Photo Credit: Villa Mangiacane
It’s one thing to visit Florence or Rome; but for a truly Italian, or better yet, a truly Tuscan experience, Villa Mangiacane offers the wine region’s heart and soul in its gorgeous, expansive property, nestled in the winemaking region of Chianti Classico. Built by the famed Machiavelli family in the 15th century, Haute Living had the pleasure of embracing Villa Mangiacane’s rich history and modern luxuries, all of which would be expected from a world-class hotel.
Photo Credit: Villa Mangiacane
“Villa Mangiacane is a romantic place,” begins Nadiia Cohen, co-owner of the Villa. “From the moment you arrive, you leave behind all your worries and enter a little paradise – here you have stillness and serenity, the sweet smell of lavender and roses, the vines which dance in the warm breeze and the song of the cicada.”
The stunning countryside views from the property are immediately striking, whether from the ground level or the uppermost terrace, which are particularly breathtaking. The onsite vineyards provide the perfect setting for a guided wine tour, as does the historical aging cellar inside the Villa, where a sommelier-led three wine tasting is offered with three, locally-produced wines—Chianti Classico DOCG, Chianti Classico Reserve DOCG and Aleah Supertuscan IGT. Pairing the wines is easy, especially with the property’s impressive gourmet restaurant, offering a wide range of mouthwatering Tuscan specialties and unparalleled views.
Photo Credit: Villa Mangiacane
There’s something magical about Villa Mangiacane, most probably its rich history that exudes from the walls, coupled with the meticulous attention to detail that leaves no luxury behind. After undergoing a multi-million dollar renovation with Florence-based architect Gianclaudio Papasogli Tacca and world-renowned interior decorator Ralf Krall, the 600 acres of lush vineyards and olive groves continue to produce award-winning wines, as well as flavorful and fragrant extra virgin olive oil.
Photo Credit: Villa Mangiacane
The Estate houses 28 rooms and suites between two onsite buildings, which are elegantly appointed with original artwork and furniture collected from all over the world, and feature stunning views of the Tuscan landscape and of Florence. The main Palazzo Machiavelli building includes original Renaissance art and terraces with impressive Tuscan views, while guests may enjoy an infinity pool and bar, gorgeous gardens and views of Chianti from the second building, Villa Mazzei.
Photo Credit: Villa Mangiacane“Luxury is everything,” continues Cohen. “From the beautiful beds and marbles that we have collected from around the world to the Naduchka Spa and our ever-growing art collection. But the magic of the place is undoubtedly in its mysterious charm.”
When it comes to dining, the options at Villa Mangiacane are just as impressive as all the other amenities. Guests may choose from an extensive in-room dining menu, the gourmet restaurant overlooking the Tuscan countryside, a poolside lunch, an al fresco dinner in the Herb Garden, or even a private dinner in the Barricaia, Wine Cellar or at the Chef’s Table in the historic kitchen. Additionally, the onsite Garden Spa offers a range of services, while the Executive Chef on property offers Tuscan cooking classes. Staff may also assist with arranging wine tours, city tours, shopping tours, excursions and a variety of outdoor activities—including hot air balloon rides—for guests.
Photo Credit: Villa Mangiacane“Nothing beats a glass of Chianti Classico on the terrace, overlooking the Tuscan hills and watching the sun set over the very place where Machiavelli wrote The Prince,” reflects Cohen. “I often imagine the stories that these walls have seen and heard over the last five hundred years. It has been our dream to restore Mangiacane to its former beauty and splendor, and so it really is wonderful to see our guests bathe in this beauty every day.”
Haute Living was particularly impressed with the extensive art collection that was prominently featured throughout the internal and external areas of the property. The perfectly manicured ground housed several, original African sculptures, making the space and the aura even that much more impressive.
Photo Credit: Villa MangiacaneSo instead of the been-there-done-that Rome or Florence visit, give Tuscany a try, and if you do, enjoy the Renaissance-meets-modern-day splendor of Villa Mangiacane.
For more information, please visit the property’s
website.
