Gourmet getaway: Palazzuolo

The essence of Italy: classic landscapes, mediaeval towns, olives, sunfloers, vineyards Mouthwatering Tuscan cuisine, world-famous wines Renaissance, Etruscan and Roman treasuers Set in the hills of the Alto Mugello in the shadow of the Appenines

Locanda Senio
A tiny hotel (just 6 rooms and 2 suites) set in the beautifully romantic wooded hills of the Alto Mugello. The most northerly corner of Tuscany, it is overlooked by the majestic Appenines, and lies in the centre of a 'magic triangle' with Bologna, Faenza and Florence at the corners. In the main, people come to the village of Palazzuolo to escape the hustle and bustle of every day life (both Bologna and Faenza are possible day trips by train) and to experience some of the finest cooking in northern Italy.

Your hosts and chefs are Roberta and Ercole Lega and their culinary reputation is legendary throughout the region. Only organic ingredients are used – expect to taste mulberries, cherries, sage, tarragon, basil and rosemary straight for the hotel gardens. They vary the menu to reflect the seasons – if you’re there are the end of the summer, Ercole will be out in the woods at dawn collecting wild mushrooms for dinner that night! – but it always reflects the gastronomic traditions of Tuscany and Emilia-Romagna.

The hotel has recently opened a small spa for the exclusive use of its guests, and there is a small swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sun terrace and sauna.