Historic design retreat near Florence (sleeps 12 comfortably / up to 15)
Where design, history, and nature meet.
Once a medieval watchtower, Torre di Sopra was reimagined in the 1970s by architect Bruno Sacchi, blending ancient stone with modern form. The result is a rare Tuscan home of light and proportion — elegant yet relaxed, designed for gathering.
With space for up to 15 guests (12 in full comfort), it’s perfect for families or friends seeking inspiration, connection, and peace — just 20 minutes from Florence.
Inside, every room tells a story — 70s furniture, artworks, and timeless views of olive groves. The dining room seats 14, and large outdoor tables invite long dinners beneath the loggia or courtyard stars.
Outdoors, you’ll find a saltwater pool, gardens, BBQ, table tennis, table football, and badminton. Tennis and golf are close by, and the villa’s location makes an ideal base for exploring Tuscany — from Chianti and Siena to Lucca and the sea.
Inside space: 593 m² (6,393 ft²) Outside space: 1,696 m² (18,356 ft²)
Check-in: Saturdays during high season. Flexible arrivals may be possible at other times — please enquire.
Due to the tower’s historic architecture, we can host up to two children under six (cots provided).
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Events allowed: family gatherings and birthday parties
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Pets
No pets allowed
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Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
When exiting please ensure the property is locked and orange security gate is closed.
The swimming pool is open from 1st June to 31st September but can be made available at other times on request. It is for the sole use of residents.
Guests should respect the age of the building (12th century Historic monument) Please do not move furniture, beds or attach anything to the walls.
Important information
You need to know
Property Registration Number IT048001B45AH64VK3
Property # 11173185
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts cash
Parties and events (including family gatherings and birthday parties) are allowed on site. Maximum attendees: 15
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has not indicated whether there is a smoke detector on the property
About the area
Bagno a Ripoli
Located in Bagno a Ripoli, this villa is in a rural area. Uffizi Gallery and Gallery of the Academy of Florence are cultural highlights, and some of the area's notable landmarks include Ponte Vecchio and Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Travelling with kids? Consider Villa Medicea di Lilliano - Malenchini, or check out an event or a game at Nelson Mandela Forum. Take some time off to enjoy the winery tours in the area, or get some fresh air with adventures like cycling nearby.
Villa Medicea di Lilliano - Malenchini - 5 min drive - 4.7 km
San Piero a Ema Church - 5 min drive - 5.0 km
Arno River - 9 min drive - 5.3 km
Circolo Golf Ugolino - 10 min drive - 9.3 km
Ruffino - Tenuta di Poggio Casciano - 12 min drive - 8.6 km
Getting around
Florence Rovezzano Station - 9 min drive
Strozzi - Fallaci Tram Stop - 14 min drive
Peretola Airport (FLR) - 36 min drive
Restaurants
GRANBAR - 15 min walk
Old Wild West - 15 min walk
Bar S. Donato In Collina - 6 min drive
Burger King - 5 min drive
CRC Antella - 3 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Does Historic design retreat near Florence (sleeps 12 comfortably / up to 15) have a pool?
Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.
How much does it cost to stay at Historic design retreat near Florence (sleeps 12 comfortably / up to 15)?
As of 14 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Historic design retreat near Florence (sleeps 12 comfortably / up to 15) on 23 May 2026 start from AU$2,860, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
Is Historic design retreat near Florence (sleeps 12 comfortably / up to 15) pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much is parking at Historic design retreat near Florence (sleeps 12 comfortably / up to 15)?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Historic design retreat near Florence (sleeps 12 comfortably / up to 15)?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Historic design retreat near Florence (sleeps 12 comfortably / up to 15)?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Historic design retreat near Florence (sleeps 12 comfortably / up to 15) located?
Located in a rural location, this family-friendly villa is within 6 mi (10 km) of Villa Medicea di Lilliano - Malenchini, Via Vincenzo Gioberti, and Arno River. Circolo Golf Ugolino and Ruffino - Tenuta di Poggio Casciano are also within 6 miles (10 km).
