Tuscany Map
Map description
MASSA CARRARA
The Province of Massa Carrara is situated in the northernmost part of Tuscany, not far from well-known places such as the Golfo dei Poeti, the “Cinque Terre” and Tuscan art cities like Lucca, Florence and Pisa. Here, nature has created a perfect harmony between land and sea. The Apuan Alps, famous for their marble quarries, overlo
LUCCA
A favourable location on the plain at the foot of the first spurs of Apennines and an abundance of water seem to have been the reason for the foundation of the city by the Romans in 180 BC. The rectangular grid of its historical centre preserves the Roman street plan. Nowadays the church of San Michele, named, because of its Roman origin, San Mich
PISTOIA
A Roman colony, used as military stronghold against the Ligurian tribes living in the nearby Apennines, Pistoia developed because of the road network. In fact the opening of a new stretch of Via Cassia (the consular road linking Rome with the Etruscan cities of the interior and Lunigiana) made it a junction of primary importance.Recent archeological investigations<
PRATO
FLORENCE
Just a few notes, intended, not for the ordinary tourist but, for the wise traveller, ready to relish the town, to capture that special flavour which will urge him to return in the future, so as to add a new tessera to the never-ending mosaic of Florence. Let us start from the town's religious hub and enjoy the great visual impact of the dramatic dome of 
AREZZO
Today a city of goldsmiths and antiquarians, in effect its monthly antique fair is the most important in Italy, Arezzo also attracts numerous tourists with the annual revival of the medieval tradition of the “Giostra del Saracino”, Joust of the Saracen.But actually Arezzo is much more than that.
Important Etruscan centre known to the Romans as Arre
SIENA
Like most Tuscan hill towns, Siena was founded by the Etruscans. According to legend, however, it had Roman origins having been founded by Senius, son of Remus, thus the town’s emblem: a she-wolf suckling the infants Romulus and Remus. Since it was not situated on any of the major roads and had no possibility for trade, Siena had to await the inva
GROSSETO
Grosseto lies in the south west of Tuscany, in the area known as the Alta Maremma. It is first mentioned in the 9th century as the fief of a noble family, the Aldobrandeschi. It grew in importance over the years with the decline of the Etruscan town of Rusellæ, whose ruins can still be admired at about five miles from the to
PISA
Pisa’s origins are controversial: proposed founders are the Ligurians, the Etruscans, the Greeks and the Romans. Its history tends to dissolve into mythology: it might have taken part in the war of Troy. Nevertheless its connexion with the 2nd Punic war is a historical event which laid the foundation of its subsequent naval and military power and of its role of “guardian” of the T
LEGHORN
Situated on the southern edge of the vast plain of the Arno River, Livorno was exposed to frequent raids from the sea and to the problems of a territory largely consisting of ponds and marshes. It was for a long time just a landing place. Archaeological investigations reveal the existence of a scant settlement near Castiglioncello, bringing to light an interesting
Province of Lucca
A favourable location on the plain at the foot of the first spurs of Apennines and an abundance of water seem to have been the reason for the foundation of the city by the Romans in 180 BC. The rectangular grid of its historical centre preserves the Roman street plan. Nowadays the church of San Michele, named, because of its Roman origin, San Michele in Foro, occupies the site of the ancient forum. Remains of the amphitheatre can still be seen in Piazza dell'Anfiteatro.Lucca later underwent numerous invasions by the barbarians. In the Middle Ages its role was further increased by the opening of a new stretch of the Via Francigena, the pilgrimage route connecting Northern Europe to Rome.
As a major halting place it became a flourishing city, rich in gorgeous churches. The basic pillars on which the city built up its wealth were wool, silk and banking. Its merchant class favoured the growth of the “entrepreneurial” sector, which expanded into the main European markets thus setting off the banking business, with money loans to the great European sovereigns in need of support for the constant warfare. On the eve of the age of free communes it shared with Pisa, Florence and Siena a dominant position in the region, able to maintain its independence until the definite annexation by the Grand Duchy of Tuscany in the 19th century. Even Napoleon left marks in the town, bestowing it to his sister Elisa Bonaparte Baciocchi. In Tolstoy's “War and Peace” an anti-Bonapartist Russian aristocrat in St Petersbourgh recorded the events in the following way:
"Well,... Genoa and Lucca are now no more than private estates of the Bonaparte family..... And what do you think of this latest comedy, the coronation at Milan, … and of the comedy of the people of Genoa and Lucca laying their petitions [to be annexed to France] before Monsieur Bonaparte, and Monsieur Bonaparte sitting on a throne and granting the petitions of the nations?"
