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Costola

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Ref: 10
Lucca, Italy
Bedrooms:
11
Bathrooms:
10
Sleeps:
Up to 32
Theme:
Family, Mountain Views, Quiet, Romantic, Rural, Village
Nearest Airport:
Pisa

Description

Quality renovation, with private pool - Sleeping 22 (can accomodate an extra 10) + (10 bathrooms)


Peacefully located this beautifully converted monastery is set in the most wonderful position, ideal for large groups and celebrations including weddings.

It is difficult to describe just how wondrous this location is; situated in the heart of a very sleepy and peaceful tiny village, yet with absolute privacy, total peace, unbeatable views and 15 hectares of private land including olive groves, chestnut woods and open fields.

The enormous and spacious villa, spread over 3 floors, and originally constructed in the 1400's does justice to the location, and has been newly refurbished with loving care to provide a high quality holiday with an extra special ambience. There is accommodation here for 14 plus 10, with7 bedrooms, 6 bathrooms, 5 kitchen/living rooms.

There is also a further detached house on the grounds, with a further 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms and a further two living/kitchen/diners . 

Both properties are included in the price.

Ideal for a group of couples or small families celebrating a special occasion, this villa privacy for groups within groups, but plenty of space to eat together both inside and out, and an industrial size kitchen for when you all wish to cook together rather than in your apartments. In fact this is a cooks' paradise with a wonderfully equipped indoor and outdoor kitchen area ideal for catering for large groups, as well as smaller kitchens in each apartment.

These well equipped villas  are finished with high chestnut beamed ceilings, cotto floors, fireplaces, wonderful windows and amazing views throughout. The original stone staircases remain, there are beautifully shaped ceilings in the hall area, and the villa has been painted in warm traditional tuscan colours. The peaceful and historic theme is carried through to the outside areas too, where there is a beautiful walled courtyard, creating a wonderful feel of yesteryear. The couryard is framed by traditional stone walls, and enormous original arch, and on the floor are the original reclaimed flagstones. The courtyard also boasts an outdoor wood oven and grill, perfect for all types of al fresco cooking, and we can arrange for a specialist chef to cook in these outdoor ovens for you too.

The pool of 13m x 6m overlooks the ancient village, with the valley and moutains beyond & it really is the most amazing view and with the sense of peace pervading the area, we guarantee it will be difficult to tear oneself away from the pool area!

Perfect for a special holiday for a large group, at a very advantageous price.

The accommdation has been split to provide flexible accommodation for large groups and each unit boasts its own private living/kitchen/diner, with good quality sofa bed, hob, combination microwave, oven, grill, fridge/freezer, dishwasher, sat tv and dvd player. Some have their own ovens too.  Each has a fireplace or woodburner. 

Perfect for couples wishing to holiday together but requiring privacy and also small families holidaying together since with so many living rooms and kitchens, it is possible to use the many sofa beds as day beds and keep them open without restricting space for those with older children, give them the excitement of their ownapartment within the large villa!
The accommodation is arranged as follows:

Monastery

Ground floor:

Enter in via large arched wooden doorway.

  • On the right, into kitchen/living diner, leading through to corridor with 2 double bedrooms and shower room.
  • On the left, into kitchen/living diner, leading through to double bedroom and shower room


First floor:

From the hallway up stone staircases to the first floor where

  • on the left is a further kitchen/living diner, leading to double bedroom with en-suite shower room
  • On the right to another kitchen/living/dining room which leads to beautiful private terrace with great views, double bedroom and en suite shower room.
  • This accommodation is connected to a further studio style double bedroom which also has its own independent access if required, via a large terrace overlooking the gardens.


Second floor:

  • This apartment set up above the others has a wonderful romantic terrace leading from both living area and bedroom. The apartment consists of double bedroom, shower room and an open plan living/kitchen/diner.


The converted barn is situated close to the pool area and consists of:

  • Ground floor  2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment with  living/kitchen/diner and terrace
  • First floor 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartment with living/kitchen-diner and terrace .