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
We felt privileged surrounded by the history, the art work and exceptional design of this amazing property. Everything was special: the beauty of the gardens, the seated outside space, the light in the tower. We were a family of 12 reuniting from different parts of the world as we do every year. This property was the most beautiful we’ve stayed in. It was comfortable and luxurious at once. Homey and impressive. We loved being there and cannot recommend the place enough!
francis y.
Stayed 10 nights in Oct 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Nov 2025
Thank you so much for your beautiful words!
They truly capture the spirit of the house. Torre di Sopra was designed to bring people together, and it means a lot to hear that your family reunion found such harmony here.
We’re delighted you felt the blend of comfort, history, and light that makes the tower special.
You’ll always have a home waiting for you in Tuscany - we hope to welcome you back one day.
Warm regards, From the Torre di Sopra team
Our family of 11 stayed at the villa for a week and loved our experience. We rented cars which was perfect, the area was very easy to navigate. Jane and Tom were extremely helpful with anything we needed. We enjoyed the property each day and loved exploring the area. We would definitely return!
Nicole W.
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Oct 2024
It was a delight to host this charming multi-generational family. Fortuitously they were musical and appreciated the recently installed musical instruments we now provide; keyboard, guitar, percussion etc I look forward to welcoming them back.
We had an incredible stay at Torre di Sopra for a recent family trip.The villa strikes a rare balance between historic charm and modern design. Every room felt intentional, blending comfort with artistry.It's an ideal property for large groups: the kitchen is well-equipped, and the indoor and outdoor dining areas make meals feel special and effortless.The location is another major advantage. It feels peaceful and tucked away, yet is incredibly convenient for exploring the region. We took easy day trips to Florence, Siena, and Modena, and one member of our group also did a bike ride into Chianti (not for inexperienced riders, but for cycling enthusiasts, a once-in-a-lifetime ride).Another standout was the concierge service. The host was incredibly responsive from the moment we booked our trip and recommended local experiences that we never would have found on our own.When looking online, it is very difficult to differentiate among the many beautiful properties in Tuscany, but this one truly stands out. More than just a place to stay, Torre di Sopra feels like a creative sanctuary. We very much hope to return someday.
It’s hard to put into words how wonderful our time was at Torre di Sopra. We were a family of 11, ages 8-75. I would do it again in a heartbeat. Everything was amazing.
Magical. An architectural gem. Easy access to Florence. Perfect for family gatherings of inter generational relatives. The swimming pool and kids play rooms were a strong plus. Our experience of Torre di Sopra far exceeded our expectations.
David L.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 28 June 2024
We are delighted that they appreciated the property, the facilities and the easy proximity to Florence. Yet again the luxury of space proves what a welcoming property it is for another multi aged family gathering.
This is a beautiful property with extraordinary landscaping in a restored and renovated historic tower home. It is close to Florence & we found taking a cab was easier than navigating the streets of Florence. We also visited nearby Luca, Pisa, Arrezzo & Siena. Torre has inner and outer courtyards that we found comfortable & inviting places to eat & relax after a day of sightseeing. Our group of six was overall very happy with our choice to stay at this property.
Kim P.
Stayed 12 nights in May 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 29 May 2024
A great group who used the Torre as a base to discover Tuscany.
They left us with an impossible puzzle that we hope future guests will be able to complete.
And an amazing pebble artwork that will soon be featured on our Instagram.
This house is just perfect. My extended family of 12 stayed, with kids ranging from 5 to teenagers, and it was exceptional. Plenty of space so we weren’t on top of each other, lots of bedrooms for kids and adults, and wonderful places to congregate and play. Fantastically stocked kitchen, multiple tables to hold us all both inside and out, and a simply gorgeous garden with a pool. The whole team was excellent with communication from reservation through to our last morning. We couldn’t have had a better stay, and I am very picky. We will absolutely return, and I was the family hero for booking such a great spot. Thank you!
