CASA CERU is a beautiful, restored property that dates back to the late 1600's; in the hamlet of Cardoso perched above the village of the same name. The name Cardoso, seems to be derived from that of the flower called "Thistle of St. Peregrine" or "Carlina" with spiny leaves, one of the varieties of flowers protected characteristics of our mountains. The terraced house, adjacent and once part of the summer villa belonging to that of the notable Ceru Toti Family (Nicolao Ceru, uncle and benefactor to Giacomo Puccini) sits blissfully in a tranquil position 400 meters above sea level with sweeping views of the Apennine mountain range and dense forests of chestnut trees. Cardoso, a small medieval village perched on the side of a mountain overlooking the Garfagnana valley to the East and the Serchio valley to the south. The village is dominated by the bell tower, an ancient watchtower, which dates back to the thirteenth century . The historic center of Cardoso offers a dreamlike landscape that winds through narrow streets, small terraces and arcades. The facades of the houses are framed in gray stone and flowers. The village church is dedicated to St. Genesio Martyr and it's architecture is attributable to sec. XIII. It was remodeled in the Baroque period. Among the works of art , the Tabernacle attributed to the school of Matthew Civitali. The Garfagnana is a very attractive and still unspoilt region of Tuscany with many pretty villages, Romanesque churches and amazing hiking trails.
THE VILLAGE
The house has been lovingly restored (by it's current owners) to it's gentrified roots (using antique materials, hand-made cotto floors and beamed ceilings) whilst offering the utmost tranquility for those seeking total relaxation in one of two terraces or simply lounging in the private garden overwhelmed by the surrounding trees and flowers. This garden surrounded by modern, comfortable outdoor furniture and a comfortable terrace to eat, read or relax with lanterns to light up the evenings. The interior of Casa Ceru has been spectacularly refurbished with a mix of eclectic taste, fine antiques, local arts and crafts and a dash of modernity. The overall design combines Old World Tuscany with modern luxuries and sublime comfort.
As you enter Casa Ceru, you're immediately taken with it's presence, leading you to the living room with 15' high ceilings and a fireplace. The room, beautifully appointed with a modern sofa, antiques and with direct access to the terrace, one can't help be enveloped by it's surrounding beauty. Moving on to the fully-equipped kitchen is as welcoming with a large prep area, local stone (Bianco Carrara & Pietra Serena) countertops, 6 burner oven and a fireplace. One can't help but want to master the art of Tuscan cooking. The master bedroom is a tranquil retreat that evokes a peaceful nights sleep with mountain and valley views. The furniture (mostly bespoke) and decor sets the tone; warm, soothing and most welcoming. The second bedroom with it's two custom, locally fabricated iron beds are perfect for additional sleeping. The bathroom is light filled with the ultra modern amenities such as a rain showerhead (shower enclosure), wall mounted toilet/bidet and surface mounted sink that sits on a bespoke stone console. Rounding out the property is a library with a fireplace, SAT TV, books, and access to the second terrace with additional seating for the perfect reading nook with splendid views of the mountains. If one wishes to stay indoors on a rainy day, the large windows (original) offer the same views and engross the library and living room with the Tuscan light--even on a cloudy day, the light filled rooms are breathtaking.
Casa Ceru is perfectly situated as a base for exploring the areas of the Garfagnana, (a 30 minute drive), the beautiful walled city of Lucca (a 40 minute drive) and it's environs. Whether cycling or walking the massive ramparts, listening to a Puccini opera recital or simply, just sit and enjoy a cappuccino in one of lively piazzas. Situated in the north region of Tuscany, la Garfagnana is a valley very close to some of the most historical centres such as Lucca, Pisa and Florence. The Versilian coast (45 minute drive) has some of the best beaches along the Tuscan coast. Not to be missed: Forte dei Marmi and Pietrasanta (long enjoyed it's patronage to artists, including Michaelangelo). Further afield but definitely worth a day trip is Cinque Terre - 2 hour drive.
BEYOND CARDOSO
The Garfagnana has many treasures such as walking & hiking trails (chestnuts, porcini mushrooms, black and white truffles, and honey), the fort of Castelnuovo affording a very rustic and fabulous cuisine (proud to be part of the Slow Food Movement), Grotta del Vento (Cave of the Wind), the fascinating and only canyon in Tuscany: the Orrido of Botri, Barga (published in the "Most Beautiful Villages of Italy"), the spa town (with thermal baths) of Bagni di Lucca. The environs of Lucca has some of the most beautiful public villas and gardens to explore: Villa Reale, Villa Mansi, Villa Torrigiani, Villa Grabau, the Garzoni Villa in Collodi, Palazzo Pfanner (in Lucca center) and last but not least, Villa Oliva.