Chiara is a spacious detached 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom property with large wraparound garden, private pool and mountain views. WIFI.
Built from traditional stone and boasting beamed ceilings, Tuscan flooring, chestnut windows with internal wooden shutters, and a classic Tuscan kitchen, there is a real feel of Tuscan Charm at this peaceful property which is set on the top of a hill, with commanding views of the stunning countryside. Despite the traditional ambience there is a well equipped kitchen, modern bathrooms and even insect screens.
The owner has renovated this beautiful property with lots of love and care, and is happy to share it with guests as due to work commitments she now uses it herself less often.
As well as the main house there is a little barn with a second living room, perfect for relaxing away from the rest of your group if you need your own space...
The property is set over two floors and is arranged as follows:
Enter via traditional door into the hallway with original stone staircase.
Right into spacious living room with beamed ceilings, cotto flooring, large original fireplace and comfy seating along with a dining table that extends to seat 8 guests. TV is Italian only but there is a DVD player if you wish to bring films. The light room also has a door leading to garden.
From here one reaches the traditional Tuscan country kitchen/diner complete with large oven, 5 ring hob, dishwasher, double sink, microwave, and breakfasting table - all you need to try your hand at Italian cooking.
Also on this floor is a twin bedroom and a modern shower room with shower cubicle, basin, WC and bidet.
There is also a utility area with washing machine.
Upstairs there is :
Twin room - suitable for children due to style of decor
Double room, with double aspect views over countryside and mountains
Double room, with double aspect views over countryside and mountains
Family bathroom, with hydromassage bath, separate shower cubicle , large basin, WC and bidet.
Outside:
Large wrap around garden with traditionally paved patio area for al fresco dining.
Wooded area with trees for relaxing in the natural shade
Small converted barn with further living area for a peaceful relaxation
Private pool with views over mountains
Plenty of flat grounds for children to play (unusual with a mountain property!).
The area:
Nicciano is situated in the heart of the Garfagnana, surrounded by lush green countryside and stunning mountain scenery is what real rural Italy is all about.
The mediaeval village is a 5 minute or so walk way and there is a bar/basic shop for essentials. Just above the village is a little hamlet (10 minutes or so walk cross country) which has a fantastic little family run restaurant where you can dine al fresco on exquisitely cooked home made and home grown food. This restaurant is open from Thursday to Sunday in high season and Friday to Sunday other times.
There is also a good pizzeria which is a 15/20 min walk away (or a couple of minutes by car).
The local village of Piazza Al Serchio with its bars, couple of restaurants, supermarket, train station, river and Tuesday morning market when the village comes alive, is say 3 minutes away by car.
The views from this extremely peaceful property are magnificent - the house overlooks the green and fertile Serchio valley, with views of the Apuane and Appenine Alps.
This really is the perfect location - an ideal place to unwind deep in the countryside, yet close enough to all local amenities, and a convenient base for exploring by car or train.
For more about the area and days out see location section.
Enjoy a holiday with a difference!
For sightseeing and days out why not try:
Castelnuovo – local market town with Thursday morning market, regular festivals 25 mins
Barga – beautiful mediaeval and arty little town with Cathedral, great architecture, good restaurants. Cobbled streets, little piazzas, often there is live music, jazz parades, or markets under the stars… 40 mins
The Buffardello – climbing & zip wire park with courses suitable for entire family - 20 mins
Verrucole - ancient fortress, amaxing views ,interactive museum
Lucca - hire bicycles & ride around the still intact City walls, meander through cobbled streets, visit beautiful churches, climb towers,shop til you drop, stopping for icecreams/coffees. Puccini performances every night. 1hr 15 mins
Grotta del Vento – the amazing wind caves – well worth a visit – fantastic tour. Why not stop off a the old monastery for a wild trout lunch on the way back? 1 hr
Pisa – with its famous tower- 90 mins
Florence – 2 hrs
The Cinque Terre- 2 hours
Equiterme – thermal mud baths set amongst caves and a thermal swimming pool . one stop on train
National Park of Orecchiella- less than 30 mins
TOURIST TAX - Do note that there is a local stay tax applicable at €1 per person per night, up to a maximum of 5 nights. This does not apply to children under 14.