Our family had a wonderful stay at Torre di Sopra.
Everything from making reservations to checking out was flawless.
Property owners are courteous, supportive, and a pleasure to deal with.
Torre di Sopra is wonderful and spacious to fit comfortably a large family of 15 people.
I also really appreciated the attention to detail. Everything is very well thought out to meet any possible needs of guests.
The location is very convenient, and the bus stop is two minutes away, which made it so easy for our large group to move around. On a good day without traffic, we could reach downtown Florence in ~30 minutes.
We enjoyed our stay and would recommend Torre Di Sopra for a family gathering or an event.
Iryna M.
Stayed 12 nights in Oct 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 7 Nov 2023
We are delighted that yet another family enjoyed a happy reunion at Torre and were able to enjoy the glorious sunny October weather (well worth keeping the pool open for them). Wonderful to be able to enjoy Florence at a less busy time of year.
Writing a review of this special place is difficult only because we all wish we didn’t have to leave! Our family group of 10 ranged in ages from 14 to 80 and it was a special trip for my father-in-laws 80th birthday. Communication began months before we arrived and filled us with excitement - the hosts thoughtfully recommended *everything* you might need and more from local shops and restaurants to the best ways to get in and out of Florence (a 20 min drive away). Once we all arrived, everything was wildly above and beyond! The love and passion poured into restoring and enhancing this medieval building shines through - from the structure’s design to the beautiful surrounding gardens. Our 4 teenagers lived by the pool and played rounds of table tennis and we all enjoyed reading/drinking/dining in all of the outdoor spaces. Tom and Jane were SO helpful with all of our questions! Even helping to arrange dinner reservations and recommend a local flower shop for a special bouquet for a 20th anniversary. The most beautiful memories were made and we have them to thank. Torre do Sopra is a gem.
Lucinda y Tom fueron extraordinarios anfitriones cuidando todos los detalles.
Manuel B.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Jan 2026
It was a pleasure to host such a charming multi generational family over the Christmas period. They really appreciated the historic property and location near to Florence.
Todo estuvo muy bien, Jane estuvo desde el día 1 muy al pendiente de todo, magnífica host!La casa tiene todo para que puedas pasar unas vacaciones increíbles. La alberca de agua salada está espectacular.Gracias por todo, esperemos pronto regresar.
Daniela M.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 11 Aug 2025
Muchísimas gracias por su elogioso comentario. Nos llena de alegría saber que su estancia fue tan placentera y que la casa, con su piscina de agua salada y entorno sereno, cumplió con sus expectativas.
Jane se sentirá muy halagada al saber que su atención fue tan apreciada. Será un honor recibirles nuevamente en este pequeño rincón de Toscana donde el tiempo parece detenerse.
We had the best time at Torre di Sopra. Jane and Tom were fantastic hosts and the property is absolutely beautiful. By far the most unique place we have ever stayed! We had seven adults and there was more than enough room for all of us to comfortably stay for a week. The October weather was beautiful, and we were lucky enough to still be able to enjoy the vegetables and herbs from the garden. A few days were even warm enough for a late season dip in the pool. The location is fantastic- just a quick drive into Florence for exploring.
We can’t recommend staying here enough! If you do, be sure to book a cooking class at the villa. It was our favorite night of the week!
We visited Tuscany to celebrate my brother in law’s 70th birthday. Our group raised in age from 25-70 and all loved it. The location of the villa was ideal for trips into Florence and around Tuscany. The villa was beautiful and Tom helped us out with suggestions and assistance whenever needed. Jane organized two local restaurant reservations which were perfect and a chef that came one night to make us a delicious meal at the villa. We highly recommend staying at Torre di Sopra!
Stephen R.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2022
Verified
8/10 Good
Kevin Y.
