In brief

• Historic towns nearby
• Splendid beaches nearby
• Small football pitch

About the villa

In a setting that will match you mood for mood, La Casa della Chiesa is cushioned in rural tranquillity, less than 20km from lively Viareggio and its sandy beaches; even closer to historic Camaiore and the elegant piazzas of Lucca; and within easy day-trip distance of both Pisa and Florence. And the villa itself offers plenty of choice, and space, for guests to entertain themselves at home, from its well-stocked book shelves, table games,  Smart TVs and WiFi, to outdoor facilities including croquet, table tennis, and a sizeable swimming pool sunk into sunny lawns. Imbued with the easy ambience of visiting friends, this happy house has beamed ceilings, brick tiled floors, big open fires, and bright rugs and fabrics. Pretty country bedrooms include air-conditioned attic bedroom , and a canopied four-poster. The country style kitchen has modern appliances and a door to the furnished veranda. A futher wisteria covered veranda is near the entrance. And convivial social space includes a traditional dining hall, a library/TV room replete with eclectic noted artworks, and a split-level living room, furnished with rustic informality and overlooked by a mezzanine workspace area. The lawns gently slope down to the pool and lead to the grassy area used for football. The gardens are very pretty with roses, irises and lavender. The bathrooms have recently been refurbished. 

Some guests will want to soak up the sun by the pool, others may wish to explore walking trails which connect local hamlets and visit vineyards, olive oil presses. Shops and informal restaurants in San Martino in Freddana are down in the valley less than 6km away. Further informal restaurants are within easy driving distance tucked away in the countryside or in nearby villages. Within 15 - 20 minutes drive, Lucca is an enchanting Tuscan town - strolling through the historic centre, pausing at old-fashioned, cafes, pastry shops and visiting churches and museums is a real pleasure. Florence is easily accessible by train or bus. Sandy beaches are approximately 30 minutes drive away. There are music, cinema and dance festivals in Lucca, at beach resorts and smaller local festivals celebrating Saints days with impromptu suppers and dancing under the stars in the country villages. At Torre del Lago, just south of Viareggio, there is the summer Puccini Opera Festival. An ideal choice for art lovers.