The St. Regis Florence is located in a sumptuous palace designed by Brunelleschi that’s located in the heart of the city. It’s perfectly situated on the north bank of the Arno River and is truly a Florentine jewel. Walking into the hotel I was in awe of its opulence and admired it’s Florentine Renaissance-meets-contemporary design aesthetic.
Overall there are 80 luxuriously appointed guest rooms and 19 suites. All of them feature individually hand carved gold leaf plaques that include names of noted Italian artists and nobility. Guests can choose between ‘Renaissance’, ‘Medici’ or ‘Fiorentino’ styles, all inspired by Florence’s decorative traditions. “Old-world meets new” with 21st-century gadgets such as iPod docks and Bose radios.
I stayed in the Michelangelo Suite and I have to say that it’s one of the most beautiful suites I’ve ever stayed in! There were several floor-to-ceiling windows with various views of the Arno River and Florentine landmarks. The suite is fit for a king or queen with a regal palette, luxurious materials, and a beautiful fresco painting. I enjoyed lounging in the luxurious sitting area and to my surprise I found a thoughtful handwritten note and a wonderful assortment of fruits and nuts waiting for me to nosh on.
Guests staying in Premium Deluxe Arno River View Rooms and all suites enjoy impeccable St. Regis Butler Service any time, day or night. It’s been a treasured hallmark of the St. Regis experience since the brand’s beginnings in 1904. Each butler acts like a trusted personal assistant who anticipates and attends to any and every guest’s need. They are happy to help with ironing, unpacking your luggage, or bringing complimentary tea or coffee to your room in the morning. Overall during my stay the service was very professional, attentive, and warm.
If you appreciate fine fashion, check out the spacious Bottega Veneta Suite. It’s sophisticated and contemporary with a palette of muted neutrals and chocolate brown. It was exclusively designed by the famous Creative Director, Tomas Maier and there are unique design pieces scattered throughout. I especially loved the alluring dining area that seats eight people and large balcony with seductive views of the Arno River.
The top floor Presidential Suite is fit for royalty and is located in the sumptuous front of the prestigious Renaissance Palace. It offers an expansive furnished deck with a jaw dropping view of the Arno River and Florence landmarks. It’s decorated in the prestigious Medici style and has a dining room area that seats up to 8 people for private entertaining.
Don’t miss the nightly ‘Champagne Ritual’ offered to all guests in the Winter Garden bar. It kicks off with the waiter popping the bottle with a sabre – the most theatrical and exclusive way to serve Champagne! The Bar Manager educated me on how to open a bottle of Champagne with a saber. Then I got to try it myself!
Facing The St. Regis Florence is its sister hotel, The Westin Excelsior that has a wonderful rooftop restaurant and bar, SE·STO on Arno. We dined on Florentine steak and sipped on delicious Italian red wine while taking in sweeping views of the city. It has a very special and romantic ambiance and the service was great as well!
Each morning, I looked forward to breakfast in the The St. Regis Florence’s Winter Garden and dined on Italian and American delights in an elegant setting.
If you’re in need of some rest and relaxation visit Spa My Blend by Clarins. Designed by Dr. Olivier Courtin-Clarins, My Blend offers an innovative approach to cosmetics: responding to individual needs and age-related skin changes, creating tailor-made treatments based on one’s personal diagnosis. Also, their spa suites are quite luxurious and opulent!
The St. Regis Florence is the perfect base to explore this Renaissance destination. It’s within easy reach of the main attractions and shopping district while being sufficiently removed from crowds. The gorgeous views of the Arno River from the Michelangelo Suite will not escape from my mind.