This little two-storey cottage combines the best of both worlds, being located just within the town walls, yet affording unobstructed views of magnificent mountain scenery. The cosy interiors are furnished in a rustic style, appropriate to the historic architectural context. The secluded pool and garden to the rear are set against an imposing scenic backdrop.

Great care was taken during restoration to conserve the original structural elements of this little stone cottage, which may well once have been the priest’s house. The low ceilings, stone fireplace, internal brick archways, exposed stonework walls and terracotta-tiled floors are all traditional characteristics of Tuscan homes.

As the property is built into a hillside, the sheltered back lawn and pool terrace occupy an elevated position, facing out towards a spectacular mountain panorama. One of the most distinctive features of this house is its close proximity to the town’s beautiful Romanesque church, whose ancient bell-tower borders the grounds on one side. Guests can even arrange to be accompanied to the very top, for a bird’s-eye perspective of the Garfagnana region.

ACCOMODATION

At ground-floor level you enter a small, low-ceilinged hallway, which leads into the dining-room, with its yellow-washed walls, stone fireplace and farmhouse-style wooden furniture. From here, two steps take you down into the comfortable living-room, which features a lovely internal brick-and-stone archway, as well as a sloping, terracotta-tiled/beamed ceiling and exposed stonework in the walls. Adjoining this lounge is a downstairs bathroom, with spacious shower cubicle. From both the dining and living room, French doors allow easy access into the back garden.

Returning to the entrance hall, you pass a small kitchen, tucked open-plan round a corner. It is fully equipped, except for a dishwasher. Nearby, a tiled staircase invites you up to the top-floor landing, off which issue the following: a small bedroom, with one set of bunk beds (2 beds). A double bedroom, commanding lovely views to both the front and back of the house. French doors open on to a mini-balcony which overlooks the pool and the hills beyond.

Accessible from the back garden and adjacent to the lawn is a covered, outdoor storage-space, housing the washing machine, the BBQ and sunloungers.

GARDEN & SWIMMING POOL

From the small carpark alongside Coreglia’s medieval walls, you enter the town through one of its gateways, beside which stands the Romanesque church, with its simple façade and grand interior! Just a short walk round the corner brings you to the very center of the quiet village. The cottage is situated at a raised level from the pavement.

Fragrant lavender bushes are planted along the grey stone wall bordering the road, while the ancient church tower dominates the scene, further behind on the right. An olive tree in a large terracotta pot graces the centre of the gravelled front garden and bright geraniums add splashes of colour round the front door.

The cottage’s French windows all open out on to the small, manicured lawn to the rear, as well as to the paved pool (8 x 4 meters, private, heated. Temperature of water is subject to weather conditions) patio, which is shaded by a mature edible-chestnut tree. Both these spots are ideal for sunbathing or al fresco dining. The oval pool is surrounded by sweet-scented flowering jasmine, while perfumed wisteria rambles its way up the house-wall.

However, the ultimate touch of distinction is added to this setting by its breath-taking mountain backdrop! Up here the air is clean and fresh and peace and quiet are guaranteed (apart, maybe, from the occasional accompaniment of church bells!)