Today, still ringed by its massive walls, Lucca jealously guards the traces of its past, the great tradition of commerce and civic pride that is reflected in the quality of the urban fabric, studded with noble palaces and with an exceptionally high number of churches, on which every era has left its own mark. It is impossible here to describe the whole of the city's immense artistic heritage, ranging from the cathedral San Martino, San Frediano, San Michele in Foro, the Museo Nazionale Guinigi or Mansi up to the many villas in the countryside built by the merchant and banking classes. Here the magnificence of the architecture and the sumptuous symmetries of the Italian Gardens conjugate such touchstones of entertainment and confirmation of social status with the exploitation of primary products such as oil or wine, destined to have a lasting effect on the landscape. An indescribable voyage which needs to be experienced.
Matraia - RIF. S23
This old farmhouse, “Antico Casale”, dates back to the 16th century and is testimony of the wealth of the silk merchants who gave fame to Lucca throughout Europe. Rebuilt during the years, this holiday home has been recently restored to its origins owing to the hard work of the owner who has also used the local stone, the “pietra di Matraia”. Situated on the hills of Lucca, among olive groves, the farmhouse has a beautiful view and is bathed in sunshine all year round with a refreshing breeze during the summer. One can also enjoy a spectacular view from the salty water pool which is located at the edge of the property. The position of the farmhouse is ideal for visiting art centres such as Lucca (at 15 min.), Pisa (at 40 min.) and Florence (at 50 min.) or the nearby beaches of Versilia. Very near are the famous historic Villas and gardens of Lucca, open for visits throughout most of the year, and old churches and farms, where one can taste local products. It is also possible to follow the famous Wine Trails, “Strade del Vino”, tracking the local wine production of the area, while nature lovers can go for long walks through woods, vineyards and olive groves. The farmhouse consists in elegantly decorated apartments, with antiques, fireplaces and the beautiful grey Matraia stone quarried nearby. All apartments are sunny and enjoy a good view.
[Continues..]
Camaiore - RIF. S152
Located at 200 m from the medieval town centre of Camaiore, this old farmhouse, converted at the present day into an original bed and breakfast, dates back to the late 18th and early 19th centuries and belonged to the House of Bourbon-Parma. The holiday house is on three floors. The ground floor has a large living room with a library, two huge fireplaces and antique furniture. Is this room client’s can enjoy their breakfast, whereas during summer it is served in the garden. The B&B consists of four large and comfortable bedrooms, recently renovated maintaining the original atmosphere with old-style furniture, each with a private bathroom. A large garden surrounds the bed and breakfast offering relaxing corners and some facilities. Bicycles can be taken for excursions to the nearby remains of the ancient walls of Camaiore, Porta Lombricese Arc, and the famous Abbey church (11th cent.) as well as in the surroundings where one can admire the many Romanesque churches (“pieve”) and breathtaking views. Ideal position for both visiting the coast of Versilia with its sea and beautiful beaches, as well as the mountains: both a few kilometres away. Also near to famous art centres such as Pietrasanta, Carrara, Lucca, Pisa and Florence
[Continues..]
Monsagrati - RIF. S50
This Bed and Breakfast is located at the feet of the of the Park of the Apuan Alps, only a few minutes drive from the art city of Lucca with its magnificent historic centre, famous for both its churches and its antique shops and just 20 km from the beaches of Versilia. The B&B has three double bedrooms which share two bathrooms. On request you can have your own private bathroom. Available a large shared room with fireplace and reading corner. During the summer, breakfast is served outdoors under the porch. At guests’ disposal a large private garden with swimming pool (10x5 m), open from May until September, and a barbecue. The surrounding hills with offer a relaxing and peaceful place to enjoy one’s holiday. Just a short walk away there is a baker’s shop, a pizzeria and a bank. Possibility of booking mountain bike tours, walking trips and horseback riding with local operators.
[Continues..]
