Macranthum Carlino is a charming retreat in spectacular position with wonderful views of the Carrara hills and Apuan Mountains and within easy reach of the Cinque Terre and Positano.

Along a steadily narrowing road above Aulla, one winds up into the Bigliolo valley between the Apuan and Appenine Mountains until, reaching the end of the road and the private drive, one arrives at Macranthum Carlino. Perched on its own hill, completely private with spectacular views across to Carrara, this luxury villa is isolated in an idyll of olive groves and vineyards yet within easy reach of the Ligurian coast and the wonderful Cinque Terre. The house sits suspended between the Lunigiana mountain tops and valley below - at night, the only sign of life are the pinpricks of light, dotted around the hillsides across the valley.

Nestled in the Lunigiana hills, Macranthum Carlino is a sympathetically restored stone farmhouse with lots of character and charm. Tastefully and thoughtfully renovated, many original features have been preserved whilst soft fabrics and pretty furniture create a relaxing atmosphere and make Macranthum Carlino wonderfully hospitable in both winter and summer.

Upstairs are two bedrooms - the master bedroom has its own terrace - and below, the arched loggia has been enclosed to create the downstairs twin bedroom. Guests dine al fresco beneath the vine covered pergola at the front of the house beyond which are olives, lemon trees and vineyards from which the owner produces wine.

A path dotted with iris and lavender leads to the pool and a  sheltered terrace, where one can spend many hours relaxing in this utterley peaceful location. Not far away are the picturesque villages of the Cinque Terre and exclusive Portofino and Forte de Marmi - or the sophistication of Lucca - should one ever wish to leave this delightful spot and its insulated calm and tranquillity.