Casa del Torrentello

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Farmhouse |5 bedrooms |Sleeps 12

Licciana Nardi in Tuscany

From £1995 per week

7 nights minimum stay

Changeover flexible

Be the first to write a review

Key info  Swimming pool, air conditioning, balcony/terrace, car essential, private garden, no pets allowed

About the home

Beautifully restored farmhouse and barn located on a hill amidst chestnut covered woods. This is an inspired hideaway for families and parties looking for some peace and quiet yet only a few minutes drive to the amenities of Licciana Nardi and the valley road with easy access to the motorway and train station. A private track leads to the gated driveway.

The property comprises a group of buildings set around a courtyard all of which have been sympathetically restored externally to retain a rustic feel without completely removing the authenticity.

The decked terrace is equipped with recliners for sun enthusiasts. The original chestnut barn overlooks the pool as a charming reminder of the property’s rustic origins.

Facilities

Further details indoors:
The interior has been designed to include much architectural detail. Thoughtful lighting emphasises the many contrasts including exposed stone walls, arches and original beamed ceilings. Furnishings combine traditional design with modern comfort and practicality. The barn has been converted into a superb ‘loft ‘style contemporary living room to include a custom designed kitchen with marble work surfaces and integral basins.

The kitchen has professional oven and large American fridge/freezer. A large table can accommodate up to 12 people.

The comfortable sitting area is fitted with an open fireplace and is equipped with a superb Bose surround music system. Doors leads to a pretty terrace with steps down to the garden. The pool area would impress the most demanding of travellers with the higher level ‘infinity’ mosaic pool flowing down into a plunge pool at the lower level.

The bedrooms are fitted with air conditioning for the summer months and central heating for cooler seasons. A store room at a lower level houses a washing machine.

Further details outdoors:
The decked terrace is equipped with recliners for sun enthusiasts. The original chestnut barn overlooks the pool as a charming reminder of the property’s rustic origins. The main building comprises 6 bedrooms sleeping a maximum of 12 guests comprising 2 double rooms, 1 with en suite bathroom, 3 twin rooms and a children’s room furnished with bunk beds. The 3 designer bathrooms feature hand made tiles and contemporary fittings. An additional area with doors onto the courtyard provides a calm and relaxed living space.

Further details

Swimming pool available from May until the end of September. Please enquire for specific dates. Opening times may be revised depending on demand.

Photos

 

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May 2009

 

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Living room

 

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master bedroom

 

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pergola

The Tuscany / Massa Carrara Province region

Introduction


The word Tuscany conjures images of olive groves and vineyards, fine food and wine, romantic farmhouses lined with cypress trees and of course the sun set over Florence. Tourists are drawn every year by these beautiful images they see in glossy magazines, travel guides and through film and TV. Many visitors can be forgiven for thinking that Chianti, Siena and Florence encompass all Tuscany has to offer, however this is not so, and although these areas are enchanting there is much more to discover. Lunigiana offers a truly unspoilt corner of Tuscany and an inspired destination for the Italian traveller. The most Northern tip which borders the colourful Gulf of the Poets. The nearby Versilia coast overflows with sea side charm and is within easy reach the impressive city of Lucca, rich with Italian architecture and culture. In order to really understand Tuscany it is essential to experience its many contrasts and only then will you discover its true spirit.