Communal area:

Lower ground floor

  • Dining area for up to 50 people
  • Communal living area with comfy seating and projector screen
  • Industrial size kitchen with 6 ring hob, hotplate, small friers, large oven, chest freezer, tall drinks fridge, industrial dishwasher, coffee machine and all fully epuipped with cooking pots and pans, cutlery, crockery and glassware to save groups using those in apartments when all together.

Outside:

  • There are three private terraces leading from three of the suites of the monastery, one of which is also the ping pong area. There are also two terraces leading from the converted barn.
  • Communal large traditional style courtyard with original flagstones, surrounded by arches and traditional stone walls .
  • Lit at night, and perfect for large groups dining al fresco.
  • Wood burning pizza/bread oven, grills, large electrice oven and enormous bbq, hob and sink. Ipod dock and speakers
  • Grassed garden area with large umbrellas providing shade and an arched area  ideal for weddings/ceremonies.
  • 115 hectares of private land including olive groves, chestnut woods and open fields.
  • Chestnut woods with 3 donkeys - fenced off of course,
  • Pool 13m x 6m with amazing views over countryside,
  • Laundry room and internet point.
  • Table tennis

Nb - pricing correct for up to 25 guests for larger groups there is a charge of E50 per person per week. Please send an enquiry before booking .

 A little about the area

Costola is situated on the 'sunny side' of the Garfagnana valley within the comune of Fosciandora, which is an area which has retained its olde worlde charm due to the fact there is only one road leading both into and out of the zone… The comune itself has 600 inhabitants spread between 6 villages and various hamlets. 
The property is privately situated in the smallest of these ancient peaceful villages, and the one that arguably has the best views of all!
Despite the very quiet and dramatic location, the Villa is only a 2 min drive to a local bar/shop, post office and pharmacy and a 5 minute drive from a Pizzeria, and 5 mins from a restaurant too.

Other distances:

  • 10 mins - the local market town of Castelnuovo - shops, bars, restaurants, train station, virbrant Thursday morning market .
  • 15/20 min drive is Barga the beautiful mediaeval town, with its wonderful architecture, Duomo, very good restaurants, markets under the stars and regular free music.
  • 50 mins - The fully walled mediaeval city of Lucca - try cycling around the walls, meandering in shady narrow streets and people watching in the Grand Piazzas while enjoying a drink or a gelato! Or, there are often outdoor concerts with big named performers, and if you prefer nightly opera recitals.
  • 1 hr 15 mins - Pisa with its leaning tower and the airport
  • 40 mins - the famous Wind Caves  and also  the Canyoning park, where one can jump down waterfalls into beautiful rivers.
  • 1 hr 20 mins - The Versilian coast is a good day trip  reached  either via Lucca or more spectacularly by crossing through the Apuan Alps.
  • 25 mins - the local Fortress at Verrucole, with stunning views and some interactive activities for the children. Close to the fortress is the Buffardello tree climbing and zip wire park (ideal for both adults and children of all ages with a variety of runs) where one can take a picnic or BBQ and spend the entire day in the welcome shade of the forest.
  • Don't forget the lake of Vagli  (with its hidden village submerged by the water) for an afternoon drive, or the lake of Pontecosi, where one can stop for a drink. Some some guests love to swim in the river too ...
  • The real beauty of this area is the dramatic mountain scenery, and the hundreds of hilltop villages to explore, endless picnicking opportunities, and the pure peace of a non touristy holiday ......

Airports:

Pisa 75 min.; Florence 1hr 50 min.;Genoa 2 hr. 30 min.; Milan 3 hr. 15 min; Bologna 2 hr. 30 min.

