Villanova Alta

Dating from 1680, Villanova Alta possesses a dignity and tranquility typical of the traditional stone farmhouses of this region. It is surrounded by cultivated terraces with olive trees, vines and seasonal fruit trees nestling in 2.2 hectares of lushly wooded hillside – chestnut, acacia and mediterranean oak. The locality of Villanova Alta is in a picturesque landscape sharing a rural cycle of life and painterly views of deep valleys and ancient villages.

The apartment is entered from a broad garden terrace at ground level perfect for alfresco dining. Facing west this terrace affords outstanding views of the hilltop villages, valleys and mountain ranges stretching to the Apennines. On entry, there is a spacious open plan living area for relaxing, cooking, dining, where restoration has exposed original stone walls, beams and ceiling tiles. The remaining rooms comprise a bathroom and two bedrooms, one of which is particularly charming with full-length doors opening directly on to the terrace. And, unusually for an old Tuscan country house, the apartment is all on one level with easy access for people with mobility problems.

The Upper house entry has a broad stairway and gallery, from which the 2 upstairs bedrooms, bathroom and dressing room open. To the left and right of the entry are; the rustic style kitchen; exceptionally spacious living / dining area with a magnificent gallery, vaulted ceiling and stone fireplace; and a third twin bedroom. The following photos are of the upper house. Throughout, the house has chestnut wood beams and cross beams, ceiling tiles and floor paving in traditional ‘cotto' style. The house and apartment are furnished with comfort in mind, affording lovely bright spaces.

Outside at VillaNova Alta ... Leading from a very extensive paved terrace with potted garden the main house overlooks a private garden with a real sense of peace, tranquility and warmth. An 8 x 4 metre pool is set above ground in the olive grove. Views are magnificent throughout the year of golden autumns and glorious summers. Olive, grape and fruit harvesting are still seasonal pastimes. The ‘English’ Rose Gardens are colourful and restful.

There are many places to while away the day. Or visit the likes of Viareggio and Lucca below, both within the hour. Both the apartment and upper house have full central heating and a timber burning stove for the winter months, well equipped kitchens and a cot and high chair is provided. Vill Nova is a perfect setting for al fresco dining ... ... either on the apartment terrace ... ... or on the Pampas terrace for the upper house. A multiple of delightful restaurants are within a short driving distance or you can dine in style and cook wonderful Italian cuisine with the freshest local products.

For the creative, we have a brilliant artist, Lorenza, who owns her own studio in Montecatini who can tutor individuals or groups in the art of oil and water colour painting at the villa. She is great with both beginners and experienced. Please ask for more information including, pricing, when you wish to book.

The village of VELLANO is a kilometre by winding asphalted road and 12 minutes on foot up the hillside paths. Because of the location, gentle breezes arrive during the day, and at night, in the very hot months of July and August. VELLANO is also a well-known panoramic viewing point for the whole of the ‘Svizzera Pesciatina', and is quite lively with 2 local bars, a restaurant, a pizzeria, a bakery and small mixed store, paper shop, Post Office, and an active community centre. VILLANOVA and the valleys of TORBOLA and FORFORA are on the threshold to all types of activities – skiing, trekking on foot or horseback, climbing, cycling or rallying etc. But for the less energetic there are other simple pleasures – exploring the many ancient pathways to the ‘dieci castella', swimming or fishing in the Pescia River, joining in the local village festivals, eating in the many ‘casalinga' trattatorie and absorbing the genuine warmth and friendliness of your Tuscan neighbours.