Historic 16th-century Tuscan villa with private pool and panoramic mountain view
Experience authentic Tuscany in this beautifully restored 16th-century stone villa with private pool and sweeping views over the Garfagnana valley. Villa Massa is located in the peaceful village of Massa Sassorosso, 850 m above sea level, between Lucca and the Versilia coast.
The villa is set over three floors and sleeps up to eight guests. It includes three bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, two comfortable sitting rooms and a large, well-equipped kitchen. The renovation has stayed true to the villa’s heritage, using terracotta tiles, stone and chestnut beams, complemented by classic Tuscan furnishings. Free Wi-Fi throughout.
Guests love the expansive covered loggia, an arched balcony with outstanding views — perfect for outdoor meals or evening drinks. The property also features a private swimming pool (7.5 × 5.5 m), open from May 1 (early opening on request).
Location
Massa Sassorosso has a small shop/bar, and the nearest restaurant is less than 3 km away. More dining options and a mini market are within a short drive. The area is known as “Hidden Tuscany,” offering excellent walking, mountain biking and outdoor activities. We can help arrange guided hikes, canyoning, mountain biking and horse riding.
The villa is an excellent base for exploring the region: day trips to Lucca, Pisa, Florence and the Versilia beaches are all within easy reach. Nearby Castelnuovo offers supermarkets, cafés, restaurants and a weekly market.
There is an excellent pre-arrival shopping service and cooked meal service which we can help you access.
Massa Sassorosso sits on the slopes of the Pania di Corfino, close to the Orecchiella Natural Park, making Villa Massa an ideal base for walking, wildlife spotting and exploring “Hidden Tuscany”. Garfagnana is renowned for its dramatic scenery and quiet medieval villages, offering some of the best walking and outdoor experiences in Tuscany. Through our trusted local partners, we can help arrange guided hikes, canyoning, mountain biking and horse riding.
The nearby market town of Castelnuovo di Garfagnana offers restaurants, shops, supermarkets and a lively weekly market. Villa Massa is also perfectly placed for day trips to Lucca, Pisa, Florence and the Versilia coast (56 km), giving guests a balance of nature, culture and seaside options.
Nearby attractions & distances • Castelnuovo di Garfagnana – 12 km • Castiglione di Garfagnana – 10 km • Barga (beautiful hilltop town) – 18 km • Bagni di Lucca (thermal baths) – 40 km • Orecchiella Natural Park – 6 km • Verrucole Fortress – 15 km • Pania di Corfino trailhead – 5 km • Lago di Pontecosi – 14 km • Lucca – 55 km • Pisa – 80 km • Florence – 115 km • Versilia coast (Forte dei Marmi / Viareggio) – approx. 56–65 km • Castelnuovo train station – 12 km • Nearest airports: Pisa (80 km), Florence (115 km)
Additional rules;
Damages deposit €300 Final cleaning €150 euro Gas propane liquid (for heating, hot water and cooking): during MID and LOW SEASON at consumption (4 €/mc). During HIGH SEASON included in the price. Tourist tax ( 1 euro/night/person until 5 days for people from 14 years old) Pet fee €50 per dog Free parking in front of the bar. The square in front of the house belongs to a neighbour. To use this space the first car it is free, the second costs €30 per week.
Add dates for prices
Amenities
Pool
Kitchen
Washing machine
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
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A tourist tax of €1 per person per day is also due to the owner on arrival (max 5 days chargeable & under 14s not included).
The owner will ask for a €300 returnable damages deposit and €120 cleaning fee.
Gas propane liquid (for heating, hot water and cooking): (4 €/mc), during High season included in the price.
1 dog free, more than one €50/dog
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
Property Registration Number IT046035B5AD5MM3FN
About the area
Villa Collemandina
Located in Villa Collemandina, this villa is in a rural area and in the mountains. Ethnographic Museum Don Luigi Pellegrini and Museo Civico del Territorio di Barga are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Parco Avventura Selva del Buffardello and Parco Levigliese. Discover the area's water adventures with fishing and swimming nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with cave exploring and hiking.
Does Historic 16th-century Tuscan villa with private pool and panoramic mountain view have a pool?
Yes, this property has a pool.
How much does it cost to stay at Historic 16th-century Tuscan villa with private pool and panoramic mountain view?
