Borgo Pignano Florence: An Intimate Villa Retreat Near the City Center

Exceptionally rich in art, history and Tuscan charm, Florence continues to mesmerize CB clients. Yet most travelers think of it purely as a city break, overlooking the handful of luxury retreats that let you enjoy the city from a quieter perch just beyond. The debut of Borgo Pignano Florence is a welcome new addition to that short list. CB founder and CEO Amie O’Shaughnessy, along with several members of the CB Travel Advisor team, recently had the privilege of being among the property’s very first guests, and she couldn’t wait to share how this thoughtfully conceived, understated luxe setting offers a fresh way to experience La Bella Firenze.

Borgo Pignano Florence Review & Highlights

Ciao Bambino: How does Borgo Pignano Florence stand out amid the Florence hotel scene?

Amie O’Shaughnessy: Borgo Pignano Florence is a truly unique offering. It is located in Florence just outside the city center, but you can still reach Piazza della Repubblica in about 10 minutes. What this means for guests is a central stay with the added bonus of outdoor spaces that are largely unheard of in Florence. Located in the Via Bolognese residential area along the ancient route to Bologna, Borgo Pignano has a 5-hectare garden that is one of the largest in the city and a gem that must be seen to be believed: the largest pool in Florence. This 30-meter stunner, heated in the winter, is a place where guests can relax and enjoy a bite from the poolside cafe. They also have an intimate spa and a sizable gym.

Beyond the property itself, Borgo Pignano puts a devoted emphasis on hospitality and gastronomy. Its extensive culinary program highlights the essence of Tuscan farm-to-table cooking with seasonal and locally sourced ingredients, many of which come from Borgo Pignano’s sister property in Volterra. In addition, there is a robust beverage program with well-chosen wines, craft cocktails and mocktails that all speak to pride of place in Florence and its broader environs.

CB: What about this property’s setting speaks to CB travelers?

Amie: So much about Borgo Pignano Florence is special. This 15th-century villa has been completely reimagined for modern guests, and it’s clear that a tremendous amount of care has gone into its design, from the public spaces to the fact that no two guestrooms are the same. Everything about it is noteworthy, from the cypresses that line the main drives to nooks within the spectacular gardens dedicated to the senses. These include a fragrance garden, a garden of delights, a secret garden and a vegetable garden. At the same time, with only 32 rooms, there’s still a strong sense of intimacy.

This is a property meant to be experienced, walked through and enjoyed, not just looked at. From a yoga session under the cedars to reading a book in the garden, the outdoor space is as much of a priority as the well-appointed rooms and inviting choice of linens.

CB: How is the Borgo Pignano brand reflected in this new property?

Amie: Ciao Bambino was a pioneer in sending our clients to Borgo Pignano’s original property in Volterra. Borgo Pignano’s rural escape remains a firm favorite and is a wonderful home base for exploring Tuscany from San Gimignano to Siena, Chianti Classico and even Florence. Borgo Pignano Florence is a natural extension of the commitment to local artisanal products, homage to historic details and amazing staff that have already made the Borgo Pignano brand so special.

We’ll book your stay at Borgo Pignano Florence with VIP treatment from start to finish.

Every stay should feel special, and we’ll pair you with an expert Travel Advisor who can pass along insider perks such as complimentary breakfast, room upgrades and more, all while handling every detail behind the scenes.

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CB: Talk to us a bit more about what it feels like to wake up to a day at Borgo Pignano Florence.

Amie: Waking up at Borgo Pignano Florence is like waking up in your very own Florentine villa … starting your day with a cup of coffee while you breathe in the fragrant air, taking a walk in the olive garden and disconnecting from the outside world, even though all of Florence is only a stone’s throw away. Borgo Pignano is elevated but not fussy, and it is a joy to return, almost like a homecoming, after each day out.

The property is anchored by extensive greenery, including the Cedar of Lebanon that lends its name to the onsite restaurant, as well as woods, fields, olive groves and gardens. It’s been home to Marchese Carlo Ginori, famed for founding the Doccia porcelain company, as well as Giorgio Emo di Capodilista, a noble and military man who defended Italy in World War I. That sense of grandeur hasn’t faded, and a stay here is both peaceful and polished.

CB: How does Borgo Pignano’s affinity for local products extend to a stay?

Amie: This is not a cookie-cutter hotel that happens to be in Florence. Every element, from the culinary program to the spa and bath products, is thoughtfully chosen and sourced as locally as possible. In fact, Chef Stefano Cavallini received a green Michelin star at sister property Pignano Volterra and they use products from there whenever humanly possible. For example, Borgo Pignano showcases eggs, honey, fruits, olive oil, four different types of wine and even ham from the Volterra location. Every dish and every drink pays homage to local heritage.

This philosophy extends to wellness, with spa amenities and bath products made in their herbal lab in Volterra using essential oils from dried garden flowers. They’re also the only spa in Italy offering treatments with Neuraé, Sisley’s new line based on botanicals and neuroscience.

CB: How would you suggest CB travelers combine time in Florence with a stay at Borgo Pignano?

Amie: We see Borgo Pignano as an invitation to stay in Florence a bit longer than you might have otherwise. Florence is a cultural highlight of Italy, but it can be crowded and warm, particularly in summer. Instead of cramming in sights and checking them off your list, Borgo Pignano offers the chance to slow down. What might have been a day or two in the city is easily extended: Breeze into town for sightseeing in the morning and enjoy the property in the afternoon, or linger by the pool or at the spa and then be whisked into town for dinner. It’s city access in a leisurely format that is second to none.

We also love pairing the two properties for a holiday that blends city and country. A few days at Borgo Pignano Florence combine seamlessly with a stay at Borgo Pignano Volterra. The hospitality and warmth of one are mirrored in the other, and it’s especially gratifying to see where all of the amazing products and ingredients are sourced. CB can also provide attractive packages combining both, with compelling amenities and perks. Note that in this soft-opening year, Borgo Pignano Florence will be closed for most of January through the end of March; after that, both properties will be open year-round.

CB: What types of guests might enjoy a stay at Borgo Pignano Florence?

Amie: Borgo Pignano makes a terrific home base for couples or those planning a girls’ getaway. Though the pool is extremely appealing to kids, the overall vibe is serene, making it best suited to families with older children. It’s also not for the guest who wants to walk out and have shopping at their door or be smack in the midst of the hustle and bustle of Florence.

We recommend it for those who have been to Florence before and want to see it through a new lens. A stay here isn’t about rushing in and out. Borgo Pignano Florence has been meticulously crafted for secluded, pampered enjoyment, and the thoughtful staff keep it running like a well-oiled machine. Their warmth matches that of the property and grounds.

CB: Any inside scoop or final thoughts?

Amie: More than anything, Borgo Pignano feels like stepping into another world, where you can pair the calm of the villa and gardens with Florence’s design and cuisine. Larger groups or families can book a buyout of Villa La Sosta, a standalone building with five en-suite bedrooms that sleeps 10 to 12 adults. With a full gourmet kitchen and private indoor and outdoor living spaces, it’s set up for a truly memorable Florentine house party.

Relevant Links: 

Browse all accommodations and destinations in Tuscany with kids

52 things to know before traveling to Italy with kids

Essential tips for a Tuscany farm stay with kids

10 beautiful places to discover on a Tuscany family vacation

What to do in Florence with kids

Tips for visiting Florence’s Duomo and Campanile with kids

Photos by Amie O’Shaughnessy except where noted.

Editor’s note: This post was accurate when published. We advise checking independently for the latest information and updates. Ciao Bambino does not accept responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in, or for any actions taken based on, the information presented.