In addition to being home to some of the world’s most thrilling amusement parks, Florida has a captivating blend of experiences that fuse a rich history, diverse cities and natural encounters into an enticing escape.
31.08.2023 - 01:21 / forbes.com / In Europe / Art
Forget the huge hotels with hundreds of identical rooms. If you’re planning a trip to the Tuscan capital of Florence, Italy, consider the intimate 18th-century palazzo of AdAstra. Not only is each and every one of its 14 rooms totally unique, but the storied, luxe mansion overlooks a secret garden with a gorgeous neo-gothic fairytale tower designed for observing the stars.
Location
AdAstra Florence is located in Florence’s artsy Oltrarno neighborhood, just south of the Arno river. It offers guests the best of both worlds: it’s a little removed from the crowded tourist destinations, yet just a 10-minute walk from the Ponte Vecchio and 15 minutes to the city center.
The History
The historic palazzo sits overlooking Torrigiani Garden, a botanical garden of much renown in the 16th century. When Marquis Pietro Torrigiani inherited the property in the early 19th century, he expanded the small garden and constructed the neo-gothic tower as an observatory — which inspired the name, since ad astra means “to the stars” in Latin.
Today, the 17-acre garden holds the title of the largest privately owned garden within the boundaries of a city in all of Europe. While the B&B occupies the first and second floors, the current Marquis (yes…there is a current Marquis) lives on the mansion’s ground floor, meaning guests will be sleeping in the same house as Italian nobility.
What To Know
While a stay at AdAstra gives guests sweeping views of the serene gardens set in the midst of bustling Florence, it should be noted that guests do not have access to stroll the gardens themselves. (That right is still reserved for the Marquis and his family.) However, it’s easy to soak up its beauty while sipping a cocktail, reading, taking a meal, or enjoying sunset from the hotel’s expansive wraparound terrace.
The Vibe
Artsy and funky, with a glamorous centuries-old patina.
Architecture and Decór
Old world elegance and contemporary funk collide at this 18th-century mansion turned modern B&B. The mansion’s current iteration is a collaboration between architect Francesco Maestrelli, with interiors by brothers Matteo and Marco Perduca.
Think antique gilded chandeliers, ceiling frescos, time-worn herringbone floors, claw foot tubs, and velvet settees — all punched up with contemporary pop art, film posters, framed illustrations and textiles, art books, and a treasure trove of quirky vintage finds.
Number of Rooms
14
Highlights
Accommodations
Each of the 14 rooms are uniquely curated, with a playful mix of contemporary and vintage art, and objet, Expect to see ornate crystal chandeliers and grand, gilded oil paintings next to funky pieces like boot-shaped lamps with camo lampshades, framed mod Pucci scarves and funny
In addition to being home to some of the world’s most thrilling amusement parks, Florida has a captivating blend of experiences that fuse a rich history, diverse cities and natural encounters into an enticing escape.
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