Lunigiana is a quiet corner of Tuscany where traditions are strong, hospitality generous and the pace of life relaxed. Defined by the Appenine mountain range to the east (often referred to as the ‘back bone of Italy’), the world famous Carrara marble Apuane mountains to the south and the Ligurian Riviera to the west. For city dwellers, an ideal place to relax and get away from the more widely travelled destinations and an escape from the rush of modern life. Often called the ‘land of the moon’ or ‘land of a hundred castles’. Wherever you look in Lunigiana, magical outlines of castles and fortified villages can be seen. Most of these were built by the Malaspina family to defend the strategic position of this ancient land. Today many have been restored to their former glory, while others remain romantic ruins. Relax, unwind and explore this breathtaking countryside. Scattered with enchanting hillside villages, lush green hillsides covered in olive groves, leading to the foothills of the mountains with hidden meadows in flower, chestnut woods and eventually shady pine forests. A meeting point for various types of plants of the Mediterranean and even alpine regions. Paths lead through narrow village streets with stone houses rendered beautiful with simplicity. For walkers this is a paradise offering some of the most dramatic landscape in Tuscany.
All the seasons of Lunigiana have their own special character. During spring the hillsides overflow with wild flowers, trees awaken in blossom and fields blaze with poppies. During summer the temperature rises offering a superb climate that remains comfortable where the cool air from the mountains and the warm fresh air from the sea meet. Towns and villages liven with the chatter from the piazza bars, whether it be elderly men playing cards, young people parading the latest Italian fashions or tourists enjoying an aperitivo. The season also hosts many medieval events where village streets are lit by candle light to enhance the atmosphere of live performances, street entertainers dress in costume and cantinas open selling local handicrafts. In the Autumn there is the important ritual of the chestnut harvest, together with the hunt for porcini - the most highly prized variety of Italian mushroom. Against the soft autumn light the hillsides turn from green to the most amazing colours of aubergine and amber. In Winter, whilst it would be difficult to sunbathe, the sun still shines and the skies are often blue despite the dip in temperature, and with the winter comes skiing. There are three locations for this: Prato Spila high above the Taverone valley, Zum-Zeri in the western part of the Lunigiana and the third centre at Cerreto. Whilst these areas could not be described as professional resorts they still offer an enjoyable days skiing for all levels of ability. Seasonal festivals are held in the villages throughout the year to celebrate the harvests, with simple recipes evolved through the centuries. Long tables are laid for locals and visitors to enjoy the local recipes made lovingly by the villagers. In reality every one helps out, a real traditional affair the sort of thing seen on advertisement for olive oil! The Lunigianese people offer a warm welcome to new faces whether it be in mere curiosity or in the joy that people choose to visit their valley. Each village has its own unique character and sounds. The bells of the cattle in the nearby meadows, the shout of the bread man arriving, the ladies catching up on the local gossip and of course the chime of the bell tower. People live in complete harmony where the simple things are important, content in the quiet knowledge that life is good here!
Influences from Liguria and Emilia Romagna combine with the traditions of Lunigiana and blend throughout the architecture, warm, generous hospitality and unique cuisine. The nearby ‘Gulf of the Poets’ sometimes referred to as the ‘Lunigianese Coast’ has attracted many writers, artists and film makers over the years. The quietly cosmopolitan coastline still retains its authenticity and charm. The lively and colourful waterfronts, picturesque fishing villages and hidden coves with turquoise waters are a delight to discover. Excellent road and rail links give easy access to many famous tourist centres. For those with a craving for the famous ham, Parma is approximately an hour north of the region or should you wish to visit Florence it can be reached within an hour and a half by car. If you prefer an escape from driving then the train service is a cost effective and efficient way to explore the region. The airports of Pisa and Genova are about an hours drive away with other more northern airports worthy of consideration, all emphasising the regions superb location. If you have a passion for Italy, and a desire to explore the less beaten tracks, then Lunigiana will not fail to impress. The only real way to appreciate all that Lunigiana has to offer is to see it with your own eyes. We are sure that after your visit , this will be a place you find difficult to forget.

Days out and places of interest

Carrara
Internationally renowned for its marble quarries and still the most important source of marble in the world. Carrara’s almost white stone has been visited for centuries by famous sculptors from Michelangelo who carved the famous ’David’ from the precious stone, to the more recently acclaimed Henry Moore. Both of these great sculptors personally visited the site to select their blocks. This is one of the world’s oldest industrial sites still in continuous use today which has excavated here since Roman times decorating many reclaimed palaces, Italian medieval churches and homes of the rich and famous. The town itself offers little to the tourist operating mainly as a commercial centre, however of particular interest in Carrara itself are the marble ateliers. There are a number in the Piazza XXV 11 Aprile. Atelier Piccoli is full of marble craftsmen and sculptors passionately carving away at the incredible blocks to produce a marvellous range of marble statues and ornaments. Many of the workshops welcome visitors. Most travellers visit the fascinating caves nearby. You can either take a guided tour or drive up there yourself to experience the dramatic views down into the quarries where this precious stone has been quarried. Tours can be organised by the Carrara Tourist office. The spectacular quarry of Fantiscritti retains the bridges that were once the marble railroads and remains a good example of this seemingly lunar landscape. These magical mountains, seen from the coast of Versilia, and from many places within Lunigiana, dazzle in the sunshine at any time of the year. The light reflecting from the marble peaks is often mistaken during the summer for snow. The quarries of Colonnata and Fantiscritti are open for visitors weekday mornings with a range of souvenir shops.


