Nestled in the lush hills of Castellina in Chianti, you’ll find the divine Tavola Di Guido led by Chef Guido Haverkock and founded by Natacha Fazal-Karim. Much more than a restaurant, a visit invites you to an innovative, farm-to-table dining experience inside of the luxurious Locanda Le Piazze boutique hotel. The hotel and restaurant are housed in a beautifully restored, 16^th century farmhouse, set among Chianti Classico vineyards. Guests can opt to dine in the intimate setting of the indoor hall or savour their meals alfresco on the outdoor terrace which boasts panoramic vistas over the verdant countryside. Efficient and friendly staff are on hand to offer you a warm welcome and ensure you have the most seamless dining experience possible in a tranquil and sophisticated setting.

Behind the lavish Tavola Di Guido experience is the culinary genius of Chef Guido Haverkock. Using his extensive expertise, he specialises in introducing global influences into the art of traditional Tuscan cuisine. Sustainability is at the heart of his mission as he embraces the eco-conscious philosophy of founder Natacha Fazal-Karim to create dishes that reflect the natural beauty and simplicity of the restaurant’s surroundings. The pair work together to tell stories of their international travels and allow for a deeper appreciation of Chianti and its produce. Environmentally friendly practices are at the root of operations at Locanda Le Piazze, making this the ideal choice for mindful travellers looking to be part of the change.

Tavola Di Guido prides itself on its use of locally sourced, seasonal ingredients to ensure fresh food is served all year round and that nature is respected and preserved for years to come. Locanda Le Piazze harvests breakfast ingredients from its own garden to provide guests with a perfect start to their morning. The restaurant also showcases the best of Tuscany’s bounty by sourcing ingredients from the nearby One Belvedere Tuscany Farm, another remarkable venture of Natacha Fazal-Karim. At Tavola Di Guido, sustainability is at the heart of everything, and this is also reflected in each and every dish. From fruit and vegetables grown on site to homemade pastas and specially infused oils, the intense flavours of Tuscany are combined with the international flair of Chef Guido. 

Chef Guido Haverkock takes an innovative approach to traditional Tuscan cuisine by incorporating global techniques. His vast experience in international cuisine is demonstrated in the unique dishes he curates and through his constantly evolving menus. At Tavola Di Guido, there are 3 distinct tasting menus, each repeated twice a week, waiting to take you on a sublime gastronomic journey through 3- or 5-courses. There are, of course, vegetarian options and additional wine pairing experiences to perfectly compliment your dishes. The aim is to provide an organic and authentic experience that respects the rhythm of nature while reflecting Chef Guido’s talent and Natacha Fazal-Karim’s unique vision.

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Tuscany’s heritage and beauty are celebrated through authentic and meaningful experiences and everything that takes place at One Belvedere Tuscany is deeply rooted in local tradition and is combined with modern comfort and timeless elegance to ensure each stay is one to remember. Alongside the holistic wellness retreat and soul-enriching experiences at One Belvedere Tuscany, guests from around the world are invited to savour the premier fine dining at QB Cucina, a deliciously vegetarian culinary tribute to the land, paired with exceptional wines from Belvedere 1 Winery, showcasing the Chianti Classico region’s authentic flavours and locally sourced ingredients.   

Found in the vast countryside between Florence and Siena, the scenic Chianti wine region has been a prominent figure in Italy’s wine culture for centuries. The wines produced here today continue to tell the stories of the land, its people, and of years gone by. The now protected wine region is characterised by its signature cypress-lined roads and acres of untouched natural beauty but also by the bold flavours and enduring character of the land.

