We found Rustica Sara & Cottage Giusy on Tuscany.net and were thrilled with our decision to book. The main inn, the Rustica Sara, was booked full, so Umberto, the character who owns and runs the property, offered us the Cottage Giusy, which we accepted.

NOTE for those who fear mountain dropoffs....although the road up to Rustica Sara takes you deep up into the hills, there are NO precipitous dropoffs.

A fantastic accent up the side of the mountain facing towards Barga on the other side of the valley, takes you past the small town of Mollazza and through a seemingly endless forest. The route is well marked with tasteful signs pointing the way. Numerous switchbacks and curves go past many private homes of stone and past acres of grapes, hanging low with deep colored, ripe fruit. Finally, one last sign takes you into the small village of Brucciano.

The view from the property is stunning. Dreamlike, you cannot help but sense how isolated and self sufficient these small villages must have had to be over the years. Fortunately, you have a fine and efficient host in Umberto. No unctious, fawning stiff, Umberto is an efficient, clever man who will help make your visit a successful one. When you ask for a restaurant suggestion, he will certainly recommend a friend's place in a neighboring village. Regardless, take whatever suggestion he offers and revel in the local hospitality. Quaint, unpretentious, these village restaurants and taverns may well end up being the highlight of your Italian experience.

The Cottage Giusy is equipped with a small, efficient kitchen and all necessary cooking supplies. NOTE..the odd blue plastic item with a rounded off base and an odd gooseneck that curves back over the base, ending in a plastic ball, which almost hangs far enough to touch the base , is a napkin holder. After 3 days I just had to ask, and solicited suggestions from each guest before asking Umberto.

One enters the Cottage Giusy on the second floor, where you will find a master bedroom with and ample sized bed, large enough for 2. Your bedroom opens unto a small deck and from which you have a breathtaking, commanding view of much of the Garafagna below. There is a second small bedroom with 2 singles. The access to the main floor where you will find the only bathroom (with shower stall and washing machine) kitchen, dining table, TV, adequate stereo and access to the pool and common areas, is via a very steep spiral staircase. For the physically handicapped, this would be an unusable facility.

Both the Rustica Sara and Cottage Giusy are exactly as advertised and worth every penny. That rooms are reasonably priced is simply an added bonus to the whole experience.