The Place
Leaving Florence, the old Faenza road winds through olive groves and cypresses before reaching the beautiful and relatively unknown area of the Mugello, and continuing up and over the Apennines. Casa Palmira is set just off this road near Feriolo in an oasis of green, a converted hay loft attached to a stone farmhouse with medieval origins.
Maria, the warm and charming host, has done a beautiful job on converting the hay loft into a relaxed and comfortable guesthouse. The ground floor sitting room is spacious and welcoming, with a huge fireplace, squashy sofas and chairs, an open kitchen area where breakfast is prepared, and a dining area.
Upstairs, the bedrooms all lead off a lovely sunny landing, and while the public areas have terracotta flagstones, the bedrooms all have beautiful chestnut wood floors and a typical Tuscan decor. Pretty fabrics and patchwork quilts complement warm-coloured walls and dusty green paintwork.
There are mountain bikes for guests to hire if you fancy heading into town and wonderful walking in nature nearby. There is a Roman theatre and ex-Medici estate within strolling distance. If staying at the hotel relax by the outdoor swimming pool.