A collection of glam studios and suites on the banks of the River Arno.

Perfect choice for a summer stay, lots of outdoor space with gorgeous gardens and a slimline pool, very rare in Florence. Free bikes for cycling into town along a traffic-free cycle path.

Clever restoration of an historic mill on Florence's Arno river with super-cool contemporary interiors.

Converted from an historic mill on Florence’s Arno river, these studios and suites offer an excellent alternative to staying in the centre of the city. Riva Lofts is opposite the Parco delle Cascine, 2km along the river from the Ponte Vecchio in the heart of Florence.

After a hectic day sightseeing in Florence, the Riva Lofts garden is a little patch of paradise, with hammocks, sun beds and a pool. Bikes are available for those who prefer to cycle into Florence. There is a shared living room with a TV and library.

Other facilities include a concierge service for advice and reservations for museums, restaurants, theatre and concerts.

A limited number of parking spaces make Riva Lofts a great option for anyone with a car. Much of the centre of Florence is traffic-free and is much better explored on foot.

Sleek design and cool minimalism characterise both the shared space and each of the studios which range in size from 30 to 100sqm. Transformed from his own riverside studio by top architect Claudio Nardi, the studios have polished concrete or wood floors, contemporary interiors and vast floor to ceiling windows that flood the rooms with light.

Quirky features range from 70’s bubble lamps, king-size beds and 3-metre high gold mirrors. Most studios have a small kitchenette that is ideal for making sandwiches or snacks. Bathrooms are equally stylish, with large showerheads and fluffy towels.

The buffet breakfast offers the usual continental fare consisting of freshly baked croissants, fruit, home-baked bread, orange juice squeezed each morning, muesli, jams and yoghurts. Coffee is made to offer and there is a selection of Twining teas.

The Riva Loft is located just outside the tourist circus of Florence where you'll find a number of restaurants catering for the locals. We tried the Ristorante Pizzeria A Casa Mia, there is a wide choice of grilled meat, but you can also eat excellent pizzas and tasty pasta dishes.

Riva Studios is 2km from the centre of Florence, on the Left Bank of the river. On the other side of the river, the Parco delle Cascine offers a range of activities, include jogging and, in the summer months, swimming in the large outdoor pool, Le Pavoniere. Getting into Florence is easy, either on foot (30 minutes along the Arno), by tram (10 minutes) or with one of the bikes available at the Riva Loft.