As of 12 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Historic 16th-century Tuscan villa with private pool and panoramic mountain view on 2 May 2026 start from AU$427, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
Is Historic 16th-century Tuscan villa with private pool and panoramic mountain view pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows pets (limit 3 total). Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.
How much is parking at Historic 16th-century Tuscan villa with private pool and panoramic mountain view?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Historic 16th-century Tuscan villa with private pool and panoramic mountain view?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Historic 16th-century Tuscan villa with private pool and panoramic mountain view?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is Historic 16th-century Tuscan villa with private pool and panoramic mountain view located?
Situated in the mountains, this villa is within 9 miles (15 km) of Pontecosi Lake, Ariostesca Castle and Duomo. Archaeological Museum and Parco Avventura Selva del Buffardello are also within 9 miles (15 km).
Reviews
9.0
Wonderful
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
A beautiful house with excellent swimming pool. We enjoyed our stay very much. In the village The village there is only a small bar and shop with limited number of products (e.g. bread, water). There is no restaurant in the village.
Berend S.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2020
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Terri M.
17 Sept 2015
Dream Vacation
Words cannot possibly describe our stay in Massarossa. Incredible home, views and close enough to drive to see other places as well. The owner was more than helpful and gracious. 20 stars!!!
Terri M.
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Mar 2020
What a wonderful review. This is truly a special place with the most amazing views. We are so glad you enjoyed your stay and hope you can return some time.
If you do return, remember to ask for 'returners discount' that we offer to all our clients. Also, we offer a 'recommendation discount' so if your friends or family book with us they can claim the discount using your name and providing the name of the house you stayed in.
Best Wishes,
Susan
'Friends of Tuscany'
We had multiple changes (due to unforeseen circumstances) in terms of dates and people who stayed at the house and Guilia, the manager was extremely helpful and accommodating.
The house is just like the pictures. Amazingly beautiful and located in a spectacular setting. Close to many cool things to do. The lack of parking on site may be an issue for others (it wasn't for us). Other than that, simply perfect!
Catrin R.
Stayed 9 nights in Sep 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 12 Oct 2020
Dear Catrin,
Thanks for taking the time to leave a detailed review. It sounds like you had a lovely time in the villa. It is possible to drive to the front of the villa to drop off suitcases and then use the carpark in the village (approx 100m from the house). I'm glad it was not a problem for you. If you would like to return to Villa Massa or to another house I manage in Tuscany, I would be happy to offer you a returners discount.
Please keep in touch.
Kind regards,
Susan
Friends of Tuscany Ltd
Archival
8/10 Good
Peter C.
21 Aug 2016
Beautiful holiday villa, very helpful owner, one or two drawbacks.
We had a wonderful week at this property. The setting is stunning, with views out to the Apuan Alps. The swimming pool is clean (and appears to use a non-chlorine purification system). The owner, who lives in the next village, is helpful and thoughtful. We toured some of the many nearby beauty spots, relaxed on the balcony, and swam in the pool. Bliss!
One or two points, however. As other reviewers have said, the beds are uncomfortable. The mattresses have a lot of springs and not enough foam! The Owners Direct website says that there is parking. However, it is not at the property but a couple of hundred meters away in the village, with a walk up a steep hill. This was not a problem for us, but other visitors might find it challenging. It would be best if the website could make the position clear.
Peter C.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2016
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Mar 2020
Thanks for the fine review. You are correct that the house has a fabulous view. Regarding the car parking, it is pretty typical of a Tuscan hilltown to have to park in the village car park. It is possible to take a car down the narrow medieval streets, but most people prefer to take the short walk. The benefit of course, is the peace and quiet, and safety for children.
I asked the owner to check all the mattresses and she has now replaced some..
We hebben een heerlijke vakantie gehad in dit ongelofelijk sfeervolle huis met fantastisch uitzicht! We hebben een aantal dorpjes in de omgeving bezocht. De eigenaresse was heel vriendelijk en ze heeft een paar praktische problemen direct opgelost. We hebben helaas geen restaurants op loopafstand gevonden. In het dorp was wel een kleine bar waar je 's ochtends een kop koffie kon drinken en brood kon halen. De zippline bij het Vaglimeer was dicht / bestond niet meer. Dat was jammer. Al met al hebben we een heerlijke week gehad in een sprookjesachtige omgeving.
pauline h.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Aug 2025
Thank you so much for your lovely review. We’re delighted to hear you had a wonderful holiday and enjoyed the charm of the house and those beautiful views — it really is a special place! We're glad the owner was able to resolve the small issues quickly for you.
