When we decided we had to travel to Italy in order for Michael to make another guitar, I wanted to know more about the area of Bagni di Lucca where we would be staying for that two weeks. I discovered that Bagni di Lucca is a collection of 25 villages in the Lima Valley, Northern Tuscany, known for its thermal springs since Etruscan and Roman times. I stumbled across a wonderful Blog, bellabagnidilucca.com and contacted Debra, the maestro of the site. Long story short, we rented her gorgeous apartment in Ponte a Serraglio for a week prior to the course. The one on the corner with the balcony.
It was very light and airy
and the floor tiles were exquisite.
The views down river
and upstream
were stunning and the piazza opposite was a hive of activity.
The balcony was the perfect setting to watch the world go by, surrounded by beautiful flowers.
A short walk along the river
across a footbridge
is Villa Fiori, one of the many 19th century noble villas in the area. Sadly, it is in need of some restoration, I’ve added that to my list when the lotto numbers come up.
Ponte a Serraglio is a gorgeous village with some interesting buildings.
The first public casino in Europe, built in 1837, was restored in 2005 after many years in ruins.
I love the old doorways
We enjoyed a delicious homestyle Tuscan meal at Albergo Corona Ristorante one evening.
There was no shortage of dining options with Bar Italia
Ristorante da Vinicio
and Ristorante Cavalier Bruno all a short walk from the apartment and with excellent food (and wine, of course).
Our last day in Ponte a Serraglio came too soon. What better farewell than lunch on the balcony, created by Michael from our remaining supplies.
We explored a few of the villages during our time in Bagni di Lucca, far too many for one post……….
Now you’ve done it, I want to go back 😀
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Just say the word!
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just gorgeous – come on lotto nos. ! 🙂
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We keep trying!
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What a lovely post! Of course I am just a little biased. I will be back in the apartment in just over a week.
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I’m so envious!
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I had 4 fabulous weeks there in 2014 and cannot wait to return very soon. It was living the dream. Yes Debra’s apartment is stunning and BdL is gorgeous
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You summed it up perfectly – it was living the dream.
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So when are you guys coming back? 😀
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We’ll let you know when the tickets are booked.
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How absolutely wonderful! I want to go there! Gee perfect place to have a wedding??!!
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Yes, perfect!
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It looks just stunning. I haven’t visited that part of Italy but it is now added to the list. 😊
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It is a beautiful area and the mountain villages are fascinating.
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