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House in a Tuscan mountain village with private swimming pool and stunning views

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Canto di Maggio
View from street
Pool view from the terrace
Pool, 10m x 4m, overlooking valley
Pool

Reviews

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
3 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Private pool
  • Onsite parking available
  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Barbecue
  • Balcony

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 2

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom 3

2 Single Beds

2 bathrooms

Bathroom 1

Bathtub or shower · Toilet

Bathroom 2

Bathtub or shower · Bidet · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Balcony
Separate dining area
Garden

About this property

House in a Tuscan mountain village with private swimming pool and stunning views

An old village house with all modern comforts in an ancient mountain village in Tuscany, Italy. It boasts stunning views across the valley, from various locations around the property and garden. Originally renovated in 2005, the property has recently undergone more restoration. The kitchen has been refitted, and the property expanded to include a separate dining room, gardens and a beautiful outdoor saltwater swimming pool.

There are 2 private courtyards, one at the entrance to the property and a second adjacent one, containing an original working pizza oven, views across the valley and a medieval passageway and steps, that connects the house to the garden and pool below. In addition, there are 2 large terraces for sunbathing, or alfresco dining in the summer under the vine covered pergola; accessible from the twin bedroom or through the garden gate.

The entrance porch gives access to the kitchen and dining room to the left, ahead down a single step is the lounge. To the right, up a few steps, is the wing of the house containing 3 ample bedrooms (2 doubles and a twin), 2 bathrooms and a utility room.

Location details: Outside the main entrance to the village there is a small car park, as the village does not allow vehicular access to the properties. The house is approximately 150 metres walk from the car park on a mainly level narrow street.

There is a river at the bottom of the valley, via a path from near the village car park, with a picturesque mill, viewed from the a bridge over the river.

Try the local authentic Italian food and wine at the village agriturismo, 100 metres away, and a choice of restaurants in surrounding villages and towns. The 'agriturismo' B&B in the village, ' Casa Turchetti', will offer meals by prior booking.

There are castles and valleys to explore by horse, foot or car.

Easy to reach by car from the airports at Pisa, Genoa or Parma. It is within 40 minutes by car from the Tuscan beaches, or 'Cinque Terre' picturesque fishing villages and 1.5 hours from the historic towns of Florence, Pisa, Lucca and Parma. In the winter it is only 30 minutes from local ski resorts at 'Prato Spilla' and 'Cerreto'.

Please note: The property and garden/pool is not suitable for people with mobility issues

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Important information

You need to know

Property # 77378
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 are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit

About the area

Comano

Located in Comano, this holiday home is in a rural area and in the mountains. Museo della Stampa and Museum of the Lunigiana Stele Statues are cultural highlights, and some of the area's landmarks include Parish Church of Santa Maria Assunta and Baccana Fontana Vecchia. Swimming offers a great chance to get out on the surrounding water, or you can seek out an adventure with mountain climbing, horse riding and hiking/biking trails nearby.
View more Holiday homes in ComanoOpens in a new window
Map
Cattognano Comano, Toscana

What's nearby

  • Parish Church of Santa Maria Assunta - 6 min drive - 3.9 km
  • Baccana Fontana Vecchia - 7 min drive - 5.3 km
  • Appennino Tosco-Emiliano National Park - 9 min drive - 8.5 km
  • Comano Castle - 13 min drive - 8.9 km
  • Lagastrello Pass - 25 min drive - 23.3 km

Getting around

  • Aulla Lunigiana Station - 26 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Ristorante Venelia - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Pizzeria Da Beatrice - ‬12 min drive
  • ‪Biffi Bar - ‬24 min drive
  • ‪Pizzeria Wladimiro - ‬25 min drive
  • ‪Angolo Del Caffè - ‬25 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does House in a Tuscan mountain village with private swimming pool and stunning views have a pool?

Yes, this property has an outdoor pool.

How much does it cost to stay at House in a Tuscan mountain village with private swimming pool and stunning views?

