Santa Gemma
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Overview
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Immerse yourself in a quintessential Tuscan experience at this splendid 17th century home where you will be welcomed with open arms by the passionate owners who have restored this villa with Italian charm and grace.
Santa Gemma dates back to the 1600s when a noble family bought the villa as their summer residence, then in the 19th century it was gifted to monks who altered the rooms and attached a school and church to the house. Its current owners have spent many years overseeing the careful renovation of this grand villa, bringing it back to its former beauty, even hiring an artist from Florence to restore the 18th century frescoes which can be found in some of the wonderful rooms.
Of course, no expense has been spared to introduce 21st century luxuries such as complimentary Wi-Fi, mini-bars and robes in the bedrooms and beautiful bathrooms, many with contemporary rain showers. In the main villa there are eleven air-conditioned bedrooms upstairs, most en suite, including five duplex suites with their own living area, sumptuous bedroom and two bathrooms! A lift for luggage, an equipped study and an outdoor fitness area are just some of the other added features that are sure to impress.
Relax in the elegant living room, create feasts in the perfectly equipped kitchen and serve under the fresco-painted ceiling of the grand dining room. Much of the ground floor also opens up to the 19th century formal gardens. Views of olive groves, vineyards and the distant mountains are breathtaking or you may just find yourself distracted by the aromas of citrus and herbs as you explore the paths leading to ornate lawns, fruit trees and pretty places to sit in solitude. The setting of the swimming pool is simply sublime with jasmine and roses trailing over the traditional stone walls.
The owners in 2022 have added a charming two-storey annexe offering five additional bedrooms, three of them junior suites with their own bathrooms, as well as a large dining room and gym.
It’s also a picture-perfect wedding venue, not just because of the glorious gardens ideal for a summer ceremony and marquee or the limonaia which can be transformed into a magical dining room. A reception can alternatively be hosted in the grand surroundings of the villa itself and the adjoining chapel adds to the romantic ambience of this special venue.
Set within walking distance to a handful of shops and restaurants, the location is superb with the enchanting town of Lucca just 11km away, Pisa and Florence also within striking distance as well as a wealth of medieval villages close by. Visit magical Collodi (the home of Pinocchio’s author) or the birthplace of Leonardo da Vinci, followed by sunny beach days at Viareggio or even as far as the Ligurian coast.
Whether a family holiday or a once in a lifetime event, Santa Gemma offers Italian beauty, character and historic charm and allows you to explore this captivating part of northern Tuscany and beyond.
What you should know…
- There is such a wonderful range of bedrooms – check the Features for full details including the duplex suites with two en suite bathrooms!
- Air-conditioning is featured in the bedrooms only.
- The 14-person price (available for 2023 bookings only) includes use of seven bedrooms only (four standard rooms will be closed) whilst the 22-person price includes eleven bedrooms. In both cases the annexe will be closed. The 32-person price includes the annexe which features a gym, jacuzzi and large dining room.
- If renting only seven bedrooms (14-guest price, available in 2023 only), please inform us if you require the bedroom suitable for guests with restricted mobility as this bedroom will otherwise be closed.
- Availability is on request only during winter months - please enquire.
- The owners live in the west-wing of the building and grounds, with their own entrance and parking area. They are always on hand if ever needed.
- If you would like the pool to be heated, then advance notice is needed as it takes a day to get to the right temperature. See "T&C" tab for full details.
This home is a part of our Great Value Collection!
Our great value homes:
- may be traditionally styled for a laid back feeling
- may have some simple amenities and features
- mean that you can enjoy top holiday destinations for less!
Property Features
1) 11 bedrooms only - the annexe will be closed (22-person price)
2) 16 bedrooms (32-person price)
Villa Interiors
Ground Floor
- Large living area with chairs, sofas, satellite TV, DVD player and music system. Doors leading to garden
- Dining room with large table
- Study with desk, PC, printer and copier
- Professional kitchen, fully-equipped including dishwasher (x2), fridge, freezer, oven, stoves (x2), kettle, microwave, blender, toaster and coffee maker. Doors leading to garden
- Laundry room
- Pantry
- 2 x guest WCs (one fully accessible)
First Floor (via lift or stairs)
- Bedroom (20m2) with double/twin bed (180x190cm) and en suite shower room with open shower. Suitable for guests with restricted mobility (using lift). Connecting door to below suite.