The Versilia Coast

Forte dei Marmi
Derives its name from the old fortress that still remains in the main piazza and the pier that was once used for loading marble. This gem of Versilia became a highly fashionable resort in the 1970’s attracting many international and some ’would be’ celebrities and has in recent years undergone a facelift to become popular again as a chic destination. Grand old villas of the late 19th Century provide the perfect facade of this luxury town with important families of Italian industry and design owning villas here. For those seeking retail therapy Italian style the town will not fail to impress with some of the most famous brands in the world. Even if many of the shops sell some of the most expensive items money can buy, it has managed to retain a strangely relaxed and somewhat unpretentious atmosphere. Stylish boutiques and cafes line the streets, ideal for a drink while you ponder over a purchase. Maybe you will catch a glimpse of a famous face hidden behind the compulsory sunglasses. Before you reach for your credit cards, visit the weekly market on Wednesdays and during the summer on Sunday where often you can find some designer bargains. When you have had enough of shopping you can always escape to one of the beach clubs for some sun, sea and relaxation.

Viareggio
Is the oldest of the coastal towns on the Versilia. Its origins are Roman and in the middle ages it was an important sea landing. In the 19th century it was reputed to have built some of the best boats ever to sail on the Tyrrhenian Sea and the boatyards are very much alive still today. Viareggio reached its hey day at the turn of the century with a number of the original buildings remaining in the town. Along the palmed fringed boulevards Art Nouveau style of architecture can be seen in the grand hotels, villas and cafes built in the 1920s. The finest example is the Gran Caffe Margherita at the end of the Passeggiata Margherita, designed by the father of Italian Art Nouveau, Galileo Chini. Viareggio is known best for its extravagant carnival held in January and early February second only to the more famous festival of Venice. Today this is the most popular resort on the Versilia coast. During the summer months there is a lively atmosphere and any train bound here on a summers morning is likely to be full of people heading for an easily organised day at the beach. Forget tiny coves with hidden beaches where you can throw down a towel as Viareggio is commercialised with private stretches of beaches that charge for entry. All are equipped with towels, changing rooms and sun loungers for the convenience of the beach enthusiast. Many find the resort a bit too commercial however a few things are for certain, several miles long of excellent beach, clean and groomed sand and a relaxed beach atmosphere. Seafood restaurants are plentiful even if the prices are quite high but they are some of the best on the coast. If you don’t mind sitting in organised rows on the beach with everything at hand, then Viareggio provides an ideal resort.


Torre del Lago
A splendid avenue of lime trees, the Via dei Tigli, connects Viareggio with Torre del Lago, once the home of the opera composer Giacomo Puccini. He and his wife are buried in the grounds of their former home, now the Museo Villa Puccini, a small homage that features the piano on which the maestro composed many of his best known works. You can take a pleasant boat trip around the lagoon and wetlands of Lago Massaciuccoli, an important nature reserve for rare and migrant birds. The lake provides a pretty backdrop for open air performances of Puccini’s works, held during August in his memory. A stage is built on the lake near his house and provides an atmospheric setting to enjoy some of his famous creations. For opera enthusiasts it is advised to reserve tickets in advance as this is a popular attraction. The other face of Torre del Lago with more modern musical connections, offers a lively nightlife with a variety of trendy clubs, bars and restaurants situated along the lake side. A relaxed sea side town during the day, however by nightfall, a party atmosphere is guaranteed during the summer.

Lucca
Many tourists pass by Lucca on their way to Florence thinking that the city does not merit a visit. Those who do visit the city find a true tuscan gem. Lucca had been the capital of Tuscany and defended itself for over 400 years until Florence eventually won the title. A wealthy city formed from banking and the silk trade which today has made underwear an important industry. It is also fast becoming famous for olive oil and wine. Enclosed by its walls, the city reveals itself a little at a time. Only by walking the narrow streets of the historic centre can you discover the mystery and magic of a past rich in history, culture and architecture. Its ring of walls encloses dozens of tiny Romanesque churches, quiet paved streets, defensive towers, numerous museums and monuments. The city centre is closed to traffic, so the local people and tourists choose bicycles as a mode of transport, however the city is also a wonderful place to explore on foot. Medieval buildings line the peaceful streets, opening to reveal churches, tiny piazzas and many other reminders of the city’s long history.