One Belvedere Tuscany boasts ten hectares of sprawling vineyards which also reflect the unique essence of the land. The philosophy adopted here prides itself on its authenticity and “preserving what nature offers, with minimal intervention”. They achieve this goal by nurturing the soil, harvesting grapes by hand, and allowing the process the time it needs to be done right. Trebbiano, Malvasia, and San Colombano are among the delightful whites used to create the tempting flavours on offer while the reds include Sangiovese, Canaiolo, and Merlot. The artisanal, natural wine collection is the star of the show at One Belvedere Tuscany. Each bottle is filled by hand with the unfiltered product of the Belvedere 1 Winery and each of the wines are crafted using holistic practices and a mixture of aging techniques to give each batch its very own flavour profile. This process takes place in the newly renovated cellar which once was merely an abandoned tractor shed on the estate. In recognition of its sustainable practices, One Belvedere Tuscany has proudly obtained VIVA certification for their wines. The certification highlights the winery’s low environmental impact, including reduced CO₂ emissions, limited water consumption, and excellent stewardship of both the vineyard and surrounding territory.

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Guests are welcome to take advantage of the array of carefully curated experiences. Among them is the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of Chianti’s bounty by partaking in a tour of the vineyards where experts tell of Chianti’s history and its world-class wines with a sample or two to be enjoyed too. There are also guided tours of the cellar and the winery and the chance to meet the winemakers themselves who blend their passion and personal flair with the tradition and methods of times gone by. Guests gain a profound understanding of the art of wine making at One Belvedere Tuscany while learning more about the eco-conscious ethos of the estate and its founder. Once guests have learned all there is to know about the unique, artisanal produce of Belvedere 1, they’ll be keen to enjoy the aromas and flavours of the wine with the exquisite seasonal produce served at QB Cucina.

The Belvedere 1 wine is made to be savoured, unspoiled by mass production and free from gimmicks. The produce is pure and showcases the bounty of the estate in all its splendour. This is made abundantly clear by the regenerative philosophy of Natacha Fazal-Karim, ensuring the earth is cared for and its offerings are enjoyed as they were intended to be. Whether a casual enjoyer of wine or an experienced sommelier, there is something new to be discovered from the team at One Belvedere Tuscany.

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It’s a place where time stands still and discerning travellers are invited to immerse themselves in the harmony and serenity created by founder Natacha Fazal-Karim and her unique vision of eco-conscious hospitality. Each of her Tuscan ventures – One Belvedere Tuscany, QB Cucina, Locanda Le Piazze and Tavola di Guido – reflects Natacha’s focus on luxury, regenerative practices, and a deep connection to the land.

Learn more about Natacha Fazal-Karim on LinkedIn.

With its host of transformative wellness activities and treatments, stay at One Belvedere Tuscany highlights the importance of taking time to reflect and is curated to inspire deeper connections with the world and oneself. Intentional wellbeing isn’t just a practice; it’s a way of life. Alongside a love for the earth, self-care is at the heart of every stay at One Belvedere Tuscany. Peaceful moments are to be cherished and with Yoga classes taking place on the panoramic terrace, it has never been easier. There is also guided meditation overlooking the vineyards and plenty of relaxing treatments and facilities in the state-of-the-art wellness centre. Adhering to Natacha Fazal-Karim’s deeply mindful approach to hospitality and her aim to give back to the land, locally produced ingredients feature in QB Cucina’s cuisine, highlighting Chianti’s diverse offerings while remaining considerate of the environment.

Tuscany’s picture-perfect hills provide the ideal backdrop for the many experiences and adventures made available at One Belvedere Tuscany. However you choose to spend your stay, be it exploring the charm and history of Chianti or savouring the rich seasonal flavours of the local gastronomy, there’s a memory waiting to be made. The estate is home to Belvedere 1 Winery and seven vineyards sprawling over ten hectares, producing a range of wines that capture the soulful essence of the region. Guests can take part in private vineyard tours and olive oil tastings to sample Chianti’s specialties and learn about the centuries old practices that make Tuscany’s internationally celebrated fare so unique. There are expert winemakers on site, ready to take you through the process and share their wealth of experience.