USE AS A WEDDING VENUE - THE NUMBER OF WEDDINGS PERMITTED PER YEAR ARE RESTRICTED, SO PLEASE CHECK WITH US BEFORE MAKING A RESERVATION. Thank you ,

Amenities

Property Type

Villa

Swimming Pool

Private

Fenced Pool

Bedrooms

11

Bathrooms

10

Sleeps

32

Kitchen Facilities

Chest Freezer

Cooker and Hob

Dishwasher

Fridge

Iron and Ironing Board

Oven

Washing machine

Coffee Machine

Cooking Utensils and Cutlery

Freezer

Fridge Freezer

Microwave

Toaster and Kettle

Entertainment

DVD Player

Ping Pong

Stereo System

iPod Dock

Satellite TV

Internet

Amenities

Balcony

BBQ

Car Parking

Central Heating

Cookery lessons on request

Garden

Individual Family Units

Terrace

Bathroom Towels

Bed Linen is provided

Celebrations

Chef option

Fire Place

Hair Dryer

Pizza/bread oven

Woodburner

Distances

Walk to bar

Walk to shop

Walk to restaurant

Suitability

Children Welcome

Nearest Airport

Pisa

Activities

Cycling

Hiking/Walking

Places of Interest

Golf

Horse riding

Landing Pages

Garfagnana

Dogs

2

Rates

Start Date Weekly Rate (€) Minimum Stay Arrival Day
05 Apr 2025 4,667 4+ Nights Flexible
26 Apr 2025 4,875 4+ Nights Flexible
31 May 2025 5,200 4+ Nights Flexible
28 Jun 2025 6,500 7+ Nights Saturday
30 Aug 2025 5,200 4+ Nights Flexible
04 Oct 2025 4,380 4+ Nights Flexible
04 Apr 2026 4,900 4+ Nights Flexible
25 Apr 2026 5,119 4+ Nights Flexible
30 May 2026 5,460 4+ Nights Flexible
27 Jun 2026 6,825 7+ Nights Saturday
29 Aug 2026 5,460 4+ Nights Flexible
03 Oct 2026 4,599 4+ Nights Flexible

Rental & Booking Information

  • Pool Private

Availability

Unavailable Changeover Short Breaks Discount

Map

Local Amenities Nearby

Reviews

Excellent

10 out of 10
Review

We celebrated our wedding in Italy and were searching for the perfect venue that was not only beautiful but also offered enough accommodation for about 30 guests over several days. That's how we discovered La Costola in Ceserana - and it was the best decision we could have made! The pictures on the booking website were stunning, but the reality was even better. Even though we couldn't visit the venue beforehand, we felt confident in our choice, especially thanks to the incredible support of the onsite wedding planner, Marie, who was recommended to us when we booked the property.

Marie was a tremendous help right from the start, particularly with coordinating local vendors. She provided us with a list of reliable service providers, which saved us the hassle of searching from abroad, especially given the language barrier. Once we made our decisions, Marie took over the organization and coordination for the big day, even reaching out to our band and photographer to ensure everything was aligned. This allowed us to relax and focus on enjoying the moment, a huge relief amidst the usual wedding stress. The owners of La Costola prepared an exquisite traditional Italian menu for our wedding day, crafted with love and attention to detail. It was a culinary highlight, and their warm hospitality made the day even more special. Marie supported us not only in the planning phase but also on the wedding day itself. Her assistance was invaluable, enabling us to organize our wedding from Germany without needing to visit Italy beforehand. Thanks to her, everything went smoothly, and the result was beyond anything we could have dreamed of.

Our four-night stay at La Costola was magical. We celebrated our wedding on one of the days and spent the rest of the time savoring la dolce vita: relaxing by the pool, enjoying the beautifully designed rooms, and soaking in the breathtaking surroundings. Most importantly, we cherished the quality time with our family and friends - a rarity in everyday life. When it was time to leave, we were genuinely sad. We could have easily stayed longer at this gorgeous place, but we are so grateful to carry these beautiful memories with us forever.

We wholeheartedly recommend celebrating your wedding at La Costola. The venue, Marie's expertise as a wedding planner, and the owners' exceptional cooking make for a truly unforgettable experience. Our wedding in Italy was the most magical event we've ever had - for us and for our guests.

