We have arrived in Versilia, a stretch of coastline in northern Tuscany loved equally by Italians and foreigners. The modernist Hotel Principe lies just back from the promenade of Forte dei Marmi, a chic little seaside town set between the sea and the magical Apuan Alps. Forte dei Marmi has always been a luxury resort but, unlike some others in Italy, it has maintained its allure. You can find villas dating back to the late 19th century as well as those built in the 1920s, surrounded by gardens behind walls and cypress trees that shield them from passers-by. These were the homes of the Italian nobility and upper-middle classes, from the Agnelli family to the poet Gabriele D’Annunzio. Today, they are the homes of Berlusconi, Armani and Cavalli. The Principe’s modernist building stands out from the more classical style of the other properties and is marked by its linear architecture, sophisticated interiors and an incredible sense of space, infused with natural light. The hotel has 28 elegant rooms and suites, including the open-plan presidential suite with its stunning vistas, and is a true haven of tranquility where you can totally unwind. It, of course, has a perfect pool, beautiful gardens and impeccable service but we were particularly impressed by the excellent dining options offering traditional and Tuscan cuisine. We really enjoyed a superb dinner in the one Michelin star Lux Lucis, where chef Valentino Cassanelli creates unrivalled seasonal Tuscan dishes with a contemporary twist in the open kitchen. Bravo! It has been a while since I have enjoyed a dinner to such an extent that I was happy I could say it was unforgettable. You can also eat a wonderful lunch by this maestro in the hotel’s beautiful Dalmazia beach club. And definitely do not miss the Principe’s rooftop 67 Sky Lounge Bar which is one of the most exclusive terraces in the area, with stunning panoramic views of the sea and the landscape of the dramatic Apuan Alps.