Thank you also for the feedback about the zipline and the local dining options — we’ll be sure to update future guests accordingly. While the nearest restaurants do require a short drive (the closest is under 5 minutes), many of our guests find the peaceful, tucked-away setting is part of the magic.
We’d love to welcome you back one day — and just a reminder, we offer returners' discounts across all our Friends of Tuscany villas!
Verified
6/10 Okay
Danny S.
30 Aug 2022
Liked: Check-in, communication
Prachtig huis, wel wat afgelegen
Prachtig en ruim huis, met schitterende veranda’s en uitzichten. Huis is voorzien van alle faciliteiten incl. ruim privé zwembad. Het ligt wel enigzins afgelegen en parkeren is wel een dingetje. In en uitladen kan bij het huis, maar oermanent parkeren niet. Stijl is heel smaakvol en charmant, maar wat onderhoud kan geen kwaad.
Danny S.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 6 Dec 2022
Ciao Danny,
Vielen Dank für Ihre Bewertung, wir freuen uns, dass Sie Ihre Zeit in der Villa Massa genossen haben.
Es gibt sichere Parkplätze auf dem Dorfplatz, der nur wenige Gehminuten vom Haus entfernt ist. Es gibt auch ein kleines Café/Bar im Dorf sowie ein Geschäft und ein Restaurant innerhalb von 5 Autominuten. Ich habe Ihre Bewertung an die Eigentümerin weitergegeben und sie hat bereits einige Verbesserungen am Haus vorgenommen.
Wenn Sie in dieses oder ein anderes von mir geführtes Haus zurückkehren möchten, biete ich Ihnen gerne einen Wiedereinsteigerrabatt an.
Mit freundlichen Grüßen,
Molly
Friends of Tuscany Ltd
We hebben een heerlijk vakantie gehad in een heerlijk huis
AM T.
Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2022
Verified
10/10 Excellent
L M.
23 Jan 2019
Lovely atmospheric house with breathtaking views
The house is large, clean and nicely furnished with traditional Italian furniture. The views from the balcony are breathtaking. We ate at the local restaurant and the little bar shop in the village most nights. The pool is nice and was fine for us to play and cool off in. The area is amazing, different from other parts of Tuscany as there's not millions of tourists. We felt we had a real authentic experience staying here. We hope to return in the not too far future.
L M.
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Earle G.
14 Aug 2018
Rural Tuscan Villa
Excellent get away from it all location, beautiful villa, well equipped, pool to keep the kids entertained, we only had 2 days out during the week, we’ve never relaxed so much, Despite some reports we found the beds very comfortable. The owner, Guilia was very accommodating and helpful. An information booklet about the house would be helpful. Overall excellent holiday, one of the best we’ve had
Earle G.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2018
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Mar 2020
Hi Earle,
Thanks for taking the time to leave Villa Massa a review. It's very much appreciated. The beds have been newly replaced at the start of the year so its great to hear you found them very comfortable.I'll ask Giulia to provide an information booklet about the workings of the house for future guests. Giulia will be delighted you enjoyed your stay, she tries really hard to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for her guests.
I'd like to welcome you back to Tuscany in the future and I can offer you a 'Friends of Tuscany' returners discount. Please do keep in touch.
Best Wishes
Molly
Friends of Tuscany
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Kara S.
11 June 2018
Beautiful house in a beautiful location
Guilia was very helpful in providing local information. The property was great for a family of 4 adults & a baby without feeling like you’re living on top of each other due it’s size & layout. Would recommend to anyone.
Kara S.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2018
Archival
8/10 Good
Frederik R.
3 Aug 2017
Wonderful house, wonderful view!
This house is absolutely fantastic. You will experience instant stress relief when you enter it. There is plenty of space and the pool is fine. Some of the beds are quite lumpy and do not offer a good sleep. And the "garden" is mostly soil. But we can highly recommend this place. We enjoyed a very nice week here.
Frederik R.
