49 Venice and Florence The cities of Venice and Florence are the two Renaissance jewels of Italy. The buzz of the waterways and the spectacle of the classic architecture is a glorious, theatrical experience that touches all the senses. And if Venice is a theatre, The Cipriani, a Belmond Hotel, is the Royal Box. Four minutes by private launch from San Marco, on the tip of Giudecca Island, this landmark hotel commands unrivalled views of the lagoon and Doge’s Palace. Florence delivers an equally rich, cultural experience of world-famous galleries and Renaissance architectural masterpieces like the Ponte Vecchio and the Duomo. It is also the gateway to the gastronomically rich hills of Tuscany. Villa San Michele, a Belmond Hotel, is nestled on a hilltop amid lush trees and terraced gardens, enjoying unparalleled vistas of Florence, stretched out before it in all its classic splendour. Dating from the 15th century, the Villa’s facade is attributed to Michelangelo. Step inside and you experience the ethereal beauty and solitude of a Renaissance monastery that is as much a part of Italy's culture as the country’s greatest cathedrals and galleries. Tuscany in an open top Why not take to the road for part of your grand tour. The rolling hills of Tuscany offer the perfect landscape with ancient hilltop villages and a patchwork of enticing vineyards. You could base yourself at Castello di Casole, a Belmond Hotel, situated near to the Renaissance city of Siena. Castello di Casole consists of a medieval castle and hamlet which are surrounded by vineyards, woods and farmland. The 39 suites are located in the castle and its adjacent buildings and 28 restored farmhouses hidden in the surrounding countryside can be rented as private villas with hotel service. Wineries of the Chianti Classico can be reached in half an hour, and Siena, Volterra and San Gimignano in 40 minutes.
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