- Suite (60m2) with living area, sofa-bed, mini-bar, wardrobe area with safe and bathroom with bath, hand-held shower and WC. Upstairs (open-tread) to partially mezzanine-level with king-size double/twin bed (200x190cm), desk, mini-bar and en suite shower room with WC. Living area connects with above bedroom.
- 3 x further suites (60m2) with living area, sofa-bed, mini-bar, wardrobe area with safe and bathroom with bath, hand-held shower and WC. Upstairs (open-tread) to partially mezzanine-level loft bedroom with king-size double/twin bed (200x190cm), desk, mini-bar and en suite shower room with WC.
- Suite (60m2, via steps from hallway) with living area, sofa-bed, mini-bar, wardrobe and bathroom with shower and WC. Upstairs (open-tread) to partially mezzanine-level loft bedroom with twin beds (115cm wide), mini-bar and en suite shower room with WC.
Second Floor (via lift or partially open-tread stairs)
- Bedroom (25m2) with double/twin bed (180x190cm) and en suite bathroom with small bath, hand-held shower and WC
- Hallway with living area
- Bedroom (40m2) with king-size double/twin bed (200x190cm), balcony with garden view, walk-in wardrobe and small study area with desk, en suite bathroom with bath, hand-held shower, WC and separate shower cubicle
- Bedroom (40m2) with king-size double/twin bed (200x190cm) and bathroom with bath, hand-held shower and WC
- Bedroom (24m2) with double/twin bed (180x190cm)
- Bedroom (20m2) with double/twin bed (180x190cm)
- Bathroom with corner bath (with shower above), WC and two wash basins (shared between above two bedrooms)
Annexe Interiors
Ground Floor
- Large dining room (can seat up to 80 people for events)
- Kitchen, professionally equipped
- Gym and jacuzzi
First Floor
- 2 x bedrooms with shared bathroom
- 3 x junior suites with en suite bathroom
Outside Grounds
- Heated swimming pool (14x6m, depth: 1.4m) open approximately April to October. Heated on request (in advance). Fenced surroundings
- Al-fresco dining area
- Barbecue
- Lawns
- Walled formal gardens with fountain
- Lemon and grapefruit trees
- Outdoor fitness area
- Garden toys
- Reception room (for meetings and/or events, charges apply)
- Fenced grounds
- Parking
Facilities
- Wi-Fi
- Air-conditioning (bedrooms)
- Heating
- Fireplace
- Lift (for luggage)
- PC, printer and copier
- Telephone
- Satellite TVs with English speaking channels
- DVD player
- CD player and stereo
- Alarm clock
- Mini-bars
- Robe and slippers
- Safes
- Hairdryers
- Mosquito nets
- Games
- Outdoor fitness area
- Gym and jacuzzi (only if booking annexe)
- Garden toys
- Ironing facilities
- Washing machine and dryer
Location
About the surrounding area of Santa GemmaJust 11km north-east of Lucca and around an hours drive from Florence, Santa Gemma enjoys a fantastic location for exploring this enchanting part of northern Tuscany and beyond.
Set in formal gardens with views of olive groves, vineyards and distant mountains, you are within walking distance to a residential area/village with local restaurants and shops, including a supermarket. Also a short walk away is a fascinating late Renaissance stately home and stunning gardens where tours can be arranged.
Lucca (11km) is a beautiful town, within easy reach of Santa Gemma and once you visit you’ll yearn to return. The city walls are amazing to explore, walking or cycling along the paths, stopping off for shady picnics or playgrounds before heading into the heart of the historic centre to discover authentic restaurants, inviting gelaterias, lovely shops alongside enchanting squares and exquisite architecture.
A little further south, Pisa (30km) is also a brilliant city to explore, not just because of the Leaning Tower but also the charming and vibrant atmosphere by the riverside. Of course, the historic and artistic treasures of Florence (77km) are also within striking distance, the perfect day for sight-seeing or simply soaking up the ambience in the bars and trattorie of this glorious city.
A little closer to home, organise a treatment in the spa-town of Montecatini Terme (20km), also home to some superb boutiques or visit the birthplace of the great artist, Leonardo da Vinci, in the delightful village of Vinci (40km). The pretty village of Collodi (10km) is also worthy of a visit, especially for families who will adore the magical theme park, Pinocchio Park.
Those who prefer outdoor activities have horse-riding within a short drive, plenty of cycling opportunities as well as wonderful walking. Lovers of wildlife should visit the incredible Tuscan wetlands, Padule di Fucecchio, around 30km south or head north towards the spectacular Apuan Alps, around an hour away, for breathtaking hiking trails.
