Built in the early nineteenth century as a private residence, in 1885 Giacomo Mosca of Switzerland transformed Helvetia & Bristol into a hotel. It soon became one of the hotels in Florence, beloved of the international elite on their Grand Tour.
It has seen a complete renovation, including 25 additional rooms in the former Banco di Roma (Bank of Rome) by famed interior designer Anouska Hempel, known for launching the boutique hotel concept in London in 1978. She has brought her signature sleek style to the Bristol wing, from the hand-bevelled oak parquet floors to the wainscoting, trimmings, silk and velvet curtains, chandeliers and opaline glass, lanterns, and cast-iron canopy beds.
These elements were commissioned from and produced by the best Italian artisans, such as Moleria Locchi, the glassmakers of Murano, Rubelli, Antico Setificio Fiorentino, Fiacchini, Anichini and Bronzetto.
The Bristol Wing at Helvetia & Bristol
For the additional 25 rooms in the Bristol wing, Hempel was inspired by the seductive atmospheres of the sumptuous Florentine palaces of the past, reinterpreting the style with contemporary flair.
The neutral colour palette matches the refinement of the furnishing details, including wrought-iron canopy beds made with embroidered fine cotton sheets and comfortable Dorelan mattresses. The large bathrooms, some with Turkish baths and Devon & Devon bathtubs, have vast decorated mirrors, some set in white Carrara marble frames, made in one piece by the skilful hands of Florentine craftsmen.
All this is just minutes away from Palazzo Strozzi, Piazza della Repubblica, and the Duomo, which is just a five-minute walk away. For couples, honeymooners, and seasoned travellers looking for discreet luxury in Florence, Helvetia & Bristol is the perfect accommodation.
Dine and spa at Helvetia & Bristol
Meanwhile, the new Cibrèo restaurant in central Florence serves refined modern Italian dishes on the ground level. The house-made Tagliolini pasta with Cacio, butter and black truffle at Cibrèo can’t be beaten.
Meanwhile, in the basement, one of the most striking spas in Florence is set around ancient Roman ruins. It offers a seven-stage terme experience based on the Roman bathing style dating back 2000 years. My suggestion: Try the Aquamotus. Over 1,200 jets of water generate a sublime massage with varying movements, intensities, and temperatures inspired by the spa culture of the ancient Romans. For added intensity, add a body scrub.
Photo © Helvetia & Bristol