After visiting the many attractions, visitors usually end up in the heart of the city, Via Fillungo. The city’s appealing main street is a pleasure to walk, a meeting place full of shops and cafes. At the end of the street you will find Piazza del Antiteatro, its oval shape reflects the origins of the Roman Amphitheatre that stood here until the 12th Century. Ransacked over the centuries, the stone from the theatre was used to build the city's churches and palaces. Slum housing covered the piazza until 1830 when it was ordered to be cleared by the ruler of the city at the time, Marie Louise. It was then that the original shape was revealed, a reminder of the city’s Roman heritage. Low archways still mark the place where the gladiators would have entered the arena. Today the piazza is a collection of charming ramshackle buildings, featuring many small boutique type shops and trendy cafes – a picturesque place to stop that never ceases to amaze and fascinate its visitors. No trip to Lucca is complete without walking at least part of the way round its impressive ramparts with tree lined promenades offering some fabulous views of the city. Lucca is one of the few Italian cities to have preserved intact its own enclosing walls. For the courteous people of Lucca the walls represent centuries of historic battles, fought to preserve their independence and identity. The city hosts a number of events during the summer. A large antiques market takes place in the streets around the Duomo every third weekend of the month. The annual summer music festival livens the main piazza during September with a host of renowned bands and artists. A city rich in history, hospitality and beauty combined with a sweet attitude to living, Lucca never fails to impress and to miss this opportunity would be a certain shame.


Pisa
Undoubtedly the leaning tower is the main attraction of this tuscan city, however look beyond this tourist icon as the region has a lot to offer. Pisa is halved by the elegant 16th Century palaces along the banks of the Arno, the river that also runs through Florence. Behind this impressive façade are hidden a maze of narrow streets and alleys, home to a selection of good shops, cafes and restaurants. This makes for a relaxing day, whether it be a spot of shopping, a leisurely lunch or a visit to one of the museums.

The leaning tower draws tourists like a magnet, many of them pausing to appreciate the religious architecture, others in curiosity. Pisa’s foremost monuments gather together in the Campo dei Miracoli (The field of Miracles), a remarkable expanse of meadow in the city’s north western corner and represents the most important example of Pisan Romanesque style. Few medieval groupings are as beautiful and few so beautifully framed by their surroundings. They key component is the Campanile, better known as the Leaning Tower. Begun in 1173 the tower started to lean almost immediately as a result of the area’s sandy foundations. Many architects toiled over this engineering dilemma, all with little success until, in 2001 a solution was found. After more than a decade of being covered in scaffolding, the landmark is once again open to the public. The secret to enjoying the famous tower is to arrive in the early morning before the hoards of tourists and secondly as the temperatures can be quite intense during the summer months. The 17th June is a special event in Pisa when the Regata of San Ranieri, an old contest is held on the Arno river. Brilliantly decorated boats cover the river followed by a costumed procession. The competition is between the boats representing the city’s four districts. The evening before the contest, the districts are dramatically lit by little oil lamps, a stunning sight to be as the sun sets. The areas surrounding Pisa flourish with vineyards, olive groves and the famous sun flower fields, photos of which often are seen in travel guides. The beautiful hillsides scattered with many medieval villages create a countryside perfect for walking and present a relaxed atmosphere for the tourist. This is a beautiful city to visit, if only for a few hours, and is definitely worth fitting into your itinerary.

