The best swimming pools near Florence

A DIP IN THE BLUE

The best swimming pools near Florence for a relaxing day

TEXT Martina Olivieri

With the arrival of summer, the city is dressed in magic, sunsets are reflected on the waters of the Arno, and the sun’s rays peep from between the palazzos and historic buildings. However, as the pace of life slows down and temperatures begin to rise, the desire grows to find corners of paradise where to relax and have fun ... that’s why we take you with us to discover the best swimming pools with a view around Florence to enjoy a dip surrounded by the rolling Tuscan hills.

Villa San Michele, A Belmond Hotel, Florence

Via Doccia, 4 - Fiesole (FI) ph. +39 055 5678200

FLORENCE FAMOUS SWIMMING POOLS WITH A VIEW ENHANCED BY THE COLORS OF THE SUNSET

Enjoy spectacular views over the Arno Valley and Florence from Villa San Michele heated pool with a view. Situated on a grassy plateau above the gardens and accessible via a path, it is the perfect place to daydream and relax, charmed and surrounded by beauty. At lunchtime or during the day, the poolside bar serves tasty lunches and snacks.

Villa La Massa

Via della Massa, 24 Candeli (FI) ph. +39 055 62611 There is nothing more rejuvenating than a swim in a pool. Villa La Massa offers its guests a new heated outdoor swimming pool, surrounded by a lawn equipped with

Above: Relais Villa Olmo Below: Villa Olmi

Borgo I Vicelli

sun loungers to relax with a book and a good drink. A part of the pool is reserved for children, who can play in complete safety. The Pool Bar offers light lunches by the pool and a truly priceless view of the lush Tuscan countryside.

Relais Villa Olmo

Via Imprunetana per Tavarnuzze 19 - Impruneta (FI) ph. +39 055 2311311 Just 20 minutes from Florence among the olive trees of the Impruneta hill we find the Boutique Hotel Relais Villa Olmo. Here it’s the details that make it a special place, even when spending just a day of total relaxation next to the beautiful swimming pool also open to non-guests, with a

panoramic view of the Tuscan countryside. Entrance to the pool and lunch (with two courses and a dessert) from Monday to Friday costs € 65, while dinner costs € 90 (with appetizer, first course, second course and dessert). On weekends the cost is € 90 for both lunch and dinner, including entry to the swimming pool. A gem in the heart of Chianti waiting to be experienced.

Fonte de’ Medici

Via Santa Maria a Macerata, 31 - Montefiridolfi (FI) ph. +39 055 8244700 A village dating back to the 1400s located in the heart of Chianti and surrounded by the Antinori family’s vineyards.

CORNERS OF PARADISE WHERE TO RELAX AND ENJOY A DIP SURROUNDED BY THE ROLLING TUSCAN HILLS

Villa San Michele, A Belmond Hotel, Florence

The proximity to Florence and Siena, the beauty of the Chianti countryside and its wine and food make Fonte de’ Medici a unique place. The pool is also open to non- guests with the purchase of an online package that includes use of one of the rooms and an aperitif at sunset with a tasting of 3 wines in the restaurant.

Borgo I Vicelli

Via Roma, 588 Bagno a Ripoli (FI) ph. +39 055 699003 On the hills of Florence, a country chic Relais in the heart of Chianti, the perfect destination for enchanting stays in search of well-being and happiness. Among the great services offered is a swimming pool in the center of the 17-hectare estate, mainly planted with olive trees and bordered by woods. The swimming pool is reserved for hotel guests, but there are not to be missed special offers for an escape from routine in close contact with nature or a bucolic holiday enhanced by all the most modern amenities.

Villa Olmi Firenze

Via del Crocifisso del Lume, 18 Via degli Olmi, 4/6 Bagno a Ripoli (FI) ph. +39 055 637710 A setting that is a perfect balance between history, as told by the walls of the 18th century Villa, and the modernity of the services offered. An optimal compromise between the city - the historic center of Florence is only 4 km away - and the countryside atmosphere evoked by the grounds and the lush gardens in which Villa Olmi is set. Here during the summer season, accompanied by the intoxicating smell of jasmine emanating from the surrounding gardens, guests can enjoy pure relaxation in the swimming pool.

Three generations passionate about amazing antiques I’m Chiara Esposito, the owner of “The Galleria Esposito Antiquario”, a three-generations family business which specialises in 17th, 18th and 19th-century Italian and European antique furniture and fine art. I run the gallery in the same place my father opened his business in Florence in 1990. The building housing the shop on Via Maggio 82r - the street dedicated to the antiques trade since ancient times - dates back to the 14th century. Its wonderful arched ceilings and charming original architectural details provide the perfect setting to display the magnificent pieces within. I offer a pleasantly unique, easy and tailor made shopping experience My customers are greeted with a smile and a glass of chilled prosecco! I accompany you with the utmost professionalism, sharing my passion and taste for the exceptional which are the hallmarks of my company. I’m here to facilitate your entire purchasing process, providing flat rate packaging and competitive worldwide shipping quotes and taking care of fine art exportation paperwork. An evocative and elegant environment to find antique furniture, fine artworks, Art Deco, Mid-Century and even Contemporary art objects and Textiles Our historic gallery located in the heart of Florence’s antiques district in the vibrant Oltrarno neighborhood, just a stone’s throw away from the Pitti Palace hosts a spectacular array of antique furniture, paintings, sculptures, lighting and collectibles that are mainly sourced in Italian private homes. Eclecticism and international taste distinguish our collection. The Esposito Antique Gallery has an international, loyal following of private collectors and trade customers served with care and dedication with a professional and responsive approach, but always very relaxed and friendly. Thanks to the presence on the antique market for three generations, my company is able to satisfy any kind of needs or request in the field of furnishing, home decor and interior design. Whether you are a collector or a dealer, the Esposito Antique Gallery is a must for antique lovers everywhere. I look forward to welcoming you! Chiara Esposito