Villa Cora is a truly magnificent Italianate villa on the outskirts of Florence, close to the world famous Boboli Gardens. The hotel has just 46 rooms and suites, each of which are elegantly decorated, mainly in rococo style; sumptuous public rooms have an abundance of beautiful marble statuary, both indoors and placed around the beautiful gardens.
The whole place feels rather like a small and intimate palace. Purple, blue and cream tones predominate in the public area, with masses of gilt, chandeliers, fresh flowers - everywhere you look there is something beautiful and unique to admire.
“More like staying in a small palace than a hotel”
Our suite featured warm red wall coverings, a half tester bed which was sublimely comfortable, squashy chintz covered sofas and armchairs, a bathroom with a Carrera marble bath and some of the nicest toiletries we have ever tried, by Anik Goutal. Also featured was a plasma screen TV, free wifi, air conditioning, a mini bar with local drinks and snacks – in fact, everything our hearts could desire, all in a spacious and elegant room with a pretty view.
We loved the spa which is located in a separate building, but probably our favourite place was the outdoor pool, surrounded by lawns and hedges, and lined with illuminated statuary, swimming and lounging here made us feel like the Emperor Nero and one of his lady friends!
The hotel restaurant Le Bistro provided a delightful experience.
There is a shuttle service into Florence, making the Villa Cora an ideal place for the art lover wanting to stay away from the hustle and bustle of town, yet within easy reach of the galleries and shops. The grandeur of the whole place inspires guests to soak up the atmosphere and truly relax into a less hurried, more elegant way of life.
The Bill: £180 per night
