Grand Hotel Principe Di Piemonte ★★★★

I am a sucker for a little, refined luxury and now here I can be a true Principessa as I step in through the majestic doors of the dazzling edifice perched on the Viareggio seafront, where it has been a prestigious hotel since the roaring '20s. I can imagine Gatsby staying here for a couple of nights as he takes a tour of Tuscany and its dreamy coastline. Restored in 2004, the Grand Hotel Principe di Piemonte has lost none of its splendour and if anything has merely gained in a refreshing, contemporary update so that its classic charms also include the height of modern sophistication. All this becomes quite evident to me the moment I enter the reception and I make it my mission to verify such good first impressions.

My room is perfectly in keeping with all that this establishment embodies, with a fresh blue and white décor that echoes the sparkling sea, which I can spy from my balcony windows that overlooks the beautiful Piazza Giacomo Puccini. An exquisite, sumptuous bed with specialised anatomical support mattress stands in the centre of my boudoir and all around is a serene sense of well being and peace, as the natural light pours in and illuminates the bright, clean, elegant furnishings and honey wood floors. My bathroom is perfect for an Italian princess, made all of marble and boasting a fine bathtub, fluffy towels, dressing gown and slippers in which to pad about in the morning whilst I prepare for breakfast with a cuppa from my tea and coffee maker. Amongst the more modern appliances I have also an LCD television with satellite channels, independent air conditioning and wifi, although my favourite thoughtful details are the choice of feather pillows and the complimentary bottle of Prosecco. Best not to open that just yet, for the hotel has gone to my head already!

Once settled in I explore the rest of the premises, beginning with the chic, comprehensive spa that lures me into its blissful world of relaxation and doesn't release me until I have fully succumbed to its gorgeous pleasures, including a divine massage. Well, what better way to work away the aches of travel and get into the swing of my life of luxury? Floating now, I make my way up to the rooftop where I encounter the magnificent azure pool that echoes the glittering Tyrrhenian Sea beyond. Behind me I spy the Apuan Alps and with such a spectacular setting I can easily understand how Puccini could have been inspired to compose 'La Boheme' and 'Madame Butterfly' in his villa just south of town. It is simply stunning here and my initial impressions are proven quite correct, whilst adding to them a homely warmth and welcome I had not necessarily expected. Then again, it is the mark of an authentically high quality hotel, after all, its heart and mine has been captured - this is one Principessa who has been successfully wooed by the Principe di Piemonte and his Grand Hotel.