If you are dreaming of an old Tuscan villa, set amongst olive groves and woodland, beautifully renovated with charm and style and close to one of the region’s most exquisite towns, you may well adore Villa Aquila, close to the walled town of Lucca.
Imagine rustic interiors with elegant touches, Tuscan feasts enjoyed under the Venetian chandelier, pretty bedrooms with terracotta floors and a roll top bath positioned perfectly by a picture-book window. There is certainly a romantic ambience at this 17th century villa that has been restored so sensitively and lovingly by its current owners.
Relax outdoors surrounded by summer flowers and aromas of rosemary and lavender, enjoy a coffee with a view under the poolside pergola and listen to the trickling of the fountain as you dine al-fresco in the courtyard. There is even a consecrated Catholic chapel – this could be the perfect spot for an intimate wedding.
You will feel well looked after too – a welcome buffet is prepared for the evening of your arrival and you may be fortunate enough to stay when fresh seasonal vegetables can be brought to you from the garden. There is maid service each day and the villa concierge can be called to assist in any way from restaurant reservations to booking guided tours.
There is of course so much to see and do in this wonderful part of Italy. Start off in Lucca, a jewel of Tuscany with its historic walls and Renaissance architecture – you will yearn to return again and again. Pisa is also close by for a fantastic day out or head to Florence to be inspired by the city’s artistic heritage.
As well as rolling olive groves and vineyards, idyllic Tuscan villages and Etruscan towns, the beaches of Viareggio are also close by or drive further north towards the sensational Golfo dei Poeti and the world-famous Cinque Terre National Park.
After a day out exploring, return to your villa, once owned by one of Tuscany’s most noble families, and be immersed in the Tuscan scenery around you with walking trails, woodland, natural springs and olive trees all on the doorstep of this fine holiday abode.
What Oliver loves...
This 17th century villa has been beautifully restored with Tuscan charm and grace
The gardens are joyful with oleander, rosemary and lavender against the sound of the trickling fountain or splashes from the swimming pool
You are welcomed with an evening buffet, there is daily maid service and seasonal vegetables are brought to you from the garden
It’s only 12km from Lucca, one of Tuscany’s most exquisite and historic towns
Spend your time visiting idyllic villages, Pisa, Florence and even the Cinque Terre National Park
What you should know
Air-conditioning is featured in the bedrooms only.
There is another house next door but rest assured this is unoccupied.
Cots and highchairs are available at an extra cost, payable locally.
Weddings, stag/hen parties and any special events are on request only and subject to prior arrangement with the owner and additional charges.
The pool is not fenced, so children should be supervised when outdoors.
Please note that published rates are only valid for the current year. Any bookings for subsequent years will be on request only and correct rates will be confirmed at the time of booking.
Please note that your booking will only be confirmed once we have checked availability with the owner or their property manager
Please note home security devices may be installed at the villa, please enquire for further information.
Please note that when the lower occupancy is booked some bedrooms are closed and not accessible to guests.
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The Local Area
About the surrounding area of Villa Aquila
Walk to Village
<1hr to Airport
Rural Location
Set in northern Tuscany, just 12km south of Lucca, Villa Aquila is set in over 100 acres of wonderful grounds featuring olive trees, fields and woodland with perfect walks and biking trails right on your doorstep.
There is a small village just over a kilometre away with a local bar and grocery shop or find the nearest supermarket about a five-minute drive away.
Other than the beautiful setting, the great advantage of Villa Aquila’s location is its proximity to the idyllic town of Lucca, a true hidden gem which is often overshadowed by Pisa and Florence. Its city walls are fantastic for cycling or walking with enchanting views into the historic centre. Head inside the old town to explore its narrow lanes, coming across gorgeous squares, towers and palazzi, pretty shops and wonderful places for a coffee and gelato or an exquisite Tuscan meal. As well as visiting the impressive duomo, you can also climb Torre Guinigi with its trees at the very top! Also look out for the antiques market that takes place every month.
Pisa is also close by and is worthy of your time, not just because of its world-famous leaning tower but also its charming ambience by the riverside with its vibrant restaurants and beautiful buildings. Florence is just over an hour away with all its galleries and artistic treasures – guided tours can be arranged to make the most of your time in this magical city. You could even travel to Florence by train from nearby Pontedera.
Some of the villages and towns dotted across northern Tuscany should also be on your to-do list such as the gorgeous hilltop village of Collodi, home to Pinocchio’s creator, or Vinci, where you can visit the birthplace of Leonardo da Vinci. Spa-lovers should head to Montecatini Terme for its spas, boutiques and historic beauty.
San Miniato is known as one of Tuscany’s most beautiful villages or head further south, driving through rolling Tuscan countryside, to spend time in Volterra or even San Gimignano, both just over an hour away.
Private tours can also be arranged if you would like to visit some of Tuscany’s finest vineyards, of which there are so many across the region.
Not forgetting the sea with Viareggio easily reached, fantastic for families with blue-flag beaches and a wealth of summer activities. For a more romantic coastal spot, drive further north to the mesmerising Golfo dei Poeti, about an hour away, an area which inspired both Shelley and Byron in the 19th century or visit the Cinque Terre National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site loved by visitors from across the world.
The 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.
