In the very heart of authentic Forte dei Marmi, secluded beneath the shade of centennial wisteria and stately palms, Pensione America has once again flung open its doors. This hotel, brimming with turn-of-the-century allure, stands as a poetic ode to the grand tradition of the Italian “villeggiatura”.

Originally established in 1899 as an aristocratic residence, it was transformed into an elegant “inn” in 1922. This evocative estate effortlessly traversed the Roaring Twenties and the glamorous heyday of Versilia’s Dolce Vita, playing host to intellectuals, artists, and discerning bon vivants.

Following a period of quietude and a meticulous, four-year artisanal restoration, the property reopened in 2025, reborn through the Maestrelli family’s deep affection for this region. Today, it stands as an exquisite five-star, adults-only sanctuary, proudly under the mantle of The Leading Hotels of the World.

Forte dei Marmi is a charming coastal hamlet, nestled between sea, sand, and mountains, capturing the very essence of genuine pleasures and life’s subtler joys. ‘For those who cherish Forte as we do’ is our calling, and the memory of a timeless summer.

(the Maestrelli family)

The Em Collection

Behind the revival of this jewel lies the Maestrelli family—Florentine entrepreneurs who, for over sixty years, have held a profound connection to Forte dei Marmi, where they already possess the iconic Hotel Villa Roma Imperiale.

As founders of the Collezione Em, a hospitality brand rooted in a philosophy that celebrates intimate, residential-style hosting, they entrusted this restoration project to the refined sensibility of architect Piera Tempesti Benelli. She has artfully conjured an authentic private residence, woven with rare details, local heritage, and exceptional craftsmanship.

Art Center Stage: The Works of Sergio Fiorentino

Strolling through the salons and drawing rooms, one’s gaze is instantly captivated by the contemporary artworks seamlessly woven into the décor. Most striking, for their intensity and magnetism, are the creations of Sergio Fiorentino, a Catania-born artist based in Noto. His monumental canvases—distinguished by a minimalist palette dominated by a deep ultramarine blue and flashes of gold leaf—depict enigmatic countenances, dreamers, and classical figures gently fractured by instinctive scratches.

Fiorentino’s poetic style, steeped in silence and metaphysical suspension, enters into an elegant dialogue with the hand-painted botanical wallpapers by Elena Carozzi and the bespoke Sicilian majolica tiles by Nicolò Giuliano.

Rooms and Suites: Bespoke Craftsmanship

The hotel offers 18 bedrooms and suites, each boasting its own private terrace or veranda overlooking the enchanting Mediterranean garden. For ultimate privacy, guests may retreat to La Villetta, a detached outbuilding featuring a private hydromassage pool adorned with Sicilian mosaic tiling.

The interiors are a celebration of Made in Italy atelier design: sumptuous fabrics, original architectural details, and hand-woven bamboo tables and chairs by artisan Mial Maurizzi lend the villa a distinct 1940s colonial elegance.

Exclusive Experiences

The Gardens and Pool: A secret park featuring a swimming pool with a striking green checkerboard pattern in marble and ceramic—the quintessential spot to forget the passage of time.
The Crafted Collection: The hotel collaborates with historic houses to offer bespoke, custom-made pieces: from embroidered cushions and staff uniforms by Loretta Caponi, to the celebrated Forte-style scarves by Faliero Sarti.
Sport and Wellness: The estate preserves the oldest tennis courts in Forte dei Marmi, which are set to merge with the neighbouring Tennis Roma to create an ultra-exclusive sports club.
The Private Beach: Merely 200 metres from the property, guests enjoy exclusive access to the private beach club, Bagno Assunta. Here, one can relive the vintage atmosphere of authentic Versilia, amidst nostalgic d’antan tents and wooden loungers.

Furthermore, a curated array of private experiences can be arranged, such as culinary masterclasses at La Villetta. Here, Chef Sabrina Pucci conjures the flavours of the Tuscan coast, preparing cherished traditional delicacies such as arselle clams and local focaccine.

A refuge of undeniable charm; the very essence of true Italian “villeggiatura”.

The Secret

The historic allure of the original Pensione America is beautifully revived in the exclusive uniforms designed by Loretta Caponi. These sartorial masterpieces are crafted from linen and noble cotton, like the historic keys of the pension, embroidered entirely by hand with the finest silk threads.

Useful Info

Pensione America
Via Colombo 24

55042 Forte dei Marmi, Lucca

Tel. +39 0584 1849370

Rooms: from 600 euros in low season