Weaving down the ancient streets of Florence to the unassuming Via del Campuccio I finally arrive at the AdAstra boutique hotel, a lovely 20-minute walk across the Arno river from the main train station. Buzzing into the courtyard you are immediately greeted by Europe’s largest private garden within a city.

The site is something to behold, as you peer out through the beautiful 19th century arches and columns into the lush green manicured 16th century Florentine park. If you are lucky to, you may also be greeted by the equally ancient Scottish Terrier named Whiskers who belongs to the care taker and his wife. This initial impression sets the tone, as you are welcomed into a unique private piece of Florentine history. The beautiful 19th century building is still owned by the historic Florentine family Torrigiani. The boutique hotel overlooks Europe’s largest private garden that features the same family name, Giardino Torrigiani.