Hotel of the Month

There is simply nowhere more beautiful, more romantic, or more authentically Italian than the palazzo of the Four Seasons Firenze. Tucked away on the outskirts of the ancient city of Florence, it is a unique sanctuary in a busy and bustling tourist hotspot.

To recreate the original splendour and history of a former papal residence with the modernity demanded by the most discerning traveller is no mean feat, but here they have achieved the perfect balance. The palazzo has been painstakingly restored to bring history to life for its guests, with all the luxury you would expect from a Four Seasons hotel. The glass vaulted courtyard plays host to stunning 16th Century murals, frescos cover the ceilings and sculptures adorn the halls. It's as much a museum as a hotel.

Just a 15 minute stroll from all the delights Florence has to offer, the hotel provides the luxurious calm needed after a hard day's sightseeing. Make like a Medici noble and sip a cooling drink in the majestic, centuries old private gardens before heading to the spa for some pampering with products from the world's oldest Pharmacy, Florence's Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella. Using the same natural ingredients and traditional recipes of monks from the 13th century, this is the only spa in the world to use the products. A trip to the Pharmacy itself in the city centre is highly recommended.

The 116 sun-filled guestrooms are all different, but all decorated in silks and velvets to subtly complement the hues of the painted ceilings. Many of the simply breathtaking suites feature original frescos, friezes and hand-painted sculptured reliefs – blending Renaissance artistry with high-tech comfort.

Needless to say, the food here is another highlight. Take lunch in the tranquil beauty of the private gardens at Al Fresco, shaded by a majestic tree and over looking the pool and spa. The food is light, fresh and bursting with Tuscan flavour.

For dinner, splash out at the impressive Il Palagio, located on the ground floor of the Palazzo della Gherardesca. Featuring vaulted ceilings, elegant décor and lovely views of the inner gardens and with a terrace for al fresco dining, this is one of Florence's most romantic restaurants. The seasonal menu features regional cuisine prepared with a contemporary twist, accompanied by exceptional Italian wines recommended by the knowledgeable sommelier. And be sure to leave room for their sumptuous dessert menu.

After seven years of refurbishment, and a reported spend of $100m, this hotel is everything you could expect it to be and more. Perfect for lovers young and old, there is no better location from which to get a real taste of Italian history.

For more information, visit www.fourseasons.com/florence