Magnificent 14th century historic villa with pool — Property 1911

Magnificent 14th century historic villa with pool

This early 14th century villa has been in the same family since it was built over 600 years ago. The owners were rich, illustrious patricians of Lucca, so it's hardly surprising that they chose a perfect location for their home. The villa is secluded yet close to town. It sits high in the foothills of the Tuscan Apennines, overlooking the whole of the plain of Lucca, with its olive groves and ancient Mediterranean cypresses. Recently, this 17 room historic house has been fully restored and divided into two self contained sections, sharing a spacious classical garden with a magnificent view, and a pool. Traces of the original structure remain in the refinished façade, providing a fascinating blend of historical styles from the 14th to the 18th century. And inside, the house is a harmonious mix of five centuries of stylish Tuscan décor - solid wood furniture, terra cotta floors, beamed ceilings, several fireplaces, austere family portraits, a library of 16th century books and more.

Details for Whole Villa in Lucca Area, Tuscany, Italy

Whether you choose to stay put, or explore the surrounding countryside and famous sites, this large family house is perfect for families, or for a large party of people who want to stay in a beautiful setting with stunning views. Indoors, the two wings can be connected, but each has its own separate facilities. Outside, they share the pool and a classical garden that is large enough for both parties to eat out separately.

Location Vinchiana Lucca < Piana di Lucca < Lucca Area < Tuscany < Italy

Vinchiana Lucca < Piana di Lucca < Lucca Area < Tuscany < Italy

 marks the location of this property in Lucca

Availability for Whole Villa in Lucca Area, Tuscany, Italy

Last updated on:

Friday, 04 July 2008

Changeover day:

Saturday

Normal availability

For times when the villa (or part of it) is booked

Rental rates for Whole Villa in Lucca Area, Tuscany, Italy

^*Please Note: The owner of this property accepts payment in the original currency specified, before use of conversion tool. The conversion tool is provided for your convenience only. The owner may accept other currencies if specifically agreed in advance.

Notes to the rental rates

• .
  
• Central Heating is £180 per week.
  
• Deposit: 50% deposit is due at the time of booking.
  The balance is due eight weeks before arrival - together with a returnable security deposit of £250 (for one week's rental) or £500 (for more than a week's rental).
  

Accommodation and Facilities for Whole Villa in Lucca Area, Tuscany, Italy

The Villa today

Within the 13th century stone arches, the 17th century stone angles and the brick window frames, lie every creature comfort of modern living. During the recent renovation the family has added: central heating, excellent plumbing and electricity, fully equipped bathroom and kitchens, satellite TV and modern household appliances. By day the classical garden is an ideal place to relax with areas of sunshine or shade. Eat out on balmy evenings - the view below is a panorama of fairy lights and if you are lucky the owls will serenade you. The swimming pool also overlooks the whole valley. And for the more competitive, there is a ping pong table too.

The Town of Lucca

Originally built in Roman Times, Lucca (population 90,000) came into prominance in the 13th Century and has a rich historical and artistic heritage. Piazza San Michele, Lucca’s main square, was where Julius Caesar, Pompey and Crassus met in 60 BC to form the first triumvirate. The Roman Amphitheatre - once the scene of gladiatorial combat - is now a magnificent piazza, surrounded by medieval buildings. Within the unbroken 16th century ramparts that protect this untarnished jewel, the city is a maze of tiny streets littered with marble fronted Romanesque churches, mediæval houses and Renaissance palaces.(If you hire a bicycle you can cycle round Lucca on the top of the walls). Via Fillungo, Lucca's main artery is a bustling, pedestrian-only street with scores of elegant shops. Some of its restaurants and belle epoque cafes were frequented by famous native sons like composers Luigi Boccherini and Giacomo Pucini.

Amenities and Excursions

Ideal for rest and relaxation, the villa is nevertheless well placed for a number of day trips by bus, train or car. Both Pisa and Viareggio, a popular seaside resort, are 45 minutes away by car. And Florence is an hour away by bus, train, or car. Distances from the villa: Lucca 15 km / 9 miles, Pisa 40 km / 25 miles, Viareggio 45 km / 28 miles, Florence 80 km / 50 miles, Sienna 140 km / 87 miles, Milan 320 km / 200 miles, Rome 360 km / 220 miles. There is a Golf Course and Tennis Courts near Lucca (30 minutes away). For provisions there is a large supermarket 20-30 mins down the road; a butcher, grocer and greengrocer only 15 mins away, and a small village shop which supplies all basics, in an unspoilt mediaeval village less than half a mile away (ask the caretakers for the opening hours). There is also a selection of nearby restaurants - the nearest is a family restaurant less than three quarters of a mile away; the finest has a Michelin star.