As of 14 May 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at House in a Tuscan mountain village with private swimming pool and stunning views on 10 Oct 2026 start from AU$419, 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 House in a Tuscan mountain village with private swimming pool and stunning views pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much is parking at House in a Tuscan mountain village with private swimming pool and stunning views?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at House in a Tuscan mountain village with private swimming pool and stunning views?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at House in a Tuscan mountain village with private swimming pool and stunning views?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is House in a Tuscan mountain village with private swimming pool and stunning views located?

This family-friendly Comano holiday home is located in the mountains, within 3 mi (5 km) of Parish Church of Santa Maria Assunta and Baccana Fontana Vecchia. Appennino Tosco-Emiliano National Park and Comano Castle are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

8.8

Excellent

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 16 out of 25 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 5 out of 25 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 25 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 25 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 25 reviews

8.4/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Check-in

9.8/10

Communication

9.4/10

Location

8.6/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

fiona b.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Summer salve

Tucked away in the north tuscan hills this rural getaway was a much needed tonic. Highly recommend but bring insect repellent as the mosquitoes had a healthy appetite
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 20 Aug 2024
Thanks Fiona for your lovely review. The mosquitoes can be bothersome. I get bitten, but many people I know don't... infuriating!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

ANDREW H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

fab holiday

what an amazing house , pool and location . The pictures on the site do not do it justice its much better when you see it in person . The hosts were very fast to reply to any things I needed to know before we went , very helpful and gave us lots of useful information about places to see and eat. Thanks and we would love to come back as there is a lot more to discover.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Aug 2023
Thank you Andrew for your very positive review. We are so pleased you enjoyed your time at Canto di Maggio. We think it is a very special place too. We hope to see you again one day. Julie & Keith
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kristoffer S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful secluded spot

We had a great stay in this exceptional house in the Tuscan mountains. The house had a good size for a family of five, a really nice sized pool, several great patios outside and the most phenomenal view. We ate twice at the restaurant near by and can really recommend it. We went on a small hike to the nearby river and had a refreshing swim. We would revisit this place if we get the chance. Thank you Keith and Julie.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 11 July 2023
Thank you Kristoffer for your lovely review. We have had the house here for 17 years and never tire of that 'phenomenal' view. To be able to enjoy that view from the new pool adds another dimension. I hope you manage to pass our way again. Many thanks Keith & Julie
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Mats N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A gem among the mountains – with a pool and personality

We had a fantastic stay in this charming house in the Tuscan hills. The house is spacious, homely and fully equipped - perfect for a relaxing family holiday. The pool was a highlight, as were the various patios where we could enjoy both sun during the day and socialising in the evenings, with a breathtaking view over the valley. The small village the house is located in is like being taken from another time and with incredibly friendly people (although they don't speak English and think you understand Italian if they just speak slowly and clearly enough...).The hosts were very accommodating and quick to answer our questions, making us feel well looked after from start to finish.A little tip: make sure to print or screenshot the instructions from the hosts. Mobile phones were in a blind spot in the village.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 12 July 2025
Thank you Mats for your wonderful review. We are so pleased you enjoyed it. Cattagnano is a very special place. We celebrate 20 years in 2025 and never tire of it.
Archival

8/10 Good

Sophia C.

Beautiful setting; lovely views.

This house is in a beautiful setting, in an area with much to see and do -- or you can just take it easy and look at the stars! The house is very well equipped and comfortable. It is attractively decorated and has lots of space for a family of 5. There are nice books and board games to enjoy. It has a friendly lived in feel to it. The best thing, though, has to be the view from the balcony. In the area, we enjoyed visiting Bagnone and Filletto (medieval town and village), eating at Mountain Verde restaurant in Apella (just above Tavernelle), swimming in an Olympic size outdoor pool in Villefranche, eating at Beatrice (best pizza ever) in Monti, visiting Camano castle and walking up in the Appenines. We will be going back!
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Mar 2020
I am delighted the house and the locality proved to be such a hit with this family. The opportunties in the Lunigiana district to enjoy local restaurants, mountains, and historic places without the crowds or expense of more wellknown Tuscan destinations are a secret to be shared. This review was a summer break, we look forward to the local chestnut, wild mushrooms and wine festivals this autumn with availablity for late bookings.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

