This was the first time we'd returned to Italy in more than two years, after living there for six. Our expectations were high, not least because Casa Scassatina is really quite close to where we lived.
I am delighted to say that these expectations were more than met in the most delightful and unequivocal way! The location is superb; high enough in the Lucchese hills to give you the peace and tranquility you desire from Tuscany whilst affording the most beautiful views, yet not too far from the roads that will take you into Lucca and onto the autostrade for Firenze and all of the main sites in this wonderful part of the country.
The apartment was even better than in pictures. The bedroom is very comfortable with a good (international) TV service. The bathroom is very large, as is the shower and the dressing area more than ample even for two people with lots to wear (and more bought!) for two weeks.
The living room and kitchen is just right. Perhaps one might like some more sitting space but when there is the gorgeous terrace who wants or needs to stay inside? The kitchen is very good and has everything you need for the meals you prepare in the apartment. It's also exceptionally well-stocked with everything that one can need even a splendid Nespresso coffee machine!
All the facilities are excellent; the air-conditioning, lighting, sufficient power-points for everything and there's good - and very easy - wifi. The washing-machine is a wonderful touch, making life even easier there.
The terrace is divine and we spent many hours there either dining or just chilling, reading or listening to music. I am not a swimmer but my wife adored the pool which is very well-laid out and private. It made for the easiest and most relaxing of days...
Gitta and Hardy are the most welcoming and charming of hosts and their presence is an added bonus. It is as if they have invited you into their home and want to make sure that you are as comfortable as possible, whilst never intruding on your privacy.
For the very reasonable sum we paid for two weeks I really don't believe we could have found anything better and I certainly researched much less attractive properties at appreciably higher rates.
All in all, a great find, a lovely place to stay and one that I simply cannot recommend high enough! And our dogs loved it too!!