Lucca - RIF. S97
This beautiful Bed and Breakfast was redeveloped in 2005 from an ancient bourgeois house built in the second half of the 16th century, in the historic centre of Lucca right within the medieval town walls. The residence is entirely family-run and welcomes its guests to an ancient atmosphere but with modern comforts. The holiday accommodation consists of comfortable and spacious rooms with writing-desk, air conditioning and bathroom with shower or bathtub. The family suite also has a living room corner and direct access to a small garden. Guest facilities are a garden area, bicycles, free use of the internet point situated at the reception for 30 minutes a day, and the possibility to deposit the baggage on the day of departure without any additional costs. The B&B also has its own taxi service with a ten-year experience, offering therefore the possibility to organize transfers from and to airports and railway stations at easy term rates.
The residence is located in front of the enchanting gardens of Villa Bottini, once residence of Elisa Bonaparte, and where today numerous cultural and musical events are held during the summer period. From the property in a few minutes you can reach on foot all the principal historic attractions of the city. Furthermore Lucca is in a good position to visit all the beauties of Tuscany such as Florence, Pisa, Siena, St. Gimignano and the wine producing farms of Montecarlo Classico and Chianti.
[Continues..]
Camaiore - RIF. S30
This lovely country cottage is located on the hills in a small hamlet called Luciana, at 3 km from the tiny village of Casoli in the region of Versilia, in the northwest of Tuscany. In a perfect position for those who wish to enjoy both the Tuscan mountains and the seaside, this holiday accommodation is near the famous beaches of Versilia with Lido di Camaiore at 13 km and Viareggio at 14. Excellent as a base for trekking excursions and mountain biking ,this self-catering house has a fantastic view over the Apuan Alps and on a clear day one can also admire the Tower of Pisa. In fact it is also near to art centres such as Pisa and also Lucca as well as Pietrasanta considered the capital of sculptors since many artists, among whom Michelangelo in the past and today Botero e Mitorai, have come and still come here to produce their marble or bronze works. The owner is a local artist and in this little cottage one can find some of his works. This peaceful country house can accommodate 4 people and has no swimming pool.
[Continues..]
Lucca - RIF. S143
Located in the centre of Lucca, the beautiful art city of Northern Tuscany, this nice and comfortable holiday apartment is on the ground floor of an elegant, historic building. The accommodation has a large entrance, living room with double divan bed and dining area, well equipped kitchen, double bedroom and bathroom with bathtub/shower. Important: free car parking area right in front of the apartment. The apartment faces Lucca’s famous walls, which surround the medieval town and from the top of which one can enjoy a beautiful view over monuments and churches. The apartment is well furnished and it is the perfect starting point to visit the town and its famous monuments and many churches.
[Continues..]
Camaiore - RIF. S131
This lovely holiday accommodation is located at 1 km from Camaiore, a beautiful medieval village of Versilia, in Northern Tuscany, with churches, a medieval Romanesque church, the Pieve, and a nice square. The house is on two floors. In the apartment on the ground floor the owners sometimes spends week-ends without, however, disturbing the privacy of the holiday apartment on the first floor. This comfortable accommodation consists of a large living room with kitchen corner (4 gas fires, oven, fridge with freezer, dishwasher), SAT-TV, double bedroom with an extra additional bed, twin bedded room, bathroom with bathtub/shower, and a nice, large covered terrace. Outside facilities: a large garden with olive trees and barbecue. Private car parking. The villa is only 7 km from the elegant sea resorts of Versilia; Lucca is at 25 km and Pisa at 30 km. Florence is reachable by train, bus or by car.
[Continues..]
Santa Lucia - RIF. S29
This holiday house for rent is located at the entrance of the hamlet of Santa Lucia, on the hills of Versilia, is a nice and comfortable semidetached house. In a light windy place, so that it is pleasant to stay on the terrace during the sunny season, the holiday apartment is on 3 levels. The entrance is through a large terrace level (about 60 m2), from which one can enjoy a breathtaking view over the coast and the seaside. The sunset is magnificent. On the ground floor there is a living room with fireplace and a double divan bed, a large kitchen with dining area, and a bathroom with shower. On the first floor there is a double bedroom with an extra single divan bed and a bathroom with shower. Private car parking.
