Hotel L'Orologio Florence

Location

Overlooking Santa Maria Novella, a historic square that ranks among Florence’s most idyllic, L’Orologio is in the true centre of town, just a few minutes from the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio. The piazza is also host to a Gothic Renaissance church of the same name: the city’s first great basilica and its principal Dominican church. As such, its façade – completed in the 14th century – is suitably grand, featuring great green marble flourishes picked out against pearly whites. You’ll also have Via Roma, the city’s upmarket shopping street, on your doorstep along with a range of superb Florentine restaurants.

Accommodation

In its understated theme, L’Orologio welcomes you into the world of haute horlogerie – fine timepieces to the uninitiated. Each room is named for a collectible watch – think Rolex, Vacheron-Constantin and Patek Philippe – with styling to match in leather accents, mahogany furniture, wooden floorboards, original artwork and various memorabilia. Even the faucets in the marble bathrooms take their notes from a watch’s crown. This said, it’s subtly done and most of the design flourishes will have to be pointed out to you; the effect is luxury chic rather than thematic nightmare. For some, it’s even a delightful frame to superb views of the next-door basilica and the city’s famous cathedral, a sight best taken from one of the indulgent suites.

Dining

L’Orologio has to have one of the finest breakfast rooms in Florence. Found on the fourth floor, its giant windows look directly over the neighbouring square and its Santa Maria Novella Church. Here you’ll enjoy continental buffets and American breakfasts made from rich selection of organic produce. On the ground floor you’ll find the L’O Bar, which is ideal for either a mid-morning coffee or an end-of-evening nightcap at its oversized mahogany bar. There’s even live music at certain periods of the year. It doubles as a bistro too, offering a refined menu of light bites. 

Facilities

Given Florence’s compact nature, L’Orologio surprises with a wide range of facilities. Those seeking to keep fit can get their fix in the fitness centre, complete with latest-generation Technogym machines. There’s also a Finnish sauna to soothe any sightseeing aches and a smoking room. Hark back to yesteryear with comfortably armchairs, fine spirits and a superb collection of coffee roasts. Of course, it’s very possible – given your location – that you’ll want to spend all your time exploring.