13/09/2016
Casa Castagno......
Idyllic three bedroom property in Pieve di Controne, with wonderful views over Bagni di Lucca and the Tuscan mountains.
Set on the edge of one the villages overlooking Bagni di Lucca, this charming former stable and chestnut drying house, built originally in 1720 has been sympathetically converted to provide comfortable accommodation for up to 6 guests. It consists of 3 double bedrooms, (one with Juliet balcony) (and all with top of the range handmade mattresses), modern shower-room, large independent sitting room and separate, well appointed kitchen.
Outside, the house has a sunny south facing patio with beautiful mountain views as well as a private courtyard for the sole use of this property – with palm, plants and grape vine and ideal for those who prefer to relax in a bit of shade.
There is ample free parking in the village piazza – 2 minute walk
This area of Tuscany has much to offer. Aside from the magnificent historical and cultural centres all within reach – Florence – Pisa - Bologna and Lucca (why not hire a bike and ride atop the old Lucca city walls), the area is also ideal for those who enjoy outdoor activities. Close by it is possible to engage in hiking, rafting, kayaking, skiing, horse- riding, tennis, para – gliding, swimming, gorge walking and a myriad of other activities. For those more inclined to relaxation, pop into the wellness centre for a massage or to the thermal spa and baths which gave Bagni di Lucca its name, or just chill over a glass of wine in the Bar Italia.
Throughout the summer, local villages engage in fetes and festivals to which visitors can participate in both cultural and culinary experiences, not least of which is the regular pizza evenings in our own hamlet where, for the princely sum of €8, you can eat and drink all evening under the stars (and have just a 2 minute walk home). For a different experience take a trip to the musical festival held in Lucca in June/July, which always has big name artistes or, for the more cultural, perhaps a trip as far as Lajatico – to see Andrea Bocelli who performs annually in his home town.
And finally, let’s not forget the Mediterranean coast - it is about an hour away, or catch the train up to the magnificent Cinque Terre.
