Rural Holiday House in the Garfagnana Valley

The villa was just as described, although I must admit arriving late at night and in the dark didn't help us when we managed to get lost, despite the descriptions. Do not rely on Satnav to get you here, although once settled it is useful.

We arrived late and were welcomed by the owners who were a lovely couple and showed us around, although admit didn't understand them as they only spoke Italian and I felt a little ignorant not knowing the language, although this didn't put us off.

The area is fantastic if you're looking for a quiet relaxing holiday and away from the crowds. The views during the day were spectacular and the location couldn't be more private, and at night the lights and seeing the moon rise over the mountains was lovely. Just what we needed. The roads are steep and bendy, but we adjusted to this. The town of Castelnuovo is about 10mins away in the car allowing for the steepness and twists and turns but was lovely. We were there during the festival season and the town certainly knows how to have fun. The locals we met were all very welcoming.

We did do a couple of trips during our stay to Pisa, Florence and Volterra as well as the beach in Piestrasanta (free beach called Escape) which was ideal and the kids had fun. The rest of the time we relaxed and enjoyed the villa. We made a trip to the Fortress at Verucolle and the nature park Oriechella which the kids enjoyed as we got to see Red and Fallow Deer, Mountain Goats and Grisly Bears up close which was great. Also a drive to the marble mines and cliffs is a must. The views and seeing marble were ideal.

The villa had everything we needed. There were a few things which needed attention but these did not detract from our enjoyment of the villa, pool or its location. If you get a chance continue on up the mountain and view the lovely church at Croce on the bluff with great views.