Solceta is a beautiful new renovation of a traditional stone cottage, with a private pool and the most stunning views, which give a real sense of peace and wonder when relaxing outside. Internally the cottage has a fresh, loved and romantic feel.
This renovation is new for 2021 and has 3 bedrooms (all of which can be double or twin) and 3 bathrooms. The traditional stone and character loggia of the outside blend perfectly with the countryside, and provide a wonderful contrast to the fresh light and up to date interior, which offers all brand new modern conveniences, with some antique and restored furniture ensuring a sense of character is retained. There are also beamed ceilings on the top floor giving a sense of romance.
The house sleeps 6 in bedrooms, but can easily sleep 8 as there are a further 2 single beds on the spacious first floor landing which also has a window. One of the single beds is made up as a day bed so the space can act as an additional relaxing area, and there is also a desk for those that need to catch up on some work when away.
The gardens are vast and host a private 10M x 5M pool (photos to follow) with sunbathing area and gazebo, as well as a bocce (bowls court) for fun tournaments. Al fresco dining is catered for with a wonderful covered loggia offering shade and the most stunning views of the Apuane Mountains. Here there is also a wood oven for you to perfect your pizza and bread making! Or book a pizza night with the owner.
This property is in the depths of the countryside, creating a purely peaceful holiday, yet just a short drive to the local village and all amenities including bars and restaurants.
Fuller details:
Living areas:
Enter cottage into a spacious hallway from where you access a comfortable living room, with open fireplace and door to garden. TV and DVD player
Also off the hallway is a brand new kitchen/diner with oven, hob, microwave, dishwasher, fridge/freezer, and dining table. Door to garden.
Room with washing machine
Ground floor shower room
Sleeping and bathing:
3 double bedrooms all of which can be converted to twins. One of the bedrooms has a delightful Juliet balcony from where you can enjoy the view whilst having your morning coffee in bed, and the other two, on the top level , all bedrooms have beamed ceilings.
Large landing area on the top level which can house twin beds to sleep an additional 2 guests. This spacious area can also be used as a further relaxing area, or a workspace.
2 Shower rooms - all 3 pristine modern shower rooms have showers, WC.s bidets and wash basins.
WIFI
Outside:
Extensive grounds with brand new pool 10M x 5M with sunbathing area and gazebo
Covered loggia for al fresco dining
Wood/Pizza oven
Built-in BBQ
Bocce (Boules) court
Plenty of space for children to play ball games
Soccer and volleyball court provided
Pool towels provided.
Ping Pong
Darts
Hammock for relaxing in shade under trees
Large wooden swing suitable for adults too
This brand new property is a real treat and the views really are exceptional, so treat yourselves!
A little about the area
The property is situated in a peaceful rural location with stunning open views, yet within walking distance cross country to the local town which is also a short drive away of all facilities,, where there are a couple of good restaurants, basic shops, bank, bars and the most wonderful deli for home made takeaway hot and cold food that you can take back for the evening.
There are various good restaurants providing fresh local home cooked traditional food within a short drive, as well as local one off shops, delicatessens, gelaterias and supermarkets.
For relaxing afternoons out, there are lots of pretty villages to explore in the immediately locality, one of which is Castiglione itself which is a fully walled village commanding outstanding views over the Apuane mountains. Many of these villages have festas in the summer with food, drink and dancing.
Situated only a short drive from the National Park of Orrecchiella, the location is ideal for walking, hiking, horseriding, mountain biking and picnicking, surrounded by views of the seemingly endless mountains, and local chestnut woodland.
For those who enjoy the outdoor life there is also a local tree climbing/zip wiring park, with courses adapted for all age groups, from the very young to adults.
There are local adventure parks where one can try water canyoning, rock climbing, swimming in rock pools, canoeing etc and there is the Grotta del Vento, a massive cave system in the mountains which is a good day out.
There is an ancient fortress to visit with jaw dropping views, and interactive displays for children including a chance to try a little archery.
For when a townie day beckons, the local market town of Castelnuovo di Garfagnana is only just over 10 minute drive. Here there are bars, restaurants, a famous Thursday morning market, old castle walls, the river Serchio and local train station.
The beautiful mediaeval town of Barga with its cobbled streets, great architecture, cathedral and great views is only a 25 minute drive. Barga is famous for its art and music, and here one can often enjoy free music, evening markets, dancing, and sometimes even impromptu entertainment from Paolo Nutini! Becoming well known for its restaurants too, Barga has plenty of places to eat.
Lucca, the fully walled Mediaeval City and the Capital of the Region is only an hours drive and one can spend the day cycling or meandering along its ample walls; people watching in both the grand and tiny piazzas with prosecco, coffee or ice cream; designer shopping; climbing towers, visiting some of its 99 churches or just taking in the atmosphere. If you like opera, there is a recital every evening before dinner in a unique church setting.
The traditional Tuscan sites of Pisa and Florence are easily do-able in a day trip as are the beaches of Forte dei Marmi or Viareggio. Many guests also visit the Cinque Terre...
In summary, the accommodation is situated in a very peaceful location, yet not too isolated and well placed to explore the area - both mountains and towns/cities.
Enjoy the peace and the hard to beat views!
