Castello di Barberino Val d'Elsa

The property was lovely. A former 15th(?) century monastery located on a hilltop overlooking parts of Florence. Surrounded by olive and fruit trees, and gardens. It's past the Roman gate, about a 30 euro cab ride from the center of town. Though they didn't tell us until we asked, there's a shuttle that will take you down the hill to the Roman Gate where taxis and busses can be found. We arrived just after the hotel restaurant had closed for the afternoon by a minute. They were kind/professional enough to serve us something from the cold selections; and it was delicious. The breakfast buffet the next day was outstanding with excellent selection and quality. The usual 3 or 4 hot items: scrambled eggs, breakfast meat, roasted tomatoes. Where it really excelled were the cold items. Fresh juices, local yogurts, fruits, meats, cured salmon. Perfectly executed pastry, and breads with honeycomb stood out. Dinner was a mixed bag. The big downside was that we arrived in October. Apparently, the property has to commit each year to the local authorities when they will close the pool, and switch from A/C to heat in the rooms. We booked through Expedia and therefore information on things may be incomplete. No mention that the pool was closed. It was almost worse that it was too warm to sleep well at night. We had even contacted the front desk after the first night and they said they'd send someone to look at it. Which we learned later made no sense BC it was off for the season.

Amazing location. So cool to be literally across from the Duomo. Easy walk to so many places to shop and eat. Free sparkling and still water was great. Snacks and free gelato! Staff was the most friendly and helpful. Highly recommend this place!