Restored Tuscan manor
The eighteenth-century country estate holds just fourteen suites across three hundred and sixty acres of private woods and olive groves.
What it’s good at
Notable
An eighteenth-century Balbani family manor set beside an 1860 frescoed private chapel.
Listed
Estate-pressed olive oil and seasonal Tuscan dishes served on panoramic dining terraces.
What they say
Michelin Selected
Michelin
The 18th-century farmhouse (think gentleman-farmer) is set on 360 acres of picturesque woodland that beg to be explored — not least because from the top of the hill, you get panoramic views.
Tucked away
A place apart: the property is the destination.
The Balbano hills sit between Lucca and the Tyrrhenian coast, with the quiet town of Torre del Lago a short drive away.
The rooms
Suites occupy the villa corners for sunlight on two sides, furnished with handmade four-poster beds and local quarry marble.
The pool
Bring a swimsuit.
The infinity pool sits on a stone terrace, looking out across the valley and surrounding olive groves.
At the table
Shaded tables on the stone terrace serve handmade pasta and regional game with views across the rolling hills.
How it began
Scottish architect Doug Reid restored the manor in 2009, reducing the interior plan to create expansive corner suites.
Lucca
More like this
Albergo Villa Marta
“Restored hunting lodge”
Palazzo Dipinto
“Restored medieval palazzo”
The app
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.