10 Sept 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, location, listing accuracy
The Torre is Superb
We are so grateful to have stayed in such a beautiful place. We were a group of 13 middle-to-late aged couples, family and friends mostly traveling from Canada and USA- we all fit very comfortably. Each room/area has its own bathroom and the numerous lounging areas within the home make it easy to enjoy some alone time while traveling in a group. The courtyards were perfect for family dinners: we hosted a chef, Alessio Sedran, whom we highly recommend. The pool area was absolutely perfect and probably the highlight of the grounds. It was perfectly manicured and secluded, just what we needed after our day trips in Florence, Siena, San Gimignano and the beach.
We thoroughly enjoyed our time here, however we were extremely disappointed with the interactions with the host, Jane.
We may have gotten off on the wrong foot and I will apologize for the first day we stayed there, as we left 3 lights and a fan on, 1 window open (in a locked position) and the back door was left unlocked as a couple within our group went for a walk in the neighborhood (they thought that was ok since there is a coded gate entrance and they weren’t sure when we would arrive back home). This prompted an agressive phone call from Jane while I was at dinner, and then she lectured me again in our kitchen during breakfast the following morning. I understand the importance of her message however it was the agression in her delivery that made our group feel very uncomfortable throughout our stay. Each member in our group describes their solo interactions with Jane as “unpleasant” or “sour”, which leaves me feeling so disappointed.
She would freely enter the home multiple times throughout our stay (yes, she would just walk right in without knocking), even once interrupting our private dinner with the chef in the enclosed courtyard. We spent the rest of our time at the Torre trying to avoid Jane on the property, but this was difficult as she lives there.
Would I recommend this to a friend? Yes, but I would warn them of the lack of privacy and sour management. We paid a lot of money and did not enjoy a private, welcoming atmosphere while at Torre di Sopra.
Kevin Y.
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 22 Sept 2022
I am delighted to see that you appreciated and enjoyed your stay with us. I am however extremely sorry that you felt I was in any way intrusive and that my concern for the security of the property interfered with your stay. Please do accept my apologies and I would always be happy to receive a booking from you again. I was most impressed with the way you left the property for which I’m very grateful.
We are thrilled and will definitely come back again
Speechless, overwhelmed and absolutely satisfied, that's torre di sopra after a week. Thank you for the wonderful time. We will be returning soon and are already looking forward to relaxing by the pool, cooking in the spacious kitchen and spending time in the many beautiful places around the house.
We stayed with the family for seven days in this property and had an outstanding experience! It’s a very very central location and the property allows for a lot of informal gatherings and activities inside the house and outside the house in the beautiful gardens and around the pool. The property manager was very accommodating and knowledgeable about the area. We had an excellent stay and are looking forward to many summers ahead!
Très belle demeure, jardin et piscine. Un cadre exceptionnel proche de Florence.
Prestations générales de grande qualité, manquait juste la plancha ou un barbecue moderne. Frédéric lasnier
Frédéric L.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Aug 2022
Bonjour merci bien pour votre mots. C'etait dommage qu'il nous n'etait pas demande' pendant votre sejour. Notre BBQ c'etait debarasse' car cet annee il y a un decret regional que interdit l'utilisation des BBQ pour risque d'incendie. Nous esperons de vous accueillir une autre annee.
We had a fantatic time at Torre DiSopra. The proprety was beyond our expactations and Jane the owner is a great host!
Michel G.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Sept 2022
It was a delight to host Michel and his group. They thoroughly appreciated the architecture and environment and left the property in perfect condition. I look forward to welcoming them again.
Nous avons passé un très beau séjour avec famille et amis. Le lieu est magnifique, chargé d’histoire, rénové avec beaucoup de soin. Nombreux espaces, tous très agréables et fonctionnels, permettant à chacun de s’y sentir bien. Propriétaire très prévenante et agréable ! Potager incroyable !
Agnès C.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 31 July 2022
It was a pleasure to host this charming and appreciative family who used their stay so well, visiting many local places and also enjoying the pool and garden. They left the property in immaculate condition and I very much hope they will return.
