Is the house suitable for all ages?
We have had families with children of all ages from babies to teenagers at the house and all have enjoyed it. Our children (now 12 and 16) have experienced the house in all seasons throughout their lives and our youngest was born in Barga. We have done what we can to ensure a safe environment for children. There are stone/terracotta steps both inside and out and varying levels which means you do have to keep an eye on smaller children. The pool is separated from the house by a series of stone steps and a lockable gate and our own policy is to never allow children down by the pool without a supervising adult. There are games, family DVDS and toys for younger children at the house. For babies we have a travel cot, high chair and there is a baby gate on the stairs down to the lower level bathroom. Older people or those with mobility issues may find it harder to negotiate some of the steps both inside and out so if you are unsure, please contact us to discuss suitability.
What's the weather like?
In July and August temperatures are normally hot (av. 30 degrees) June and September are slightly cooler. May and October can be unpredictable but are normally much warmer than the UK. There are occasional summer storms which pass quickly. Due to the altitude (800m), it is usually cooler at the house than in the valley and for this reason there is no need for air conditioning. We are also mosquito-free.
Is the house hard to reach?
You will need a car as we are in a secluded part of the Garfagnana and Barga, the nearest town, is a 20 minute drive away. The road from Barga is a winding, mountain road which is narrow in places and the access road to the house is quite steep at the top. Most guests to the house soon get used to the drive from Barga, even if they are not so confident on country roads. All agree, however, that the astonishing panoramic views and feeling of privacy are well worth the climb and we have only had a handful of people over the last ten years who have been apprehensive about driving generally. However, if you are of a nervous disposition when it comes to heights or driving on country roads abroad, this may not be the option for you.
Are all the beds suitable for adults?
The bunk room and the twin bedroom have full size (6ft) single mattresses. The twin room beds are sleigh beds and slightly wider than normal singles so perfect for adults. The bunk room is smaller and definitely done out as a kids room. As to whether grown adults will be happy sleeping in bunk bed is up to you to decide!
Is the house solely ours for the duration of our stay? Is it close to any other buildings or a road?
The house and pool are exclusively yours for your stay. The house itself is completely secluded. Access is via a 400m drive. This is a public rambling road but is only used occasionally by walkers and the local farmer to take his sheep up and down the mountain. The nearest neighbour is the farmer who lives half a mile away. The house is not overlooked by any buildings and there are clear, unspoilt spectacular views from every aspect at the property.
Can we order a taxi?
Yes. A friendly, English-speaking taxi service is available to and from Barga and beyond.
Where are the nearest shops?
Barga is the nearest port of call for everything you need. There are many wonderful restaurants and delicatessens in both the old and new parts of town. Montate is in a secluded, rural location so there are no shops or amenities close by, although Renaio - the small hamlet about 3km away, has a restaurant which is popular with guests. There is an extensive guide to all local amenities at the house.
Can we rent the house for a shorter period or at other times of the year?
Outside of high season we are happy to rent the house for shorter periods of time (minimum 3 nights). During July and August we only take weekly bookings from Saturday to Saturday.
Is there a garden?
There are grassy areas around the house both in front and to the rear of the house. The front garden is big enough for young children to play in and if you need more room for badminton or to kick a ball around, there is room at the back of the house which also provides ample space for parking. The road to the house is a local walking path and great for exploring and we also own an area of land down below the property where there is an old barn, great for exploring and for picnics. Older children will be quite safe exploring all the paths that lead to and from the house. Younger ones will need to be accompanied due to the terrain.
There seem to be two buildings on the property - what is the other building?
There is a smaller building in front of the house which you can see in pictures of the deck and barbecue area. This is open for you to use as an additional living /games area. It does not obscure any views from the main house. It was the old chestnut roasting shed and has now been converted into additional guest space on two levels. The lower level has comfortable sofas and is a lovely reading and games room area. The level above is a music area with an electric piano. The relationship between the two buildings is clearer on our 'bird's eye view' photographs taken from the air of the property.
What are the pool dimensions and is it open all year? Is is gated?
The pool is 8x4 m and has a depth of 140cm throughout. It is on a lower level from the house, separated by stone steps and a lockable gate. There are metal steps to access the water. It is open between April and the end of October, as we have a heater which we use at the beginning and end of the season to keep the temperature pleasant during cooler periods.
What activities are there locally?
We have left suggestions at the house of local activities and amenities in addition to guidebooks and brochures. Our favourite activities include ice creams in Barga, riding round the walls of Lucca on bikes, a day trip to the beach which we often combine with a trip to Lucca as it's on the way, a visit to Pisa or Florence and, most importantly, relaxing at the house, swimming and soaking up the fabulous views. There are local hikes, market days in all of the local towns, mountain biking and horse riding. Some guests have pursued local courses including cookery and painting. There are also many festivals throughout the year, including Barga's renowned annual jazz and opera festivals. Barga has plenty of great bars and restaurants and you can order a taxi back to the house if you'd prefer to enjoy the vino!