The Licciana Nardi area

Licciana Nardi In this region you can admire castles, parish churches, tower houses, hamlets and fortified control walls of the Malaspina family, all dating back to the same period. The old street is rich in decorated portals, picturesque facades decorated with window boxes overflowing with colour. An 11th Century fortified town with much of the ancient town wall still visible and narrow passageways running through immensely thick walls in to the village. In the Piazza del Municipo the imposing 16th Century castle dominates the square and is joined to the graceful baroque church by a small bridge spanning the entrance to the village. A autumn festival noteworthy of a mention is the chestnut fair held during October. The main street is decorated with chestnut branches, mock medieval shops fronts, old cantinas that open as rustic watering holes and the main piazzas feature large open fires for roasting this important ingredient. The local residents dress up in costume for the event to enhance the atmosphere. You may also see the odd donkey strolling through the village. Towering over Licciana Nardi is Bastia, a good base for walking, with high meadows and wonderful views out to the Ligurian coast. Bastia is built around the castle of which is now privately owned. Monti is another village near Licciana Nardi, again a fortified village with a charming castle. The castle has been well restored and today is used as a summer residence by a surviving member of the Malaspina family. Below the old village, the new part of the town is developing and although not particularly historic, offers a good selection of local amenities. The Comune of Licciana Nardi encompasses many medieval hillside hamlets, protected as historic centres and most of which are very much alive today. Tavernelle from the road may seem quite bland on the surface however it is necessary to stop and walk into the old centre to understand the charm of this settlement. Once an important trade route leading from Parma, Tavernelle was a popular stopping point, bustling with Locande and guest houses. Taponecco and Varano are picturesque examples of ’borgo’ villages with narrow cobbled lanes and stone houses connected by arches and passageways. Villagers are very welcoming of new faces and go about their daily routine as if nothing has changed for centuries. Mostly these are farming communities however in recent years they have attracted buyers from Milan and other parts of Europe looking for a unique and unspoilt place to spend their holidays. Many houses have been restored to strict regulations to preserve the heritage of these villages.

Comano is immersed in breathtaking scenery and is therefore an important base for walking with many marked routes taking in flowing rivers, springs, pastures and mountain tracks. With a newly completed arena Comano hosts an annual horse festival held in September. Nearby is the Castello of Comano, a ruined tower surrounded by a tiny farming community. The people of Comano are proud and very welcoming to visitors. A place very much unaffected by time where ducks and chickens wander the streets to the steps of the tower. The territory of Comano is included in the Tuscan Emilian national park with the aim of protecting the richness of the environment. Comano’s treasure is represented by its forest and woods of chestnut trees renowned throughout the region. Chestnuts have been an important addition to recipes for hundreds of years, many that haven’t changed to this day. The nearby village of Crespiano has one of the best local restaurants in the area, award winning for its traditional local food and the prices are incredibly reasonable.
Fivizzano, an aristocratic town in the east of Lunigiana that experienced a wealth of prosperity under the Medici family of Florence. After the domain of the Malaspina it became part of the Florentine Republic. Fivizzano is a bustling and attractive market town full of elegant Renaissance palaces and with a distinct air of pride in itself. The young people of Fivvizano are prominent in the movement to revive their folk traditions and they participate in colourful flag waving performances, dancing and mock duels. They travel all over Tuscany giving demonstrations. A notable mention is the Piazza Medicea, an elegant piazza with a central fountain. The principal cafè offers some of the best pastries available for those with a sweet tooth. The town also has a musical heritage attracting international performers during its annual folk music festival. The nearby enchanting castle of Verrucula, is a completely fortified settlement on the banks of the river which has been superbly restored. Little red roofed houses and narrow medieval streets cluster around the fortified square keep. Geraniums spill from window boxes and gardens are full of courgettes, beans and tomatoes planted right down to the river’s edge. The castle is thought to date back to the 11th century together with its peaceful church with arched loggia and can be visited at certain periods during the year. Travelling further up the valley, Cerreto offers a range of activities including biking, walking and fishing also operating as a small yet popular ski resort during the winter with a range of shops, bars and hotels.


