Hotel Mulino di Firenze

The property has a rustic Tuscan feel, with brick and stonework, arched doorways, metal sconces, and wood-beamed ceilings. The antique water wheel is on display outside, and the old water tanks can be viewed underneath a glass window in the floor of the lobby. The lobby and hallways are filled with 18th- and 19th-century paintings. Tables in the hotel’s restaurant overlook the surrounding countryside or a courtyard with a fountain.

The hotel’s gated entrance sits off a narrow road in the countryside. It’s 10 minutes to Florence by car, and driving is the best option for reaching the hotel. There is a free hotel shuttle to the city, but it doesn’t run frequently, seats need to be reserved at least a day in advance and, in the winter, the shuttle doesn’t run at all. Those who are up for it can walk 10 minutes to catch a public bus into the city, or take a taxi when returning at night. The Piazzale Michelangelo, Piazza della Signoria and Basilica of Santa Croce are all 15-minute drive away. Several vineyards in the Chianti wine region, as well as charming medieval hill towns such as San Gimignano, can be reached within an hour by car.

The 37 large rooms have charming historic decor, including wrought-iron headboards, wood-beamed ceilings, and wooden armoires. Along with paintings and ceramics, the rooms have a few modern amenities, including flat-screen TVs and mini-fridges. Most of the large marble bathrooms have whirlpool tubs with modern fixtures. There are views of the Arno river from some rooms.

The hotel’s restaurant has been praised for its delicious food. There is also a small spa that can accommodate up to two people at a time for services in a cavern-like, brick-walled room. The outdoor pool has an unusual moat-like design, but is not staffed with a lifeguard and is not very kid-friendly.