Not forgetting watersports along the Versilia coast with the sandy beaches of Viareggio (42km) and Forte dei Marmi (50km) within an hour. For even more spectacular scenery, drive as far as the enchanting Golfo dei Poeti, including Porto Venere (105km) and La Spezia (90km), the latter being the gateway to the Cinque Terre National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site and visited by travellers from all over the world.
| Local Amenities | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest Airport |
Pisa International Airport
(50km) |
||
| Nearest Airport 2 |
Florence Airport
(68km) |
||
| Nearest Village |
Small local village
(Walking distance ) |
||
| Nearest Restaurant |
Local village
(Within 1km) |
||
| Nearest Supermarket |
Local village
(Within 500m) |
||
| Nearest Town/City |
Lucca
(11km) |
||
| Nearest Golf |
Golf Montecatini Terme
(38km) |
||
| Nearest Tennis |
Capannori
(7km) |
||
| Nearest Beach |
Viareggio
(42km) |
||
Region
Nestled in the heart of Tuscany, Italy, the Lucca and Pisa region is a captivating destination that effortlessly blends rich history, stunning architecture, and natural beauty. This picturesque region is renowned for its unique and unforgettable attractions, making it a must-visit for any traveller.
Tuscany
With its rolling fields, historical heritage and a cuisine that’s a delight for all the senses, it’s no wonder Tuscany is one of the most popular regions in Italy for holidaymakers. Yet even with its popularity, you can still kick back in one of our luxury villas in Tuscany and feel peace, tranquillity and the joy of seclusion.
This is one destination that really does have a little bit of everything for everyone, whether you’re travelling with family, friends or are just looking for a romantic getaway with that special someone.
Kids
Best Suited For: All AgesNorthern Tuscany is a great location for families with children of all ages with beaches, historic cities, idyllic villages and beautiful countryside, all within driving distance.
Youngsters should start off in nearby Collodi, home to the author of the much-loved character Pinocchio – visit Pinocchio Park for all sorts of themed rides and attractions. There’s also a butterfly house, the aristocratic Villa Garzoni and an impressive castle at the top of this charming medieval village.
The zoo in Pistoia is another possible family day out, around 45km away, or a little closer to home is the spa-town of Montecatini Terme – children will love riding the old-fashioned funicular to the top of the old town.
Lucca is also a lovely place to visit for all ages – cycle or walk along the city walls, stopping off at a little playground or to run around the green spaces before discovering your favourite gelateria in the historic centre. Further south, the Leaning Tower of Pisa will also delight all ages.
The beaches of the Versilia coast are never far away with the popular seaside resorts of Viareggio and Forte dei Marmi about 45 minutes by car. Look out for clean sandy beaches, plenty of summer watersports and other family fun.
Baby and Toddler Equipment
- Cot(s)
- High Chair(s)
Kids Activities Close-by
- Walk to Village
- Walk to Restaurant
- <1hr to Airport
- Tennis Nearby
- Cycling
- Horse Riding
- Outdoor Pursuit & Activities
- Tourist Towns & Villages
- Historical Sites
Onsite Facilities
- Board games
- Heated Pool
- Lift
- Outdoor Games
- DVD
- Fenced Grounds
Services Available
- Catering Available
- Maid Service Included
- Breakfast Included
Oliver's Extras
- Cooking Classes Available
- Wine-Tasting Available
- Transfers Available
- Catering Available
- Maid Service Included
- Breakfast Included
- Welcome Buffet on Arrival (if staying one week or more)
At Oliver’s Travels we pride ourselves on going that little bit further for our guests. From pr...