The beautiful area of Versilia faces the coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea, in the north-west of Tuscany. The beaches are at only 9 km, and Pietrasanta, a wonderful little medieval village, where one can find a lot of art workshops and exhibitions, is only 8 km away. Lucca and Pisa are at just half an hour driving distance. In the village of Santa Lucia there is a restaurant, but the most important feature is its position. The village is, in fact, situated on top of a little hill facing the coast, so that the view is breathtaking.
[Continues..]
Lucca - RIF. S145
Located near Lucca, in the direction of Camaiore, this magnificent farmhouse, owned by the Earls Sardi for over two hundred years, is surrounded by over 45 hectares of land, of which 16 are vineyards. The wines produced here have a DOC (“Controlled Origin Denomination”) denomination of the Colline Lucchesi (“Hills of Lucca). This holiday accommodation is situated in a splendid mid 19th century farmhouse surrounded by vineyards. The apartments for rent have been recently renovated and offer various accommodation solutions. Each flat is completely independent and tastefully furnished with the traditional Tuscan style, yet equipped with all comforts. They are all named after the famous gates of Lucca which is at 3 km. From here most famous Tuscan art cities, as well as the coast, are easily reachable by car, train and bus.
[Continues..]
Minucciano - RIF. S54
This holiday Hotel is located in a panoramic area at 850 m above sea level near Monte Argegna and the Passo dei Carpinelli (Carpinelli’s Pass), the “passage” connecting the area of Garfagnana to the region of Lunigiana, the doorway to Liguria. From here, both by main road or motorway, one can easily reach the famous coast of Versilia, the beautiful Cinque Terre and the Golfo dei Poeti (Lerici, Portovenere) in Liguria, as well as Tuscan art centres such as Lucca, Pisa and Florence. The B&B has 30 rooms with private bathrooms, SAT-TV, telephone, and many rooms have their own balcony. Other facilities are a reading room, a bar, an ice-cream parlour, a panoramic terrace, a park, a playground for children, tennis court, mini soccer field, bowls, swimming pools for adults and children (open from June to September), private car park and a garage.
[Continues..]
Lucca - RIF. S134
This beautiful and comfortable 4 star superior holiday hotel is located in a 1540 palace, within the medieval walls of Lucca, right in the town centre, within walking distance of the shopping area and the train station. The B&B consists of 17 Junior Suites, 3 Suites, 4 doubles and 2 singles situated on 4 floors, each spacious, elegantly furnished and provided with air conditioning and heating with independent control, LCD TV with satellite channels and PAY-TV, direct telephone, PC internet Wi-Fi connection, mini-bar, safe, relax or work area, parquet flooring, bathroom with telephone, shower or bath, hairdryer and cable radio. Everything for maximum comfort. The rooms are accessed by magnetic cards. Other facilities are a bar lounge, where one can talk and relax sipping a drink or cocktail in an elegant atmosphere with soft music, a small garden and a car park. Buffet breakfast. For business meetings in Lucca, the holiday is ideal for reunions, courses and conventions: 40 + 30 seats.
[Continues..]
Fabiano - RIF. S57
This beautiful Tuscan holiday home is located in the tiny medieval hamlet of Fabbiano, on the Versilia hills in northern coastal Tuscany. The village is an oasis of peace, crisscrossed by alleys which are closed to the car traffic. This house for rent is on 3 floors, of which two have an exit into an alley in the hamlet. Recently renovated in respect of the original, ancient design , the accommodation has a lovely marble staircase dating back to the 18th century, terracotta tile flooring, wooden beam ceiling and a precious marble washbasin. The main entrance is situated on the middle floor with access to an elegant living room with SAT-TV, fireplace and double divan bed. The marble staircase leads down to the ground floor where one finds a fully equipped kitchen with fridge freezer, 4 ring gas hob, dishwasher and fireplace. From the kitchen there is the second exit onto an alley. The living room also leads up to the last floor where a single bedroom leads to a double bedroom with an extra bed. The view of the Versilia coast from the bedroom window is quiet breathtaking. The bathroom with shower is situated on the middle floor. Guests also have access to a nicely furnished garden with barbecue at 50 mt from the house towards the entrance of the hamlet. The village’s cark park is at 30 mt.