For a day of exploration and taking in the magnificent vistas guests at One Belvedere Tuscany are able to rent e-bikes and take to the countryside. For an authentic Italian adventure, there are also Vespas and vintage cars available for hire, allowing guests to travel further afield in style. For an experience reminiscent of simpler times, why not take a calming horse ride over the rolling hills and see all that Chianti has to offer from a new perspective? There are cooking classes for a hands-on approach to learning the secrets of Tuscan cuisine while guests can also take part in a truffle hunting experience to understand more about harvesting these local delicacies. In keeping with the estate’s commitment to living in harmony with the land, guests arriving by electric vehicle will find a Type 2 charging station on-site, quietly efficient and easy to use, ensuring that sustainability extends beyond the kitchen.

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The local area is home to quaint nearby towns, each one full of its own unique charm and steeped in fascinating Italian history, just waiting to be discovered; take to the skies with an unforgettable hot air balloon ride and for a truly immersive activity a ‘Shepherd for a Day’ experience showcases the beauty of rural life and allows for a profound connection to Castellina’s picturesque hillsides.

All this and more are readily available in a sophisticated yet understated setting where you can embrace a slower pace and tune into the natural rhythm of the Tuscan hills and the friendly and efficient team at One Belvedere Tuscany will be happy to assist in planning your ideal stay, full of bespoke activities in and around the area.

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“Q.B.” stands for “quanto basta” which means “just enough”, a nod to the founder of One Belvedere Tuscany, Natacha Fazal-Karim, and her vision of sustainable hospitality which centres around harmony and giving back to the land. Led by Chef Federico Viti, the restaurant’s mission is to reflect and respect the offerings of the land and pay homage to the culinary traditions of grandmothers and their instinctive approach to ingredients and flavour.

As with all of Natacha Fazal-Karim’s Tuscan ventures, sustainability is key at QB Cucina. The aim is to honour the rich culture and tradition of the region by using ingredients grown on site and in the local area to showcase the delightful, seasonal flavours of Chianti. The restaurant’s eco-conscious ethos strives to minimise waste and nurture its bountiful surroundings while providing an unforgettable luxury dining experience.

Each gastronomic journey at QB Cucina is truly unique thanks to the ever-evolving seasonal menus which focus on crafting traditional dishes with only the freshest of ingredients. Diners are invited to savour an exquisite lunch, with options ranging from à la carte to three- or four-course menus. Evenings offer a refined five-course gourmet experience, alongside an à la carte option. Every dish is born from the culinary vision of Chef Federico Viti and made from produce grown on site at One Belvedere Tuscany farm or sourced from one of the trusted local partners. One Belvedere Tuscany farm uses organic and regenerative practices to provide the restaurant with eggs from their own free range and honey from their colonies while crafting an array of ingredients in-house such as jams and preserves, handmade pasta and bread, as well as infused olive oils and even kombucha.

No trip to Italy’s world-famous Chianti region would be complete without sampling wine with such historic pedigree. Diners can opt to complement their premier fine dining experience with carefully selected wine pairings from One Belvedere Tuscany’s own vineyards, and Belvedere 1 Winery, where small-batch wines are produced following an artisanal, low-intervention philosophy and learn about the estate’s history and winemaking process. With alcohol-free options available, there truly is something for everyone.

For a more interactive experience, QB Cucina hosts hands-on cookery classes on selected days where guests will discover more about the sustainable culinary practices at QB Cucina and focus on reducing waste and giving back while you create. After crafting three sumptuous courses, guests will enjoy the fruits of their labour with a relaxed communal dinner with wine pairing. Guests leave with a deeper understanding and a heartfelt appreciation for Tuscany’s rich natural bounty along with a few tempting recipes to recreate.

QB Cucina is much more than a restaurant; it’s a destination where premier fine dining has been refined to embody the innovative vision of Natacha Fazal-Karim and the culinary expertise of Chef Federico Viti. Every bite has been elaborated to take guests on a gastronomic journey and unveil the history and magic of Tuscan tradition. Ideal for corporate dining too, guests can enjoy a guided tasting of curated dishes paired with wines from our cellar, creating a memorable shared experience.