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Mar 2020
Dear Frederik,
Thank you for taking the time to write Villa Massa a nice review. We are delighted to hear you managed to relax in the perfect way. The owner has added new mattress toppers to all the beds. We agree the setting of this villa is outstanding and there is lots of space for a you to enjoy. We would love to welcome you back to this house or area and can offer you a Friends of Tuscany returners discount.
Best Wishes,
Molly
Friends of Tuscany
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Justin P.
23 July 2017
A beautiful location; very quiet and inviting; a great place for family and friends
The property was very well maintained, quiet and perfect for our family getaway. Garfagnana is a quiet location, but close enough to get to shops and tourist destinations. Our new friend, Giulia, made everything quite easy. She was a delight. This home takes you back in time, but has all the modern comforts that you'll need for a fun and memorable stay. We cannot wait for our next trip back to Italy, and hope we can make it back again.
Justin P.
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Mar 2020
Thank you for taking the time to leave such a lovely review. We agree the area is perfect for a family getaway and the house has been renovated to a very high standard whilst still keeping its Tuscan charm. We look forward to welcoming you back to this lovely area and would be delighted to offer you a returners discount.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Vicki G.
15 June 2017
The property, villa and village were all wonderful!
The owners were helpful and responsive to our questions and needs. Parking was a problem due to the size of our vehicle (9 passenger van) we had an 85 year old woman who could not walk up the hill to the van. A smaller vehicle could drive the narrow streets to get to the villa. The outdoor spaces were beautiful 2 large porches and the pool were where we spent most of our time. I highly recommend this Villa.
Vicki G.
Stayed 8 nights in May 2017
Archival
6/10 Okay
Michael R.
22 Apr 2017
Nice view, quiet, lovely house and interior,
We enjoed a lot and the house was really nice.
Be aware that when you want to do something you need your car. The pool was not yet open and covered by an ugly foil and covered with green water. The garden is seperated from the house by a small street. The double bed was steel and did squeek at ny move. Nevertheless a beautiful place
Michael R.
Stayed 8 nights in Apr 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Mar 2020
Thank you for your review. As it clearly said in the advert and like most pools in Tuscany the swimming pool opens on May 1, but it can be opened earlier by special request to the proprietor. The next time you go please ask us.
All mattresses have been renewed.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
sarah b.
26 Sept 2016
An unforgettable trip!
This house is absolutely amazing! It made the perfect getaway for us traveling with friends and our children. The house is so charming and wonderful, that we ended up requesting to stay an extra day because we did not want to leave. Yes, it is a far drive from all of the major cities, but we found plenty of things to do around the area that were worth exploring! Also the village bar owner Olga created us a menu and served us a 4-5 course meal of local dishes that we found to be something so special. We can't wait to stay here again!
sarah b.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2016
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Anna I.
25 July 2016
Tuscan pearl
A fantastic house in beautiful, beautiful Garfagnana. The views, the outside areas, the pool (that was cleaned often), the surroundings, the people in the little village, the lady at the local pub, very good bathrooms, big kitchen and dish- and wash machine. The only thing that didn't meet up with the rest of the experience was the comfort of the beds - not good I´m afraid. And you have to be a good driver to get here...
Anna I.
Archival
8/10 Good
magali l.
12 July 2016
Very nice but a bit far away from everything
Very nice house, pool... But situated deep in the mountains. It takes 1.5 to 2 hours to get to the sea, 1 hour to Lucca, etc... So very nice if you want to get away from it all, a little bit less if you want to visit cities and do activities...
magali l.
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Mar 2020
Thank you for your review of Villa Massa. This lovely villa is in the mountainous area of Garfagnana and is indeed 'away from it all', which is one of the main reasons to come here. The mountain air is fresher in summer than the more humid areas nearer the cities (especially at night) so many people prefer this location.
Our information is clear and accurate about its proximity to Lucca etc so I hope this wasn't a surprise to you.
We really appreciate your time to provide a review as we always appreciate feedback.
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Henry Vaage I.
6 July 2016
Sjarmerende stil
En veldig sjarmerende villa i en liten og hyggelig landsby. Stille og rolig område med en fantastisk utsikt. I landsbyen er det en liten butikk og kafe drevet av en koselig dame - for større utvalg av dagligvarer må du kjøre et lite stykke.