James Mole M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Tranquility and relax

The property is in an amazing location with stunning views. The communication with the hosts were excellent. Always responding promptly and quick to give advice and help when needed. It’s ideal for able bodied people and good for families with children over say 7 year old. It is a bit tricky getting down to the pool with coffee or drinks due to the steps but it’s manageable and doesn’t stop you wanting to. We enjoyed meals under the grapes in the shade looking over the amazing nature. The house is fun with good size bedrooms and living room. The kitchen is split into two with 3 steps between. Again not ideal but manageable. Parking the car away from the house is fine too. It’s a very special little place with its quirks but I would highly recommended it.
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 20 July 2025
Thank you James for your lovely review. It is a very special place. We are so pleased you enjoyed your stay. With the house and garden on a hillside, we have only advertised it for able-bodied people. The steps between the kitchen and dining room is an interesting story. In the course of adding the dining room, we discovered a very old cantina (cellar) under it, which we didn't want to destroy (you pass it on the way down to the pool), hence the steps.🙂
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Christine L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peace and tranquility.

If you're looking to get away from the stresses and stains of busy life then this house is perfect for you. The tiny little village is gorgeous as though you are stepping back in time. It's not perfect, its authentic. The location isn't too far from Cinque Terre, Florence, Lucca and many other interesting sites. We had wonderful holiday with our 3 grown up children, the pool is beautiful, the house is very well equipped. There are lots of steps so if you have mobility issues then it may not be the place for you. The highlight of the house is the ourdoor spaces, you have different patio areas to choose from to either capture the sun or shade from it. The setting and view of the mountains are idyllic. The only downside for us was that the beds are very firm, but that may suit other people. The hosts are very attentive and questions are answered extremely quickly. I would 100% recommend Canto Di Maggio to anyone. Thank you for a fabulous holiday.
Stayed 14 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Aug 2023
Thank you Christine for your marvellous review. You brought a tear to my eye, in that you absolutely nailed it on why we love the village so much - 'authentic not perfect'. You are right about mobility, we do have it marked up in the details, but good someone else points it out, having a garden on a hillside was always going to be a challenge. The tranquil location and stunning views were just what my husband craved after recovering from cancer and he continued his love affair with Italy by acquiring the very neglected house and renovating it during this time; the terraces and garden have been added gradually over the years (17 to be exact!) Thank you again for your review.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Hauke K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Sehr grosser Pool und schöner Poolbereich. Küche, Pool, Bäder und andere technische Einrichtungen gut unterhalten und von hoher Qualität. Schön renoviert. Wir hatten schlechteres Wetter als erwartet. Das Haus hat den Gewittern, Starkregen und sogar einem Erdbeben gut widerstanden. Die Internetverbindung ist hervorragend.
Stayed 21 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Jakob G.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Hyggeligt hus i smukke, fredelige omgivelser – perfekt til afslapning og masser af familietid. Keith og Julie er hjælpsomme værter. Et skønt sted at koble af og nyde naturen i Toscana.
Stayed 8 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

giancarlo f.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Canto di Maggio

Splendida struttura immersa nel verde e bella pace.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 9 July 2025
Grazie. Siamo felicissimi che il tuo soggiorno a Cattagnano ti sia piaciuto. Ringrazia il tuo amico per la sua bellissima poesia.
Verified

6/10 Okay

gert d.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication
Disliked: Location, listing accuracy

