Essential Italy

Florence is the ‘must see’ city. The artistic and architectural wonders are admired throughout the world. However we believe that guests at La Riva could have difficulty leaving the walls of this little paradise. Two years ago a leading architect decided to move his studio and has renovated his old workplace into a luxurious home-from-home. Just a short walk from the centre of town La Riva is run by his charming daughter, Alice.

Each of the ten apartments has individual style and the emphasis has been on using the best materials and modern design. Each has private entry and there are three standard suites, five deluxe suites and two loft suites, which are truly breathtaking. There is plenty of communal space to relax, a garden with a pool and breakfast is served in a large living area which is also equipped with TV, CD player and open fireplace. Throughout the design is wonderful – contemporary combined with classic Tuscan wooden beams and stone exteriors. Two apartments have jacuzzi baths and the others have huge showers.

In each apartment there is a small, of course stylish, kitchen area (two of the standard rooms do not have kitchen areas). These are designed not for cooking full meals but preparing tea, salads and drinks. However with hundreds of restaurants on your doorstep why would one want to cook on holiday!? Breakfast is traditional Italian.

La Riva is located on the banks of the River Arno, opposite the Cascine Park, where every Tuesday there is a large outdoor market. City bikes are available to guests and are the perfect way to get around town. Despite being in this busy town the green garden, river and pool give the impression of a country retreat.

Deluxe Suite no.1 35 sqm, kitchenette, loggia, jacuzzi, entrance from courtyard

Standard Sutie no.2 28 sqm, no kitchenette, shower, entrance from courtyard
Standard Suite no.3 35 sqm, no kitchenette, small terrace, jacuzzi, entrance from courtyard
Loft Suite no.4 75 sqm, 3 floors, kitchenette, shower, view over park and river, entrance from courtyard
Superior Deluxe Suite no.5 40 sqm, kitchenette, high ceiling, shower, entrance from courtyard
Superior Deluxe Suite no.6 45 sqm, kitchenette, high ceiling, shower, entrance from courtyard
Deluxe Suite no.7 40 sqm, kitchenette, shower, entrance from garden
Loft Suite no.8 100 sqm, huge open space, kitchen, shower, four-poster bed, wide terrace, wall windows, entrance from garden
Superior Deluxe Suite no.9 40 sqm, 2 floors, kitchenette, shower, entrance from garden
Standard Suite no.10 35 sqm, kitchenette, shower, entrance from garden

We believe that La Riva is a very special place to stay in Florence, only opened last December we recommend early booking, we are convinced that once word gets out, discerning travellers will come flocking. Essential Italy is proud to be one of the first companies to offer La Riva. Highly recommended (especially honeymooners!).