A Wonderful Week In Beautiful Tuscany A group of 5 excited people spent a lovely week in a country
villa on a mountainside north of Lucca in Tuscany. This occurred in Sept. 2006 with all arrangements of lodging and auto done on the internet. Prices drop after Sept. 1 while the weather is still great. The villa was along an unpaved road just outside the village of Aquilea. It was a pleasant surprise because it was as described and pictured. It had 4 bedrooms and three bathrooms. A recently converted stone barn, the villa had white stucco walls and dark wood trim both inside and out. It was situated on a small farm that grew figs, grapes, kiwi fruit, tomatoes, raspberries, apples, and herbs all of which the group was welcome to pick. The gourmet chefs of the group were inspired to use the charming country kitchen for some meals. The road from the top of the mountain to the base was paved and one and one half cars wide with numerous switchbacks. Local drivers drove as though it was a 4-lane highway. By the
end of the week the group’s drivers were experts at traversing the
challenging speedway. The location of the villa was such that there were many attractions within one to two hours drive. The ancient and
medieval town of Lucca was 30 minutes away and was frequented by the group for its restaurants and retail shops represented by high end European and American vendors. Florence was visited by train which is something tourists should consider since the traffic can be daunting. The artwork, architecture and culture are such that this should take two days to appreciate. San Gimignano is a charming walled town on a steep hill with medieval architecture and many shopping opportunities. Visitors to the area should not miss Portovenere and the Cinque
Terra. Portovenere is a picturesque seaside resort at the end of a rocky peninsula that serves as the embarkation point for
sea access to the five mountainside towns of the Cinque Terra. They can also be accessed by rail or car. The sea approach is the most attractive and the train is most convenient. The roads are challenging and parking impossible. Monterosso is the largest town and the group noted that it had the best gelato shop. The terrace and pool at the villa were beautiful and relaxing spots much appreciated by the group at the end of each day.
Published: January 20, 2008
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