In contrast to Lunigiana, the Ligurian coast is so very close in distance but in many ways a world apart.
La Spezia , Lerici, Tellaro and Fiascherino
A short drive from Lungiana takes you to the Gulf of the Poets where you can wander the bustling old streets of La Spezia with its cosmopolitan atmosphere, enjoy a drink in its many bars and of course explore the extensive range of shops. Relax in one of the many seafood restaurants at Lerici and watch the sunset from the harbour. Once a small fishing village and now a popular resort, sitting on the edge of a bay, with the beach overlooked by pastel coloured houses. The castle was built by the Pisans and then passed to the Genovese and was apparently carved out of the cliff face. It now houses the museum of Geopalaeontology created after the discovery of prehistoric remains in the area. The museum includes a virtual reality section and an earthquake simulation room. Lerici is a town that offers the natural beauty of its architecture, picturesque bays, historical monuments and a variety of tourist services. Today, it is alive as an exclusive tourist destination and retains much of its historic past, so loved by many famous poets and writers of contemporary literature. Regular ferries operate from Lerici to Portovenere and the Cinque Terre (an option worth considering as parking in La Spezia and Portovenere can be difficult in the summer). From Lerici the surrounding countryside is characterised by green hills and lush vegetation, rocky coves small sandy inlets. A little further south along the coast you will come across the charming villages of Fiascherino and Tellaro, the later being an ancient and evocative village presumably of Etruscan origin, with its picturesque houses, streets and particularly its harbour that has inspired many painters and poets. Often missed but well worth a visit. The coast features some superb seafood restaurants making this an excellent choice for a special evening.
Le Cinque Terre
Over centuries, through constant work, man has managed to create this landscape, the only one of its kind in the world. Represented by the steep terraces sloping down to the sea, supported by dry stone walling, cleverly built without any kind of cement, they are cultivated as vineyards that almost touch the waves. The Cinque Terre, recognised by Unesco Mankind’s World Heritage are today a National Park and protected Marine Area with the aim of protecting this great cultural heritage. Without doubt, the best way to discover and enjoy the Cinque Terre is to visit on foot and walk the paths and the centuries old flights of steps, which up to a short time ago were the only connections between these five villages. The most famous path is the ‘Via dell’Amore’ or the ‘lovers lane’ that links Manorola to Riomaggiore which is cut out of the step cliffs overlooking the sea (15 min walk). High cliffs reaching down to the sea hide minute shingle beaches at Riomaggiore and Vernazza or tiny ports like that at Manarola where in the summer sunbathers mix with fishermen. Between Vernazza and Corniglia there is the romantic beach of Guvano, to be reached on foot. A larger sandy beach with facilities can be found at Monterosso.

Vernazza, located at the mouth of the river, is naturally protected from the threat of the sea by a rocky cove and for centuries had been the only safe landing point in the Cinque Terre. Corniglia, the only village not on the sea, nestled on a hill surrounded by vineyards has a more ‘country’ appeal. Manarola and Riomaggiore cling to the rock face with their houses piled up in a multi coloured mosaic overlooking the sea and are the most typical and unspoilt villages of the five. The Cinque Terre, apart from its landscape, is also famous for the DOC rated wines produced here. Only selected grapes, after drying in airy attics away from the damp and the sunlight, will be ready for the production of this famous sweet wine. The cuisine is handed down from ancient recipes with the herbs grown wild to enhance the basic flavours. The sea plays the major role with a wide range of fish, with the speciality being the anchovies of Monterosso. Although the Cinque Terre are becoming more attractive to tourists the area remains unspoilt and a visit should be included in the travellers itinerary for those visiting the region.

Portovenere

Named after Venus, Portovenere is one of the most romantic villages on the Ligurian coast with a cluster of narrow streets lined with pastel-coloured houses and is full of coastal charm. Today, recognised by UNESCO as part of the world cultural heritage, it has been said that Portovenere is the less ‘flash’ version of Portofino and yes, in many ways it is. The moorings lend themselves to small fishing boats rather than luxury yachts and the drinks are less expensive however this is not to say you won’t catch a glimpse of a famous face. The front is lined with a host of seafood restaurants and bars while the narrow cobbled lanes behind comprise a multitude of small boutiques and shops selling local produce and gifts. In the upper part of the village is the 12th Century church of San Lorenzo which preserves some remarkable works of art and on the hill facing out to the sea stands the small, black and white 13th Century church of San Pietro. From here, or from the 16th Century castle on the top of the cliffs, there are glorious views of the Cinque Terre and the small island of Palmaria which can be visited by boat from the harbour. The island is a splendid nature reserve, hosting many beaches and coastal rocks. A network of paths running across the island makes this a ramblers paradise. If this isn’t your thing then simply catch the boat to the island to enjoy a lovely romantic meal overlooking the port.


