VILLA CONTRONI
Lucca, Tuscany
Sleeps 22 in luxury in 11 bedrooms, 11 bathrooms, air-conditioned, pool, fountains, chapel, staff
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Set on a stunning estate of terraced olive groves, Villa Controni was built as the summer residence for the Pfanner family of Lucca, who used the estate to cultivate rare flowers. It later became the home of Felice Matteucci, inventor of the internal combustion engine.

Only 10 minutes' drive from the walled city of Lucca, Villa Controni is an exclusive base from which to explore all of Tuscany. Florence is just an hour away, and Pisa just 20 minutes. Explore the scenic roads of the Chianti Valley, or visit towns like Siena and San Gimignano. Hike the cliffside villages of the Cinqueterre (1.5 hours), swim in the seas of the Versilian Riviera (30 minutes), or relax in a nearby thermal spa. Tennis and and golf are available nearby.

Villa Controni is a magnificent Renaissance villa with its own chapel, castle ruins, and splendid fountains. The property was completely renovated in 2005.

The pillars and arches of the entrance hall lead up the staircase, where all bedroom windows frame panoramic views across Lucca and the surrounding countryside. Villa Controni has eleven spacious bedrooms with en suite bathrooms. From the angel-frescoed ceiling of the lounge and grand music room to the arched loggia with views across the camellia garden, all of the rooms have been restored according to tradition and furnished to the highest level of style and comfort.

Outdoors there is a swimming pool, BBQ, a small chapel, and a fishpond. The villa comes with maid and chef service to prepare a continental breakfast buffet and either lunch or dinner six days per week.

Villa Controni has central heat for cooler months and air conditioning for summer comfort, as well as creature comforts like a central music system, satellite TV, computer facilities with internet access.