Perched in the foothills above Florence, the illustrious 15th-century villa, Il Salviatino, has emerged from a substantial refurbishment, transforming into what is now considered one of Italy’s most luxurious and authentic Tuscan retreats. Esteemed by past luminaries such as Salvador Dalí and Italian poet Gabriele D’Annunzio, the villa’s enduring charm is matched by its seamless blend of historical grandeur and modern luxury.
Il Salviatino is more than just a place to stay; it offers a unique Italian home-away-from-home experience. The family-owned property, overseen by owner Alessandra Rovati Vitali, sits within 5 hectares of lush Italian gardens, providing guests with an intimate connection to Florentine history, nature, and art. Each corner of the estate tells a story, from the towering cypress and oak trees to the garden herbs that grace the dishes at the villa’s signature restaurant, Giacomo al Salviatino. The hotel captures the very essence of Tuscany, making it a destination of tranquillity and exclusivity for discerning travelers.
Under the stewardship of the newly appointed General Manager, Edoardo Officioso, Il Salviatino now stays open longer, extending its season through January 2025. This allows visitors to enjoy Florence in the picturesque autumn and winter months, when the city is adorned with festive light displays and markets, and its sunsets are at their most dramatic. The villa’s atmosphere, imbued with serenity, offers guests the perfect opportunity to relax, unwind, and immerse themselves in the slower rhythm of Tuscan life.
A hallmark of Il Salviatino’s transformation is the unveiling of its new state-of-the-art spa and wellness area, nestled within the property’s original greenhouse. This serene space features world-class amenities, including a vichy shower, infrared sauna, hammam, steam room, and an ice bath, all designed to rejuvenate body and mind. In partnership with the renowned skincare brand Augustinus Bader, the spa provides treatments that aim to reawaken cells and restore vitality. Whether indulging in a restorative facial or relaxing by the heated plunge pool, guests can enjoy a comprehensive wellness experience set against the backdrop of the villa’s stunning gardens.
The villa’s 39 individually designed rooms and suites have undergone meticulous refurbishment, combining the elegance of trompe l’oeil artistry with modern amenities. Each room offers a unique perspective of Florence, with expansive windows that showcase breathtaking views of the city’s iconic Duomo, the estate’s lush gardens, or the rolling hills of Fiesole. Luxurious king-sized beds, fine Italian linens, and en-suite bathrooms complete with dual sinks and deep baths create an environment of refined comfort. The Ojetti Suite, a highlight of the property, offers an unparalleled view over Florence’s red rooftops from its private terrace, along with a glass-floored lounge that allows guests to peer down the villa’s dramatic staircase.
At the heart of the estate is Giacomo al Salviatino, an award-winning restaurant that captures the soul of authentic Italian cuisine. With ingredients sourced directly from the villa’s gardens and local suppliers, the menu features signature dishes such as Red Prawn Tartare with Mandarin Sorbet and the quintessential Bistecca alla Fiorentina. Guests can enjoy their meals while taking in panoramic views of Florence, making each dining experience unforgettable.
The property’s communal spaces reflect the same dedication to history and luxury. The Rosa Bar and Library, paneled in rich wood and filled with an extensive collection of books, provides an inviting space to unwind with a cocktail or a coffee. The Library’s serene atmosphere makes it the perfect retreat after a day exploring Florence, while the Affresco Room, adorned with an 18th-century ceiling fresco, offers an indoor dining option that is equally steeped in history.
One of Il Salviatino’s standout features is its commitment to sustainability. The villa’s adaptive reuse of traditional Florentine architecture, combined with modern facilities, ensures that it meets contemporary standards of comfort without sacrificing its historical integrity. Guests will find glass water bottles infused with herbs from the garden in their suites, and seasonal produce is integrated into every meal, cocktail, and infusion served on-site.
The villa also offers a curated selection of activities to enhance the guest experience. From hot air balloon rides over the Florentine countryside to private tours of the Uffizi Museum and Gucci archives, arranged by Head Concierge Paul Lydka, every detail is crafted to provide a truly bespoke experience. Yoga and meditation classes in the Italian gardens, Negroni cocktail masterclasses, and cooking lessons further immerse guests in Tuscan culture, offering opportunities to reconnect with nature, art, and cuisine.
Alessandra Rovati Vitali, the passionate steward of Il Salviatino, encapsulates the philosophy behind the villa’s renaissance: “At Il Salviatino, our home is your home. We are dedicated to providing an authentic Tuscan experience, where guests can reconnect with themselves and their loved ones while escaping into a world of natural beauty, history, and wellbeing.”