Valt erg tegen

We keken uit naar deze vakantie op dit mooie plekje. Helaas bij aankomst kan je niet met de auto bij het huisje komen(er staat in de advertentie alleen vermeld dat er geen parkeerplaats is bij de woning) je moet of een grot achtige weg naar de woning lopen. Huisje was netjes,schoon goed verzorgd. Er is helaas geen telefoonbereik en slechte internet verbinding. Parkeerplaats was vol dus moesten in dorpje eronder parkeren.Om bij het zwembad te komen moet je via de voor door via een rotsige trap die wij gevaarlijk vonden naar benden. Vanuit huis was er geen goed zicht op het zwembad. Naar het terras moet je door de voordeur en door 2 hekken heen. Vanuit daar is geen verbinding met hetzwembadzwembad. Er is nauwelihel
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 12 Sept 2024
The guest spent very little time at the property, and left within an hour, without securing all the entrances. He appears not to have understood the detailed information/captioned photos supplied on the website, and the pack sent in advance, which covered all the concerns he raised. These included the following: the availability of the internet, the public nature of the village car park which is sometimes full, the distance of 150 metres to the house from the car park, the access to the pool area by steps, the different access points to the terrace, the photos showed the access on the street, the partial view of the pool from the terrace. The guest requested reimbursement which, despite the clear policy of no refund for late cancellation, he received a payment net of fixed costs, as a gesture of goodwill.
Verified

8/10 Good

Birgitte S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Skønt toscansk hus i bjergene

Med et besøg i Villa Maggio får man en autentisk toscansk ferieoplevelse. Den gamle rustikke bygning og den urolig smukke udsigt ud over bjergene danner en skøn ramme for en afslappende og rolig ferie med familien. Værterne er meget imødekommende og hjælpsomme.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 19 Aug 2024
Thank you for your lovely review. So pleased you enjoyed our Tuscan hideaway. We never tire of the view and the sounds of the valley.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

maryline m.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Semaine en famille

Superbes vacances dans un lieu vraiment splendide! La maison est tres jolie, confortable et la piscine vraiment incroyable! Propre et tres bien située. Le petit village medieval est tres charmant et les gens accueillants. La possibilite de faire des pizzas dans un four a pizza nous a egalement permis de passer une belle soirée. Les proprietaires sont disponibles et tres reactifs. Nous recommandons vraiment cette location et esperons y refaire un sejour.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Aug 2023
Nous sommes ravis que vous ayez apprécié votre séjour au Canto di Maggio. C'est un endroit charmant. Et... tu as fait des pizzas dans le vieux four à pizza WOW ! Nous espérons vous revoir bientôt. Merci beaucoup pour votre avis. Keith et Julie
Verified

6/10 Okay

michel g.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location
Disliked: Cleanliness, listing accuracy

Maison de caractère

Belle maison dans un beau cadre mais un peu rustique : rapport qualité/prix à revoir ( hygiène)
Stayed 7 nights in Sep 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nathalie B.

Liked: Check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Cleanliness

Belle location pour des vacanciers qui aiment l'isolement, comme nous.

Nous avons passé de très bons moments. La maison est grande et il y a assez d'espace pour tous. Les propriétaires sont très avenants. Région magnifique. Un petit bémol sur la propreté de la vaisselle à l'arrivée. Nous avons relavé assiettes, plats,.. Mais cela était rapide et ne nous pas gâché nos magnifiques vacances à Catagnano.
Stayed 21 nights in Jul 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Mar 2020
Nathalie, we are so pleased you enjoyed your stay at Canto di Maggio. It is very tranquil, but we love the fact that you can be by the coast in 35 mins or a Renaissance city in just over an hour. Best of both worlds we think. Apologies for the problem with the dishwasher. This is being resolved. Thanks for bringing this to our attention. Finally, a big thank you to you. Our geraniums have never looked so splendid after visitors! Keith + Julie
Verified

8/10 Good

JEAN-MARC B.

location typique très agréable et paisible

Nous avons passé une très agréable semaine dans une location très joliment rénovée avec goût. Rien ne manque dans le gîte bien au contraire et nous avons fortement apprécié les 2 terrasses, l'une à l'ombre le matin et la seconde, le soir avec une très belle vue sur la vallée. Nous n'oublierons pas le très bon accueil de toute l'équipe la Casa Turchetti, restaurant situé à 50 m de la location, où nous avons pu déguster de très bon repas dans un cadre tout aussi agréable. Isabelle et Jean-Marc de Guimaëc en Bretagne.
Stayed 8 nights in Aug 2018
Archival

6/10 Okay

Tilo G.

