About this property
In the historic Tuscan town of Empoli, Villa La Gemma Bianca offers an elevated private retreat for those seeking space, comfort and elegance. This prestigious early 20th century residence is set within beautiful private parkland, where manicured greenery frames an elegant architectural statement that balances heritage with modern living.
A cypress-lined approach leads to over 700 square metres of refined interiors arranged across four levels, all connected by a marble staircase and a private internal lift. Generous living spaces feature polished wooden floors, boiserie details and carefully chosen furnishings. The main floor is designed for relaxed gatherings, with a welcoming living room and fireplace, a TV lounge, a fully equipped professional kitchen and a charming twin bedroom with en-suite bathroom.
The upper floor is dedicated to rest and privacy. Three spacious double bedrooms each benefit from their own en-suite bathroom, finished to a high standard. The master bedroom forms a private haven, complete with a sitting area, walk-in wardrobe and a beautifully appointed bathroom with a circular bathtub. Above, a large attic level provides an independent open-plan loft with kitchen, living area and double bed, ideal for guests who appreciate additional autonomy.
Wellbeing takes centre stage on the lower level, where a private spa sanctuary awaits. A professional gym, sauna, hammam and Turkish bath with chromotherapy create a complete wellness experience in total privacy. Throughout the villa, air conditioning, underfloor heating, an integrated sound system and fibre Wi-Fi ensure year-round comfort.
Outside, the striking swimming pool is finished in shimmering mother-of-pearl tiles and edged by a marble terrace. Its telescopic cover and panoramic glass veranda allow seamless enjoyment in every season, with the veranda offering an atmospheric setting for dining or quiet evenings overlooking the illuminated water (charges apply for seasonal pool and veranda heating).
Set in central Empoli, the villa is within walking distance of shops, restaurants and cultural attractions, while Florence is just 30km away. Vinci, San Miniato, Pisa and the Chianti vineyards are all within easy reach, making Villa La Gemma Bianca a superb base from which to explore the richness of Tuscany in privacy and luxurious comfort.
La Gemma Bianca enjoys a wonderfully convenient setting in the historic Tuscan town of Empoli, a place where authentic local life meets rich cultural heritage, only 30km from Florence.
Empoli is known for its handsome historic centre, centred around Piazza Farinata degli Uberti, where elegant palazzi, inviting cafés and traditional restaurants create a welcoming atmosphere. Wandering its streets offers a true taste of Tuscany, far removed from the crowds of the larger cities. It’s around a 10 to 15-minute stroll to the heart of the town centre, whilst a good-sized supermarket is less than 500m away.
Empoli is steeped in history, with roots stretching back to Etruscan and Roman times. Visitors can explore the Collegiate Church of Sant’Andrea, browse local shops selling Tuscan produce and ceramics, or enjoy relaxed evenings sampling regional cuisine and wines. With excellent rail and road connections, Empoli serves as both a destination in its own right and a practical base for exploring the region.
From here, the artistic splendour of Florence (30km) is easily reached by car or train. A day trip opens the door to world-class museums, Renaissance architecture and iconic landmarks such as the Duomo and Ponte Vecchio.
Closer to home, a collection of charming Tuscan villages awaits. San Miniato (11km) is famed for its hilltop views and historic streets, while Vinci (11km), birthplace of Leonardo da Vinci, offers fascinating museums and scenic walking routes through olive groves and vineyards.
For longer excursions, San Gimignano (43km) and Siena (80km) showcase medieval Tuscany at its finest. The Chianti vineyards, Pisa, Montecatini Terme and the rolling Chianti hills are all easily reached within an hour, making Villa La Gemma Bianca an ideal base for discovering Tuscany’s most treasured sights.
Accommodation
House Interiors (700m2, four levels)
Main Level (via staircase)
- Main entrance with marble staircase and lift
- Living room with fireplace
- TV lounge
- Dining room
- Kitchen, fully equipped including oven, dishwasher, microwave, coffee machine, kettle, toaster, blender, fridge-freezer
- Bedroom 1 with two single beds (90x190cm each) and en suite bathroom
First Floor
- Master bedroom with queen-size double bed, sitting area, walk-in wardrobe and bathroom with round bath tub
- Bedroom with queen-size double bed and en suite bathroom
- Bedroom with queen-size double bed and en suite bathroom
Attic (sloping ceilings)
- Independent open-plan loft space with kitchen-diner, living area , queen-size double bed, terrace and en suite bathroom
Lower Ground Floor
- Private spa with professional gym, Starpool sauna, hammam, Turkish bath with chromotherapy, emotional shower and lounge area
Outside Grounds (1800m2)
- Swimming pool (10m x 6m, max depth: 1.5m) with hydromassage feature. Pool heating available on request from April to October only for outdoor use. Counter-current swimming system available on request, subject to an extra cost. Use of telescopic pool cover is available on request, subject to extra cost. Pool is open year round
- Poolside marble terrace with sun loungers and outdoor shower
- Veranda (180m2, connected to pool area via glass doors) with long table, sofas and sound system (veranda heating subject to a supplement)
- Parkland with trees
- Private parking
Facilities
- Wi-Fi
- Air-conditioning
- Underfloor heating
- Lift inside building
- Sound system