FIRENZE Villa d Este Hotels
The enchanting tuscan countryside, the still waters of the Arno River and the city of Florence just minutes away. Villa La Massa is a16th century architectural gem. It was built as a country home for an aristocratic Florentine family during the Medici period and four centuries later in 1948 was transformed into a luxury hotel. Sitting majestically on the banks of the Arno River, it is a bucolic oasis, located at the intersection of history between Florence and the Chianti Rufina wine region. Linger on the Ponte Vecchio, remain awestruck before a Botticelli at the Uffizi or a Michelangelo at the Accademia. Upon returning, take in the views of the Tuscan countryside, with sheer, amber hues. The background music is provided by the calm running waters of the Arno and the scene is set by the olive groves, endless vineyards and Cypress trees. Allow the mind to drift and dream into oblivion, as Luigi Comencini did when he filmed Incompreso at Villa La Massa in 1966.
Serene Luxury. A member of The Leading Hotels of The World, Villa La Massa became part of the Villa d Este Hotels in 1998. Its four buildings, the Noble Villa, the Mill (15th Century) the Villino and the newly refurbished Casa Colonica were lovingly restored to the splendor of grand Tuscan villas which is reflected in its décor and atmosphere. The Renaissance aura is palpable: solid wooden canopy beds; wainscoting; frescoes on the ceilings; tapestries, custom drapery and linens in rich silks and brocades. Modern day upgrades are undersated: marble, Jacuzzi baths; wireless internet; personal media centers; satellite television. Elegantly casual yet subtly regal, Villa La Massa invites one to experience the art of living like Florentine nobility.
The enchanted suites in the villino. The Villino dates back to the 19th century and is the most intimate of the estate s four buildings. 7 bedrooms in total including the Presidential and the Parco Suites which offer more space. Views, atmosphere and romance, its location on the estate offers more independence for those seeking ultimate privacy.
ARNO SPA Inspirations of beauty in accordance with the essence of Tuscany. A warm and informal welcome in an original Tuscan atmosphere, combining heritage with luxurious comfort. The cosmetic line by Officina Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella is inspired by Tuscany's fragrant flowers and aromatic herbs of the Villa s gardens. Wine must oils, rose, mallow extracts, aloe vera, olive oil, citrus and floral fragrances are the main essences used to create customized facial and body treatments. Everything evokes a sense of tradition and passion for the Tuscan landscape.
Tuscan cuisine and romance: a dream comes true. Il Verrocchio restaurant is located in the Mulino, the estate s oldest structure. Its gorgeous windows permit guests to enjoy views of the Arno and the surrounding Chianti hills during any season. In summertime, guests can enjoy dining and watching sunsets alongside the Arno on the terrace. The cuisine is Tuscan inspired. The olive oil is pressed using olives from Villa La Massa s trees. The cellar is rich with fine Italian and regional wines. Enjoy lunch poolside, or a pre/ post dinner cocktail at the Medicean Bar. Options abound. A walk along the river leads to the discovery of the Chef s aromatic herb and vegetable gardens, the fruit tree orchards, the Iris garden and Kingfisher birds that pose in full view. Another walk may lead you down the aisle as it did David Bowie and Iman to a 16th century chapel surrounded by the estate s gardens... purely romantic.
Gardening and cooking with the Chef. Chef enjoys sharing his tricks for selecting the perfect ingredients and making the perfect dish. Join him in picking herbs and vegetables, cooking lunch and then sit at his private table in the kitchen to swap stories.
The Iris Garden: first bloom. The idea to create a garden devoted to the Iris was born of a meeting between Villa La Massa and landscape architect, Maria Chiara Pozzana, who, among many projects, has overseen the restoration of Florence s unique open air museum, Villa Bardini. The Iris is an ancient flower, with a profound legacy to the history of Florence and the Tuscan region. Villa La Massa chose this flower and its many varieties as the panoramic liner notes along the banks of the Arno River. They are of different sizes and shades of yellow, white and blue and are accented by cream colored peonies. Get lost in the beauty of this spot on the estate.
General Information. A member of The Leading Hotels of the World, Villa La Massa is located 8 km from the historic center of Florence and 18 km from the Peretola Airport (Florence International Airport), surrounded by 9 hectares of gardens: - 41 rooms in total (doubles and suites). - Private Parking. - Complimentary Shuttle Service to/from the Ponte Vecchio, every hour. - Limousine/private transfer services. - Private chapel for weddings. - 2 meeting and banqueting rooms. - Restaurant "Il Verrocchio". - Tuscan Bistrot - Medicean Bar. - Cellar of the 15th century, available for private wine tasting with regional specialities - Arno SPA. - Heated Outdoor Pool. - Tennis Club located 500 m from the Hotel, 16 courts (free of charge for hotel guests). - Bicycles available for guests. - Gift Shop. - Horseback riding 5 km from Hotel. - Ugolino Golf Club located 10 km from the Hotel, preferred green fees for Hotel guests. - Wine cellar available for private wine tastings paired with regional specialties. - Cooking lessons and garden tour with the Executive Chef upon request. Bespoke experiences that can be arranged for guests by Villa La Massa: - Reservations and tickets for museums, shows and restaurants. - Guided tours of Florence, Lucca, Pisa, Siena and other towns. - Discover the Chianti wine region: vineyards, cellars, wines and olive oils, tastings and special visits. - Visits to private villas and gardens throughout Tuscany. For further information, please visit us at: www.villalamassa.com Marketing & PR Villa d Este Hotels T. +39 031. 348.1 isabella.brusco@villadeste.it
Via della Massa 24 - Firenze - Candeli - Italy www.villalamassa.com