Sehr schöner Ort

Originelles Haus recht liebevoll saniert an herrlichem, abgelegenem Ort. Hier hat man wunderbare Ruhe, kann aber gleichzeitig schnell viele Ziele (Lucca, Carrara, La Spezia, das Meer, aber auch sehr schöne kleine Orte in direkter Umgebung) erreichen. Man kann aber auch direkt vom Haus aus in einer herrlichen Landschaft Wandern. Leider gab es keinerlei Sonnenschirm oder ähnliches, so dass der Aufenthalt im Garten / Hof über Tag kaum möglich ist. Internet und Fernsehen funktionierte nicht, was allerdings der Erholung nicht unbedingt schadet. Die Sauberkeit im Haus lies stark zu wünschen übrig. Wenn man als erstes den Kühlschrank sauber machen muss, ist das kein guter Urlaubsbeginn... Wir haben uns trotzdem sehr gut erholt!
Stayed 10 nights in Jul 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Mar 2020
The amenities of the house were clearly appreciated, and the location in what is beautiful part of Italy. I am glad these guests enjoyed their time at the property. There are sun umbrellas stored in the cellar, for use on the patio or courtyard. There is a TV in the lounge but it is not connected to an aerial; it is available for use only with the DVD player and a selection of DVDs is available. Wi-fi is only available by prior arrangement and an extra fee is payable, as outlined in the description. The cleaner goes through the house before each guest arrives, so the problem on this occasion is unusual and unfortunate, for which I apologise.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Sasha W.

Uniquely beautiful house.

A simply stunning holiday home. The location was wonderful, deep in the beautiful Tuscan mountains, but it didn't feel isolated. Tranquil, and incredibly peaceful, the entrance to the village is unique. It really feels like you're leaving the rest of the world behind when you walk down the tunnelled entrance to the village. The house is gorgeous and tastefully modernised. A private courtyard allowed us to have many lovely lunches outside and I particularly enjoyed the opportunity to have an early morning cup of tea on the balcony, watching the sun move across the valley, and listening to the local church chiming the hour. Casa Turchetti, the B&B just up the path from the house was wonderful, the owner there very helpful, and the food outstanding! We mainly relaxed in the house, there were hundreds of books to choose from, and games and puzzles to entertain you. We really enjoyed the train ride to Lucca, there were some spectacular views on the journey, winding through the mountains. Lucca itself was gorgeous, and hiring a bike and cycling round the walls was one of the highlights of the holiday.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Lena C.

Wonderful first visit to Tuscany

A wonderful first visit to Tuscany. The view from the lounge balcony was simply breathtaking. The house was nestled in a small village, beautifully renovated sympathetic with its age. Having said that we were not sure of modern conveniences and creature comforts. The property was in good order, clean and well presented. I am 84 years old and do have some mobility challenges. I didn't find either the walk (approx. 200 metres) to the house from the car park or the house itself presented me with any problems. The house is well placed to visit many tourist attractions. Only 40 mins from the Lericia and the Cinqueterra. We took a boat trip and visited villages along the coast. In addition, we were only an hour and quarter from Parma, Lucca and Pisa, all of which we visited. The churches and cathedrals were stunning and the leaning tower at night time unforgettable. The walks in the vicinity look to be varied, my husband took a walk from the back of the village to the top of the local hill. It was quite strenuous, but I'm sure if my 87 year old husband can make it, most people will. The reward was stunning views of the local area. My first and hopefully not my last visit to Canto di Maggio. Thank you. I will definitely be recommending this to friends and family!
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Mar 2020
Cattagnano is a well placed Italian village for those who like the mountains, renaissance towns, and the coast in Tuscany/Liguria. So I am delighted it was such a good holiday for such a wonderful older couple with young at heart approach to life. We try to make sure the house is up to the best of standards for all those who stay.
Archival

8/10 Good

Asena S.

