We had a truly wonderful stay at Villa Rosalena - and the service, help and kindness we received from Rod and family was second to none. As a family group (7 adults and 17 month old infant) we rented the whole top floor, garden (+BBQ) and pool - and it suited us perfectly. Four en-suite bedrooms and communal rooms (living room, dining room and kitchen) meant the accommodation was the perfect size. We spent many hours on the veranda enjoying the stunning view over the beautiful valley below. The villa was very safe for our toddler grandson and the climb up posed few problems even for me (as I have a disability). There are lovely restaurants (and other amenities) in Bagni di Lucca - and public transport links mean that Lucca and Florence are in easy reach. The pool was just right for us. We had the perfect holiday! Special mention must go to Rod who was extremely helpful to us - even taking us to the supermarket to do our shopping!! He was a wonderful host - approachable and friendly - but only there when you wanted him to be. We had a wonderful time in Bagni di Lucca and would encourage others to visit what is a very engaging part of Tuscany.
Family holiday for eleven .
A lovely villa nestled into the valley, a small steep incline with steps to access the front of the property or a path around the villa .
One of our party was over eighty and managed this every day.
The villa has great views across the valley and in the evening very pretty.It is well equipped and the owner Rod was on hand if there were any problems- he even had a washing machine delivered when the one in the kitchen didn't work!
The sheets and towels were changed mid week and the basket of food left was a lovely surprise.
It was exceptionally hot in August and the pool was an absolute pleasure after a day out in the sun.
In walking distance is a few bars and restaurants .A little further are a few shops and more cafés.
All had a wonderful time and would definitely use again.
We stayed at Villa Rosalena for our holiday this year and it was fantastic. We were two families (7 people) and it was just perfect for us. The bedrooms were spacious and all had an ensuite bathroom. The inside living space was great & especially the large dining room which could easily accommodate us for the few meals we ate in the villa. The outside space we used loads - from the seating on balcony area, to the great spaces by the pool and the separate BBQ area. The area around the villa is also great with loads of different places to visit using either a car or the train from the nearby station. There are some fabulous restaurants within walking distance or a short car ride. Rod (the owner) was so helpful and could not have been nicer. The only negative is the 62 steps up and so its not suitable for those with small children or with any mobility issues, but if you want a villa in a great location for a larger group, then this is the place for you.
Stayed in Villa Rosalena with friends in June. The rooms were lovely, very clean and spacious and the view from 2 of the bedrooms down the valley were absolutely breathtaking. We spent a lot of our time on the loggia. It was a great place to relax.
The pool was fine but attracted a lot of insects.
Rod the owner was very helpful. He helped us with directions and even came along with paperwork when we expressed an interest in some places to visit. He was really friendly and helpful without being intrusive. I would definitely recommend this villa but it is not suitable for those with mobility issues because there are a lot of steps.
We were early in the season and, in effect, had the Villa to ourselves. Bagni di Lucca is approx. 30 miles from Lucca although a good bus or train service into Lucca.....Pisa is a further 20 or so miles. Villa Rosalena is on the west side of Bagni de Lucca and it is a good half hour walk into the main town. We plan to go again next year but will hire a car, as without transport we found ourselves limited.
The Villa is located on the hill/mountain side with a panoramic view of the river below and would be a real sun trap in the summer. A small tiered garden with dip pool.
Rod Swail is an excellent host and could not do enough to help, including a chauffeur service to and from the station.
There was a choice of three restaurants within easy walking distance but we were caught out on the Monday when all three were closed in the evening.....it was early in the season.
Ideal for a short break in the beautiful Italian country side.