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Villa La Stregaia, a Tuscan vacation rental located in northern Tuscan near Lucca, is perhaps one of more most impressive vacation rentals. Views from La Stregaia and its hilly perch are of green woods, fresh air and lush vegetation. Surrounding the villa is a terraced garden full of an impressive variety of flowers (owner's hobby), plants and aromatic herbs . This place is for those lovers of views, flowers, privacy and food..in short...just about all of us. This story is set on a hill at the edge of a dark wood of chestnut and fertile hills of olive across a babbling brook. Originally a water mill dating back to 1576, La Stregaia is an extremely charming place. Perfectly renovated and furnished, it provides a deep rest away from the tourists ruts of Tuscany. Some would feel this remote, but it's not far from restaurats and shops. Just feels it. One of the magic potions. The kitchen was set up by Cesare Casella, the famed Lucchese chef, restauranteur and friend of the owner.
The owners and the caretaker live in two nice little independent houses on the property, with two "whippets" and 2-3 Cats. Italians love animals. They love cats. Have an allergy? This is not the right place for you. Also the road, though paved, is steep and twisty. Intimidating the first time. Easy after that.
Perfect for: Couples.
The Details:
Lower level: Kitchen (fully equipped) in a traditional manner - great for cooks, dining room and a covered outdoor dining area that is amazing. Also laundry with washer on this floor.
Middle Floor: Very elegant entrance, a two part living room with access to the garden. One twin bedroom with two antique double beds and one bathroom with shower.
Top floor: Large living room with library and fireplace, master bedroom with canopied bed and bathroom ensuite. Second double bedroom and a bathroom with shower down hall.
Note: Some may think this is remote and the walk to the grocer is largely uphill. But this is place is worth it. Possibly the most perfect house I have seen.
There is also a house at the top of the hill, an annex to La Stregaia, has been restored with the same excellence. Sleeps 4 people with a large property and surrounded by olive trees. There is a covered patio for dining al fresco, with dining table and garden furniture. Great price at 1590 € per week year round. Includes all but heat and maid service.
Ground floor of annex: - entrance, dining room, kitchen (fully equipped except dishwasher), living room with Satellite TV.
First floor of annex: 2 double bedrooms, 1 bathroom with shower and a washing machine.
Services, Features, Amenities:
Central Heating,
Fireplace,
Pets Allowed,
Washing Machine,
Dishwasher,
Microwave,
Al Fresco Dining,
Pizza Oven,
Satellite TV,
Oven,
Stereo,
Ice box/Freezer,
Pergola,
Refridgerator,
Chef Can Be Arranged
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Although we are biased on such matters, and may be preaching to the choir, Lucca is arguably the best city in Tuscany. It is also the closest to most of our Lucca based rentals. There are loads of reasons this is a great place to visit (olive oil for example, lack of tourists another). To the benefit of you and the proud locals, Lucca has completely retained the original thick walls around the centro storico. As the wide walls lost their military importance, abruptly ended with the conquering Bonaparte in 1805, no match for his modern might, they became as they are today: a pedestrian only park that rings the city entirely providing a wonderful view of the countryside and city below. Lucca is a perfect place to spend a day, or when you have a little extra time between other touring, you can easily slug it in and never tire of its streets, alleys, sights and shops. It is a perfect place to walk around, the walls not withstanding (in fact for the walls we suggest renting a bike and seeing the city that way - on the walls and off). We fondly call it "Florence without the scooters, people or museums." But still enough great restaurants, piazze, cafes, gelati and upscale shopping to attract the discerning folk. Here is a quick guide to our favorite restaurants (also found in more detail on our recommended restaurants in Lucca page):
Da Giulio, on via Conce Piazza San Donato
La Buca, on via della Cervia
Osteria Baralla, on via Anfiteatro
Antico Cafe, on Piazzale Vittorio Emanuele
Touring Ideas:
Supermarket 2 km
Local ristorante 2 km
Lucca 15 km
Pisa 20 km
Florence 60 km
Pietrasante 45 km
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