Archive for 'Lucca'

  

Monday, July 30, 2018
Pond
The Villa Reale, or Villa Marlia, is one of the many beautiful historic estates located in the Tuscan countryside. There are lots of wonderful villas in the area around Lucca, in particular, and this property in an area called Marlia is especially lovely.

A former royal palace with extensive and stunning gardens, it is filled with surprises around every turn and if you have found a luxury villa in Lucca, it is the perfect place to head off for a day trip.

Exploring the grounds, alone, will take up to two hours and if you want to picnic in the gardens (which we recommend) or visit the villa (although it is currently closed for renovation work), you will need additional time. Off the beaten tourist track and away from intense crowds but full of things to see and do, it is the ideal place to wander at your leisure and truly enjoy your downtime while on holidays.     Read More
Posted in: Architectural Gems, Castles & Palaces, Localities, Lucca, Must See Attractions, Parks & Gardens, Pretty Views, Tourist Attractions

  

Tuesday, April 24, 2018
Town
Barga is one of the many exceptional hilltop towns in Tuscany and, certainly, the most amazing in in Garfagnana, in the province of Lucca. It has won numerous prestigious awards for the quality of its tourist services over the years, such as the Italian Touring Club Orange Flag and the Città Slow award, and is officially listed as of One of the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy.

If you have found a luxury villa in Lucca, it makes for an easy day trip and a lovely place to spend time wandering and taking in the true Tuscan pace, and way, of life.

The town's Cathedral, the Collegiata di San Cristoforo, is considered one of the most important Romanesque examples in Tuscany. One of the oldest buildings in the town, it is filled with frescoes and sculptures and it is well worth popping inside for a look. Barga is also home to a beautifully restored castle that is perched above the town.     Read More
Posted in: Architectural Gems, Localities, Lucca, Pretty Views, Tourist Attractions

  

Friday, April 20, 2018



Cartasia is a rather special art show that is dedicated entirely to one medium: paper. Established in 2004, the International Paper Biennial Show aims to promote “tradition, culture, sustainability and innovation through art and design”. This year's edition will be its ninth and will take place in the city of Lucca between July and September 2018. So, if you have found a luxury villa in Lucca and are planning a visit any time over the summer, be sure to check it out! Art lovers, in particular will enjoy the exhibitions, talks and other fun events.     Read More
Posted in: August, Events, July, June, Localities, Lucca

  

Tuesday, April 3, 2018
China Massagli (pronounced KEE-nah Mah-SAH-lee) is a unique Tuscan liquor that was first created in the nineteenth century by a one doctor Massagli, who was the owner of a pharmacy in Piazza San Michele in Lucca. Originally sold as a medicinal beverage during the Malaria epidemic of the 19th century in the city, it is now a local tipple that is a must-try for any foodie that has found a vacation rental in Lucca and is exploring the gastronomy of the city.

One of the main ingredients of the drink, from which it partially gets its name, is China Ginebona Officinalis. Also known as Jesuit's bark, the plant contains quinine, an ingredient used to fight fever and malaria, which is still sold in pharmacies to this day.     Read More
Posted in: Food and Wine, Localities, Lucca, Products & Specialities, Wineries & Breweries

  

Tuesday, December 5, 2017
Garden of Villa Reale di Marlia
Villa Reale di Marlia is a stunning 17th century villa and estate with extensive and impressive gardens, located a short distance from Lucca, at the foot of the Pizzorne hills. Once home to Napoleon’s sister and Duchess of Lucca Elisa Bonaparte Baciocchi, it is considered one of the most important historic properties in Italy and is made up of a sixteen hectare estate that features incredible works of art, works of nature and flights of fancy. While the house is currently closed for renovations, the gardens remain open to the public for visits and make for the perfect place to spend a pleasant afternoon strolling around. Just find a luxury villa in Lucca and pay a visit to this extraordinary estate for yourself.

Pack a picnic and set aside a few hours because wandering this estate will occupy you for that long – there is so much to see and do and you'll need snacks to keep you going.     Read More
Posted in: Architectural Gems, Castles & Palaces, Curiosities, Localities, Lucca, Parks & Gardens, Tourist Attractions