Villa La Massa Candeli - Tuscany

Just minutes away from central Florence, immersed in some 22 acres of parkland, and affording fabulous views over the Arno river and the surrounding countryside, the luxury hotel Villa La Massa can justifiably boast one of the finest locations in the whole of Tuscany.

The oldest part of the estate dates back to the 16th century, when the influential Landini family commissioned the building of two properties on land close to the banks of the Arno river. The "Noble Villa" and "Old Mill" remained two distinct buildings until 1788 when the new proprietors, the Rinuccini brothers, united them in one single unit which they gave the name of Villa La Massa. The towers on each of the four corners of the villa were added during enlargement work carried out in 1804, at the same time that the small chapel was built in the grounds of the estate.

It was not until half way through the 20th century that Villa La Massa was transformed from private residence in hotel. In 1998 Jean Marc Droulers, President and CEO of the celebrated Villa d'Este, purchased the estate, thus providing a Tuscan sister hotel for his Lake Como property. A comprehensive restoration and refurbishment program followed, which resulted in the creation of one of Florence's finest luxury hotels.

The sumptuous guestrooms and suites are all appointed with exquisite antiques and unique items of furniture handcrafted by the skilled cabinetmakers of Florence. Traditional olive green, deep crimson, and Siena yellow have been chosen for the silks and brocades used in the upholstery and drapes.

From the windows of the "Verrocchio" restaurant and from the terrace, magnificent views of the Rufina hills and the river Arno can be enjoyed. Excellent seasonal menus feature the very best Tuscan and Mediterranean cuisine, to be accompanied by wines chosen from a quite superlative wine list.

On site leisure facilities include a gym, wellness center, and a large open-air swimming pool. Just a few kilometers away from the Villa, lies Florence's celebrated Ugolino Golf Club.

A much requested venue for top business and social events, Villa La Massa has a series of attractive function rooms all fitted with the very latest in communication and meeting room technology.