Ville sull’Arno: a 5-star hotel in the former country residence of the Alighieri family, with 45 rooms and a spa

Firenze

by:
Alessia Manoli
|
Nuova copertina sito 53

Once the residence of Florentine nobility and a refuge for artists and intellectuals, Ville sull'Arno is now a refined five-star urban resort that combines historic charm, wellness, and cuisine just a few minutes from the historic center.

From the Casaccia dei Macchiaioli to an icon of contemporary luxury

Just a short distance from the historic center, enough to offer its guests the right amount of peace and quiet, and with a direct view of the banks of the Arno, this hotel belonging to the Planetaria group is a virtuous example of architectural and cultural restoration. The origins of this place date back to the 15th century, when it served as the country residence of the Florentine Alighieri family. However, it was in the 19th century that the villa took on its most fascinating role in Italian cultural history. From an ancient noble residence, it was transformed into “la Casaccia,” the pulsating epicenter of Macchiaioli art, where painters and intellectuals gathered to paint, discuss art and politics, and forge what would become one of the most significant artistic movements in our country.

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Giants such as Odoardo Borrani, Silvestro Lega, Diego Martelli, and Telemaco Signorini have stayed within these walls, leaving behind an artistic legacy that permeates every corner of the structure today. After a meticulous restoration plan, the villa has been completely renovated, successfully achieving the difficult balance of combining the warm atmosphere of the ancient residence with the contemporary refinement of the furnishings and rooms. The focus is on comfort, local craftsmanship, and sustainability. In addition, Ville sull'Arno is part of the Valuable network for workplace inclusion and boasts ESG certification for its environmental and social commitment.

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The art of contemporary hospitality

There are forty-five rooms and suites at Ville sull'Arno, in a structure divided into three distinct areas, each with its own personality and charm. The Villa is the centerpiece, the oldest and most precious part. The Renaissance rooms are now enhanced by modern touches that highlight the Florentine marble, wood inlays, and unique, custom-made wrought iron pieces. There are six Superior rooms, four Executive rooms with views of the Arno, four Deluxe rooms overlooking the river, four themed Junior Suites, and four spacious open-plan suites. In addition, there is a reception area, bar, and restaurant.

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Il Villino Spa, on the other hand, offers a contemporary design experience, where the spacious and bright rooms overlook the Arno River, offering a breathtaking view. Guests can indulge in moments of absolute wellness in the hot tubs, letting themselves be enveloped by relaxation. Then there is the Loggiato, designed for those who love Florentine art and creativity: colorful canvases, palettes, and brushes are hidden in every room, while the original themed Junior Suites evoke the strong artistic impressions of the past. The “Tessuti” suite recalls Borrani's paintings of the “Cucitrici di camicie rosse” (Red Shirt Sewers), the ‘Botanica’ travels with the apothecaries among sketches of ancient herbariums, while the “Biblioteca” recreates the study of Diego Martelli, the art critic who hosted and united the Macchiaioli.

The Secret of the Villa

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Of course, there is also a spa. Ancient beauty rituals and enveloping scents accompany a wellness program that culminates in a beautiful 30°C heated pool with small waterfalls, designed to restore body and mind. The mosaics in the bio sauna, which reaches 60°C, evoke the river landscape with original details that transform relaxation into an aesthetic experience. The “Terra e Acqua” cabin, with its cherry wood hot tub and raxul cabin, offers an intimate setting where you can enjoy personalized treatments.

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During the summer months, from May to September, the garden hidden within the walls of Florence reveals its elegant outdoor pool with whirlpool, open from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., where you can refresh yourself between visits.

Signature breakfast and reinvented Florentine flavors

If every morning has its own flavor, at Ville sull'Arno it is a Florentine and memorable one. Breakfast is a journey through aromas and local raw materials: there are smoothies and yogurt, fruit salad, fresh and dried fruit, baked cakes, classic Tuscan pastries, but also international offerings such as pancakes. The bread is homemade, and the cold cuts and cheeses are selected from the local area. Salmon, hard-boiled or scrambled eggs, vegetables, and bacon are available for those who prefer a savory breakfast. There is also a wide selection of jams, marmalades, and spreads. And, of course, croissants. A wide and carefully selected range, served with grace in bright and welcoming rooms and, in summer, by the pool.

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Lunch and dinner are provided by the Ristorante Flora & Fauno, led by chef Kevin Mazzolin. Crispy pappa al pomodoro accompanied by pecorino fondue and smoked datterini tomato coulis; sea bass ceviche and sturgeon caviar with coconut milk and parsley oil; pappardelle stuffed with cacciucco in its broth and fried sage; lamb loin in a cheese and pepper crust with its sauce and grilled cardoncello mushrooms are just some of the dishes available to sample. A Tuscan interpretation, but also creative and intelligent, to amaze national and international guests.

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In summer, service moves to the garden or poolside for a more informal break with a gourmet salad, a selection of Tuscan teas and local wines, perhaps chosen during a private tasting with the house sommelier. For intimate events, the Serra is the perfect location: a living room-atelier overlooking the Arno where you can dine at sunset, taste Brunelli wines or take part in a private painting lesson, rediscovering the deep connection this villa has with art and beauty.

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Contacts

Ville sull’Arno
Address: Lungarno Cristoforo Colombo, 1/3/5 – 50136 Firenze
Phone: +39 055 670971
Email: info@hotelvillesullarno.com
Website: www.hotelvillesullarno.co


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