UNEARTH THE ESSENCE OF FLORENCE

WITH OUR EXTRAORDINARY EXPERIENCES

CONTENTS

TREASURES OF THE LAND 3

WINING AND DINING 26

ACTIVE AND EXHILARATING 39

– TREASURES OF THE LAND

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THE ART OF MAKING

In this series of experiences and excursions, we invite you to discover Florence as the home of Italian craftsmanship. Explore the wave of designers and makers who preserve time-honoured traditions while fashioning a new type of luxury. You could say they’re the New Renaissance, a movement that blends contemporary design with historic production techniques, resulting in irresistible creations that embody Florentine artistry.

Hop in our vintage Fiat 1100 Musone car - electric and artfully customised for Villa San Michele - and head into the centre of Florence to meet local artisans. Accompanied by a passionate lifestyle specialist, you will unlock timeless techniques, step behind the scenes of creative processes and reconnect with the forgotten art of handcrafting. Discover hidden gems in the realms of fashion and lifestyle, including jewellery, hats, eyewear, shoes, handbags, crystalware, silverware, artisanal perfumes, parchment boxes and hand-embroidered garments. Each artisan will reveal a story of unique passion and heritage. The morning ends at the Louis Vuitton boutique for an inspiring Art of Packing experience.

Talk to the Concierge to personalise your tour. Advance booking required.

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LEONARDO TOUR

Discover how and where Leonardo da Vinci left his mark on a fascinating tour through the historic heart of Florence. Unmissable sites include:

– Memorial statue near the Uffizi

– Palazzo Gondi, where Leonardo lived for a year. The palace was built by his father; today it’s the home of the Gondi marquises (Gerardo and Lapo), who will welcome you

– Works by Leonardo in Florence, for example, in the intriguing Church of Orsanmichele

– Palazzo Vecchio, site of the unfinished Battle of Anghiari fresco

Customise your tour with the Concierge. We recommend booking in advance. Not available on Mondays.

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PRIVATE VISIT TO THE ZEFFIRELLI FOUNDATION

Enjoy an after-hours peek into the world of Franco Zeffirelli, the celebrated Italian theatre, opera and film director. Born in Florence, he became known for his lavish productions working with some of the world’s biggest stars, from Elizabeth Taylor to Luciano Pavarotti.

The Foundation is located in the city’s former courthouse, which has been transformed into a museum of magnificent treasures. They include 3D stage reconstructions, unpublished behind-the-scenes photos, and Zeffirelli’s sketches and drawings. An entire room is dedicated to Dante’s Inferno, a spectacle Franco pursued passionately but never brought to fruition.

Within the museum, a small door leads to a secluded library, closed to the public. Managed by his son, Pippo Zeffirelli, it contains Franco’s personal archive of inspiration.

Guests of Villa San Michele are invited to visit the museum after hours (18:30) to meet Pippo and the museum curator. After a private tour, you enter the hallowed archive for an even more illuminating insight into the maestro’s mind and creativity.

Advance booking is required.

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APE CALESSINO

Blend the enchantment of a Florentine sunset with the charms of a vintage three-wheeled vehicle. Departing from Villa San Michele, your driver will take you along narrow, scenic roads surrounding Florence that are normally out of bounds to motorists. You’ll negotiate the historic city centre streets with ease until you come to the famous Piazzale Michelangelo… from here, the sunset view is truly out of this world!

This experience is available daily from 18:00. Advance reservations required. The Ape Calessino can accommodate 3 passengers maximum and has a cover in case of rain. It’s also available should you wish to have dinner in Florence.

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UNVEILING FIESOLE

Like that box of travel memorabilia that we keep in a corner of our living rooms, Fiesole conceals an array of secret treasures. Open the lid to discover wonders of the ancient hillside town, variously created by agriculturalists, architects and artists. Together they make up the Art of Fiesole. On a private guided tour, you can gain first-hand experience of honey and olive oil production or discover works of art in prestigious archives and galleries.

The tour can be personalised. Choose between two itineraries: gastronomic or historic. You can also opt to enjoy the tour aboard an Ape Calessino (up to 3 guests) or our FIAT Musone (up to 2 guests). Book in advance with the Concierge.

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PRIVATE GUIDED TOUR OF FLORENCE

Embark on an exciting tour of the Renaissance city with a personal guide, who will escort you to Florentine gems and provide an insight into choice museum exhibits. Expect to glean little-known facts and aspects of ancient city life that would otherwise pass you by. Ask as many questions as you like about the history of magnificent Firenze. The itinerary can be entirely customised – just let the Concierge know your interests and the kind of museums and sites you’d like to visit.

We can provide you with guides who speak the following languages: English, French, Spanish, German, Italian.

