2 Bedroom Village House in Cardoso, near Barga, Tuscany, Italy
- Mountainous
- Village / Rural
- Baby Equipment
- Internet Access
- Log Fire
- Cycling
- Fishing
- Golf nearby
- Horse Riding
- Skiing
- Walking
Dating back to the late 1600s and now meticulously restored to preserve history while also adding modern comforts, Casa Ceru is a very special place. This beautiful house, lovingly appointed with period antiques and bespoke pieces, is the perfect place to relax and enjoy a unique Tuscan holiday.
This terrace house, adjacent and once part of the summer villa belonging to that of the notable Ceru Toti family, sits blissfully in a tranquil position 400 metres above sea level with sweeping views of the Apennine mountain range and dense forests of chestnut trees. And it has been refurbished to the highest standard using antique materials such as hand-cotto tiles, chestnut beams and locally stone cut fireplaces. Cardoso, a small medieval village full of history and charm, is perched on the side of a mountain overlooking the Garfagnana valley to the East and the Serchio valley to the south. Its setting is idyllic for rest and relaxation but should you venture out, there are walking routes that begin just outside your door (the house sits on a marked mountain hiking path). Casa Ceru is ideally located for exploring both the Garfagnana region (30 minutes) and the environs of Lucca (40 minutes) as well as the great art cities of Pisa, Florence and Siena.
Casa Ceru is perfectly situated as a base for exploring the Garfagnana area, (a 30 minute drive), the beautiful walled city of Lucca (a 40 minute drive) and its environs. Cycle or walk along the massive ramparts, listen to a Puccini opera recital or simply sit and enjoy a cappuccino in one of the lively piazzas. Situated in the north region of Tuscany, La Garfagnana is a valley very close to historical centres such as Lucca, Pisa and Florence. The Versilian coast (a 45 minute drive) has some of the best beaches along the Tuscan coast. Not to be missed: Forte dei Marmi and Pietrasanta (which has long enjoyed its patronage to artists, including Michaelangelo). Whether you're after history, architecture or adventuring, each season offers something special.
Getting There:
The shortest route is to fly into Pisa as most airlines offer flights to Pisa from Paris, London, Rome and the US. You can pick up a rental car from the airport; it's a 60 minute drive to the villa. A car is highly recommended. It's a 90 minute drive from the Florence airport and 3 hours from both Rome and Milan.
Nearest Airport:
Pisa 60km
Nearest Train Station:
Barga Gallicano 10km
Nearest Bus Stop:
In the lower village 200m
Nearest Restaurant:
A variety of excellent options, 4-5km
Nearest Beach:
Viareggio at 65km
Nearest Shop:
150m in the village
Nearest Market:
A variety of small and large, 10km
Car Hire:
Advised
Interior Details
As you enter Casa Ceru, you're immediately taken with its atmosphere and character. The hallway takes you into the living room, beautifully appointed with 15' high ceilings, fireplace, modern sofa, antiques and direct access to the terrace. One can't help be enveloped by the surrounding beauty. The fully fitted kitchen is just as welcoming with a large prep area, local stone (Bianco Carrara & Pietra Serena) countertops, Miele appliances and fireplace. It's the perfect place to master the art of Tuscan cooking. The two bedrooms are tranquil retreats that evoke a peaceful night's sleep and the bespoke furniture and decor, set a warm, soothing and welcoming tone. The light-filled bathroom boasts ultra modern amenities and mountain views. And rounding out the property is a library with a third fireplace, Satellite TV, books, and access to the second terrace where you can relax with splendid views of the mountains. The design throughout is clean and utterly sublime.
Exterior Details
The house sits adjacent to the original palazzo and guests will marvel from the terrace at the antique statuary and the gardens below. The ground floor terrace (accessed from the living room) has a round table with seating for 4 - perfect for a morning coffee and pastry or light lunch. The second floor terrace (accessed from the 2nd floor) is a perfect book-reading retreat with two lounge chairs and a table. Should you prefer a larger area, the garden is perfect for eating al fresco (for six) or simply lounging. There is a charcoal grill available for use should you wish. The house, although terraced, is extremely private and the southern exposures leave you exhilarated. For your convenience, you can unload from the nearby courtyard and park your car in the parking lot just a 3 minute walk from the house.
Conditions of Rental
Changeover day is Saturday. Winter rates (January 5 - April 4) may be available on request. The road up to the house may be inaccessible through the months of January to March. From Nov 1 to March 30 a heating surcharge applies to the weekly rate. There is an additional charge for firewood. We will sometimes allow the living room to be converted to a third bedroom. There's an additional fee of 200 euros per week per two people. A deposit of 30% is required to hold the reservation with the balance to be paid 60 days prior to the arrival date. A cancellation fee of 50% applies if cancelling up to 30 days prior to the arrival date. Should you cancel within 30 days of arrival the full rental applies. A full refund will be returned if cancelling in writing 8 weeks prior to arrival. Contact the owner for payment details. This property is non-smoking.
