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- KVD Communications Ms. Kathleen Duda, 646-723-4338 Managing Director kduda@kvdcom.com Horse hooves pound the dry, summer ground, sending up swirling clouds of yellow dust. The crowd goes wild, almost drowning out the blast of trumpets, as the elaborate crest-emblazoned headdress on one of the horses begins to slip off. If it falls to the ground his horse will

be a loser in the race, but not the loser. The honors for the biggest failure go to the horse and rider that come in second place. The Tuscan hill town of Siena has prepared for this day for months, each neighborhood, or contrada, competing for their honor in a competition that stretches as far back as the middle ages. This is Il Palio. Occurring only twice a year, on July 2 and August 16, the completion in one of the world's most magnificent horse-racing events is fierce. Set in the center of beautiful and ancient Siena, the Palio's colors, music and energy will transport you to another time. With Villa Mangiacane's two night Palio package, you will be taken to and from Siena for the legendary race.

Pair the excitement of the race with a relaxing day of lounging poolside, spa treatments and innovative Tuscan cuisine at Villa Mangiacane. The property, once home to Machiavelli, boasts sprawling vineyards and is less than an hour drive from the festivities in Siena. Begin your stay with a complimentary glass of Prosecco or refreshing lemonade. The package also includes a day spent at the hotel's atmospheric infinity pool with your own private gazebo stocked with poolside essentials such as fresh fruit, chilled water and fluffy towels. An a la carte lunch prepared by Chef Bocus will perfectly compliment a bottle of the villa's own newly released Shimiso Rose wine. Later retire to the comforts of your room or go for a complimentary 50 minute treatment of your choice at Nadushka Spa.

From July 1 through July 4, guests have a choice of three room styles, all including everything mentioned above and chauffeured transfer to and from the event. Beginning at EUR 850, you will stay in a classic double room. One of Villa Mangiacane's suites will give you a taste of living like a royal with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside all for EUR 1250. The package also includes a full breakfast buffet with fresh baked breads, homemade jams and local fruit. Entrance to the square where Palio is held will be arranged and charged at your request.

About Villa Mangiacane

Situated just 7 miles directly south of Florence, it is a noble and majestic wine and olive oil producing estate set atop a beautiful hill with extraordinary views of Florence and the Duomo. Fully restored, the property boasts an added modern sensibility and list of amenities for today's sophisticated traveler. The tranquil and relaxed environment combined with the proximity to all the most popular cities and towns in the area makes it a truly ideal Tuscan destination.

The hotel is comprised of a total of 28 rooms and suites, some boasting private terraces overlooking the Tuscan countryside and private plunge pools. The restaurant offers both indoor and al fresco dining set amidst an herb garden. Master Chef Massimo Bocus prepares delicious food with all of the region's freshest ingredients. In addition to an elaborate indoor pool at Nadushka Spa, the villa boasts two outdoor swimming pools opening during warm weather. -0- Villa Mangiacane - Via Faltignano 4, San Casciano VP, 50026 Florence - Tuscany - Italy Reservations: Tel: +39 055 829 0358 Fax: +39 055 829 0358 reservation@villamangiacane.com www.villamangiacane.com Villa Mangiacane is a Member of Small Luxury Hotels

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Villa Mangiacane

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Special Offer Includes Two Nights and Chauffeured Transfer to
Siena