Villa Cora is my favorite type of hotel… scandalous history, immaculate restoration with over-the-top glamour, yet unpretentious and comfortable with perfect service. Baron Oppenheimer, of the banking family which financed the Suez Canal, built this villa to impress his new Italian wife. No expense was spared, the finest craftsmen, artist and designers of the day were hired. Once the newlyweds moved in, their parties were legendary, the most desired invitation in Europe. The good times did not last… the Baron suspected his bride of being unfaithful. In a fit of rage he tried to burn down the house. She wasn’t thrilled and left, the family fell on bad times. The house was abandoned. Empress Eugenie, the wife of Napoleon III, bought it after her husband was dethroned. She spent years and millions restoring it to its original splendor; planting the rose gardens which she adored. Edldio Cora bought the villa in 1894 and it is from him the Villa takes its name. It became a hotel in the 1960’s. It became the pinnacle of luxury  after a 3-year restoration by the current owners in 2010. And WOW! What a job they have done. The ballroom is now a large sitting area filled with trompe l’oiel frescos, ornate stucco work, parquet floors, huge mirrors, lavish chandeliers and giant bouquets of fresh flowers. This same lavishness permeates the entire property. The restaurants are delicious, the pool heated, the guests chic and the gardens a refuge from the unpleasant hassle of Florence’s crowds. This is one place you’ll want to splash out for a suite on the Noble Floor, they are unique and truly special. Now a historic landmark, Villa Cora is also a divine place to stay.