Those wishing to escape the tourist-packed streets of Florence will find a bucolic 15th century villa perched on a hilltop just fifteen minutes drive away. Il Salviatino is a fairtytale retreat that we were lucky enough to experience for our last night in Tuscany. Driving up after dark, it felt oddly like a James Bond hideaway, shielded by trees and glowing in the moonlight. We were warmly greeted; the check-in process is surprisingly untraditional with no formal reception or pretentious lobby. When we arrived the staff were in a flurry, changing things round after a light rain shower. We were offered a cocktail while our bags were taken through to our room. Sitting out on the candlelit terrace, starfruit adorned cocktail in hand, we could admire our breathtaking surroundings.
Our Salviati De Luxe room was exceptionally distinctive, with exposed brickwork and a half-moon window looked out to the terrace below. The heavy curtains kept the room pitch black when desired, but when open allowed dewy Tuscan daylight to flood in. The very low but very plush bed sat on a beautifully worn antique red carpet, looking regal and inviting. On the walls hung gold-framed old paintings but the lighting and style of the room was modern and chic.
The bathroom was equally impressive with a freestanding ornate sink and a marvellous huge bath for long soaks. The separate sit down rain shower included disco-like lighting (little LEDs flash as you scrub!) – all very contemporary and cool. Toiletries are bespoke made for the hotel: a smart collection of red and silver organic olive oil based products. The other amenities one might expect of such a grand, special hotel: complimentary mineral water, a Nespresso machine and best of all, a plasma TV with a free selection of recent films to watch (usually this extra would add at least another £10 to the bill).
After a long bath, I slept like a baby enveloped in the cosy thick Tuscan linen. When I awoke and opened the curtains, I again had a feeling of disbelief at the stunning view. Breakfast is served out on the terrace, so that guests can make the most of the warm weather and beautiful surroundings. A traditional Italian breakfast tray was delivered to each table, comprising pastries, fresh fruit, cheese, yoghurt and cold meats… other requirements can be ordered, though we found our tray to be more than adequate, along with some strong coffee and freshly squeezed orange juice. Fresh and delicious, it was the perfect wake up remedy, sadly the wasps thought so too and it was a real struggle batting them away.
Wandering around the gardens after breakfast we were given a taste of the Il Salviatino property and all it has to offer. The spa and outdoor pools are perhaps the most picturesque, the luminescent turquoise water gleaming marvellously amongst the dark green foliage. Oh, what I would have done at that moment to spend another day (or week) in this sanctuary of serenity and sun. Those wishing to discover the artistic treasures of Florence can take the complimentary shuttle bus which runs from the hotel gates.
Il Salviatino is truly a place you imagine in your dreams as the ideal holiday location. Within reach of a city of culture and beauty and yet removed to the solitude of the hills, it couldn’t be a better balance.
More information and book here.
Many thanks to the Florence Tourist Board for their help with the trip.