Hotel Regency

The Regency, facing out to a park in the most exclusive residential area, is one of Florence’s finest luxury hotels and a welcome haven in the overcrowded tourist scene. Gracious hospitality comes naturally to owner Amedeo Ottaviani (also of the Lord Byron in Rome) and his philosophy that every guest should be treated with the best possible personal attention goes hand in hand with the intimate ambiance of the hotel, a former private home. Upon arrival guests are warmly greeted by resident manager, Lara, and invited into one of the cozy English-style sitting rooms richly appointed with fine antiques and paintings, floral-patterned carpeting, and exquisite fabrics in warm red tones. Beyond are two intimate, formal dining rooms, where the house chef is praised for his innovative creations based on Tuscan specialties incorporating the region’s top-quality ingredients. The larger glassed-in dining area looks out over the exceptionally lush courtyard garden where romantic candlelit dinners are served in the summer months. Comfortable bedrooms and suites are spread among the top floors and a separate building connected to the main villa. They are uniquely appointed with white furnishings reproduced from original Tuscan antiques, patterned carpeting, and contrasting wall fabrics. Each has its own refurbished marble bathroom. The concierge is on hand to organize museum and concert reservations, and guides.