Hot List Hotels 2006
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Gaiole in Chianti
Italy
badia@coltibuono.com
Tel: 39 0577 744832
Tel: 39 0577 744801
A thousand-year-old monastery on 2,000 acres of Tuscan countryside, La Badia di Coltibuono recently opened its eight guest rooms to the public (previously, they were available only to participants in its residential cooking courses). Though simple and absent of high-tech gadgets—you won't even find a cell phone signal—the five renovated monks' cells and three larger rooms are full of charm, with original terra-cotta floors, shelves of books, pretty cotton drapes and bedspreads, and stuffed armchairs or chaise longues. With its cloisters and massive downstairs fireplaces, the monastery is architecturally impressive, and rooms take full advantage of the region's breathtaking vistas. After a stay that includes walks in the woodlands and hearty Tuscan meals in La Badia's restaurant, you'll be completely recharged.
When to go: Late March through early November.
Which room to book: No. 12 is roomy; No. 11 has a coffered wooden ceiling and a huge wrought iron bed; the corner No. 1 comes with a dressing room (doubles, $180–$215).
Information may have changed since date of publication. Please confirm details with individual establishments before planning your trip.
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