If you’ve been to Florence before and want a bit more breathing room, Villa San Michele might be one of my new favourite ways to do it. The former 15th-century Franciscan monastery reopened this spring after an 18-month renovation, and Belmond has really leaned into what makes this setting so special. Perched above Florence in Fiesole, you get incredible views over the city, but it feels completely removed from the crowds below. The new La DoubleJ collaboration is everywhere, from the fabrics and the china and even the woodland chapel. And there’s a much bigger focus on wellness too. We did a sound bath in the forest, there’s yoga amongst the trees, and it’s a place you actually want to stay put for the day! A few things I loved: ✨ Just 39 rooms, so it still feels intimate ✨ Sunset aperitivo in the gardens ✨ Live performances from the Fiesole School of Music ✨ Complimentary shuttle into Florence ✨ Those views over the city at almost every turn Would I stay here for a first t...