Villa Colletto

About this property

In an elevated position on a hillside near Tuscany-Liguria border, overlooking lush countryside is the lovingly-restored Villa Colletto. Built over several levels,  this traditional stone property has undergone a stunning transformation into a contemporary holiday home that retains much of its original charm.

Stone walls are the main feature in every one of the characterful rooms, which contrast and complement the sleek, modern furnishings used throughout. The atmospheric spaces inside Villa Colletto give the sense of being hidden away in a secret idyll, whilst the large garden offers plenty of open space. Here you can enjoy clear views of the surrounding countryside, Apuan National Park and the mountains.

Whenever you want to socialise or unwind with some quiet time alone, you’ll always find the perfect relaxing space at Villa Colletto. The living room is warm and inviting, with a comfortable sofa to sink back into as you watch television or the flames dancing in the fireplace. Meal times are just as intimate affairs, with dining table that’s ideally located next to the modern and fully-equipped kitchen.

The restful feel continues with your very own small heated indoor pool. This beautiful space almost feels like a private spa, with its light, calming décor and candles for enjoying the ultimate chilled-out experience. The three bathrooms are just as enchanting, with their mix of ultra-contemporary facilities and rustic features. Tranquil and cosy, the five bedrooms are all designed to help you enjoy the perfect night’s sleep. Several also offer views over the outside space.

Within the outside space is a larger deep-water swimming pool set within a lawned garden. There’s also a selection of sun loungers for relaxing and taking in the views. Dotted around the garden are olive and cypruss trees, as well as beautiful flowers such as roses and lilies. The terrace and loggias are perfect for enjoying pre-dinner drinks and soaking up the peaceful atmosphere.

Villa Colletto gives you the best of both worlds, with easy access to both the rolling countryside with dramatic mountains and the beautiful Ligurian coastline. The Apuan Alps are around an hour’s drive away, with Equi Terme sitting by one of its peaks. Here you can try the soothing qualities of the thermal baths and range of treatments.

Five seaside villages of the Cinque Terre are also around an hour away by car - each village has its own attractions, with a sandy beach to relax on at Monterosso al Mare and a botanical garden and bird-watching centre at Riomaggiore.

* Please note the property is positioned very close to Liguria but is actually located in Tuscany province**

The closest town to the villa is Aulla (km), which sits by the Magra River and is less than a 15-minute drive away. Here you can pick up groceries as well as enjoy an evening meal at one of the restaurants on offer. It’s a great place to go hiking through the countryside, with flat trails leading through valleys as well as up into the hills.

Aulla also has a train station with direct trains to La Spezia (for the Cinque Terre villages), Sarzana, Viareggio and Pisa.

The town of Fivizzano (13km) has a long and rich history, which you can explore through its impressive buildings and landmarks. Be sure to take in Verrucola Castle and the 16th-century defence walls and the Piazza Medicea. If you visit the town during the summer you might be lucky enough to see the medieval tournament that is held every year.

Another medieval town that you must explore is Sarzana (25km). Its attractive squares and streets are lined with pretty, brightly-coloured buildings and historic sites. These include 15th-century La Cittadella Fortezza and 13th-century Sarzana Cathedral.

By one of the Apuan Alps (35km) peaks is Equi Terme (17km) which is home to the Terme di Equi thermal baths and therapeutic treatments.

For a family day out by the sea, drive around 35 minutes south to Lerici (32km). It features a long coastline studded with sandy and pebble beaches that stretches all the way to San Terenzo.

The five seaside villages of the Cinque Terre are around an hour’s drive, with the closest village to the villa being Riomaggiore (44km). Alternatively, take the train from Aulla, connecting at La Spezia. All of these ancient fishing villages share the same coastal geography of cliff edges and hillsides where clusters of pastel-coloured buildings perch precariously. Follow The Path of Love, a clifftop trail between Riomaggiore and Manarola, for some spectacular sea views along the way. Monterosso al Mare has a sandy beach and an old town with narrow, medieval streets and castle ruins to explore.

Accommodation

The Villa

Ground Floor
- Living room with working fireplace and flat-screen TV
- Fully-equipped kitchen with dishwasher and coffee machine
- Dining room
- Indoor heated pool (3m x 3m)
- Bedroom with double sofa bed
- Bathroom with shower

First Floor
- Double bedroom with bath tub
- Double bedroom
- Family bedroom with double bed and two single beds
- Twin bedroom
- Two bathrooms with showers
Outside Grounds
- Swimming pool (10m x 5m)
- Sun loungers
- Garden
- Terrace with outdoor dining area
- Parking for three cars
Facilities
- Wi-Fi
- Hair dryer
- Fans
- Heating
- Washing Machine
- BBQ