Sarzana

Some may say Sarzana is Lunigiana’s most elegant town, however, it is sadly missed by many people visiting the area. Although not actually in Tuscany but Liguria, it lies slightly inland from the Gulf of the Poets and only 15 minutes from Aulla. The Ligurian architecture is apparent in colour combining the many styles of the region and the historic centre has become a fashionable place to spend an afternoon or evening with an excellent selection of small boutiques, trendy bars and restaurants. The town is particularly famous for its annual antique market held during August when the streets are filled with stalls selling everything from furniture, arts and crafts to memorabilia. Traffic is restricted to residents only in the centre so it is an ideal place to wander its narrow cobbled lanes that lead from the main piazza to the castle and the theatre. There is also a colourful weekly market every Thursday morning so get there early if you want to find a convenient parking space.

Please enquire for further details of the towns and attractions of Lunigiana

How to get there

What's nearby: Attractions Restaurants Click map icons for more information

Map showing the Licciana Nardi areaReset Map

Pisa is the nearest airport to the region. The property is approx 1 hour 10 mins from Pisa. Please enquire for travelling times from other airports listed.

British Airways
Gatwick : Pisa, Bologna Heathrow : Milan (Linate / Malpensa)

Ryanair
Stanstead : Pisa, Genova, Bergamo (Milan), Forli Liverpool: Pisa

Easyjet
Bristol : Pisa Gatwick : Milan (Linate) Luton : Bologna

Jet2
Manchester : Pisa Leeds/Bradford : Pisa (Proposed summer 2006)

Thomsonfly
Coventry / Doncaster / Bournemouth : Pisa

Alitalia
Heathrow : Milan (Linate/Malpensa) Manchester : Milan (Malpensa)

Activities near Licciana Nardi

Guestbook for Casa del Torrentello

Validated reviews:

Review submitted by FABIAN from LUXEMBOURG (Submitted: 6 Sep 2011)
The property is lovely, clean and well looked after. The grounds are sufficient for people with young children, however one needs to keep an eye on them due to the fact that on either side there is the valley. For those who like to be totally isolated from everything and everyone, it is the ideal location due to the fact that it is so quiet. You can even hear your own echo. Village is just down the road, although it is not big, but there are the necessary commodities one needs. 10 minutes away there is the Conad Supermarket in order to stock up on supplies. There are a number of interesting places one can visit, such as Porto Fino, Porto venere and Pisa which are rougly 90 minutes away. We were a group of 9, and we all had a good time. There is Horse riding at an Agri Tourismo too for those who like some activity. Downside to the place is the network reception, although one can use the WIFI available for the internet. But there are a few spots where you can get reception to phone, however this is not that important since afterall you are on vacation, and phones should not be used::))) For those who like jogging, there are a few trails but bear in mind the hills.

Review submitted by JENNY from AUCKLAND (Submitted: 19 Aug 2011)
A wonderful end to our Italian adventure. The property was beautiful the pool stunning the weather perfect and not too hot. After travelling through most of Italy for 3 months the villa in Tuscany was an oasis for relaxation. Set next to a national park it was extremely green and quiet. Our party of 9 included my husband and myself 2 teenagers, three 23 year olds ,my 73 yr old mother and her guest . We all really enjoyed the fact that we could relax and actually have a holiday. It was so amazing they all wanted to stay put and not venture out anywhere even though there were touristy places to visit nearby. A lot of time was spent around the pool by all. The supermarket is close too and the internet worked well. Luis the property manager was extremely helpful without being invasive. I would like to see gps coordinates to make finding the property easier as most people have that and it would make it easier to locate. A fantastic treasure up in the beautiful hills of Tuscany. One week was not enough time next time at least worth staying for 2 weeks.

Review submitted by William from Fort Collins, Colorado, USA (Submitted: 9 Aug 2011)
Our family of 12 (three generations, including 5 kids) had a wonderful week at Casa del Torrentello. The pool was the big hit with the kids. The photos dont show the plunge pool into which the main pool flows. Its a deep and large semicircle - perfect for lots of fun in the water. The seclusion of the place was welcomed after days of touring. Beds were comfortable, eating under the vine pergola was a treat, and we appreciated the function and form of the living and sleeping areas. Plenty of room for the 12 of us. We found we enjoyed the surrounding area, Lunigiana, very much. People were friendly and tourists seemingly few in number. My wife and I are already planning a return trip to this wonderful part of Italy.


