Fattoria di Maiano: Wonderful Outdoor Life on the Outskirts of Florence

Just 5 kilometers from Florence, nestled in the rolling hills dotted with cypress groves and vast olive groves, you’ll find Fattoria di Maiano. Here, you can see the intimate and inseparable bond between historic Florence and its rural surroundings.

The estate offers a journey back to the origins of the Medici family in Florence. The village of Maiano, on the slopes of Monte Ceceri, was once a destination and source of inspiration for many brilliant artists of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance.

At the fattoria, you can still find places that have inspired sculptors, painters, engineers, and architects. From Boccaccio to Michelangelo, from Benedetto and Giuliano da Maiano to Leonardo da Vinci, who experimented with his first flying machines in these hills.

The Laghetto delle Colonne, the small lake in the center of the farm, owes its name to the columns of the Capella dei Principi near the Basilica of San Lorenzo in Florence. Commissioned by Lorenzo il Magnifico, these columns were built using stone from the quarry near the lake. The same stone was also used for Michelangelo’s famous staircase in the Biblioteca Medicea Laurenziana.

The hills of Fiesole overlook the city of Florence. I once stayed here for a month to take a course right in the heart of Florence. It’s the perfect place to combine the hustle and bustle of the city with the tranquility of the Outdoor life. You’ll stay in the rolling hills dotted with cypress groves and expansive olive groves, just 5 km from Florence. It’s the ideal spot for a romantic long weekend for two, but also perfect for families.

Rooms and apartments in historic buildings

For your stay, you can choose between a room or an apartment. The 19 farm rooms are located in the historic Borgo di Maiano and the immediate surrounding area. The rooms offer a lovely blend of old-world charm and modern comfort. Rooms are available for 2 to 4 people. Breakfast features locally sourced products.

Would you like more privacy? Then choose an apartment. The four apartments are each unique in style and can accommodate 4 to 6 people. They are housed in old farmhouses, a converted school, and the rooms of a medieval monastery. They offer stunning views of the countryside around the village of Maiano. A cozy patio, a lovely terrace, and charming interiors.

Special Suites

The Maiano Tower features a suite, located in the heart of the botanical garden, perfect for a romantic getaway for two. A second suite includes a private spa.

A natural paradise just a few kilometers from the heart of Florence

For nature lovers, Fattoria Maiano is the ideal place. You can enjoy beautiful natural surroundings both in the vast park and in the surrounding area. Explore the lovely hiking trails in the green hills of Fiesole or relax by the fattoria’s pool.

Fattoria Maiano is also an ideal starting point for your visit to Florence and its many famous works of art. The city is also accessible by public transportation. It’s a peaceful retreat to return to after the hustle and bustle of the historic center.

The largest botanical garden in Europe

As a guest, you have free access to the swimming pool and the attractions at the Fattoria di Maiano Botanical Garden. The botanical garden is the largest in Europe and features an educational farm with animals. The botanical garden and the restaurant are also open to outside visitors (for a fee).

It is a beautiful English garden, surrounded by meadows, woods, and olive groves. At its heart lies the Laghetto delle Colonne, dominated by the ancient “Torre di Maiano.” A beautiful place, nestled in nature between the rolling hills of Fiesole and the rocky cliffs of the quarries. A unique landscape, experienced by many artists and historical figures.

You can take guided tours, go on an off-road safari, or have a picnic in the park. You can also go on guided walks after dark.

Activities for Animal Lovers

Donkeys, ponies, bees, and farm animals: discover the world of bees, visit the ponies, help take care of the Amiata donkeys, or collect eggs. Fun for adults and children alike.

Discover Laudemio olive oil and honey from protected bees

Fattoria di Maiano is known worldwide for its excellent extra virgin olive oil. Laudemio is the best olive oil in the world. At the Fattoria’s oil mill, you can watch and taste how this special oil is made all year round, and learn about its unique qualities and health benefits.

At the botanical garden, beekeepers can learn how bees and pollination are protected through the project with the company “3bee” and see how honey is produced.

Restaurant featuring fresh ingredients

Restaurant Lo Spaccio is the culinary heart of Fattoria di Maiano. Here you can enjoy traditional dishes and authentic local flavors. All dishes are prepared with fresh, natural, seasonal ingredients sourced exclusively from Tuscany. Vegetarian menus are also available. The restaurant is open to guests from outside Fattoria di Maiano as well.

Near Florence

There’s a bus stop one kilometer from the Fattoria that takes you easily to Florence. A wonderful combination of art and culture in this historic city with the tranquility and authenticity of the Tuscan outdoor life.