Belmond is ushering in a new chapter for one of Italy’s most storied hotels. The legendary Villa San Michele, A Belmond Hotel, Florence — a former 15th-century monastery with a Michelangelo-inspired façade — will reopen on April 28 of next year following an extensive renovation that reimagines the property as a year-round haven of “slow luxury.”
Set in the hills of Fiesole overlooking Florence, the retreat has long been a symbol of artistic and spiritual reflection. The reimagined Villa San Michele will feature 39 redesigned rooms and suites, the property’s first-ever Guerlain Spa and a new series of immersive cultural and wellbeing experiences.
“For us, hospitality is deeply intertwined with cultural immersion,” said Sofia Peluso, the property’s general manager. “Guests can embark on a journey that weaves together food, art, history, architecture and nature – a true fusion of body, mind and soul and a modern-day echo of the Renaissance principles that have so shaped our history.”
Rebirth of a Renaissance Icon
Belmond worked with Luigi Fragola Architects, a Florence-based studio known for luxury hospitality and private residences, to restore the building while deepening its connection to nature and Tuscan craftsmanship. The refreshed accommodations include three new signature suites:
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Limonaia, located in the villa’s former orangery, surrounded by nature and featuring a private garden, heated plunge pool and curated art collection.
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The Grand Tour, once a residence of Napoleon Bonaparte, spans the length of the first floor and features Tuscan marble, neoclassical tapestries, and sweeping city views.
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Botanica, a verdant ode to the villa’s gardens, layered with frescoed panels, botanical artworks, and Florentine craft pieces.
(Belmond)
A New Spa by Guerlain
The debut Villa San Michele Spa by Guerlain draws inspiration from the villa’s spiritual roots and the French maison’s 200-year wellness heritage. The sanctuary will feature three treatment rooms, including a double suite, and a Secret Garden entrance adorned with murals by artist Elena Carozzi.
Treatments are designed to evoke the serenity of the Renaissance and the grace of monastic rituals.
Gardens Reimagined
Spanning nearly one hectare, the villa’s terraced gardens have been revitalized by Luca Ghezzi Garden Design to honor the site’s historic landscape. Citrus trees prized by the Medicis, irises, rambling roses and aromatic herbs create a sensory link between the Renaissance past and the Tuscan present.
The grounds, where Leonardo da Vinci once tested his flying machines, will also host yoga, sound healing and creative workshops through a new collaboration with Italian lifestyle brand La DoubleJ.
A Taste of Tuscany
At the villa’s gastronomic restaurant, Executive Chef Alessandro Cozzolino will debut tasting menus that highlight Tuscan terroir and Italian craftsmanship, paired with both regional and international wines.
The reopening marks another milestone in Belmond’s global restoration strategy, following transformations at Splendido in Portofino and Maroma in Riviera Maya.
Villa San Michele, A Belmond Hotel, Florence reopens April 28, 2026.
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