Dimora Ghirlandaio is an invitation to experience the essence of Tuscany. Embrace the luxurious offerings designed for those with discerning tastes. Every detail here tailors an unforgettable journey, making this your ultimate home away from home. Welcome to a realm where history and luxury converge, offering you a once-in-a-lifetime experience, including exclusive helicopter or hot air balloon tours, relaxing games of golf at the Golf Club, dinners in exclusive locations, and horse riding through the breathtaking beauty of the Chianti area.
Published June 10, 2024
“The only effective judge of things is time” - Nassim Nicholas Taleb.
The time has spoken. With a history spanning over 600 years, this exquisite hamlet property in Tuscany is a testament to enduring beauty and intrigue. Dimora Ghirlandaio is unlike any other. This luxury serviced villa offers a unique journey through time, immersing you in its rich history with each stay. The stories left behind by its previous owners create an unforgettable experience that stays with you long after you leave. Every moment is crafted exclusively for you. Juan Miquel, General Manager of Dimora Ghirlandaio, notes that the promise is to deliver an extraordinary Florentine experience to the guests. “This is what we work for,” he asserts. Every detail, from the custom-made chairs forged by a local blacksmith to the meticulously curated ambience, reflects unparalleled craftsmanship. At Dimora Ghirlandaio, the present meets the past. Interestingly, an in-house artist resides in a separate estate on the luxury villa. This renowned American painter and printmaker, whose works grace prestigious collections worldwide, including the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, offers personalised painting or drawing lessons upon request. Engage in this rare opportunity to explore your artistic side under the guidance of a master.
Written by My Private Villas Team
600 Hundred Years of History
Indulge in the timeless allure of Dimora Ghirlandaio, where each day adds a new layer of luxury to its storied history. Once, the luxury villa served as the place where the Ghirlandaio family sought solace amidst the bustling city, leaving behind a legacy of unparalleled artistry. For over six centuries, this estate has been a haven for those with a discerning eye for beauty and a taste for the finer things in life. From the gilded hands of the goldsmith Tommaso Bigordi to the Marquises Pannocchieschi d’Elci immortalised in Dante’s Divine Comedy, each chapter of its history adds depth to its allure. Today, Dimora Ghirlandaio welcomes guests with open arms, offering a peaceful and elegant retreat. Wander through the expansive vineyards and silver-leafed olive groves, where time seems to stand still amidst the whispers of centuries past. In 2010, the esteemed Cecchi family embarked on a five-year journey to restore this architectural gem to its former glory, ensuring that every corner exudes the warmth of hospitality and the grace of heritage, preserving its Renaissance charm while embracing the comforts of modern luxury.Tuscan Escapades: Unveiling Dimora Ghirlandaio's Luxury and Adventure
A rollercoaster of emotions awaits at Dimora Ghirlandaio, where luxury greets you as soon as you arrive. After savouring the grandeur of our esteemed property and taking part in the lively pizza-making event, prepare to embark on an array of unforgettable experiences. You can even use the nearby chapel for ceremonial celebrations. For more adventurous activities, embark on captivating helicopter tours, offering a bird’s-eye view of Florence’s timeless beauty and architectural splendour, each moment an ode to the majesty of the sky. Fly over the enchanting Tuscan countryside, a mix of diverse landscapes and lush vegetation, that invite you to savour their finest wines amidst centuries-old charm. Alternatively, consider doing a helicopter tour of the picturesque Island of Elba. Here, you’ll find top-notch restaurants serving delicious food with a view of the sea, creating a perfect combination of culinary delight and peaceful surroundings.
But the allure of this sanctuary extends far beyond the ordinary. Ascend to the heavens in a hot air balloon, drifting serenely over the breathtaking Florentine hills, each vista a masterpiece of nature’s grand design. For the enthusiast of sport and leisure, the illustrious Ugolino Golf Club offers a haven of sophistication amidst the Tuscan countryside, promising an unforgettable round of play amid timeless elegance. Immerse yourself in the equestrian arts with a picturesque horse ride through scenic vistas, or opt for a leisurely bike tour through the undulating terrain of the Chianti Hills, each turn revealing new wonders to behold.