Thank you, Marie and La Costola, for making our dream wedding in Tuscany a reality!
Arrival date: 20 September, 2024

  Nov 2024
Perfekt!

We booked the house for six days to celebrate my daughter's wedding. Beforehand, Marie from the agency was invaluable, giving us helpful tips on catering, pizza dinners, floral decorations and patiently answering our many questions - all by email. The very friendly Italian owners welcomed us and showed us around the beautiful spacious main house, the former barn converted into a 'pool house' and the huge grounds, swimming pool, garden, courtyard, large professional kitchen: everything was at our disposal. And even the weather, the great imponderable when celebrating outdoors, played along. It couldn't have been better. Thank you very much!
Arrival date: 4 September, 2024

  Nov 2024
Wonderful place!

We were 23 members of the same family from 12 to 66 years old. The house was perfect so that we could all be happy to be together and each have our own space. The outside is incredible with its gardens and swimming pool. The owners come round regularly and help if there are any problems. The information we received in their 'guidebook' was top notch, whether it was rafting, restaurants or markets nearby. Great place to make great memories!
Arrival date: 6 July, 2024

  Oct 2024
Lovely accommodation and place

It was wonderful. We celebrated our wedding here and it was perfect all round. The hosts are super nice and accommodating and the food was fantastic. Pure recommendation :)
Arrival date: 20 September, 2024.

  Oct 2024
Amazing wedding weekend!

We celebrated our wedding here over 5 days with 27 family and friends and we had the most amazing experience. The place is spectacular! It is more beautiful than the pictures can show. Plenty of space for a large group that we never felt on top of each other. Area has many places to explore but you may also not want to leave the beautiful villa! The owners were incredible and celebrated with us throughout the weekend as well. The food cooked by the owners and their team was also amazing. Planning process was very smooth and easy. Definitely book this!!
Arrival date: 31 August, 2024.

  Oct 2024
A true gem!

This property has amazing views and an amazing experience. Close to a lot of small towns to visit. Less than and hour away from Lucca. This property is a true gem and the owners are fantastic. Do not miss out on their pizza night.

Arrival date: 14/09/24

  Oct 2024
5 stars

We were looking for a place in Italy that worked for a large extended family, and this worked out great for us. The lodging has wonderful shared spaces, lovely grounds, and expansive views of the surrounding countryside and mountains. The hosts were responsive, and helpful, and very friendly. We booked two meals through the catering option, and these were highlights of the trip, with everyone talking about how great the food was and how fun to have it served in such a great place. I was the one who organized this, and it was the first time we'd ever taken this kind of international trip together. Although the web site looked great, I was still a little nervous that it would work for people in such a large, diverse group of family, but I can say without hesitation that it exceeded our expectations. We'll be talking for years about the wonderful memories we made here.
Arrival date: 8 June, 2024

  Jul 2024
Wonderful time

Wonderful time in very relaxed setting. Great that everyone had their own space. Loved the informality of the place. Celebrated sisters 70th in style. Owners very friendly and available but not intrusive. Good time had by all.
Date of arrival - 25 May 2024

  Jun 2024
Absolutely Perfect!

We had our wedding here and it was everything we dreamed of and more! The location was even more amazing than the photos. By far the most beautiful place we've ever been. The villa itself was large enough to comfortably fit all of our guests (24 adults and two infants). The rooms themselves were huge. There was no shortage of space here! The wedding day went smoothly thanks to the help of the villa owners and our wedding planner, Marie. They were there the whole day and made sure everything was sorted with the florists, cocktail hour, dinner, etc. They were incredible! We can't say enough good things about the villa, location and hosts. All of our guests left saying it was the most amazing experience/weekend of their lives and we agree!
Arrival 9th May 2024

  Jun 2024
5 stars

We were a group of 11 persons. The house was perfect for a large group. Everyone had his own bedroom with private bathroom but we had all meals together. If you like to cook, the house is really well equipped with kitchen facilities. The host was very helpful and attentive. We will be back.
Date of arrival - 17 April 2024