Read moreExtras
Oliver's Extras
- Cooking Classes Available
- Wine-Tasting Available
- Transfers Available
- Catering Available
- Maid Service Included
- Breakfast Included
- Welcome Buffet on Arrival (if staying one week or more)
At Oliver’s Travels we pride ourselves on going that little bit further for our guests. From private chefs to babysitters we can help you arrange those little extras that make it a truly memorable holiday. Simply fill in the concierge request form or contact the Oliver’s Concierge Team who will be happy to help. We can typically help you arrange any of the following:
- Maid service/extra cleaning
- Private chef/cook/catering
- Welcome hamper/pre-stocked fridge
- Local day-trips or tours
- Airport pick-up/drop-off
Extras included at this property:
- Welcome buffet on arrival day including wine (for stays of 7 nights or more)
- Continental breakfast (coffee, juice, cereal, fresh fruit, yoghurt, bread and croissants, condiments, boiled eggs, cheese, ham, salad)
- Stocked mini-bars in every bedroom (charges apply for re-filling)
- Maid service (4 hours per day, six days per week)
Extras available at this property in cash (payable locally):
- Full service option
- Extra maid service/change of linen
- Fridge-stocking and pre-arrival shopping
- Lunch, dinner and special meals
- Luggage porter on arrival/departure
- Car service with driver
- Cooking classes
- Wine-tastings and tours
- Food tastings meals (olive oil, cheese, cold meats etc)
- Classical music concerts in the church
- Laundry service
- Catering for special events
- Church rental
- Rental of Limonaia events space
Extras have to be settled in cash (euros) locally. Alternatively, credit cards and bank transfer payments are accepted with a surcharge of 22% (VAT).In case of multiple services a 30% non-refundable pre-payment is required by bank transfer.
Please note that the use of any external caterers and/or contractors is not permitted.
Please note that all extras are subject to availability and must be requested in advance of the holiday (prices on request). Due to some rural/remote locations, not all services will be available at all properties. However, we will always do our best to fulfil your requests!
Oliver's Travels Chef Service: A Gourmet Dining Experience
Make hosting a memorable dinner party at your villa an absolute breeze with our superb Chef Service. Our chefs will take care of everything for you from start to finish so you can just sit back and enjoy the gastronomic experience. They will bring all the necessary ingredients, cook and serve the food and even clean up afterwards. To find out more visit www.oliverstravels.com/chefs
Imagine walking up the aisle surrounded by the aromas of summer roses, jasmine and citrus trees with...
Read moreEvent information
Imagine walking up the aisle surrounded by the aromas of summer roses, jasmine and citrus trees with olive groves, vineyards and the distant mountains glistening ahead. The formal 19th century gardens provide an evocative and romantic setting for your quintessential Tuscan wedding whilst an adjoining chapel adds a traditional touch.
Enjoy a summer reception in the warm Italian sunshine, dance the evening away in the limonaia and drink fine Tuscan wine by candlelight in the beautifully lit gardens. Of course, there are also possibilities to create a picture-perfect wedding inside this grand 17th century villa with its frescoed ceilings and ornate ambience.
Wedding Reception
The reception can take place either inside the villa or in the glorious gardens, in each case for up to 60 people. Dancing can take place outside or hire the stunning Limonaia for the perfect evening disco all the way til midnight (when the music should be turned very low or completely off). A marquee for up to 30 guests can also be arranged.
In case of bad weather, either the Limonaia can be rented out or the main salone in the villa can be set up for a wedding reception.
Wedding Ceremony
The estate is able to host legal civil ceremonies, either set up beautifully in the gardens for up to 60 people or inside the chapel, at an extra charge. An English-speaking celebrant or priest can be organised for the ceremony.
Where to Stay
Up to 32 attendees can stay in Santa Gemma and the owners also have an alternative villa for a further 20 guests, only 500m away from the estate.
Transport can be arranged for any further guests staying elsewhere.
Wedding Planning
The owners can provide a wedding planning service or guests may use their own. The owners do not have exclusive suppliers but are happy to provide any suggestions for florists, musicians/bands/DJs, dancefloor, chairs, tables, celebrants, photographers and other services.
Catering
There is an in-house catering service – further details can be provided.
Please note that any event rental may be subject to additional charges, venue hire fees and to a higher security deposit, which will be in addition to any published rental rates and fees.
All events are on request only and subject to prior agreement from the owner, who reserves the right to refuse all events without their prior authorisation.
| Security deposit | €2000 paid in cash to the owner upon arrival and refunded upon departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 4.00 p.m. - 7.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 10.00 a.m. |
Terms & Conditions
These terms and conditions may be amended from time to time.
