Palazzo Leopoldo
C. Italy: Tuscany: Radda in Chianti
Palazzo Leopoldo, classified as an historical residence (therefore, no stars), has opened in the medieval center of Radda, one of the most well known towns in the Chianti countryside. Originally built in the medieval period, the house is named for the Archduke Leopoldo II, a member of the famous Lorena family, who stayed there in 1837 when the structure was a private manor house. A wonderful base for exploring the countryside, the palazzo offers large rooms, junior suites and spacious suites with fireplace and frescoes. All accommodations have jacuzzi showers but no bathtubs and all have satellite television, air conditioning and minibar. Buffet breakfast is served either in the 17th century kitchen or on the terrace overlooking the hills and castles. There is a "wellness center" with sauna, Jacuzzi, solarium beauty treatments and massages available on the property. The hotel's restaurant, Perla del Palazzo, features Tuscan cuisine (light lunch is available but dinner is especially recommended) - with indoor and outdoor seating - weather permitting, of course. There is also an enoteca for wine tastings. There may even be an indoor pool in the hotel's future! The drive to Florence is about 40 minutes via beautiful country roads.

NOTE: Hotel is closed in January and February. There is NO ELEVATOR, but there are ground floor rooms as well as rooms on two additional floors.