Florence’s most iconic hillside sanctuary, Villa San Michele, A Belmond Hotel, will reopen on 28 April 2026 after an 18‑month restoration that elevates its Renaissance heritage while introducing a new era of slow, soulful luxury. Set within a former 15th‑century monastery overlooking the city’s terracotta skyline, the reimagined retreat blends Tuscan craftsmanship, cultural immersion and nature‑driven wellbeing in a way that feels both timeless and newly awakened.
Discover the hotel’s world of art, history and refined Italian hospitality at Villa San Michele, A Belmond Hotel (belmond.com in Bing) (bing.com in Bing).
A Renaissance Masterpiece Reborn
The restoration honours the Villa’s extraordinary past—from its Michelangelo‑inspired façade to its frescoed chapel, cloister, loggias and terraced gardens. Once a sanctuary for Franciscan monks and later a haven for aristocrats and artists on the Grand Tour, the Villa now enters a new chapter as a sanctuary for modern travellers seeking serenity, culture and connection.
Reimagined Suites & Rooms
The hotel unveils 39 redesigned suites and rooms, crafted by Luigi Fragola Architects in collaboration with Belmond’s design team. Each space blends Tuscan materials, curated artefacts and natural textures to deepen the connection with the surrounding landscape.
Three new signature suites celebrate the Villa’s storied heritage:
Limonaia Suite
A secluded retreat in the former orangery, complete with private garden, heated plunge pool, personal library and sweeping views.
The Grand Tour Suite
Once a residence of Napoleon Bonaparte, this expansive suite spans the entire first floor, adorned with Tuscan marble, neoclassical tapestries and antique furnishings.
Botanica Suite
A tribute to the Villa’s lush gardens, featuring frescoed boiserie, botanical artworks and handcrafted scagliola tables by Florentine artisans.
Additional rooms and suites—including the Monastery Suite and Chapel Room—have been enhanced with handmade tapestries, antique pieces and serene, meditative design.
AN ELEVATED EXPERIENCE: FLAVOURS, HERITAGE, AND TIMELESS ELEGANCE
The gastronomic restaurant, led by Executive Chef Alessandro Cozzolino, introduces a new dining concept that takes guests on a journey through authentic Tuscan flavours, enjoyed across three dining spaces that share the Villa’s incomparable view of Florence. The chef’s new tasting menus are the result of meticulous research and creative innovation, celebrating regional heritage and seasonal produce. These culinary experiences are complemented by an exceptional wine list featuring the finest Tuscan, Italian and international labels.
The restoration of Villa San Michele underscores Belmond’s dedication to preserving cultural and historical significance. This Florentine masterpiece joins the ranks of recent Belmond enhancements, including Splendido, A Belmond Hotel, Portofino and Maroma, A Belmond Hotel, Riviera Maya, each deeply rooted in their unique cultural landscapes.
Balancing history with modernity, Villa San Michele reawakens as a symbol of ever‑evolving Renaissance spirit—an eternal presence watching over one of Italy’s most treasured cities.
Villa San Michele Spa by Guerlain
For the first time in its history, the Villa introduces a dedicated spa: Villa San Michele Spa by Guerlain. Inspired by the property’s spiritual origins and Guerlain’s two‑century wellness heritage, the spa features:
• Three treatment rooms, including a double suite
• A “Secret Garden” entrance with hand‑painted murals
• Natural stone, onyx, straw marquetry and polished marble
• Exclusive Guerlain rituals inspired by Renaissance philosophy and monastic traditions
This serene sanctuary invites guests to reconnect with body, mind and soul.
Gardens That Awaken the Senses
The Villa’s 9,700 sqm terraced gardens have been re‑envisioned by Luca Ghezzi Garden Design, restoring the beauty of traditional Fiesole hillside landscapes. Renaissance‑era blooms, citrus trees prized by the Medicis, irises, roses and aromatic herbs create a living tapestry that enhances the Villa’s connection to nature.
The surrounding Leonardo woodlands—where Da Vinci once tested his flying machine—offer a natural playground for reflection and discovery.
A New Partnership With La DoubleJ
A vibrant collaboration with Italian lifestyle brand La DoubleJ brings bespoke design touches and a curated programme of energy‑raising experiences led by founder JJ Martin. Guests can enjoy breathwork, yoga, sound healing and more, all set within the Villa’s restorative grounds.
A Year‑Round Sanctuary
For the first time, the hotel will extend its season from spring through winter, inviting guests to embrace slow luxury throughout the year. From creative workshops and art talks to music concerts and mixology evenings, the Villa offers a rich cultural calendar designed to inspire and rejuvenate.
Conclusion
Villa San Michele, A Belmond Hotel, reopens on 28 April 2026, marking a new era for one of Florence’s most storied retreats. With reimagined suites, a world‑class Guerlain spa, flourishing Renaissance gardens and a renewed culinary vision, the Villa invites guests to rediscover the timeless beauty, artistry and tranquillity that define this legendary hillside sanctuary.
