Casa Paladini in Garfagnana, Lucca, Tuscany

Casa Paladini is a gorgeous stone cottage set in an ancient chestnut grove in the mountains above Castiglione di Garfagnana. Set back in time and well away from the nearest road, you will feel secluded but not isolated in this haven of peace. Ideal for those wishing to 'get away from it all' in a place of unspoilt natural beauty, yet only short hikes from the villages of Chiozza and Castiglione di Garfagnana. Original features such as chestnut beams and floorboards, chestnut furniture, windows and doors and stone-faced exterior and interior make Casa Paladini special. The stove, open fire and traditional pizza oven are an added attraction with fire-wood supplied free of charge. Casa Paladini is set in a clearing in the woods and you are free to wander around the ancient chestnut trees and fruit trees. Guests are welcome to use the vegetable garden with seasonal produce all throughout the year. The house is on the ancient road that connected Castiglione with the high mountain villages and pastures above, and there is a stunning walk to Castiglione along this trail, passing a medieval arched bridge and small waterfall before reaching the town. Note that there is a 300 metre walk from the nearest parking space to Casa Paladini - down a 15th century 'green road'. Wheelbarrows can be provided for your arrival at the top of the track if you let us know in advance. Note that there is a 300 meter walk from the nearest parking space and Colm and/or his friends from the helps community of volunteers will be at hand to help you with your luggage on arrival. We often cook improvised meals around a camp fire in the woods and extend an invitation to anyone staying in the cottage. If you're coming here for a quiet time that's fine too, we won't take offence!!! It is better to arrive before nightfall as finding your way down the path in the dark might be tricky. The village of Chiozza is just 1.5 km away and boasts a wonderful pizzeria and bar - the focal point for this small mountain community. A mobile supermarket comes to 300 metres from the house every Tuesday, and the shops, restaurants and bars of award-winning Castiglione di Garfagnana are a 40.minute walk away through the forest. Public transport in the area is sparse to say the least. If you need a lift from Castelnuovo di Garfagnana train station just let us know. Autumn is a wonderful time to visit Casa Paladini, with chestnut, wine and porcini mushroom festivals on every weekend in the surrounding villages. In January and Feruary the ski resorts are just a 30.minute drive away, and the springtime brings luscious growth and heat back to the Garfagnana. Note that the cottage is heated by a wood-burning stove and open fireplace. There is no central heating. If you let us know your arrival time we will do our best to have the stove lit for your arrival. Even in winter the cottage can be kept warm as long as you keep the stove fueled all the time (wood provided free of charge).