Romantic Vacations in Tuscany

1. Il Pellicano

Il Pellicano is a romantic resort on the Tuscan coast, featuring luxurious rooms, beautiful gardens, a European spa and delicious cuisine. The 50 hotel rooms and suites are located in the main building and several individual cottages, surrounded by centuries-old olive trees and cypresses. The main building has a wide terrace overlooking the sea and houses the restaurant, bar, and the gym. The spa and beauty center offers a range of treatments, including thalassotherapy, Phytomer body treatments, massages, services for men, Bvlgari and Mediterranean treatments. The spa also offers two, four and six-day programs, so that you can relax and rejuvenate.

The hotel provides its guests with privacy and seclusion which has made it a popular celebrity retreat. An elevator built into the rock connects the heated sea-water swimming pool and the bar with the Beach Club at sea level below. In April and October the hotel offers cooking courses where guests learn some of the secrets of Mediterranean cooking. Elegant meals are served on a large terrace overlooking the sea. The restaurant, which serves Italian and international cuisine, has a wine cellar that holds more than thousand labels of wine. Nearby attractions include Maremma Nature Park, 17th century Spanish forts, Etruscan and Roman ruins. The hotel is 90 miles from Rome where you can rent a car or take the train. (+39-0564-858111).

2. Fonteverde Spa Resort near Siena

A spa resort with roots dating back to the days of Granduca Ferdinando I in the 17th-century, Fonteverde Spa Resort is nestled among rolling Tuscan hills south of Siena, Italy. Combine a cultural visit to Rome or Florence with a few relaxing days in the Italian countryside. Immerse yourself in spa waters and enjoy healing treatments. Set in Val d'Orcia, the hotel is surrounded by gardens and a park, ideal for morning walks. The hotel's 80 rooms and suites are decorated in rich reds and earth tones. Ask for a room with a terrace, order room service, and dine outdoors overlooking the countryside.

Whether you want to relax in the healing thermal waters, or quickly shed a few pounds, it would be difficult to find more beautiful surroundings. Built around thermal waters rich in sulphate, calcium, flouride and magnesium, the health spa offers a wide range of treatments. Guests can sign up for a week-long program, or pick and choose from the spa's diverse offerings. Individual treatments at the spa range from facials to anti-cellulite treatments and acupuncture, with rates starting at Euro 65 per treatment. Week-long programs start from Euro 650 plus the cost of accommodations. Prepared with fresh local ingredients, the restaurant serves a variety of dishes.

Even for those on a weight loss program, expert chefs put together low-calorie meals without sacrificing the taste. The dining room is decorated with Renaissance paintings and sculptures, but nothing can rival the view of Tuscan countryside when dining outdoors under the vaulted aches. The property in located 125 miles from Rome and 90 miles from Florence. Rent a car or request that the hotel arrange an airport transfer for a fee. (+39-0578-57241).

3. Castel Monastero

Surrounded by picture-perfect hills, Castel Monastero is a getaway for those who enjoy beautiful natural surroundings. There are 76 individually furnished guest rooms and suites overlooking scenic countryside. There is also a two-story villa, located close to the spa. Accommodations feature views of the village square and of the surrounding fields and vineyards. For aspiring chefs, there are cooking classes created by the famous chef Gordon Ramsay and Resident head chef Alessandro Delfanti. Guests get to prepare their won Tuscan dishes from the freshest local ingredients. Two to three-hour classes are followed by a delicious lunch or dinner. The property is located in the Ombrone Valley, 23 km from Siena. Take a romantic walk, book a soothing massage and enjoy a candle-lit dinner on your trip to Tuscany. Cultural attractions include Etruscan ruins and frescoes of Piero della Francesca. You can take a day trip to Florence, Pisa and Siena.

4. Bagni di Pisa Palace

Bagni di Pisa Palace was a popular health retreat during the ancient Roman times and a favorite hot springs getaway of the Grand Duke of Tuscany in the 1700's. The palace has been completely restored, preserving its historic touches. Ask for one of the rooms or suites with a view of the Leaning Tower of Pisa in the distance. Guest rooms feature vaulted ceilings from the 1700's, retractable TV LCD, individually controlled air-conditioning, marble and smooth crushed stone floors. The bathrooms have two sinks, a shower and a separate bath tub. San Giuliano Wellness Centre offers a diverse menu of treatments, ranging from classical massage to complete weight loss programs.

Grand Duke of Tuscany's favorite natural thermal cave lets you eliminate toxins and relax in a beautiful natural setting. At the center of the cave is a natural stone pool with hot water where you can take a relaxing bath. Rooms at the resort start at 104 Euro per night, including breakfast. Day Spa passes to the spa start at 96 Euros and include: a Turkish bath, Sea salt body scrub, a 30-minute massage, and access to the thermal pools and relaxation area. Plan a relaxing spa getaway in Tuscany, Italy and save with one of these great resort packages. The list includes a family package, free night offer and more.

5. Villa San Michele

Villa San Michele in Florence, Italy was adapted from a 15th century Franciscan Monastery with a facade designed by Michelangelo. The luxury hotel combines the classic character of its past with all the luxuries of the modern world. Stroll through the landscaped private park surrounding the villa, taking in the wonderful aroma of Tuscan gardens, or relax by the outdoor heated swimming pool with a cascading waterfall.

