Santa Croce. The charm of this extraordinary place is immediately apparent, an ideal setting full of charm and intimacy just a stone’s throw from the city’s main attractions. The magnificent rooms and suites with views of the rooftops and Basilica combine period furniture with contemporary design, elegant details and a sumptuous finish. The attentive, impeccable service gives you the impression of being welcomed into a private residence. The restaurant Guelfi e Ghibellini offers a seasonal menu midway between tradition and innovation.
Close to the property...
Lunch at the Enoteca Pinchiorri
French-born and Florence-based Annie Féolde enjoys a reputation as one of Italy’s finest Chefs. Her French-Italian cuisine, served in a gourmet restaurant in a Renaissance palace setting, is perfectly complemented by the delicious wines selected by sommelier Giorgio Pinchiorri.
Admire the treasures of the Renaissance (Florence)
Galleria degli Uffizi, the Piazza della Signoria, Palazzo Vecchio, Ponte Vecchio, Duomo, the Santa Croce Basilica (the Pantheon of Italian artists), the Galleria dell’Acacademia, and of course the Oltrarno district, Palazzo Piti, Galleria Palatina, and the Boboli Gardens... Florence enjoys a wealth of artistic treasures to discover on breath-taking strolls around the city.
Italian elegance, the Via Tornabuoni and the Scuola del Cuoio (Florence)
The Italian fashion boutiques along the Via Tornabuoni have turned this street into an icon of shopping chic. Here, Gucci, Prada, Ugolini and Ferragamo compete to offer shoppers the very best in fashion. Close to the Santa Croce basilica, the leather school continues Florence’s demanding tradition of fine leather goods. The models crafted by the students are designed to keep... forever.
On the route...
Visit the Montegrossi tower - kilometre 62
Several kilometres before you reach the village of Gaiole, the remains of the tall keep of a 12th century castle stretch from the peak of one of the highest hills in the Chianti region.
From here, enjoy exceptional views over the countryside, including the towers of Sienna on a clear day...
Taste vintage Chianti wines at the Castello di Meleto and Barone Ricasoli vineyards
These two vineyards symbolise the tradition and refinement of Chianti wines and are a must on any visit to the region. The incredible Castello di Meleto overlooks 180 hectares of vineyards from its ancient hillock, while the Ricasoli fortress is home to a noble Tuscan family, heirs to several centuries of wine-growing expertise.
We can advise you on booking your route. Contact central reservations :
A medieval village transformed into a hotel! This is the incredible experience offered by the Borgo hotel set amid the Chianti vineyards. Featuring a chapel, an exceptional wine cellar (where wine and oil tastings, oenological seminars and cookery courses take place), vineyards and an inn, Borgo San Felice is more than a hotel, it’s a luxury concept that’s unique anywhere in the world - with a culinary tradition to match!
Close to the property...
Exploring the Chianti routes - kilometre 15 to 30
Discover the incomparable charm of Chianti’s lanes and wine-growing villages by car. Castellina, Radda, Badia a Coltibuono… these sun-kissed villages, often perched on top of imposing hills, rise out of the vineyards, symbols of the peerless Tuscan art de vivre and know-how.
On the route...
Visit the village of Asciano - kilometre 32
A typical hill-top village far from the tourist trail, Asciano is a symbol of “eternal Tuscany”, its undulating hills and neat rows of cypress trees. Ruined ramparts, a delightful 11th century church, a virgin landscape ripe for photographing... there’s no better place than Asciano to look deep into the soul of Tuscany.
Discover the "Città ideale": Pienza - kilometre 66
This modest Sienna town is a rare complete example of Renaissance urbanism. The 15th century “Città ideale” (ideal town), built by Pope Pius II in his native village, symbolises urban perfection as embodied by the meticulous arrangement of buildings (Duomo, palace, etc.) around the Pio II piazza.
Sample fine wines produced by the monks of the abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore - kilometre 92
Lovers of religious architecture should definitely visit this splendid 14th century abbey nestling amid the cypress trees. The highlight of the monastery is the main cloister, decorated with frescoes recalling the life of Saint Benedict. Wine lovers should also visit the cellar to taste the delicious vintages produced by the monks.
We can advise you on booking your route. Contact central reservations :
The setting for the third stage is a unique and magical place - Tuscany’s oldest Carthusian abbey! Set around a cloister that has been transformed into a restaurant serving the flavoursome cuisine of Chef Paolo Lopriore, the hotel offers ten simple yet sophisticated luxury rooms. An unforgettable experience.
Close to the property...
Discover the Piazza del Campo (Siena)
Stand at the centre of this shell-shaped arena and admire Siena life at its best. Benefiting from a rare charm thanks to its highly unusual layout, the piazza is bordered by the impressive Palazzo Pubblico and its Torre del Mangia (almost 100 m high!). This is where the world’s most incredible horse race, the Palio, is held every summer.
On the route...
Visit the medieval town of Colle di Val d’Elsa - kilometre 32
Another medieval hill-top town that’s well worth a moment or two of your time. Just a few kilometres from the north of Sienna, the Colle di Val d’Elsa boasts a rich architectural history, including palaces and mansion houses dating from the 13th to the 15th centuries. Artfully restored, this town reveals its intimate secrets as you stroll through its surprising underground alleyways.
Lunch at the Arnolfo Ristorante - kilometre 36
Tuscany born Gaetano Trovato has found the secret of happiness – his own and his customers! For more than 25 years, he has lovingly prepared dishes inspired by the aromas of his childhood spent deep in the green hills of Tuscany. The seasonal menus offer a new take on regional cuisine, while sommelier Giovanni Trovato unlocks the secrets of Italian wine...
Discover the fascinating San Gimignano - kilometre 50
Does San Gimignano still need an introduction? An essential ingredient of any tour of Tuscany, San Gimignano is world-renowned for its village towers built in aristocratic rivalry between feuding medieval families. Considered the most beautiful village in Tuscany, San Gimignano ends your tour of Italian’s premier tourist region on a literal high!
We can advise you on booking your route. Contact central reservations :
