Relais Santa Croce

We arrived at the Relais Santa Croce by car. It was not easy to find the way with the 'limited driving zone'. So we were pretty frustrated with directions and traffic by the time we got there. But walking in the door changed our mood. We were greeted with an offer of sparkling wine and a most gracious staff. The Relais is in a beautiful old palace and the public rooms are exquisite with frescoed ceilings. Check out the special mechanism on the third floor that was designed by Leonardo Da Vinci! His schematic is there on display! It was used to raise and lower the massive chandelier that at one time was the focal point of the music room. You really feel like you are a part of Renaissance Florence. But the accomodations themselves are completely modern and up to date, with a contemporary twist to the room decor which is the perfect counterpoint. We had to leave early in the morning for the airport, and the night manager personally fetched our car, took our luggage and loaded it in. The service was impeccable. The experience memorable!