Secure Review submitted by Susan from Carlton Husthwaite (Submitted: 13/08/2009 )
Review for: Casa del Torrentello - Tuscany

"As you drive around winding roads with sheer dro ps on one side, climbing higher and higher, you wonder where on earth Casa Torrentello is. dro pping down a dirt track that gets rougher and more precarious, you think you may have made a mistake. Then some metal gates emerge from the woods and you pull up in front of your home for two weeks. The views are spectacular and only trees and mountains can be seen, oh and a wonderful infinity pool that seems to be floating on the tops of the trees. A small, flat grass area is just the right size for a badminton set which I recommend bringing if youre with kids! Do not bring a football as the steep terracing surrounding the house means youll probably never see it again! The living space was perfect with a large upper floor of a barn providing the kitchen, eating and sitting area. A small room downstairs had a tv and DVD player which kept the kids happy before bed. The rooms are all a good size and furnished in a simple and contempory style, a refreshing change from most villas! There are some lovely restaurants nearby, notably Castel del Piano which serves fantastic food and great wine in a beautiful settting. The wine was so good we came home with umpteen cases in the car! All in all a wonderful villa in a truly magical setting that wed live to return to someday. This time for 3 weeks instead of 2! Many thanks to all involved with Casa Torrentello."

Value: Excellent , Met expectations: Yes - satisfied , Recommend: Definitely , Overall: Excellent

Rental prices

Prices for group size 12
Period	From	To	Weekly	Nightly rate		Minimum  stay
				Weekday	Weekend
	30 Apr 11	28 May 11	1995£ 1995	0-	0-	1 Week
	28 May 11	2 Jul 11	2150£ 2150	0-	0-	1 Week
	2 Jul 11	27 Aug 11	3295£ 3295	0-	0-	1 Week
	27 Aug 11	23 Sep 11	2150£ 2150	0-	0-	1 Week
LOW	16 Oct 11	26 May 12	1995£ 1995	0-	0-	1 Week
MID	26 May 12	30 Jun 12	2420£ 2420	0-	0-	1 Week
HIGH	30 Jun 12	1 Sep 12	3395£ 3395	0-	0-	1 Week
MID	1 Sep 12	29 Sep 12	2420£ 2420	0-	0-	1 Week
LOW	29 Sep 12	29 Dec 12	2055£ 2055	0-	0-	1 Week

NB: Prices may be subject to change at the advertiser's discretion.

DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE FOR JUNE AND SEPTEMBER. PLEASE ENQUIRE.

NOTES

Changeover days are Saturday during High and Mid seasons. Flexible arrival dates may be available during all other times.

Please note that a pool surcharge may apply for early pool opening for May bookings.

Swimming pools opened from the start or Mid season (June ) until the end of September.

PAYMENT

Payment can be made by Master card, Visa, Amex, Switch, Delta, Maestro, Visa debit, Electron

( please note that we are unable to process debit card payments in Euro or Dollars )

No charge applies for payment by debit card.

We require 25% deposit to confirm a reservation with the remainder payable 6 weeks prior to arrival. From the time we confirm your booking request the property will be held for 7 days until we receive payment.

Damage deposit:

Option 1.Payable with the final payment and returned less any damages. £300

Option 2. In some cases you can choose to pay a non refundable damage waiver of £19 to cover any damages.

Prices include cleaning prior to arrival, bed linens and towels. Pricing excludes central heating payable locally if required.

Terms and conditions apply.

Availability

See below for next 9 months' availability - to see the next 24 months click here

Contact the manager

* Required fields Please check the following errors: First name * Last name * Email *   Did you mean ""? Yes / No Phone number Arrival date Departure date   Ignore calendar - enquire anway No. of adults No. of children Message * Email me special offers and holiday ideas T&Cs

6 years listed You are contacting Darren Chester Toscana Rustica (property manager) Landline +39 0187 421219 Mobile +39 33888 57292 Languages spoken The property manager is based in Italy and has advertised with Holiday Lettings since 2005. This farmhouse has so far received 0 reviews.

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