Florence's Villa San Michele Reopens After 18-Month Renovation

On June 13, 2026, Villa San Michele, a Belmond hotel, officially reopened its doors following an 18-month renovation. The property, perched in the Fiesole hills above Florence, aims to redefine its guest experience.

Country Life's Luke Abrahams was among the first to experience the revitalized hotel, describing it as a "peaceful sanctuary of beauty and inspiration." The restoration focused on preserving the villa's Renaissance architecture while integrating contemporary comforts, a delicate balance for a building with centuries of history. Country Life reports that the refurbishment intends to hark back to a Florence "used to be," implying a return to tranquility away from modern bustle.

Our take: Belmond consistently positions its properties as custodians of heritage. Villa San Michele's extensive closure for renovations suggests a significant investment in both structural integrity and the guest experience. This reopening is a litmus test for how successfully they've blended historical authenticity with the demands of today's luxury traveler, especially in a market as competitive and historically rich as Florence.