A lovely relaxing break

We spent a lovely lazy week here. the courtyard gets the sun for the majority of the day, and when it's gone it's perfect time for a beer on the still-sunny balcony. A really peaceful location with some nice walks in the area.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Claire H.

Gorgeous cottage!

What a gorgeous cottage! The owner has sympathetically renovated and restored this old cottage so that is has both modern luxury facilities and beautiful traditional features. It is spacious, clean, comfortable and welcoming - with an extensive collection of books! A very helpful and friendly local English-speaking man from the B+B in the village is on hand, not that we had any issues. The views from the balcony are absolutely stunning and we spent many an hour sitting there, admiring the views, with glasses of local vino. The medieval village was unlike anything I had ever seen before and it was wonderful to explore its narrow alleyways and tunnels. A truly spectacular spot! We would strongly recommend this cottage for an authentic, rural get-away! Many thanks!
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Mar 2020
I am delighted this group enjoyed their time in the house that caught my imagination when I bought it 6 years ago. The Italian "borgo" or medaeval village in the mountains in the summer is a dream come true. Thanks.
Archival

2/10 Terrible

Judy K.

Faulty electricity and mould on the walls

It was a shame that a property with such great potential had not been properly maintained and that our holiday, for which this house, in a true medieval village, was to be a central feature, was seriously damaged because the lack of maintenance of this property left the house with a useless electrical system and thick mould on the walls of a bedroom and the kitchen, rendering the house uninhabitable. Upon our arrival, we had no electricity to any of the kitchen appliances, nor could we run the boiler for hot water or heaters or even certain lights without tripping off all the electricity to the whole house. I had brought with us meat and dairy products for what was to be a 5-night stay which I was unable to refrigerate at the house, nor was I able to cook dinner for our family on that cold, dark first night. We found thick mould on one bedroom wall and in the kitchen that I photographed for the owner and which indicated that the damp seeping into the house had not been properly treated; this was particularly disturbing with 2 asthmatic children. Needless to write, we could not stay in the house and we wasted half of our next day of holiday moving to other accommodation. While the owner agreed to pay for the other accommodation, we ended up having to stay in very dated rooms, with leaky showers above a bar on a main road in a neighboring village with no oven, washing machine, dishwasher, etc.; needless to write, not the accommodation nor amenities for which we had paid. When I asked the owner for some gesture of compensation for the first miserable cold night and for the fact that we did not get anything near to what he had advertised on this site and what we had paid for, he was unmoved and after one email saying he would pay only for our phone calls from Italy to the UK, he did not have the courtesy to answer any further emails.
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Mar 2020
As the private owner I have offered regret and support for the problems that arose for this family in April 2011. However the account given is in part inaccurate and misleading as follows: 1) The property is an old stone built Italian house that was completely modernised 6 years ago. This included new electrical, plumbing etc systems. Therefore maintenance was not the cause of the problem on this occasion which was exceptional for reasons that were outside the owner’s control. 2) The loss of electricity in the house was due to external power supply problems that had not occurred before and have been rectified since. The owner arranged local tradepeople to check both immediately this family reported the problem, and since and they were unable to resolve it as the solution lay with the power company. 3) The background heating to keep damp in house was therefore not operating, due to a lack of power. A small amount of mould occurred in one bedroom as a result– it was not a maintenance issue. 4) The alternative accommodation arrangements were put in place by the family with local contracts the owner put them in touch with, also ensuring they incurred no additional expense for it. At no stage after they took up the alternative did they inform the owner of any concerns, who was therefore unable to deal with any issues arising. 5) The costs of these alternative arrangements were double the receipt from the family, so the complaint about reimbursement is unfounded. The owner exercised as much diligence as possible in what was an exceptional situation. There have been holiday lettings in this house for 5 years without this or anything similar occurring before. It is of course a matter of regret that any problem arose, and future contingency plans are in place to ensure alternatives are of the same high quality as this house offers.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

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Dream Holiday come true!

