Hotel Fabbrica di San Martino

This stunning villa was built over 300 years ago, and has been in the same family for over five generations -- which is pretty remarkable. And, it's the reason that the villa is so beautifully decorated with original antique furnishings, an interior chapel with a priceless oil painting, and the family's coat of arms peppered throughout. Outside is just as gorgeous and charming, with a hidden garden and plenty of picturesque places to admire the views and soak in the fresh country air, which is often fragranced with blossoms. When the owners dug up the pool, they found pieces of ancient Roman pottery. Guests are made to feel like part of the family, and encouraged to ask questions about the history, wine-making business, and working farm. Breakfast is served in the lovely pantry, or outside on the huge porch in nice weather. The owners speak fluent English and are more than happy to offer suggestions and advice. They live in the basement level of the villa, and provide their cellphone number to always be available. Many guests (couples, families, and large groups) return year after year for a Tuscan vacation. 

Reaching Hotel Fabbrica di San Martino is a bit of a hassle, and you might not be sure you're in the right place since the villa isn't viewable from the road. The hotel is nestled in the picturesque hills of Lucca, with little in the immediate distance. On arrival (you'll need a rental car, or to arrange a taxi) there's a small sign on the side of the road and a callbox next to a chain that blocks the drive. You'll have to get out of the car and announce yourself into the call box, at which point the owners will electronically lower the chain, allowing your car to pass. It's then about a two-minute drive through a forest until you arrive at the property, which has just one neighbor (a charming pink painted villa) and unbelievable sweeping views looking down to Lucca. Thanks to a few self-catering apartments and a pool, it's possible to spend a few days here without a car, but we recommend having one. There's an Italian restaurant, El Vipore, about a five-minute drive away, open for dinner. Otherwise, guests have to drive back down to Lucca (about 15 minutes) for shops, restaurants, and bars. The Leaning Tower of Pisa and Pisa International Airport are about a 40-minute drive. It's over an hour by car to Cinque Terre in the north, and over an hour by car to Florence to the east. 

Rooms and apartments are divided between the main villa and the farmhouse (built in the 1700s), which is closer to the pool. Each unit is individually decorated and offers something a bit different, and some of the units can be combined or separated via doors. It's possible for guests to rent out the entire space.The main villa has two large rooms (that can be conjoined) on the second floor, including a lovely Suite that looks and feels like a vintage Italian home. There's a huge wooden shelf of books, marble fireplace, and gold-framed oil paintings on the walls. Over at the farmhouse, the Attic Room has a cottage vibe with heavy wooden rafters, a full kitchen, and two cozy bedrooms. Wood shutters open up to overlook the pool and Lucca in the distance. The Uno Room on the ground floor has a full kitchen, washing machine, and furnished terrace -- it's the most popular option for families. All units have free Wi-Fi, a small flat-screen TV, electric kettle, and a basket with house made wines and olive oil for purchase. Bathrooms usually feature a shower, toilet, bidet, toiletries, hairdryers, and slippers. Housekeeping is provided daily. 

Hotel Fabbrica di San Martino's features rely heavily on the gorgeous surrounding and Italian villa charm. Breakfast is served each morning in the parlor room or outside on the porch. Guests pre-determine what time they'd like to eat and arrive to a freshly set individual table made up with linens, flowers, and antique china. The spread changes seasonally and offers cold Italian continental items like fresh pastries, bread, jams, yogurt, freshly squeezed juice, coffee, and ham sandwiches. For guests who want to learn more about the family's small winery, the owner will provide a tour and wine tastings (for a fee). Harvest season in September and October is an excellent time to see grapes turned to wine firsthand. There's a small gift shop for purchasing soaps, wines, and olive oil. The swimming pool provides a chic and relaxing place to soak in the sun and have a dip on hot days. Wi-Fi is free throughout. There's free parking on the lawn.