Villa Florentine: Renaissance Elegance in the Heart of Lyon

Perched atop the historic Fourvière Hill, the Relais & Châteaux Villa Florentine stands as a beacon of elegance and refined hospitality, offering a seamless blend of Renaissance charm and modern luxury. My recent two-night stay in this magnificent former convent was nothing short of enchanting—a true immersion into the timeless grandeur of Lyon.

Upon my arrival, I was warmly greeted by the staff and welcomed by Nicolas, the Concierge, whose hospitality truly set the tone for my stay. The team at Villa Florentine ensured that every moment was filled with comfort and care, making my experience even more special. From arranging impeccable dining reservations to offering insider tips on the best places to explore, their dedication to service was exemplary. I am incredibly thankful to each of them for their kindness and professionalism throughout my stay.

The villa greeted me with a breathtaking panoramic view of Lyon, the vibrant heart of the city spread out like a tapestry below, with its old-world charm and modern dynamism blending effortlessly. The location of the Villa, at the peak of the Fourvière, offers more than just a place to stay; it’s an invitation to step back into history, where each stone tells a story, and every corner whispers the secrets of a bygone era. For more details about this stunning hotel, you can visit their official site here.

Panoramic view of Lyon

A Gastronomic Delight: A Night to Remember

One of the highlights of my stay was the exquisite dining experience at Les Terrasses de Lyon, the villa’s gastronomic restaurant, helmed by the talented Chef John Leon. His artistry on the plate is akin to painting with flavors—each dish was a symphony of textures and tastes, a celebration of local ingredients with an international flair. Virna Lorentz, my dear friend and an esteemed novelist, joined me for this unforgettable culinary journey.

Isabelle Karamooz, myself, Publisher of French Quarter Magazine and Virna Lorentz, author of 'Arizona Stars'

We began our meal with elegant starters. I savored the Ravioles au butternut et pecorino truffé, a velvety combination of autumn flavors, while Virna indulged in the Gnocchis aux saveurs de saison, a delicate celebration of seasonal vegetables. The culinary crescendo came with our shared main course: the exquisitely cooked Pavé de bar sauvage, served with roasted cauliflower and a jus d’arrêtes—a dish that balanced refinement with depth. The meal was both an expression of the chef’s skill and a testament to the restaurant’s ethos of elevating simple ingredients into haute cuisine.

The dining room, with its refined decor and intimate ambiance, was the perfect backdrop to our evening. As we gazed out over the city, illuminated in the soft glow of twilight, I couldn’t help but marvel at how the gastronomic experience mirrored the essence of Lyon itself—rich in history, steeped in tradition, yet always evolving. Visit Les Terrasses de Lyon here.

As the sun rose over Lyon, our mornings were equally delightful with the villa’s enchanting continental breakfast. A lavish buffet spread awaited us, featuring an array of fresh pastries, artisanal breads, and seasonal fruits, all designed to awaken the senses. For those desiring a personalized touch, the à la carte menu offered delectable choices, included in the buffet, such as fluffy eggs prepared to order, mouthwatering pancakes drizzled with local honey, and delicate crêpes filled with luscious berries. This delightful breakfast experience set the tone for each day, seamlessly blending comfort with culinary creativity, just like our unforgettable dinners at Les Terrasses de Lyon.

The Villa Florentine’s delicious continental breakfast

My Luxurious Junior Suite: An Oasis of Calm

My stay in a Junior Suite was the epitome of comfort and style. The room, adorned in soft, luxurious fabrics and elegant furnishings, exuded a sense of calm and refinement. A spacious balcony offered sweeping views of Lyon, becoming my favorite spot to unwind. Whether sipping morning coffee while watching the sun rise over the rooftops or enjoying an evening glass of wine as the city lights danced below, the balcony was a sanctuary of peace.