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STREET ART TOUR

Florence is renowned for its Renaissance art, but a quite different artistic movement has taken hold in the city since 2010, especially in the Oltrarno district. Eye-catching and thought-provoking works by now well-known names such as Clet, Blub and Exit-Enter bring the walls and narrow lanes alive. Join a local contemporary gallerist for a fun and fascinating stroll or cycle ride to admire Florentine street art. This exclusive tour complements our own hotel exhibition, where prominent artists have been commissioned to create site-specific installations and artworks within the grounds.

Please book your tour in advance with the Concierge.

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PRIVATE CHIANTI TOUR

Relax as an English-speaking driver takes you on a bucolic tour of the Chianti region, stopping for wine tastings and lunch in the most respected and beautiful wineries. The enchanting excursion will lead you along scenic roads where you may discover medieval villages, castles and secret cellars. Our Concierge will be delighted to help you plan your itinerary and provide detailed suggestions on specific wineries, vineyards, farms and more.

Half- and full-day tours available. Ask the Concierge for more information.

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ART CLASSES WITH THE MASTERS

Tap into your creative side with an engaging art lesson. Your tutors are the celebrated Florentine brothers, Roberto and Rodolfo Guarnieri, whose work is well established in Florence and has recently gained great acclaim overseas. You can spot some of their paintings in the public areas of our hotel – watercolours and fresco are their preferred media.

Choose between a private lesson in their studio in Florence or at our hotel. You also have the choice between a watercolour or fresco session.

Talk to the Concierge to reserve your 2-hour painting class. A minimum of 2 participants is required for any session. All tools and materials are provided by the artists. Comfortable clothing is recommended.

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PAPER MAKING WORKSHOP

How often do we stop to appreciate paper? How many missives or love notes have we sent and received over the years? Holding an old letter, intense memories come flooding back. So just how important is the paper held in our hands? At the Atelier degli Artigianelli, ancient parchment is restored and new paper created, often for the major museums and institutions of Florence. Visit the centre and enjoy a private workshop, learning how to make your own sheets or even a handmade travel diary. This is a rare and unique chance to rediscover the art of making; to appreciate a precious commodity hidden in a seemingly routine part of daily life.

Duration: 2 hours, including a tea break. Available for up to 4 people. Book your experience with the Concierge.

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DANTE, THE FLORENTINE MAVERICK

The year 2021 marks 700 years since the death of the “Sommo Poeta” – the Supreme Poet. Dante was undoubtedly a great poet, but there was so much more to this passionate student, intense lover and committed citizen. Led by a professional guide, retrace Dante’s milestones and landmarks as you unveil fascinating new aspects of Florence.

Available on request, Tuesday to Sunday, for up to 4 people. Suggested duration: 3 hours.

– WINING AND DINING

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VINTAGE PICNIC IN A FIAT MUSONE

Set off on a timeless journey aboard our customised, electric, 1950s Fiat Musone. Escorted by a driver, discover fascinating corners of Fiesole and its surroundings before seeking out a lush and idyllic local spot. Here, you can relax over a sumptuous picnic of Italian and regional delicacies and toast the beautiful sunset with a glass of something sparkling.

Available for up to 2 people. Advance reservations required. Suggested departure time: 17:00. Duration: 2-3 hours. Ask the Concierge to arrange.

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COOKERY SCHOOL

Choose your preferred culinary class to learn the secrets of traditional Tuscan cuisine.

Morning with the Chef: join Executive Chef Alessandro Cozzolino to prepare a delicious Tuscan meal. Feast on your creations at La Loggia Restaurant as Florence stretches out at your feet.

Cook with your kids: spend a playful morning watching your children transform into little chefs! During this four-hand cooking class, together you’ll prepare tasty traditional dishes, such as gnocchi with tomato sauce, meatballs and chocolate cookies. Savour your efforts afterwards with a mocktail or a glass of fine wine.

Pizza making: how do you prepare the perfect pizza dough? Our expert will reveal all in the kitchen before you decamp to our garden pizzeria. Personalise your pizza with your favourite toppings and relish it with a cold beer.

Romantic cooking class: learn authentic Italian cooking with your loved one. During this class you’ll be equipped with the skills to prepare delicious homemade pasta, such as ravioli or pappardelle.

Ask the Concierge for more information. Advance booking required.

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PICNICS IN THE GARDEN

Looking for an alternative to the usual aperitivo or dinner? Kick off your shoes and get ready for an unforgettable picnic with jaw-dropping views over Florence.

Choose from sparkling picnics with refreshing bubbles or a bespoke menu designed by Chef Alessandro Cozzolino. For a relaxed yet sophisticated dinner, opt for our sensational spread with caviar and foie gras bites, one main course and dessert from our à la carte menu, all washed down with a bottle of sparkling wine.

