In the Heart of the Appennines
A LIVING
WORK OF ART
BY ARTISTS, FOR THE COMMUNITY
Location
Nestled in a 14th-century hilltop village within a national nature reserve
Villa d'Arte Toscana is located in Nicciano, a small medieval village within the Garfagnana region of Northern Tuscany.
Garfagnana
This is the Tuscany of rolling mountains, clear river valleys, and deep history—a deliberate contrast to the bustling tourist crowds of Florence and Siena.
Here, you'll find true Italian village life, clean mountain air, and a tranquil setting that is perfect for artistic reflection.
The villa serves as your peaceful, authentic basecamp for exploring the natural beauty of the Apuan Alps and the region's hidden historical gems.
Garfagnana
Local Gems
The region is rich with history and nature waiting to be explored. These locations are all within a short, scenic drive from the villa.
2 km | 5 min
Piazza al Serchio
This regional village is a cultural center. Don't miss the vibrant Tuesday market—a great place to find local specialties like farro (spelt), fresh produce, and authentic local products.
19 km | 25 min
Castelnuovo Garfagnana
As the administrative and commercial hub of the area, this larger, historic borgo is perfect for banking, shopping, and exploring a picturesque town center that dates back to the Middle Ages.
30 km | 40 min
Barga
Located nearby, Barga is a historic hill town famous for its beauty and unique Scottish-Italian heritage. Its cathedral offers breathtaking panoramic views of the entire Serchio Valley.
0 km | 0 min
Apuan Alps
The mountains surrounding the villa offer endless hiking opportunities. Explore ancient caves, discover walking paths, and immerse yourself in the clear air and stunning protected landscapes.
4 km | 6 min
Lago di Gramolazzo
A stunning, clear-water lake nestled beneath the Apuan Alps. This spot is perfect for a relaxing drive, offering swimming, paddling, and beautiful walking trails.
Day Trips
These major destinations are easily accessible for a full day of sightseeing and can be visited without the need for an overnight stay, allowing you to return to the peace of the villa each evening.
Train: 1h | Car: 1h
Lucca
This charming walled city is a must-see. Rent a bike and cycle atop its massive Renaissance-era walls, or explore its cobbled streets and historic squares.
Train: 1.5h | Car: 1.5h
Cinque Terre
Discover the five iconic, colorful villages carved into the dramatic Ligurian cliffs. A world-famous destination perfect for hiking, photography, and coastal exploration.
Train: 3h | Car: 1.5h
Torre del Lago
Head to the coast for a change of pace. This is your closest option for a traditional seaside escape, offering beaches and a relaxing environment by the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Nearest Airports
For guests flying in, the trip to the villa is an excellent opportunity to start or end your Italian experience with a unique contrast: the bustling energy of the big cities set against the quiet peace of the Garfagnana. We recommend an overnight stay in these cities for sightseeing before your arrival.
Train: 2h | Car: 1.5h
Pisa
Ideal for those wanting to see the Leaning Tower and experience a historic city before transferring to the villa.
Train: 3h | Car: 2h
Florence
Perfect for those seeking the Renaissance art and culture of Tuscany’s capital before settling into your creative retreat.
Train: 4h | Car: 2.5h
Bologna
For a scenic route, we highly recommend traveling through Modena and Parma to experience the culinary and automotive heart of Italy before heading south to the villa.
Directions
Address: Strada Provinciale 19, 55035, Nicciano LU, Italy
Train Station: Piazza al Serchio (2km)
Stores, restaurants and bars in close proximity (1-2km)