Luxurious Junior Suite: An Oasis of Calm

Inside the suite, no detail was overlooked. The bed, swathed in fine linens, was a cloud of comfort, inviting me to rest after a day of exploration. Thoughtful touches like a welcome note, a fruit basket, and slippers at the foot of the bed made me feel truly pampered. The dimmed lighting at night ensured I could navigate the suite without disturbing its tranquil ambiance. And let’s not forget the practical details: a well-stocked coffee machine, a bar, and ample wardrobe space provided both luxury and convenience.

Though I didn’t find the time to swim, the villa’s heated pool looked irresistibly inviting, sparkling under the sun. The nearby gym and salon were equally tempting, offering spaces to unwind, work, or simply bask in the peaceful atmosphere that pervades the hotel. For more details about the suites and other amenities, you can visit Villa Florentine’s website here.

The gym at the Villa Florentine

A Storied History: From Renaissance to Modernity

The Villa Florentine is steeped in history. Originally constructed during the Renaissance, the villa was part of Lyon’s flourishing artistic and cultural exchange with Florence, Italy. This connection was symbolized by the wedding of Henri IV and Marie de’ Medici in 1600 at Lyon Cathedral, which united the two cities in an artistic and cultural dialogue. Artists from across Italy flocked to Lyon, bringing with them the revolutionary ideas of the Quattrocento.

In 1707, the villa became the House of Providence, home to the Trinitarian nuns. Under the guidance of Louise-Blanche Thérèse de Ballon, the institution focused on the education of young women, preparing them for independence. Over the years, the villa expanded, most notably with the addition of a chapel in 1736, which features stunning frescoes that were lovingly restored and now adorn the villa’s grand lobby.

In 1984, the Giorgi family transformed the villa into a luxurious five-star hotel, preserving its historical charm while enhancing it with modern comforts. Today, Villa Florentine offers its guests a unique blend of Renaissance heritage and contemporary luxury, making it one of Lyon’s most prestigious addresses. For a detailed look at the history of Villa Florentine, click here.

Exploring Lyon: Hidden Gems and Must-Sees

Beyond the tranquil walls of the villa, Lyon beckons with its rich history, vibrant culture, and hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Here are just a few of the city’s highlights:

• Les Nuits de Fourvière: This summer festival, held in the ancient Roman Theatre on Fourvière Hill, showcases a dazzling array of performances, from theater and dance to music and cinema.

• The Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière: Perched atop Fourvière Hill, this stunning basilica is an architectural marvel, blending Romanesque and Byzantine styles. Inside, visitors are captivated by its intricate mosaics and breathtaking views of the city below, making it a must-see for anyone exploring Lyon.

• L'Horloge Astronomique: Nestled within Lyon Cathedral, this remarkable 14th-century clock is a marvel of medieval craftsmanship, displaying the positions of the sun, moon, and stars alongside the time.

• Les Murs Peints: Lyon’s famous painted walls, including the iconic Fresque des Lyonnais and Le Mur des Canuts, bring the city’s rich history and vibrant culture to life.

• Le Café Comptoir Abel: A quintessential Lyonnaise bistro where you can savor traditional local dishes in a cozy, historic setting.

• Les Halles de Bocuse: Named after the legendary chef Paul Bocuse, this indoor market is a haven for food lovers, offering the finest local products, charcuterie, and pastries.

The Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourvière

The Culinary Specialties of Lyon: A Flavorful Exploration

Do not leave Lyon without tasting the pralines, a local specialty made from almonds and sugar, often used in tarts and cakes. Another iconic dish is the quenelle, a preparation made with fish or meat, typically served with a creamy sauce. The saucisson brioché is also a must-try, offering a unique taste experience.

To discover these specialties, explore renowned restaurants and traditional bistros that capture the essence of Lyon's cuisine. The city is a true festival of flavors, making every meal memorable.

Conclusion: An Unforgettable Escape

My stay at Villa Florentine was an unforgettable experience, marked by exceptional hospitality, gastronomic delights, and a historical setting. Lyon, with its perfect blend of heritage and modernity, is an essential destination for those looking to explore the cultural richness of France.

For anyone seeking a luxurious getaway in an enchanting setting, I highly recommend Villa Florentine. For more information, feel free to check out their official website and immerse yourself in the history and luxury they have to offer.