In Fabiano there is a tiny food shop and at just a 10 minute walk there is also a very good restaurant. The nearest supermarket is at 7 km in the town of Seravezza. A
[Continues..]
Altopascio - RIF. S91
This self-catering apartment for vacation rental, next to the main farmstead, is located at a few km from the small medieval village of Altopascio, near Lucca. Recently restored in respect of the traditional rural 19th century style, this comfortable, old holiday farmhouse is a barn conversion on two floors. The entrance to the accommodation is by a staircase with Tuscan fired brick steps. The ground floor, originally the stable, preserves the typical Tuscan “mezzane” arched ceiling and consists of living-room, dining area and a fully furnished kitchen with oven, fridge and freezer. The furniture and the decorations are original of the end of the 19th century. The large table with Carrara marble top in the dining area can seat 6 people. An iron staircase leads to the first floor, formerly the hayloft, with two bedrooms and a bathroom. Particular care has been given to the recovery of the original kitchen and work tools of this farmhouse. Many old objects can be found scattered around the house such as Grandfather’s oil jar and hand decorated ashtray or Grandmother’s old grey sandstone sink. Outside there is a furnished garden with lemon trees. There is no swimming pool. Bicycles are available to guests. In an ideal position to visit most Tuscan art centres such as Lucca, Pisa and Florence.
[Continues..]
Orbicciano - RIF. S99
These three independent villas for rent are located near Orbicciano, a small village on the hills at 15 km from Lucca, an area formerly known for its production of olive oil and flour. The biggest of these three elegant holiday homes was once an important flour and oil mill. Originally of the 17th century some traces of its past can still be found around the house, such as the old millstones or the brook that flows next to the house. The villas and the stable have been lovingly restored by the owners.
A257 STREGAIA: This main house is a luxury villa for 6 people offering exclusive comforts. Previously a mill, the villa is in a gorge with a stream but fortunately bathed in the sun all year round and surrounded by a terraced garden. The holiday accommodation has been tastefully renovated maintaining characteristic features such as terracotta tile flooring and wooden beam ceilings and also elegantly decorated. It is terraced on 3 connected floors. The ground floor has a well furnished country kitchen and dining room as well as an outdoor covered dining area where to enjoy meals with the background sound of a waterfall. The first floor has an elegant living room with access to the garden and 2 double bedrooms and 2 bathrooms. The second floor has a large sitting room with a fireplace and library, as well as the third bedroom with bathroom.
A259 STREGHINA : Facing the main villa, at the bottom of the garden, is a cottage, formerly the stable, recently renov
[Continues..]
Camaiore - RIF. S31
This beautiful 18th century independent holiday house is located at 300 mt from the tiny medieval village of Pedona on the Versilia hills. Originally a farmhouse, the building has been tastefully renovated maintaining its original characteristics such as the terracotta floor tiling, the wooden beam ceilings and the magnificent fireplaces, which originally heated the house. On three floors, the house is suitable for adults and families without little children, as the inner staircase is quite steep. This holiday accommodation consists of a kitchen with original marble sink, a nice, comfortable dining room with a stone fireplace and a living room with another stone fireplace on the ground floor. A steep staircase leads to the first floor with a double bedroom and a small bathroom with shower. On the second floor there is another double bedroom and a room where it is possible to put an extra bed. The villa enjoys a wonderful view over the valley of Camaiore.
This holiday house for vacation rental has two beautifully furnished gardens, with a barbecue. The second garden is at 25 mt, on top of a hill, with a breathtaking view over the Versilia coast. In the village of Pedona one can find a grocer’s and a restaurant. Supermarkets and other shops are to be found in Camaiore, considered a pearl of Versilia, at 4 km. This villa is in an excellent position for visiting many Tuscan art centres and medieval villages as well as the beaches, at 13 km, and the beautifu
[Continues..]
Montecarlo - RIF. S114
This villa for vacation rental is located just outside the medieval village of Montecarlo, near Lucca, famous for its wine. The holiday home is surrounded by a large garden with swimming pool ( m6,50x3,50,x1,2 ), barbecue and table tennis, as well as a pretty veranda overlooking the olive groves and vineyards. The accommodation is on two floors and has large, comfortable rooms all furnished with 18th century-style furniture and objet d’arts. On the ground floor there are a large living room, a dining room, a fully equipped kitchen (washing machine, microwave oven, freezer, fridge and electric oven ), 3 double bedrooms and 2 bathrooms plus a toilet. On the first floor there are a double bedroom, a single bedroom and one bathroom. The owner lives in the basement of the villa, taking care of the garden and swimming pool without disturbing your privacy, and is at guests’ disposal in case of need. On request breakfast, lunch or dinner available. Pets accepted.
