By 
“Villa La Massa, located on the Chianti hillside just outside Florence, is a picturesque estate that appeals to locals, couples seeking romance, families visiting Florence, and anyone wanting a tranquil retreat after a day of sightseeing. A free shuttle runs several times daily, taking guests the five miles into town and stopping at the Ponte Vecchio.
The estate is spread across five buildings along the Arno River, surrounded by lush gardens and distant hillside palazzos. As a member of The Leading Hotels of the World, Villa La Massa upholds the highest five-star standards, offering guests an immediate sense of relaxation from the moment they arrive.
Joining the PIN IT Leaders Club is free and provides benefits such as complimentary breakfast, early check-in, late checkout, free Wi-Fi, and potential room upgrades. Members also earn points that can be redeemed at other Leaders Club properties.
The estate features a mix of 13th-century charm and modern amenities. The main building houses 21 Renaissance-style rooms and suites with elegant décor, spacious living areas, and marble bathrooms. Nearby, Casa Colonica, a mid-1800s farmhouse, offers four bedrooms and can be rented fully or shared among groups. It includes an al fresco dining area and a pizza oven, with each suite having separate living and sleeping areas, a small kitchen, and views of the Chianti countryside.
The Villino and Mulino annexes provide more contemporary decor with traditional touches. Regardless of the room, guests will enjoy modern conveniences like high-speed Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, plenty of power outlets, and locally crafted furnishings.
Bathrooms feature locally made toiletries with natural ingredients, and large marble bathrooms come with showers, towel warmers, scales, robes, and slippers.
Each room offers unique views. The Limonaia building, recently renovated, provides modern Tuscan decor with balconies or garden terraces overlooking the Arno River. Returning guests might request room 49 for a view of Il Duomo in Florence. There are also three spacious private residences ideal for families or groups.
Villa La Massa’s dining options are exceptional. The morning breakfast, included in most rates, includes fresh berries, fruit, yogurt, focaccia, pastries, and a daily changing quiche. The breakfast setting with views of the Arno River is a highlight.
Il Verrocchio, the main dining room, offers indoor and balcony seating with Italian and Tuscan specialties, complemented by wine from the estate’s 15th-century cellar and olive oil from its own trees.
For a more casual experience, L’Oliveto Bistrot by the pool serves lunch and dinner with pizza from its pizza oven, freshly made pasta, and salads made from local produce. The bistro’s “pappa al pomodoro,” a tomato and bread stew, is particularly noteworthy.
The Medicean Bar features a variety of cocktails and mocktails, served under frescoed ceilings with bespoke furnishings. Guests can enjoy drinks on the patio overlooking the river at sunset.
Recent additions include a new outdoor pool and sun terrace. The former pool area now serves as a river-facing terrace, while the new infinity-edge pool and children’s splash pool offer comfortable lounging with chilled beverages. Guests can order from a menu to enjoy poolside or in the new restaurant.
The main building’s lower level houses a fitness center with modern equipment, fresh fruit, and water. Yoga classes are held by the pool, and a nearby tennis club has six courts.
The estate’s 25 acres of gardens are ideal for strolling or jogging, with city or mountain bikes available for exploring trails. The paths are marked with signs for stretching and wellness exercises. Villa La Massa is also a member of Grandi Giardini Italiani, giving access to private villas and gardens around Tuscany.
The hotel’s spa offers a relaxing retreat with massage and beauty treatments, a steam room, and a whirlpool.
The staff, many of whom have been with the hotel for years, provide attentive service. Summer evenings often feature live music and food events. Local guests frequently visit, allowing the staff to remember personal preferences and address guests by name.
The concierge can arrange day trips, boat cruises, and various activities like cooking classes, cocktail making, and painting workshops.
Villa La Massa is also a popular venue for special events and weddings, with a 16th-century chapel available for ceremonies. Notably, David Bowie and Iman were married here.
As part of the Villa d’Este group, known for its exceptional service, Villa La Massa greets guests with welcome gifts like a silver bowl of fruit, Prosecco, and cookies. The old-fashioned metal keys add a touch of charm, and guests can leave their keys at reception when heading into town.
Each night, turndown service includes more water bottles and chocolates, with towels and toiletries replenished, and linens perfectly ironed. The general manager frequently interacts with guests to ensure high standards of service. Villa La Massa provides a quintessential Tuscan getaway with excellent food, service, and proximity to Florence’s cultural attractions.”