Leeu Collection has appointed Auberge Resorts Collection to manage Collegio Alla Querce (College at the Oaks) in Florence, Italy. The historic 16th-century property, acquired by Leeu Collection in 2017, has its own chapel and theatre and was previously used as a boarding school and hotel.
Collegio Alla Querce, Auberge Resorts Collection sits in 15,500 square-metres of elegant gardens on the northside of Florence’s city centre. Located inside three kilometres from the Duomo di Firenze, the luxury hotel will celebrate Italy’s rich history in art and design, while also connecting visitors with Italian culture through its close proximity to world-famous galleries and museums, medieval villages and vineyards of the stunning countryside in nearby Tuscany.An extensive transformation of the property is already well underway to preserve the structures’ original character while introducing modern style and function.
Upon completion, Collegio Alla Querce, Auberge Resorts Collection will feature 82 keys (61 rooms, 20 suites and a 210-square-metre signature suite), a destination restaurant, a bar and a cigar lounge, expansive gardens with five different terraces, outdoor pool, fitness centre, spa, dedicated wine tasting room, an art gallery and more.The restaurant will offer authentic Tuscan culinary experiences, tastings, private dinners and cooking classes.
When Collegio Alla Querce, Auberge Resorts Collection opens in 2023 it will be the brand’s second property in Europe, complementing the Grace Hotel in Santorini which opened in Greece in early 2019.Leeu Collection comprises three five-star boutique properties in South Africa and Linthwaite House in the UK’s Lake District.Analjit Singh, Founder, Leeu Collection, said: “The approach taken by Auberge Resorts Collection is very much in keeping with the Leeu Collection ethos of crafting superlative luxury escapes that work with and promote the finest partners in the locality. This collaboration therefore feels like a natural fit and we look forward to working with them to build a sensational destination.”
Dan Friedkin, Chairman, Auberge Resorts Collection, added, “Our unique ability to elevate and preserve historic properties will translate into a dynamic new destination for rich culture, outstanding cuisine, art, design and unrivalled experiences in the internationally renowned city.”More at aubergeresorts.com/collegioallaquerce.
