I have lived in Germany and travelled Europe extensively, but my stay at Casa La Pace was by far the best experience I have had. If you want to live and learn the culture of Italy firsthand, I highly recommend an extended stay at the Casa La Pace. We felt as if we had stepped back in time with a view of the restored medieval city of Alto Ghivizzano on the hillside above and the lovely, energetic village of Ghivizzano below. We enjoyed viewing and listening to the beautiful small rippling river with its clear, pure water winding down the hillside. As we strolled down to the village each day, we were in awe of the beauty and peace of the countryside and of the joy and delight of its people. Each person we encountered seemed truly thrilled to have us visit their village and to share their pride in it. One need never leave Ghivizzano to experience all of the best that Italy has to offer. There is a bakery that will bake gluten free upon request, a local bar/café with homemade Gelato, delicious coffee, hot cocoa, and sandwiches. The local Pizzeria serves lip-smacking pizza, gluten free dishes upon request, and freshly cooked meats and veggies daily at the most affordable prices we found in Italy. There is also a fruit market, hairdresser, flower shop, gift shops, bank with ATM. It is amazing a village so small can offer so much.

You might not want to leave Casa La Pace once you arrive because we received the most incredible care and the highest quality of service one could hope for. Our rooms were spacious, clean, beautifully decorated and comfortable beyond compare, with views that took our breath away. We would wake to an incredible breakfast each morning with a full spread of Italian delights including freshly baked breads/pastries, eggs, local meats and cheeses, local teas, fresh coffee, local honey and much more. Rusty and Pepper use organic products and support the “slow movement” which means most of what they serve comes from farmers or merchants in the village or within a 20 mile radius. I eat gluten free and was overjoyed with the variety of foods and baked goods provided for me each day. Yum!!

If you should decide to venture out to visit some of the larger cities you can easily do so each day and be back to Ghivizzano in time for a good night’s rest. Do not pass up the opportunity to take the tours provided by Pepper and Rusty. Each tour was packed with an incredible amount of information rich with stories of the culture, architectural design, modern life and lives of the people who have occupied it. In every city, Rusty and Pepper know the best places to stop for meals and coffee along the way. We took the Lucca and Florence tour and felt like royalty as we were guided along with our own private tour guide. Rusty and Pepper delight in sharing the country they love so much, and their love for it is contagious. I will be back. Thank you Pepper and Rusty!

My husband and I recently went to Italy. My second trip and his first. We had heard about Casa La Pace- Rusty and Pepper- from a friend who had recently stayed and loved it. We started our trip in Florence, then to Rome, and finally ended in Ghivizzano. Much to our surprise the best part of our entire trip was staying at Casa La Pace. Rusty and Pepper really make you feel at home immediately. Its incredible to be in another country and feel so comfortable and like you've been friends your whole life. Casa La Pace was the best place we stayed by far, not just because of the beautiful view, comfortable rooms, or the real Italian breakfasts every morning. Rusty and Pepper really seal the deal. They are so kind, helpful, and fun! We were looking for flights to come back before we even left. We will always stay at Casa La Pace every trip to Italy, and are looking forward to bringing friends and family back with us!

We had a fantastic time. The service and friendliness were phenomenal. Rusty and Pepper went above and beyond. They helped with information and suggestions for our stay and were fantastic guides when we needed assistance. Can't wait to return.

What can I say? It was our 20th anniversary trip and I had high expectations. But, Rusty and Pepper with their Casa La Pace surpassed every expectation. Not only were they superb hosts, but they also shared tips to help us navigate Italian travel, food, culture and life. Plus, because of Pepper and Rusty’s relationships in the village and surrounding area, we were able to see places and to interact in close and personal ways with the people.

As for Casa La Pace itself, you can tell that it was lovingly restored with all the modern conveniences blending beautifully with an older Italian home.

I had never met them before this trip, but after two weeks at Casa La Pace, we felt like we had gained new family. My husband and I travel frequently, and have returned more than once to only one other location. However, we are already anticipating our next trip to Casa La Pace in Ghivizzano, Italy!