Palazzo Gamba

Florence, friends and fine weather, what more could one want? My man and I have jetted off to this dreamy town in the heart of Tuscany and are meeting up with close friends of ours who now live in Paris. It has been agreed that a city break somewhere new was on the cards and Italy was a unanimous firm favourite. Add to the mix our VeryChic opportunity to stay in the very heart of Florence in our own independent apartment overlooking the Duomo and the die is cast. We have booked flights to arrive at roughly the same time and it is a merry airport reunion followed by vigorous catching up in the taxi that ensues. I almost fail to notice the spectacular surroundings and it isn't until we begin to wind through the tiny streets, working our way ever closer to the centre that I pause for breath and look about me. I am always somewhat floored at how incredibly beautiful this city is. I watch locals casually strolling with loaded shopping bags, a girl with pink hair riding a bicycle, a harassed mum calling for her children to come back here as they scamper off in some game of chase. Everyday life in all its intricate detail right here within the majesty of these antique walls.

In no time we are all standing in the Piazza del Duomo with our suitcases, as tourists and Italians flow around us. It has been like an exclusive secret mission getting here. In order to access the old town we were advised to have proof of residence at the hotel and like a magic password we were allowed through, the final gates opening for us as we at last reached the Palazzo Gamba. Already feeling just a little bit special we enter the tall, historical building with its fading lemon yellow façade and ornate balconies. The staff welcome us with wonderful warmth and assure us that if we need anything at all from restaurant advice to gallery tickets, rental cars or tours, not to hesitate to ask them. Feeling more privileged by the minute we all make our way upstairs to our quarters. The next half hour is spent in moving from the two bedrooms to the bathrooms and then back out into the kitchen and salon area as we gush over every tiny detail. The interiors have a fresh elegance that blends the rich heritage of the city with classical Tuscan style. The men are as effusive as the women as we admire the frescoed ceiling and delight over our large open plan kitchen. It's perfect for quiet dinners just the four of us in our little pied a terre right in the most central spot of Florence.

The apartment is equipped with flat screen television, international satellite channels, Wifi, sofa, dining table, oven, toaster, kettle, dishwasher, coffee machine... Everything we could possibly need! Our bedroom has pale walls, pretty paintings, and an en suite all tiled bathroom with large shower, complimentary products and bath robes. From our cosy bed we can look out through graceful glass doors that open out onto a little balcony of our own. The views from every window are spectacular and we can even see the magnificent curved roof of the great Duomo itself glistening in the late afternoon sun. We are all four of us thrilled with our choice and as our excitement settles we agree it's high time we sought out some delicious Italian food. Ever pragmatic, my love suggests we start with what we have directly to hand. The hotel affiliated restaurant around the corner under the gourmet food specialist 'Eataly', 'Ristorante Da Vinci', which is considered one of the best places to dine in the area. The idea is met with approval all around but before we step out from our marvellous Florentine pad, there is just one more thing to do. A welcome bottle of wine has been thoughtfully provided and this we now open as an aperitif to take in our private lounge. Looking out onto the picturesque vistas beyond our large windows we toast to an idyllic reunion of dear friends and to our fabulous home here at the Palazzo Gamba! Magnifico!