This past week I’ve been enjoying an early-spring break in Tuscany with friends. The region in Northern Italy has been a long time favourite of mine since I first visited back in 2012, so I thought it would be fun to take a little trip and enjoy some of the places that make me happy.

One of these is Florence. It is a city filled with history and magnificence - each time I return I find myself lost in thought, of all the years and people that have passed here before me, of the architecture which is awe-inspiring - especially for the time it was constructed, but mostly for the endless beauty.

Just a short walk slightly outside of the tourist trail is the Four Seasons Hotel - a stately 16th century villa graced with opulent interiors, spectacular gardens, and an ambience of quiet luxury - it is a place I always love coming back to.

The majestic lobby of the hotel is an inner courtyard filled with light. Statues, comfortable seating, flowers, and art make this space both luxurious and inviting.

The perimeter of this space has a variety of upmarket boutiques such as Frette linen, and Loro Piano - Florentine brands that are renowned for quality and craftsmanship.

Just off the lobby is one of the hotels best-kept-secrets - the chapel. This jewel-box-like room is entirely decorated with 16th century frescoes and is the perfect place to have a quiet cup of tea or meeting.

At every turn there is something beautiful to admire. Those who appreciate art will enjoy the endless paintings and objects - all enhanced by the heavenly scent of Dr Vranjes fragranced reed diffusers - another Florentine brand.

The atrium bar is an elegant space for dining. On my visit I enjoyed a lunch of Maccheroni with herb-scented tomato cream and Pecorino Cheese. This was paired with a bottle of Sancerre which enhanced the freshness of the pasta and relaxed me into the chic surroundings.

After lunch I decided to take a stroll in the gardens. The early spring sunshine bathed this space in a warm light - with the birds happily singing and a pleasant breeze whispering through the trees, it was the perfect way to embrace this lovely setting.