| Security deposit | €2000 paid in cash to the owner upon arrival and refunded upon departure, subject to full inspection. |
| Arrival time | 4.00 p.m. - 7.00 p.m. |
| Departure time | 10.00 a.m. |
| Energy costs included? | Yes, except air-conditioning which is payable locally based on consumption. |
| Linen & towels included? | Yes. Bath towels changed mid-week. |
| Pool towels included? | Yes, changed mid-week. |
| End of stay cleaning included? | Yes, plus maid service included (4 hrs per day, six days per week). However, guests are required to leave the accommodation clean, tidy and in the same condition as on their arrival. Any extra cleaning, laundry, maintenance and/or rubbish disposal required will be charged against the security deposit. |
| Pool heating charge? | Yes, starting from €100 a day (2024) or €150 a day (2025), payable locally. Pool heating must be requested in advance. Please note that like all heated pools, pool heating and water temperature are reliant on weather and outside temperatures. |
| Pool opening dates? | The pool is open approximately April to October. Please note that pool opening dates are subject to local weather conditions and pool maintenance requirements and that cooler months may not be suitable for swimming. |
| Changeover day | Saturday. All other changeover days on request. |
| Minimum stay | 7 nights. All other durations on request. |
| Pets welcome? | On request only and with prior agreement with the owner. If accepted, a pet supplement will apply (payable locally). |
| Smoking Allowed? | Outdoors only. |
| Insurance | Guests are required to be in possession of a valid insurance policy, which covers them for cancellations, personal belongings, public liability and any accidental damage caused during their stay. |
| Internet access? | Wi-Fi internet access included. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Weddings, stag/hen parties and any special events are on request only and subject to prior arrangement with the owner and additional charges. |
| Other Ts and Cs | A cot and a highchair are available on request, subject to a supplement of €55 per week per set, payable locally in cash. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Sofa-beds in the suites are available on request, starting from the 23rd guest or for groups under 22 guests - subject of an extra charge of €55 per night per guest. |
| Heating costs included? | Extra cost for heating and air-conditioning - €15 per day, per room payable locally in cash. credit cards or bank transfer payments are also accepted with a surcharge of 22% (VAT). |
| Other Ts and Cs | The 22-person price includes all eleven bedrooms in the villa (the annexe will be closed). The 32-person price includes the annexe and it's gym/jacuzzi - so 16 bedrooms in total. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Availability is on request only during winter months - please enquire. |
| Other Ts and Cs | Please note that the use of any external caterers and/or contractors is not permitted. |
Rental Rates
Prices based on an occupancy of 14 people:
| Rental period | Weekly |
|---|---|
| Apr 25th 2024 - May 4th 2024 | £14,013 |
| May 4th 2024 - Oct 5th 2024 | £15,531 |
| Oct 5th 2024 - Nov 2nd 2024 | £14,013 |
| Nov 2nd 2024 - Nov 9th 2024 | £12,728 |
| Nov 9th 2024 - Dec 14th 2024 | £11,853 |
| Dec 14th 2024 - Oct 27th 2025 | £13,196 |
Prices based on an occupancy of 22 people:
| Rental period | Weekly |
|---|---|
| Apr 25th 2024 - May 4th 2024 | £14,013 |
| May 4th 2024 - Oct 5th 2024 | £15,531 |
| Oct 5th 2024 - Nov 2nd 2024 | £14,013 |
| Nov 2nd 2024 - Nov 9th 2024 | £12,728 |
| Nov 9th 2024 - Dec 14th 2024 | £13,604 |
| Dec 14th 2024 - Jan 4th 2025 | £15,122 |
| Jan 4th 2025 - Mar 29th 2025 | £15,064 |
| Mar 29th 2025 - May 3rd 2025 | £16,815 |
| May 3rd 2025 - Oct 4th 2025 | £17,399 |
| Oct 4th 2025 - Oct 27th 2025 | £16,815 |
Prices based on an occupancy of 32 people:
| Rental period | Weekly |
|---|---|
| Apr 25th 2024 - May 4th 2024 | £20,669 |
| May 4th 2024 - Oct 5th 2024 | £22,187 |
| Oct 5th 2024 - Nov 2nd 2024 | £20,669 |
| Nov 2nd 2024 - Nov 9th 2024 | £18,684 |
| Nov 9th 2024 - Dec 14th 2024 | £19,735 |
| Dec 14th 2024 - Jan 4th 2025 | £21,953 |
| Jan 4th 2025 - Mar 29th 2025 | £20,085 |
| Mar 29th 2025 - May 3rd 2025 | £21,720 |
| May 3rd 2025 - Oct 4th 2025 | £23,355 |
| Oct 4th 2025 - Oct 27th 2025 | £21,720 |
Please note that these prices/rates are a guide only and may not be correct at the current date. For an accurate quote, please enquire.
Reviews
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Best family holiday ever.
Best family holiday ever. Our group of 22 stayed in this beautiful villa for a week in and could not recommend more highly. Amazing.
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