Renaissance Hotels announced an exciting new addition to its global portfolio, the historic Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa in Barga, Italy. 

In the summer of 2012, following a total renovation, the Il Ciocco hotel, located 25 minutes from Lucca, Italy in the heart of the Apennine Mountains, will be re-branded a Renaissance Hotel under a franchise agreement with Shaner Ciocco  S.r.I.

Il Ciocco, situated in the Serchio Valley, was originally was built as a family retreat, surrounded by beautiful scenic mountains, lush parkland and charming villages.  Boasting pristine hiking trails, horseback riding, tennis courts, a luxurious spa and indoor and outdoor pools overlooking the Tuscan landscape, the hotel is also known as the "music hotel" as the first music video transmission in Europe (Lionel Richie's "All Night Long") came from Il Ciocco in 1984.

"We are excited to partner with Shaner Ciocco on this tremendous opportunity to bring our Renaissance brand to Tuscany.  The Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa will be our company's first in this incredible region and we are thrilled to offer this great experience to our guests," said Amy McPherson, president and managing director for Marriott International in Europe.

Lance Shaner, chairman and chief executive officer of Shaner added, "We are pleased to invest in Tuscany and to be working with Renaissance to introduce this global lifestyle brand here. We look forward to welcoming many domestic and international travelers to the hotel and to this fantastic destination known for its food and wine, rich culture and natural beauty."

Last year, Marriott International, Inc. (NYSE:MAR) announced its goal of doubling its portfolio in Europe by 2015. The 200-room Renaissance Tuscany Il Ciocco Resort & Spa will join the company's existing portfolio of 17 properties throughout Italy.