A holiday cottage near Lucca, Tuscany – Il Nido

A holiday cottage near Lucca, Tuscany – Il Nido. This is the perfect place to relax and read those books you've been putting off all year, and surrounded by the beautifully green rolling hills of Lucca.

You are just 10km drive out of historic Lucca here, and you can hop into the ancient walled town very quickly ... perfect for lunch or a few drinks, or to see the many historic sights.

And relaxing in this tiny village you can really learn to enjoy Tuscan food, wine and life. There is so much to do in Tuscany. The owners will help you, suggesting places to visit and information on current mercatini, sagras and cultural activities. On request you can book horse riding and cooking courses.

The history of the village of Aquilea can be traced back to Roman times - the name Aquilea probably comes from the Roman lord ruling the area. The village was wealthy and thriving, and in the Medieval times it belonged to bishop of Lucca. Around 1000AD a castle was built and its ruins are still visible. The village lies in the first set of hills of the Garfagnana valley ... a great place to hike, ride horses or just to enjoy a day in the mountains tasting local food and wine.

And nearby there is Lucca - a beautiful and affluent town with its complete ring of 15th century walls. From Lucca an hour's drive (or train ride) will take you to Florence or Chianti; Pisa is 45 minutes away. Viareggio and the Versilian seaside are 30km away for those who want the fun and the night life of the seaside holiday resorts.

[ View on Google Map | map of region ]

Weekly prices are €700, Otober-May; €850 June and September; €950 July and August, Included in the price are final cleaning, and kitchen, bed and bath linen, plus a welcome basket. The house is equipped with oven, water heater, toaster, ironing facilities, fan, washing machine and tumble dryer all in one, and some books in English and German. Nearby there is a small grocery store/bar - the owner will be happy to prepare cakes and fresh pasta, as well as dinners on request.