Set among rolling hills, QB Cucina combines authenticity and artistry in a chic yet laidback setting for a meaningful dining experience. With authentic vegetarian delicacies and dishes, immersive culinary experiences, and an impressive selection of world-class wines, all produced in the beating heart of this renowned Italian wine region, a visit to QB Cucina is the place where memories that last a lifetime are the order of the day.

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Founder Natacha Fazal-Karim is no ordinary hospitality visionary; she understands and anticipates the values of modern, sophisticated travellers. She recognises that there is more to life than glamour and grandeur; sustainability and authenticity are at the heart of her mission. Natacha’s goal is to provide a sanctuary where guests can connect with nature and appreciate its beauty and diverse offerings without the distraction of excess. While the region provides guests with the perfect backdrop for rejuvenation and taking time to breathe, each of Natacha Fazal-Karim’s Tuscan endeavours – Locanda Le Piazze, Tavola di Guido, One Belvedere Tuscany and QB Cucina – are a testament to her personal philosophy of blending sustainability, simplicity, and timeless luxury.

Guests are encouraged to find meaning in their stay by welcoming a slower pace and engaging in the present. In and around Locanda Le Piazze, there’s a host of experiences to honour the cultural richness and natural beauty of the Chianti Classico region. Within Locanda Le Piazze, you’ll find intimate olive oil, wine, and cocktail tasting sessions; a range of spa and wellness treatments; and refreshing open-air activities such as bespoke outdoor yoga classes and e-bike rentals, perfect for mountain biking in the rolling Tuscan hills. Located a mere 2km from the hotel, One Belvedere Tuscany is a serene sanctuary offering a peaceful retreat and a deeply personal approach to mindful gastronomy. There are guided wine tours, complete with the opportunity to meet and learn from expert wine makers while you discover the historic winery and sample the estate’s own extra virgin olive oil. Perfectly in keeping with the theme of eco-conscious living, a delightful, vegetarian meal is available at QB Cucina, made from ingredients grown on site and paired with delicious Chianti wines. Alternatively, you can make your own vegetarian dishes in an environmentally friendly cooking workshop, where Tuscan classics are served and sustainability is key.

Guests can explore Natacha Fazal-Karim’s two charming properties and two exceptional restaurants, each offering authentic yet luxurious Tuscan experiences. Tuscany’s culinary offerings are celebrated in traditional cookery classes while the world-famous wines of Chianti await in renowned local wineries and their historic cellars. For something truly unique, guests can join a truffle hunting experience and enhance it with some fine regional dining. With so much space to roam at your leisure, there’s really no rush and where better to take your time than here? However, getting around isn’t just a way to reach your destination; it is an adventure in itself. There are e-bikes for effortlessly traversing the verdant landscapes and hot air balloons to bring a new perspective and panoramic views over such a picture-perfect region. For a more typical Italian experience, why not rent a classic Vespa or a vintage car for an unforgettable tour of Tuscany’s world-famous hills? If that’s not enough, you’ll have the chance to further connect with nature and embrace rural life during a tranquil horse ride through the countryside or by stepping into the shoes of a local shepherd for a day.

Locanda Le Piazze was born from a vision of conscious, regenerative hospitality, brought to life by the visionary Natacha Fazal-Karim. She truly values people, purpose, and presence, as is reflected in not only the design but in the shared philosophy of each of her enchanting ventures.

Learn more about Natacha Fazal-Karim on LinkedIn.

Locanda Le Piazze is a place to treasure quiet moments and cherish the simple things. Every inch of the property has been thoughtfully designed to provide balance and bring out the beauty of everyday goings on. Travellers from across the globe leave with more than just memories, they’re left feeling inspired with a profound sense of cultural and personal enrichment. What may sound too good to be true is transformed into a luxurious reality at Locanda Le Piazze and time spent in Tuscany.

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The transformation of the former Grand Hotel Majestic, a 1968 landmark designed by renowned Florentine architect Lando Bartoli, has transformed a piece of the city’s history for a new generation of travellers. Now fully restored to meet LEED Gold and WELL Silver sustainability standards, the building combines its rationalist-modernist façade with interiors by AvroKO that channel the glamour of 1960s Italian fashion. Strong geometric patterns, rich colours and sculptural lighting play throughout, while a striking Adam Ellis Studio mural greets guests with a whimsical nod to Florence’s Medici heritage.