This self-catering villa offers the peace and quiet of the hills around Lucca, but also the proximity to many Tuscan art centres and interesting natural areas. Nearby is Calci with its famous Carthusian Charterhouse and one of the largest European natural history museums; Garfagnana with its famous Grotta del Vento, ‘the wind cave’, and the Orecchiella Park, the hermitages and its old mountain villages; the coast of Versilia, with its famous sea resorts, is at 30 km. Very close are also Lucca and Pisa,
[Continues..]
Bargecchia - RIF. S73
This self-catering villa is located on the Versilia hills at 140 mt above sea level with a breathtaking view over the countryside and the seaside of Viareggio at only 8 km. This comfortable holiday home can accommodate 6 people. The house has two floors, with the holiday accommodation on the first floor with direct access from the road. On the ground floor lives the owner, at guests disposal for any necessity, without disturbing your privacy. On the back there is a garden. From the balcony one can enjoy a beautiful view over the Tuscan archipelago. This villa is in an ideal position for those wanting both a relaxing vacation near the sea and the possibility of visiting Tuscan’s art centres, such as Lucca and Pisa.
[Continues..]
Lucca - RIF. S141
This villa, set only a few kms away from Lucca (7km), was once a farmhouse used to store hay, today it has been refurbished by the owners who paid particular attention to its original old style. The accommodation is surrounded by luxuriant olive trees and its position guarantees an amazing view over the valley. Here all the guests can enjoy a peaceful stay and a complete privacy. The villa has luxury finishing, parquet flooring and two terraces with old terracotta paving. The villa can host up to 7 people. It is made up of two staggered floor.
Ground floor: studio and wide veranda (it can be easily opened) right in front of the swimming pool, king size bedroom with en suite bathroom, shower and double sink. Room with 2 single beds and bathroom with tub, bedroom with French bed. Laundry room endowed with washing machine and iron.
On the first floor: well equipped kitchen (fridge, oven, microwave, dishwasher, and different utility tools) toilet and wide living room.
Outside area: the big garden of olive trees and oleander is equipped with: table tennis, barbecue and swimming pool (6x11). The villa is entirely fenced and endowed with electric gate. 8 hours per week cleaning service is included in the fare.
[Continues..]
Lucca - RIF. S109
This self-catering villa for rent, built in 1700's, is a few km from Lucca in Western Tuscany. It is in the midst of a typical Tuscan countryside, rich with trees, olive groves and vineyards. The farm produces a good quality Chianti wine, olive oil and the famous local tomato 'il Canestrino'. In the farm there is a beautiful park with a pond where guests can fish. This house sleeps 8 people and has a pool. The owner lives in the apartment on ground floor.
[Continues..]
Santa Maria del Giudice - RIF. S112
Santa Maria del Giudice is a small charming village located between Pisa and Lucca, both at 8 km of distance. In the village there are restaurants, bar café, food shops and a pharmacy. You can walk until the “ Dante’s pass”, mentioned by the poet in the “Divine Comedy” or visit the 12th century Romanesque church, the parish church of John the Baptist.
The villa, independent and surrounded by greenery, is the ideal place for people who want to spend a relaxing holiday, in contact with nature, and who love the “beautiful” , inside and out. It is also located in a good position for excursions to the other interesting sites of Tuscany, such as Florence and the coast which are easy to reach. The owner lives in one part of the house, but she will not disturb your privacy, except for the assistance you may need.
The house has a nice view over the countryside, and at client’s disposal there is a large garden, with an above ground swimming pool. It is on two floors: on the ground floor there are the living areas and on the first floor the bedrooms: one of them has a communicating little bedroom with 2 single beds. The furniture is typical of the beginning of the twentieth century.
[Continues..]
© 2009 copyright testi e grafica Tuscany Holiday Rent | info@tuscanyholidayrent.com | Design by Icarus Project
