My husband and I stayed at Villa Rosalena for two nights in August. We parked on the street just over the bridge and it was a short walk to the Villa. When we arrived Rod greeted us immediately and offered to help with our bags. Be warned that there are many steps to the Villa, which may be challenging for some.

Rod gave us the key to our room and then met us on the loggia to give us some information about our stay. He also gave us an excellent recommendation for dinner that night (within walking distance) and brought us some drinks and munchies (delicious olives, tomatoes, cheese and basil). Caroline also came up to meet us. They are both genuinely very concerned about their guests and very personable and warm. Both days breakfast was wonderful - it included French toast (eggie bread), fried mushrooms, berry pancakes, wonderful homemade jams, yogourt, delicious fruit and my favourite - fresh figs from the tree outside. I thought it was a nice touch to include something warm with breakfast. There were mini biscotti in a cookie jar for the guests as a little snack during the day. They were absolutely delicious and I ate at least five a day (Yes Rod it was me!). Rod gave us a variety of maps, and brochures for the surrounding areas (Bagni di Lucca, Lucca, and Barga), he also gave us some recommendations of things we should see in the area and practical tips such as parking spots. We went to the tourist information in Bagni di Lucca (which is the building of the old casino). The woman there was very friendly and knowledgeable about Bagni di Lucca and gave us a small guided tour of the Casino. This is very beautiful and should not be missed as it has been extensively renovated to look as it did during the nineteenth century. She also recommended that we see the hot springs at the spa up the hill. When we went we were surprised that the staff gave us a mini tour without even being a paying guest.

We stayed in a room that had a beautiful view on two sides. The room had a large bed that was very comfortable with soft linens and nice pillows. The area for the guests is very private and the hosts are sure to give guests the space they want when on vacation, but always happen to be there when you need them. During our stay there was a couple with a baby on an extended stay, yet we were not disturbed at all.

Rod and Caroline were excellent hosts and the extra touches made it a very memorable stay. I wish that we could have stayed longer as the bed and breakfast was superb and the town is very lovely. I would not hesitate to recommend this to anyone!

P.S. – Be sure to ask them about the 11 Euro supper in Bagni di Lucca !

What do you want from a Bed &Breakfast? Well, Villa Rosalena covered the essentials perfectly but was so much more! In terms of 'Beds', ours was large, very comfortable with egyptian cotton bedding. Even better though, were the stunning views of the river valley and surrounding mountains which could be enjoyed through the french windows without leaving the comfort of your bed! The 'Breakfast' part has been equally impressively covered at Villa Rosalena - we stayed for 5 nights and didn't have the same breakfast twice (my personal favourite was the wild strawberry pancakes with mascarpone!)

Aside from the essentials then, Villa Rosalena manages so much more. The owners have brilliantly combined modern comfort and style with traditional Tuscan touches. B&Bs can feel a bit oppressive, but not so here. The guest rooms are on a completely separate floor (with a separate entrance) from the owners' accommodation so that you never feel that you are on top of each other. The spacious terraces also provide plenty of space for a quiet read with a glass of wine! Having said that, it is useful to know that the owners are easily available (and very knowledgable!) if you do have any queries.

We would recommend a stay at Villa Rosalena without hesitation and will definitely be going back!

The first thing you notice when arriving at Villa Rosalena, having received a warm welcome from owners Rod and Caroline, are the spectacular views of Bagni di Lucca. Our family suite consisted of a twin room and an en suite double room. The bedrooms and bathroom are finished to a very high standard. We also had use of a comfortable lounge area with television, DVD player and a fridge containing local wine and beer, and the al fresco area called the loggia.

The breakfasts can only be described as varied and delicious. The owners are also prepared to provide, at unbelievably good value, lunch on the terrace and outstanding evening meals in the unforgettable setting of the loggia. The quality and choice of food was exceptional including a wide range of vegetarian dishes.

This was our first visit to Tuscany and we will definitely be returning. The close proximity of Bagni di Lucca to the airport at Pisa allows for any length of visit including a long weekend. We can only say that the hospitality and standard of service we received from Rod and Caroline was exceptional.

We spent a week at this delightful B & B which we came across on the internet. It's run by a fab British couple called Rod & Caroline. Caroline cooks the best breakfasts ever & will also serve you up with delicious evening meals, whilst Rod waits on table & pours the wine! Guests are invited to eat al fresco or on the loggia, both with fabulous views. We felt that one of the many lovely things about our stay was the warm hospitality and the couples thoughtfullness. They have made a great job of renovating the house into not just a stylish place to rest your head but a real retreat, after a long day of soaking up the sun and culture of this wonderful part of Tuscany. We are soo looking forward to returning & give Villa Rosalena our highest recommendation. This place is not to be missed.