Read our review of the W Edinburgh and W London

Located on Piazza dell’Unità Italiana, just moments from the Duomo, Basilica di Santa Maria Novella and the designer boutiques of the city centre, W Florence offers a prime base for exploring Tuscany’s capital. The hotel features 119 rooms and suites, each framed by bold design details and views across the city’s rooftops and landmarks. The Penthouse, a contemporary take on the presidential suite, comes with a 140-square-metre terrace delivering panoramic vistas of St. Lorenzo Cathedral, the Duomo and the surrounding hills.

Social spaces are at the heart of W Florence. The partially covered central courtyard acts as a lively internal piazza connecting restaurants and lounges. W Lounge is the beating pulse of the hotel, where live DJ sets, crafted cocktails and Italian-influenced aperitivi flow from the dramatic 360-degree blue lava stone bar. Tratto, the signature dining venue, brings a modern interpretation of Italian cuisine from the culinary collective behind Michelin-starred Trattoria Contemporanea.

Later this summer, the rooftop Zefiro will open as a sun-drenched destination for cocktails and small bites with sweeping views of Florence’s skyline. Michelin-starred chef Akira Back will also introduce his contemporary Japanese and Korean dining experience to Tuscany, adding an international flair to the city’s culinary scene.

W Florence is designed to be both a retreat and a hub for creativity and connection. Guests can take advantage of the 24-hour FIT gym and flexible event spaces, while the rooftop garden offers a serene escape above the city. Throughout, W’s signature Whatever/Whenever service ensures a personalised and seamless stay.

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Eat

Lucca has countless cafés, trattorias, and restaurants where one can enjoy the best of Tuscan cuisine. Lucca locals recommend All’Olivo to taste Tuscan specialities from sea and land, served among paintings, sideboards, and bottles of wine in the intimate rooms of an elegant restaurant. In the heart of the beautiful historic centre of Lucca, visitors will find the Buca di Sant’Antonio, one of the city’s oldest restaurants. Specialising in traditional Tuscan cuisine, the main courses here focus almost entirely on meat dishes. The city has a few Michelin Star restaurants such as Giglio Restaurant, a long-established restaurant in a beautiful 18th-century palazzo in the centre of Lucca. Giglio offers modern cuisine with a very Italian feel, combined with French culinary techniques. Another popular option is Butterfly, founded in December 1997, the name was inspired by one of Giacomo Puccini’s greatest operas, making this place a ‘must-visit’

Do

There is plenty to do in Lucca. This city lies in the heart of Tuscany, near Pisa and Florence and is known as the city of a hundred churches due to its large amount of historical religious structures. Visitors will enjoy walking along the historic city walls, exploring the gorgeous gardens and wandering around Lucca’s squares. Travellers will fall in love with the city for its sights but also for its flavours when visiting local markets and wineries.

As the birthplace of world-class musicians and composers such as Giacomo Puccini, Nicolao Dorati and Giovanni Lorenzo Gregori, Lucca is a city with a long musical tradition. Returning this year, travellers looking for classic composers must attend Lucca Classica Music Festival (April 23 to May 01). Likewise, the most anticipated musical event in the Italian summer is also back this year. The month-long Lucca Summer Festival features legendary artists from all over the world performing across the city in historical venues. The 2022 line-up already features Justin Bieber, John Legend and more.

Sleep

Surrounded by masterpieces of Medieval and Renaissance architecture, Grand Universe Lucca, Autograph Collection overlooks two of the most beautiful piazzas in Lucca, Piazza del Giglio and Piazza Napoleone. Having been a Palazzo in the Renaissance, the building is rich with history which lives on in the present, allowing guests to be immersed in an extraordinary atmosphere where the classic and the modern come together. Grand Universe Lucca, part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection has 55-guestrooms and nine unique suites.

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