This cream-coloured 19th-century lodge stands at the foot of Monti Pisani, flanked by towering cypress trees and sweeping lawns. It’s only a short drive from historic Lucca and perfect for those who want a peaceful base for dipping in and out of the town’s grand piazzas, medieval walls and bustling markets.
Impeccably restored and expertly managed, Albergo Villa Marta has a tranquil and welcoming atmosphere, along with beautiful views over the valley. You enter up 2 flights of steps on either side of the front door and into a soothing reception area. Soft chenille sofas, exposed beams and original Tessiere floors are complemented by antique furniture, and light floods in through tall windows. Dotted around are 15 elegant rooms, some with soaring rafters and canopied beds, others with doors opening onto the garden. There’s also a comfortable sitting room, plus a restaurant where tasty Tuscan food is served up morning, day and evening. Outside, terraces brim with potted lemon trees, and an inviting pool sits beside a jasmine-covered pergola. It’s all highly conducive to relaxation, but should you fancy some activity then cooking classes, personalised tours and bikes can all be arranged.
Highs
- An excellent location in a lesser-known corner of Tuscany, near relatively untouristy Lucca. It's handy for Pisa and its airport, too
- A beautiful garden with a pool, loungers and wonderful views of wooded hills
- Outstanding service: smooth, friendly, professional
- Delicious breakfasts, lunches and dinners, all packed with fresh Tuscan ingredients (including the villa's own olive oil)
- Value for money compared to most Tuscan hotels of a similar standard
Lows
- If you prefer contemporary style, this place isn't for you
- The dining room lacks atmosphere, but you can eat outside during the warmer months
- The bathrooms in some rooms look a little dated, but they're well equipped and sparklingly clean
- The restaurant is closed on Sundays, but there are others nearby
Best time to go
Each season has its own delights. Summer is the busiest time, with the Lucca Jazz Festival in July and the Puccini Opera Festival in late July/early August. Autumn is wonderful for walking and gastronomy: the olive harvest is in November, while 13 September is Lucca's Festa di S. Croce, when the town is lit with candles for a costumed procession. Winter is a good time to explore all the historical sights without the usual crowds. Spring is verdant, with flowers in the valleys.
Our top tips
If you're coming as a couple, the opulently restored Chapel Suite would make a blissful escape. Complete with frescoed ceiling and gold clawfoot bathtub, it's set in the villa's private chapel on the edge of an olive grove.
Location
Albergo Villa Marta is situated in the countryside, 5km outside the pretty town of Lucca.
By Air:
Pisa airport is only 20km away and is served by lots of international flights - click on the links below for a list of airlines. Florence airport is also nearby, but served by fewer flights.
From the Airport
The hotel can arrange transfers, but most guests hire a car as part of a wider tour of Tuscany - see our car-rental recommendations. There is a large car park beside the hotel.
By Train:
Lucca and Pisa are both well connected to other parts of Italy. You can take a taxi from the stations to the hotel, or ask staff to arrange a transfer.
Detailed directions will be sent to you when you book through i-escape.com.
More on getting to Italy and getting around
Airports:
- Pisa Galileo Galilei 20.0 km PSA
- Florence Peretola 30.0 km FLR
Other:
- Beach 25.0 km
- Shops 5.0 km
- Restaurant 1.0 km
Our guests' ratings...
Based on 2 independent reviews from i-escape guests
We stayed here for a night and the staff are so welcoming. The food was very special. We also really enjoyed the pool which was a great way to cool down in the heat.
The hotel is in a nice quiet location and a lovely setting. Our room was OK but a but tired and perhaps in need of a refresh. Good swimming pool with plenty of sunbeds. We had a delicious dinner and the staff were all very helpful. We left early the next morning so didn't have chance to sample breakfast.
Feedback is only from guests who have booked and stayed through i-escape