Most of the guest rooms have views of the garden and are elegantly decorated. The historic city of Florence offers museums, boutique shopping and fine dining. There is both indoor and al fresco dining. Florence is a fun city to explore with children. The hotel offers the Smile Club for the younger guests. The children's club is housed in a quiet part of the hotel grounds in a former chapel with a terrace. Complimentary to guests aged 4 - 12 years, activities include pizza making, Italian lessons, treasure hunts and nature walks. Your children will have a chance to immerse themselves in Italian culture and try hands-on activities. Open from May - September, Monday to Saturday from 10:30am to 5pm, the Smile Club accommodates a maximum of 10 children at any one time. Families have access to a dedicated Kid's Concierge who can help them plan activities and direct them to the best child-friendly restaurants and shops.

The five star property is open March through November. Spring is the best time to go because of mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Airport Amerigo Vespucci airport is six miles away. The Rail Station of Santa Maria Novella is a 15 minute drive. Taxis are readily available. You can also fly to Pisa International Airport Galileo Galilei, about 1.5 hours by car, where you can rent a car or take a train. Doubles start from 1,070 Euro per night. Stay in a luxury Tuscan villa overlooking the city of Florence with one of these great packages. Villa San Michele is offering the "Florence at Leisure" special which includes: 2 nights, wine and flowers, One lunch, daily breakfast, One gourmet dinner, and Two tickets to the Uffizi (011-39-55-599-23).

6. Villa La Massa

Hotel Villa La Massa is a romantic getaway on the banks of river Arno, five miles from the center of Florence. The hotel has a heated swimming pool and you can hire Mercedes Smart cars to get to the city center. Enjoy romantic views and luxury service at this unique hotel. he concierge can arrange guided tours of Florence, Leaning Tower of Pisa, Lucca, and Sienna. There is a horseback riding center nearby and mountain bikes are available for exploring the beautiful countryside. There is a fitness center in the Noble Villa and a treatment room where guests can receive deep tissue massage, lynphodrainage, aromatherapy and reflexology.

The rooms and suites are classically decorated with antique wooden furniture, four poster beds and buffed terracotta tiles. The 37 rooms include single, twin and double accommodations, junior suites and suites. All rooms have a view of the gardens or of the river Arno, marble bathrooms, air-conditioning, and internet access. The food will be a memorable part of your stay. The main restaurant, Il Verrocchio, has a terrace that overlooks the river Arno and serves Tuscan regional and Mediterranean specialties. The hotel has an excellent wine selection and a wine cellar where private parties and tastings can be held.

The restaurant focuses greatly on the use of organic products, including fresh eggs from the hen-house. During the warm months, request a massage under the garden gazebo, surrounded by the beautiful countryside. Florence-Vespucci Airport is 30 minutes by car and Santa Maria Novella, the main train station in town, is 15 minutes by car away. Taxi and limousine car services can by arranged by the hotel concierge, but if you want to explore during your stay, consider renting a car.

Learn to prepare incredible Italian meals from the best while staying at the villa. The hotel is offering the "Cooking classes in the Heart of Tuscany" package. (+39-055-626-11).

7. Principe Forte dei Marmi

Principe Forte dei Marmi is a luxury beach hotel designed by several leading Italian designers and has a great European spa. The town is a popular beach getaway in the summer and a beautiful scenic town during the rest of the year. Rooms are suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows with scenic ocean views. "Junior Space" is a good choice for those who like a bit more space. "Open Space" is a designed suite with an open air layout featuring a white sofa. If you want the luxury of your own private terrace, ask for "The Spatio" suite. Egoista is a high-tech Italian spa where you can try the latest advances in anti-aging technology. Venus Freeze, for example, combines Radio Frequency and Magnetic Pulses in skin tightening and wrinkle reduction. There are several restaurants and bars, including a casual beach restaurant and the scenic 7 Sky Lounge Bar where you can relax with ocean views. Room rates at the hotel start at 450 Euro per night.

8. L'Andana

L'Andana is a quiet getaway where one can relax and enjoy beautiful scenery, delicious cuisine and luxury service. A former hunting lodge of Leopold II, Duke of Tuscany, the property was transformed into a charming country inn by Alain Ducasse, Vittorio Moretti and Martino de Rosa. The two main buildings are surrounded by olive groves and vineyards. Wine and olive oil produced on the estate are served at the restaurant. Activities include sunbathing by the pool, biking, cooking classes, wine tastings, tennis, and golf on the estate's 9-hole golf course.

Guest accommodations are located in two main buildings and offer scenic views of the hills. The Villa has nine rooms and suites, and the the Fattoria has 24. If you are planning a romantic getaway, ask for one of the suites with a fireplace. The restaurant serves traditional Tuscan cuisine inspired by the flavors of the region. Rome and Florence are about two and a half hours by car. Renting a car makes it easier to get around. Private car and helicopter services are also available. If traveling by train, Grosseto station is 14 miles away. (+39 0564 944 800).

9. San Firenze Suites and Spa

The San Firenze Suites and Spa Hotel is located in a beautifully restored 17th century building in the heart of Florence. The location is hard to beat and you will find yourself just a stone’s throw from Florence’s main attractions. Even the smallest of the guestrooms on offer are beautifully appointed and feature king beds, Nespresso coffee makers and beautiful marble bathrooms. If your budget allows, you can book one of the opulent suites to take your romantic Florence getaway to the next level. After a busy day of exploring one of Italy’s most dazzling cities, you can retire to the spa to a relaxing massage.

San Firenze Suites and Spa, Piazza di San Firenze 3/A, Florence 50122, Italy