An harmonious blend of modern luxury amidst natural beauty

Belmond proudly announces the extensive renovation of Villa San Michele, one of the masterpieces of Florence's Renaissance era, situated on the hills of Fiesole. This ambitious project commenced in late 2024 and will continue through 2025, with its grand reopening scheduled for the 2026 season.

Preserving Historical Heritage with a Modern Touch

The renovation of Villa San Michele is part of Belmond's commitment to preserving cultural heritage through meticulous restoration. This project is designed to safeguard the historical structure of the building while rejuvenating the hotel’s stunning spaces, reflecting its rich history and cultural significance.

Upon reopening, Villa San Michele will unveil 38 newly designed rooms and suites that blend modern elegance with classical charm. Designed by a team of experts using premium materials such as Tuscan marble and 19th-century antique decor, the interiors will showcase exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail, embodying the timeless tradition of Tuscan artisanship.

Panoramic Views of Florence from Above

Perched atop the hills of Fiesole, Villa San Michele offers breathtaking views of Florence from its lush gardens. Originally a 15th-century monastery with a façade attributed to Michelangelo's school, the villa holds a significant place in history, including being the site of Leonardo da Vinci's first flight experiments.

Since its transformation into a private villa in the early 1800s, the site has been a key destination for the Grand Tour—a tradition among Europe's aristocracy to explore cultural wonders. This renovation will preserve the harmonious neoclassical style while introducing modern enhancements, ensuring Villa San Michele remains a cherished landmark for generations to come.

Inspired Interior and Garden Transformations

The creative direction of the project has been entrusted to Luigi Fragola Architects, a renowned Florence-based design firm. By reducing the room count from 42 to 38, including three signature suites, Villa San Michele will offer a more luxurious guest experience with expanded spaces. Each room within the main building, once a sanctuary for monks, will feature timeless designs that harmonize with the villa’s historic character.

Additionally, the 9,700-square-meter gardens will undergo a thoughtful restoration led by Luca Ghezzi Garden Design. These gardens will return to their original aesthetics as traditional Fiesole hillside gardens, with the addition of hidden corners, new viewpoints, and Renaissance-inspired blooms. Guests will also enjoy outdoor experiences, including exploring the Leonardo woodlands, enhancing their connection to the villa’s immersive natural surroundings.

Welcoming a New Era for Villa San Michele

The transformation of Villa San Michele exemplifies Belmond's dedication to preserving history and culture. This project follows in the footsteps of other Belmond restorations, such as Splendido in Portofino and Maroma in Riviera Maya. With bookings opening in spring 2025, Villa San Michele is poised to become a dream destination for travelers worldwide.

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