UNA Palazzo Mannaioni is a gorgeous countryside retreat in Tuscany that dates back to the 16th-century. It once belonged to one of the richest and most powerful families of Montaione, the Mannaionis. This elegant, aristocratic air is very much part of the palazzo's atmosphere - the family coat of arms and antiquated furnishings still remain today.

The facilities

The location is a star attraction in itself; the hotel is ideally placed between Pisa, Florence and Siena, a cultural city-fix is never too far away. The immediate area is a stunning landscape of vineyards, silvery olive groves, chestnut and holm-oak tress and rolling fields. The Restaurant De' Mannaioni has an elegant dining space and serves top-notch Italian cuisine with regional flavour. There's also a comfortable bar area and winery on site.

After all that food, it's a good thing there are plentiful country pursuits on offer, from long woodland walks, to golf (on a nearby course), to mountain biking. The grounds of Palazzo Mannaioni also houses a lovely garden and outdoor pool area.

The rooms

Each of the 29 guest rooms is sensitive to the building's history, with out compromising on modern luxuries. A new building linked by underground passageway has 20 additional rooms and suites decorated with rustic charm. Although they have all been individually decorated, they do all have satellite television, well-stocked mini bars and traditional Tuscan furnishings in common. Splash out on a Junior Suite and you'll get a private balcony overlooking the rolling Tuscan hills.