Wir hatten mit zwei Familien und Großmutter hier eine wunderschöne Osterwoche. Das Haus ist phantastisch, sehr gut ausgestattet und der Garten wunderschön. Gerne kommen wir wieder, vielleicht wenn es wärmer ist und man auch den Pool nutzen kann!
Anne S.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 24 May 2022
It was a pleasure to host this large family group. They left the property immaculately clean and tidy. We look forward to seeing you again when the pool is open.
Torre di Sopra exceeded all of our expectations. Our group of thirteen friends and family members from the US and Canada stayed for a week to celebrate a milestone birthday. The trip had been delayed by nearly two years due to COVID; however, Jane was incredibly understanding and flexible and allowed us to postpone the stay twice due to travel restrictions. Torre di Sopra is stunningly beautiful with tall ceilings and unique architectural features — matched only by the beauty of the surrounding olive grove and meticulously landscaped property. Even with the large size of our group, the layout allowed for ample privacy. We spent cosy evenings by the massive fireplace and had breakfast together every morning in the well equipped kitchen. November was a perfect time for visiting Florence with crisp weather and much smaller crowds. The house is situated about 25 minutes outside of Florence and is also a wonderful home base for day trips throughout the region. I cannot recommend this home highly enough, and we certainly hope to return someday.
Rodney S.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Nov 2021
It was a pleasure hosting this charming group. The house responds well as they have described it and it's location makes sightseeing easy both with trips to Florence [20 mins] and further afield. Local restaurants are varied and welcoming and November is a good month to visit as there are fewer tourists and therefore the museums are less crowded. Sunny days and cooler nights are the norm. The garden is at it's autumn best and the olive oil has been pressed.
The pictures don’t do the property justice—it’s absolutely stunning, from the pool and garden surrounding it, to the historic wall frescos and unique layout inside the watch tower. We comfortably slept 10 adults and 2 kids, with plenty of space for all. The side casita was perfect for the family that was with our group, giving them and the kids a little privacy while still being part of the larger property.
The property owners were incredibly accommodating, hospitable and responsive. To make our trip extra special they connected us with a private driver for a wine tour and day trip to Lucca, made dinner reservations for our first and second night there, and helped to coordinate a private chef to prepare dinner at the property on our last night for what ended up being the perfect cap to an amazing stay. They were quick to respond to all of my questions and made planning the details of the trip easy.
The location was great—an easy 20-30 minute cab ride from Florence and central for day trips to other towns and wineries. I’d recommend a car for quick trips into town. There is a market that’s easy to access by car (less than 10 minutes away) along with shops and restaurants.
Highly recommend a stay to anyone looking for a relaxing vacation at a unique Tuscan property. While there’s lots to see in the area, make sure to save a few days for relaxing by the pool. The grounds and the garden are stunning.
Stacy S.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Mar 2020
Thank you for your lovely comments - and for being such super guests!
We are so thrilled you enjoyed your stay and the house and garden, and we very much hope to get to welcome you all again.
With all our best wishes,
Camilla and Jane
Although the pictures and description do their best, there is really no way to convey how special Torre di Sopra is. The restoration of the watchtower and surrounding building and transformation into a home is exquisite. The care taken to incorporate original frescos that date back well over 500 years is fantastic. All of the different outdoor areas and the pool were wonderful areas to spend the early morning and then the evenings.
The location was easy for day trips to Chianti, Florence, Lucca, a train to Venice, and Cinque Terre.
We had two families, a total of 9 people, with kids ranging from 11 to 16. Everyone loved it and the pool was a perfect ending to every day's adventure. The sunsets over the countryside were picturesque.
The house and grounds are very well maintained and the owner helped us secure a cooking class at the house which was a highlight of the trip!
We would certainly go back again!
Ari G.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Mar 2020
Thank you for being such charming guests and for this lovely review!
We are so pleased you enjoyed your stay and very much look forward to welcoming you back another time soon.
Camilla and Jane