Villa San Michele

Florence and Tuscany

Florence is the most beautiful city in the world…especially to Italians! Every year, hordes of tourists come here to discover or rediscover the magic of the capital of Tuscany. Founded in 59 B.C., it gradually grew in importance. In the 12^th century, merchants contributed making Florence an exceptional site. Considered the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, its incredible artistic heritage developed over centuries, and now attracts tourists from all over the world.

Today, Florence is so magnificent that walking through it is like walking in an artistic dream. Visitors are hard pressed to choose which sites to visit: the Uffizi Gallery with its incredible collection of paintings, the Piazza della Signoria and its remarkable statues in the Loggia dei Lanzi, etc. etc. Florence however is also known for its outdoor cafes, ideal for quenching one’s thirst after a long walk, especially at another historical site, the Caffe Gilli, the only café in the city decorated in “Belle Époque” style.

Flee the chaos of the city for a breath of fresh air at the Villa San Michele

Situated within the walls of a 15^th century Franciscan monastery, the Villa San Michele rises above the city of Florence. The original façade of this five-star hotel is the work of the Renaissance genius, Michelangelo and is classified as a national monument in addition to foreshadowing the beauty to be found inside. Upon entering, the charm of this magnificent Florentine structure represents a continuation of the beauty of Florence.

The hotel’s 46 rooms are all elegantly decorated. The walls are light in color to conserve the freshness, and the choice of furniture includes commodes, buffets, wood carved tables, imposing chandeliers and thick curtains. Recently restored medieval frescoes complete the detailed, well-chosen décor. Each room has a superb view of either the garden or, for the rooms above the loggia, the Arno Valley. The suites have a garden and a private terrace, ideal for relaxing while enjoying the fragrance of the flowers and lemon trees.

The panoramic outdoor swimming pool is another of the Villa San Michele’s many advantages. Two restaurants offer guests typical Tuscany dishes including their specialty: pasta! The San Michele restaurant is in the monastery itself, and the Loggia Terrazza possesses one of the most beautiful views of Florence. For lovers of fine food, the hotel has its own culinary school, which gives classes to amateur cooks, enabling them to discover the secrets of renowned chefs.

Tuscany is synonymous with Chianti, the Italian red wine known throughout the world and now produced in the provinces of Sienna, Florence, Pisa, Prato, Pistoria and Arezzo.