Ask the Concierge for more information. Advance booking required.

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CHEF’S TABLE

Join Executive Chef Alessandro Cozzolino behind the scenes for an exclusive five-course dinner.

Take a seat at an inviting table in a secluded area of our kitchen, where an ancient oven was discovered during recent renovation works. You’ll be welcomed by our Executive Chef with an enticing aperitif and canapés before savouring delicious dishes selected especially for you.

Available daily on request for up to 2 people. Advance booking required. Please speak to the Concierge to arrange your exclusive table.

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FOOD ICONS IN FLORENCE

The history and traditions of gastronomy in Florence are as old as its Renaissance buildings. From street food to popular vegetables, pastries to ancient grain markets, every bite has a story to tell. In the company of an expert guide, discover how food has influenced Florentine life through the centuries. You’ll be surprised to find that every flavour in Florence has its own backstory and anecdotes. Visit five iconic sites, sampling tasty bites in each.

Arrange your tour with the Concierge at least 2 days in advance. Suggested duration: 3 hours.

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GELATO IMMERSION AT VIVOLI

Vivoli is the oldest artisanal gelato shop in Florence. You’ll find it in the very heart of the old city, a few steps from Santa Croce Church. Here, the same family has produced gelato since 1930. As well as all the mouthwatering flavours, a must is their Gran Crema al Caffè: espresso coffee dropped into creamy gelato, a heavenly combination that takes your breath away.

Enjoy a private, behind-the-scenes visit to the gelateria and witness every single step of the gelato-making process. The visit ends with an unlimited gelato tasting of your choice!

Available for a minimum of 4 people. Please book your experience at least 5 days in advance with the Concierge. Vivoli is open every day except Mondays.

– ACTIVE AND EXHILARATING

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HIKING TO MONTE CECERI

Stride off along the verdant paths around the hotel and Fiesole on a tranquil, re-energising hike. Feel far from the crowds and the bustle, even if they’re moments away. The highpoint of the itinerary is reaching the exact place where Leonardo da Vinci and his assistant Zoroastro da Peretola tested their flying machine for the first time. You may be surprised to learn how close this spot is to Villa San Michele! Unspoilt nature and majestic views recharge your soul. For added magic, step out at sunrise: it could be the best start to a day you’ve ever had.

Suggested duration: 2 hours. Comfortable clothes and sturdy shoes recommended. Please book your hiking experience with the Concierge. Recommended for guests aged 8 and up.

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SKYDIVE OVER FLORENCE

Take a deep breath and prepare for the freefall of your life!

Embrace unforgettable vistas and an experience of a lifetime as you plummet at 200km/h like a true skydiver. Never fear, you’ll be firmly attached to an expert instructor. Grasp the opportunity to see Florence from an extraordinary perspective: in the blue sky. After the falling comes the floating, and the chance to gaze in awe at the majestic scenery.

No previous experience necessary. Available Friday, Saturday and Sunday for adults aged 18+, up to 4 people.

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RAFTING ON THE RIVER ARNO

Most visitors to Florence make a beeline for the Ponte Vecchio. But how about gliding beneath it on a raft? This amazing experience takes you on the River Arno, surrounded by the Renaissance wonders of the city. Guided by English-speaking rafters, you’ll ride from the east to the west of central Florence, passing under the iconic bridge. At the end of your voyage, a sparkling aperitivo awaits. This is a private experience, shared with no other passengers.

Duration: about 2 hours. Safety jackets provided. Suitable for children aged 5 and up.

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E-BIKING

Take advantage of the hotel’s electric bikes to pedal with ease through our hilly surroundings. Explore at leisure, following your own itinerary, delving into enchanted corners of Fiesole and the verdant countryside. Timeless scenery frames iconic vistas. With these perfect ingredients, you’ll soon harmonise body and mind.

Contact the Concierge to book your e-bike. Please let him know in advance if you require e-bikes for children.

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FERRARI OR FIAT 500 EXPERIENCE

Make your dream a reality: take the wheel of a red convertible Ferrari and course along Tuscany’s breathtaking roads, gliding around the curves as you feel the wind in your hair and the sun on your face. The experience begins with a quick lesson on the Ferrari’s controls, correct handling and safety procedures from an English-speaking instructor. Then strap in, start the engine and hit the road. Wind alongside vineyards and olive groves as you head into the heart of the Chianti Classico wine region. Stop in a medieval village to take photos, then enjoy a guided tour of an ancient winery to learn about wine and olive oil production. At the end of the exciting drive, a traditional Tuscan lunch is served and a wine tasting given at a boutique winery.

For a more tranquil journey, you can opt to drive a Fiat 500 instead. The experience starts a short drive from the hotel.