The Place
Villa Belevedere is a family-run hotel in a pleasant, hilly residential district on the southern outskirts of Florence, commanding excellent views through classically Tuscan cypress trees when Florentine smog permits. The building itself is no great beauty, being practical and modern, but its well-kept gardens and small swimming pool are a great boon in hot weather, and its peaceful surroundings, away from any passing traffic, a relief from the city centre at any time of the year. The Ceschi-Perotto family manage their business with welcoming enthusiasm and efficiency and have recently completed an ambitious programme of refurbishment. Bedrooms and bathrooms are traditionally decorated in a smart matching scheme of fleur de lys motifs, racing greens and high-quality solid wood furnishings. Bathrooms gleam, with white tiles offset by restrained geometric friezes. Public areas are light, spacious and comfortable and the breakfast room makes the best of the garden.
A limited evening snack menu is available until 8.30 pm particularly useful after a tiring days sightseeing, since there are few restaurants within easy walking distance.