What a perfect holiday away from home, situated in beautiful surroundings - close to supermarkets in Licciana Nardi and Aulla (car recommended!). The house was well-maintained, the wood burner going (although we only arrived after dark), clean and welcoming. Excellent facilities and customer services! We explored Firenze, Parma, Pisa and enjoyed an incredible New Year's Eve celebration at Bar Ristorante Galletti in Crispiano (close to Cattognano): a ten course meal, champagne and wine for a mere 40 Euros per person!!! It was truly a dream holiday come true...an experience we will never forget!
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Apr 2020
I am delighted the visitors from South Africa had such a rewarding trip to Lunigiana, Tuscany, Italy. They timed it right for views of snow clad mountains. This modernised house in an old "borgo" village in the Apuan mountains kept the winter cold at bay, with central heating from a wood burner. Comfort and style combined. The convenience of access by car from this base to the renaissance cities in the Tuscany region proved attractive. The local food is authentic and very good value which was a winner with this group.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Beautiful countryside and so peaceful

10/07/2010 6 of us have just returned from a fabulous holiday here. The house is deceptively spacious but very comfortable and maintained to a high standard. The views are absoultely stunning. An artist would love to sit on the terrace and paint them. We BBQ'd most evenings as the weather was so good but we dined twice at the nearby Casa Turchetti. where we ate delicious traditonal italian dishes and were made very welcome. The hamlet is very small and quiet but interesting none the less. We travelled to Pisa, Lucca and did the boat trip to The Cinque Terre. All very enjoyable. We also made a trip up to the Ski slopes and stopped off in Crespiano on the way back for an excellent lunch in the Galetti resaturant. The largest town nearby is Aulla and has some very good supermarkets but there a small but very interesting and well stocked store in Licciana Nardi. Sadly didn't have enough time to explore as much as we would have liked but will definitely come back one day. We would highly recommend this house to anyone seeking a peaceful holiday, far from the madding crowd.
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Mar 2020
Canto di Maggio is modernised old house in the centre of a"borgo" village high in the Appenine Mountains in north Tuscany. Guests like these enjoy the atomosphere and views as well as good Italian food and wine. Yet this is also well placed to get to the renaissance cities in the region, the fabled Gulf of Poets and Cinque Terre on the coast, and the Central Lakes Park in the mountains.
Archival

10/10 Excellent

Peaceful Perfection

We arrived at the end of August - two boys, Mum and Dad and Gramma. We found everything to be better than expected - the house was clean, comfortable and well equipped... simply perfect. The views were breathtaking, the village fascinating, and the people friendly. We particularly enjoyed the trips to Lerici, Pisa, and the Cinque Terre We spent a wonderful afternoon swimming in the river, another exploring the village. Had a delightful last evening meal in Crespiano at Galetti. All in all this was the perfect place for a family to play, relax and rest. I would recommend this property to anyone. After posting my pictures on Picassa, two friend have already enquired about it!

About the host

Hosted by Keith Skerman

Host profile image
I have worked in health and social care in the UK for 40 years, the last 20 of which as a director or interim/consultant.

Why they chose this property

The property is a renovated medieval house with modern facilities whilst retaining the old character. We bought it for the views across the valley to tree clad mountains. It is within easy car trips to the sea, the renaissance cities of Pisa, Parma, Lucca and Florence. It is ideal for our interest in walking.

What makes this property unique

The pool and the stunning views across the valley. The nearby restaurant at the Casa Turchetti Agriturismo is widely considered the best locally and has excellent food and wine, with locally sourced ingredients. A friendly family run it, some with English. Other good local cuisine in neighbouring villages.

Languages:

English, French, German, Italian

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests
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