Live the Italian Villa Life with Belmond
Villa San Michele in Florence and Villa Timeo in Taormina, both newly renovated, will make you feel as though you’ve moved into a luxurious Italian villa, offering privacy and glamor in staggering surrounds. . .
All photos courtesy of Belmond
Villa San Michele
Florence
Just outside of Florence, tucked into the surrounding hills, is Villa San Michele, A Belmond Hotel, housed in a 15th-century monastery. Standing as a testament to Renaissance artistry, the hotel was renovated in 2025 and pays homage to its rich heritage—from its facade inspired by Michelangelo’s masterpieces to its location in the woodlands where da Vinci first attempted to fly.
Not just a pretty face, Villa San Michele is also a mindful retreat. Its flourishing terraced gardens radiate a sense of serenity. As the sun sets over the Florentine skyline, sip an aperitif and engage in captivating conversations. And while you’ll feel totally at peace and secluded here, a complimentary shuttle, which runs throughout the day, takes you to the cultural center of Florence in just 20 minutes.
Most of the villa’s 39 beautifully renovated rooms and suites feature balconies or terraces with spellbinding views over Florence.
WINING & DINING
Three restaurants with unparalleled views on the Renaissance city: a fine dining option, authentic Italian dining at Ristorante San Michele, and San Michele Grill by the pool. Bar San Michele, in the lush gardens with sensational views, complements the gastronomic offer.
SPECIAL FEATURES
A one-of-a-kind swimming pool immersed in nature with views of Florence, gym, and the Villa San Michele Spa by Guerlain
EXCLUSIVE EXPERIENCES
In the Art of Making series of experiences, discover Florence as the home of Italian craftsmanship with a passionate insider. Explore the wave of makers preserving time-honored traditions while fashioning a new type of luxury.
During a Calligraphy Masterclass, join a Florence-based calligrapher in her studio, housed in an 1801 limonaia, to learn to flourish through the world of handwritten words.
Villa Timeo
Taormina
Nestled in Sicily’s rocky hills—and with the Grand Hotel Timeo and the Ancient Theatre of Taormina for neighbors—Villa Timeo offers a private sanctuary blending Sicilian style and glamor for the most discerning guests. The villa’s vibe is chic, relaxed, and residential, attracting those seeking the ultimate in luxurious privacy. A tranquil swimming pool and spacious terrace enhance the effect.
The villa features 21 rooms and suites, most with terraces or balconies with dramatic coastline or hillside views. This is the perfect spot for a couple, family, or an exclusive buyout for an event or large group.
WINING & DINING
Have a drink at the bar in the villa or move to the main building, which features three restaurants enjoying unparalleled views of Mount Etna and Naxos Bay, the main bar with terrace, and one pool bar.
SPECIAL FEATURES
A heated private pool, access to the main building’s fitness center, courtesy shuttle to Villa Sant’Andrea, a lovely boutique, and more.
EXCLUSIVE EXPERIENCES
Take a spin on the world’s most glamorous three-wheeler, the Ape Calessino, with an expert driver, starting at the Botanical Gardens, descending to Mazzarò Bay, stopping at Isola Bella Beach, and visiting the hilltop village of Castelmola.
Visit Europe’s largest volcano, Mount Etna, to see lava flows, taking a tailor-made tour of its lunar landscapes before heading to a nearby winery for a lunch and wine tasting among the vineyards.
Explore a local clam farm to discover the ancient harvesting techniques used by a local fisherman in Ganzirri before sitting down in his home for a lunch overlooking the stunning Messina Strait.
To Go Away to Villa San Michele or Villa Timeo (or any other Belmond property) with added amenities, contact us. We will design a customized itinerary to set you on your way.