Sorry - no pets allowed Suitable for children No smoking at this property Self-catering
Home description
Character Tuscan house situated at the edge of a picturesque village in the hills of Northern Tuscany. The terrace and garden is a perfect setting to appreciate the stunning views of the surrounding hills and the marble Apuan mountains in the distance. The newly installed swimming pools offers a chance to cool down after a day in the sun. The pool area is equipped with sun beds and dining offering a wonderful setting to relax and enjoy the simple pleasured of ‘al fresco’ dining. A traditional wood burning barbeque gives another angle to cooking outside...barbeques don't come any better than this. Parking is provided directly at the property. The accommodation comprises: covered terrace leading to open plan living room featuring open ceiling and part exposed stone walls. The Kitchen area is fully equipped with all the necessary equipment including dishwasher. Doors lead to the rear of the property, a shaded area in which to relax overlooked by the old barn, a charming reminder of the more simple origins of the house. The hallway provides access to a shower room, double bedroom and twin room all with views over the garden and pool. Stairs lead to the newly restored lower floor, a spacious room furnished with double bed and en suite bathroom. Doors open to a covered terrace. The house has been thoughtfully furnished to combine some traditional and contemporary pieces offering relaxed comfort. The nearby village has a small bar and grocery shop and only a short drive away takes you to an excellent restaurant serving typical specialities of the region. The medieval village of Casola a couple of minutes in the other direction has a selection of amenities. A superb house for groups or families either wishing to explore this enchanting part of Tuscany or simply relax unwind by the pool and take in the atmosphere.
rear terrace
Pool area
master bedroom
Living / Kitchen
To see more photos please visit http://www.holidaylettings.co.uk/12594
The Tuscany 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.
Lunigiana area
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. Casola and Equi Terme Equi Terme is an ancient hamlet set at the foot of the Apuane Alps. Cross over Equi and you will arrive at the ancient route that leads to the marble quarries. This popular spa town has a slight scent of sulphur and its restorative waters are claimed to have healing powers. Do not expect a luxury resort as after all it is set in the heart of a medieval village but treatments are offered in the spa. If you follow the path through the old village tucked into the mountain gorge you will reach a bridge, a waterfall and the high roofed caves called Buca del Cane, where remains of Palaeolithic men and dogs were found. Guided tours of the caves are available at certain times of the year. Nearby Vinca is renowned for its famous bread. Further down the valley you find Casola, a medieval village that experienced its greatest commercial prosperity during the middle ages. Many of the famous stelle statues were found in this area dating back to the Neolithic and Iron age. Today it represents a sleepy traditional country town with a definite relaxed approach to life. The quaint historic centre is very popular with tourists wanting to relax and simply enjoy the wonderful scenery. Many guided walks are organised from Casola. Fosdinovo Travelling along the winding road from Sarzana to Aulla through the hills, this is the first fortified village you will stumble across. It is a wonderful village set inside ancient walls where you can take in both the sea and mountain air.. Little piazzas are shaded by huge chestnut trees lining the steep twisting streets. The German army had a command position here during world war 2, exploiting its superb strategic position. The 360 degree panorama has to be seen to be fully appreciated with views of the Apuane Alps, the marble quarries and out to sea with views as far as Corsica. An evening visit is a delight as often breathtaking sunsets can be seen. The Malaspina castle, dating from the fourteenth to seventeenth century, stands proud as one of the best preserved castles in the region. It was constructed by the Malaspina family between 13 and 14th centuries with a complicated network of corridors and loggias. Beautifully frescoed walls and ceilings and antique furniture have been restored. It is sometimes used for cultural events and is one of the few castles open to the public on a regular basis. Legends about ghosts and particular historic events draw tourists from all over the world. If you visit any castle during your stay this would be the one to see. The village is delightful with some good restaurants and is without a doubt one of the most representative settlements of the Lunigiana region.
For more information on the nearby coast and other places of interest please enquire.
How to get there
Pisa is the nearest airport to the region. Please enquire for travelling times from other airports listed.
British Airways Gatwick : Pisa, Bologna Heathrow : Milan (Linate / Malpensa)
Single beds (2), Double beds (2), Dining seating for 6, Lounge seating for 6, Sleeps maximum of 6
Other:
Please check with with the owner regarding linen and towels.
Outdoors:
Balcony / Terrace, Private outdoor pool (unheated), Private garden, BBQ
Access:
Secure parking
Further details
Swimming pool is open from June until the end of September
Rental rates
Rental prices originally quoted in: British £
Convert to:
Period
From
To
Weekly
Nightly rate
Minimum stay
Weekday
Weekend
low season
15 Mar 08
31 May 08
825£ 825
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1 Week
mid season
31 May 08
28 Jun 08
1480£ 1,480
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1 Week
high season
28 Jun 08
30 Aug 08
1600£ 1,600
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0-
1 Week
mid season
30 Aug 08
27 Sep 08
1480£ 1,480
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0-
1 Week
low season
27 Sep 08
6 Dec 08
825£ 825
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0-
1 Week
41
NB: Prices may be subject to change at the owner's discretion. Bookings restricted to Saturday arrivals during June, July and August. Terms and conditions available on request. 50% deposit required to secure bookings with the remainder payable 6 weeks before arrival. Payment can be made by Bank transfer, Sterling or Euro Cheque and credit card ( transaction charges apply )
Administration charge Euro 50
What is included? Cleaning prior to arrival. Utilities, including air conditioning if applicable, Linens and towels, representative available for assistance including organising Concierge services - Terms and conditions apply. Excludes heating in all cases.
Returnable damage deposit applies. We reserve the right to modify our prices prior to confirmation. Bookings are subject to acceptance of our terms and conditions.
Concierge service
Whether you would like a restaurant booking, activities or excursions organising, or just someone on hand who speaks Italian to offer assistance. The concierge service can share their knowledge of the area and offer you peace of mind during your stay in Tuscany. Please enquire for further information.
Availability notes
To see availability please visit http://www.holidaylettings.co.uk/12594
Click to view availability for this property.
Contact owner
To contact this owner please visit: http://www.holidaylettings.co.uk/12594
Contact details for home 12594
Please mention Holiday Lettings
Name:
Darren Chester
Tel:
+39 0187 421219
Mobile:
+44 7711 681413
Be aware of time-zones
Languages:
Contact Notes: E mail
Advertiser joined: 22 Apr 2005 This property added: 16 Jun 2006
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