Perched in the hills above Florence, Villa San Michele, a Belmond Hotel has reopened its doors following an extensive 18-month renovation, unveiling a reimagined retreat that blends Renaissance heritage with contemporary luxury.
The transformation introduces 39 redesigned rooms and suites, alongside a new spa, revitalised gardens, and a curated programme of wellness experiences. Owned and operated by Belmond, the property has long been considered one of Tuscany’s most distinctive stays, housed within a former monastery widely attributed to the circle of Michelangelo.
Suites, art and architecture redefined
The refurbishment includes 27 suites and 12 rooms conceived by Luigi Fragola Architects, with each space designed to reflect the villa’s layered history and surrounding landscape.
Among the standout additions are the two-level Limonaia suite, complete with a private plunge pool, and the Botanica suite, which draws inspiration from the estate’s botanical heritage. Throughout the property, contemporary artworks have been integrated into historic settings, including murals by Francesca Guicciardini and contributions from Cristina Corvino and other Italian creatives.
Guests are welcomed through the newly conceived Secret Garden, where frescoes by Elena Carozzi introduce a more immersive artistic dimension from the moment of arrival.
Wellness and gardens at the core
A major addition is the Villa San Michele Spa by Guerlain, now occupying the building’s first floor. The spa offers tailored treatments that align with the property’s emphasis on restoration and well-being.
Outside, the estate’s 10,000-square-metre gardens have been carefully redeveloped by Luca Ghezzi Garden Design. Enhancements include an expanded herb garden, a dedicated iris section, and a 42-metre rose-lined pathway, reinforcing the property’s deep connection to nature.
This focus extends into a new partnership with La DoubleJ, which has introduced the Energy Raising Programme. Designed to promote balance and vitality, the initiative includes spaces such as the Energy Chapel, a Sungazing Lounge, and an open-air yoga deck overlooking the Tuscan landscape.
A refreshed culinary identity
Dining has also been reimagined with a trio of venues: San Michele Restaurant, San Michele Grill, and a new concept, Antesi. The latter is led by chef Alessandro Cozzolino, whose approach is rooted in seasonality and restraint.
“Our concept is born from listening to time and nature,” Cozzolino said. “There is a moment when every ingredient reaches its maximum expression. Our job is to recognise and respect it, creating dishes that listen rather than command, accompanying diners on an experience that becomes a memory.”
A return with renewed purpose
The reopening of Villa San Michele marks more than a refurbishment – it signals a recalibration of one of Florence’s most storied properties. By weaving together art, wellness, gastronomy and landscape, Belmond has repositioned the hotel for a new generation of travellers seeking both cultural depth and restorative escape in the Tuscan hills.