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Interior Elegance: Exploring the Splendor of Dimora Ghirlandaio
Dimora Ghirlandaio stands as a testament to refined Renaissance architecture. At Ghirlandaio, five distinct spaces await, each a testament to exquisite design and unparalleled luxury. The Villa, a majestic Renaissance structure, exudes opulence across two floors, with an exclusive bedroom nestled within a converted dovecote, offering breathtaking views of Florence from its Italian garden. Fattoria, boasting a rustic charm, embraces Tuscan authenticity with interiors adorned in native materials like bricks and pietra serena stone, complemented by sweeping vistas. Bottega is infused with history, honouring the architectural legacy of Tuscany’s countryside. It blends ancient craftsmanship with modern comforts, set against an intimate garden backdrop, with the mesmerising silhouette of the Florentine Cathedral in view. Frantoio is the epitome of familial comfort. Its spacious, finely adorned halls and verdant garden oasis envelop guests in warmth and tranquillity within its central courtyard. Lastly, the Studio offers serene seclusion, spread across three levels and adorned with natural finishes. It cocoons guests in peace, with a lush private garden offering direct access to one of its rooms, ensuring absolute privacy and rejuvenation. At Ghirlandaio, indulgence knows no bounds, promising a bespoke retreat tailored to every discerning traveller’s desires.
We interviewed Juan Miquel, General Manager of Dimora Ghirlandaio, who provided further insight into the history of Dimora Ghirlandaio and beyond.
Interview: Juan Miquel, General Manager of Dimora Ghirlandaio
What makes Dimora Ghirlandaio’s restoration by the Cecchi family so extraordinary?
Today, Dimora Ghirlandaio shines again, thanks to the skilful restoration work commissioned by the Cecchi family, who have owned the hamlet since 2010. The result is an extraordinary place where the charm and art of the past blend seamlessly with contemporary comfort, creating an incredible atmosphere. Within the residence’s expansive park, five villas, each boasting a private garden, form an exceptional resort. Guests can enjoy a 150-square-metre pool, a refined wellness centre, personalised catering services, and an organic vegetable patch offering seasonal delicacies.
What key insights have you gained about client preferences and luxury service standards at the villa?
The primary focus has been developing the property into a full-service villa where guests can enjoy complete privacy and dedicated staff while immersing themselves with friends and family. This ensures that every luxury service expected by the most discerning guests is provided without compromise.
Could you share the most memorable feedback you’ve received from guests?
We’ve received plenty, but one that stands out is the encouragement from many guests to keep in touch with them upon their departure. They often express feelings at home, which contributes to a relaxed atmosphere. Hearing guests say they prefer spending more time on the property is heartening. I find this feedback genuinely extraordinary.
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What fascinating stories can you share about the historical significance of Dimora Ghirlandaio?
We printed a book titled ‘The Ghirlandaio at Colle Ramole: The History of a Family Residence in the Florentine Countryside,’ which recounts the place’s history and significance as a residence for Renaissance painters such as Michelangelo, Pontorno, Raffaell, etc.
What culinary delight steals the spotlight at Dimora Ghirlandaio?
Perhaps it’s the irresistible allure of handcrafted pici pasta adorned with savoury wild boar ragù, followed by a divine finale of homemade Tiramisu.
What daily ritual brings you the most joy while working at Dimora Ghirlandaio?
The morning supervision of the day, getting ready before breakfast begins, and the cocktail hour before dinner with the sunset are also exceptional.
What would be a perfect day or weekend at Dimora Ghirlandaio?
At Dimora Ghirlandaio, you’ll experience a dreamy retreat carefully crafted just for you. Wake up to the sun’s gentle embrace at “La Locanda” and relish a delightful breakfast al fresco. Dive into a cooking class followed by lunch “on their efforts” with a selection of Tuscan DOCG wines or a painting lesson in the gardens. After that, spend the afternoon by the pool, then sip cocktails on the terrace with stunning views overlooking Florence and its Dome. Finally, dine under the stars in the Renaissance Garden, completing a perfect day.
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