Massa Carrara Apartment for Rent: La Casatorre: charming stone house with swimming pool in Tuscany - Property 61462

Extra photos (see all photos)

Lunigiana: unknown to the crowds yet close to Florence Pisa Lucca and the Cinque Terre is the northern corner of Tuscany, an unspoiled area of breathtaking natural beauty set between the Apennine mountains and the Mediterranean sea. In this sunlit land of chestnut covered hills crowned by medieval villages you will enjoy the very best of Italy - wonderful landscapes, good food and a warm Italian welcome.The region is scattered with medieval villages perched high above green wooded valleys, ancient castles built by the Malaspina family (it's also named the hundred castles valley) breathtaking views across fertile river valleys and dramatic mountain vistas: Tuscany's best kept secret. Hidden away from the tourist trail the Lunigiana nevertheless enjoys easy access to the main cultural centres of Northern Italy and the sophisticated coastal villages of the Ligurian coast.

The Lunigiana can be considered the most uncontaminated area of Tuscany: hills woods rivers and cascades. This magical unspoilt area offers the tourist a mild climate, a calm and soothing atmosphere. The area caters for all offering museums thermal waters sport centres fishing and trekking on horse back or by foot. Added to all of this is the folklore traditions and cuisine (there are a number of restaurants in the surrounding area offering traditional local cooking at reasonable prices). There is something for everyone and last but not least wonderful friendly people who will give you a warm welcome. Join them in celebrating their many festas throughout the summer. Close to Lunigiana is the Bay of Poets and the Cinque Terre, the beautiful stretch of coastline with its rocky coves and sandy beaches which is famous for the 5 fishing villages that cling to the cliffs along the spectacular Ligurian coastline.

The cultural centres of Florence, Lucca, Pisa, Parma and Genoa are also all within an easy drive: Florence is 1.5 hrs drive. Lucca (Puccini's birthplace) 1hr drive, is a delightful city: hire a bike and pedal around the city walls. Parma (rich with Verdi connections) or Pisa (with its famous tower) are both 1hr away. Close by are the picturesque ports of Lerici and Porto Venere ( a UNESCO heritage town) and the famous Cinque Terre. Nearby are the ancient cities of Sarzana, the beaches at Forte di Marmi, the 'Carrara' marble mountains and the Garfargnana national park .The sandy beaches at Marinella and Marina di Massa Are 30 min away. Many freshwater rock pools, made by the fast flowing water from melting snow are at walking distance. The marble quarries of the Alpi Apuane (from where Michelangelo choose the marble for his statues) 45 min away by car are open to visitors.

Other Activities: Our English housekeeper Annabel, is a passionate horse rider and breeder. She organises horse trails in this spectacular territory of Lunigiana

• Extra photos