  May 2024
The Most Beautiful Tuscan Villa

My spouse and I held our wedding here and it was beyond perfect. We are from the states and had a group of 20 join us for the weekend of our wedding. The villa was more perfect than we all imagined! The owners were very friendly and Marie the coordinator was amazing. Our wedding dinner was made by the owner and it was so delicious. I couldn't recommend this property more- we can't wait to go back one day.
Arrival 21/09/23

 

  Nov 2023
Family holiday in Tuscany

Fantastic house! Spectacular views. Even better than the photos. We were a group of 29. Ranging from 2 to 80 years old. We enjoyed the pool and dinners outside. Everyone had a wonderful time.
Arrival 19/08/23

  Nov 2023
Wonderful stay

Everything was absolutly georgeous! Rosalba and her Husband Are wonderful hosts and the houses and, gardens and terraces are magnificient. We can definitely recommend this place and we will come back.
Arrival 28 May 2023

  Jul 2023
Wonderful

We celebrated our wedding here with our family and friends. It was just great! The accommodation is beautifully laid out and the apartments are well distributed. The hosts are very welcoming and very nice. They cooked us the food at the wedding and the food was fantastic! We like to think back to that time, it was wonderful all around!
Arrival 17 May 2023

  Jun 2023
Magical Week

We just hosted a week long get away and wedding at the Costola property and we are beyond thrilled. The property is enormous and beautiful. We recieved nothing but thrilled comments from our guests. We hosted a wedding and Sunday brunch with pizza at the venue and both were perfect, from food to service to expierence. Many of us rented cars which I can't stress enough makes the area more accessible as its on the top of a windy mountain road. Theres a large grocery store near by so we made many of our meals on site. We even had a family emergency that our wonderful hosts helped us thru, solving a stressful and scary situation and for that we can not be more grateful. The whole time in Costola was a dream, start to finish. And and incredibly big thank you to Marie, Rosabela, and Armedeo for everything they've done for us.

Dani Parker   Apr 2023
Fantastic!

Incredibly beautiful place, amazing view, we lacked nothing. Celebrated my 60th birthday staying at Costola for 5 days with 18 friends, best most fun party. The first day we ordered pizza, good, generous and reasonably priced. We made the other meals ourselves. Want to go there again!!!
Arrival: 08/09/2022

  Oct 2022
A feel-good place

We, a family of 26 (from 9 years to 84), felt extremely comfortable in the wonderful house that offers all the comforts. The view is indescribably beautiful, the gardens are well-kept and the pool with its many loungers is a communication center. We felt welcomed by the hosts who did their best to meet our needs. It was an unforgettable holiday for everyone.
Arrival: 20/08/2022

 

  Oct 2022
Magical dream vacation

I have never stayed in such stunning accommodation. Everything couldn't have been better.
Arrival: 05/06/2022

  Oct 2022
Incredibly charming

We were 20 adults, my children and grandchildren respectively, who had a wonderful time together in Costola. We helped with the cooking in the large restaurant kitchen, at the grill or the pizza oven and ate together at the long table in front of the house. We swam in the pool, played table tennis, hiked in the mountains and enjoyed ourselves. A fantastic holiday.
Arrival: 24/05/2022

  Oct 2022
Fantastic scenery

5 stars

for large groups a very good distribution; the evenings with pizza, four-course menu and classical Italian music were very nice and will be remembered for a long time. Very nice hosts! But also the equipment and layout of the houses was cozy and practical and always a great view. Pool and table tennis were great too!

Arrival 17 October 2021

  Dec 2021
Haven of peace in Tuscany

5 stars

Superb property ideally located to enjoy nature and also the beautiful surrounding towns. The property offers independent apartments and also delicious culinary services! We had a great week, thank you Lorraine for her unfailing support and to the Italians on site who welcomed us with joy.

Arrival 7 August 2021

  Oct 2021

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