We spent nearly two weeks at La Dioma in October of 2019 and it was just what we were looking for. We wanted a quiet place to escape and restore during a time of sabbatical from work and other commitments and this certainly was an excellent choice.
While the drive from Bagni Di Lucca is intimidating, after several days we were navigating it (nearly) like the locals. DO NOT attempt a large vehicle as there are several very tight passages in Guzzano just before you arrive at the house and take caution on the many curves on the road approaching. Take your time,,,the locals may tailgate, honk and be frustrated with you but in the end what matters is arriving safely.
The views from the home are of course stunning and the seclusion was welcomed as the neighboring homes are a bit of a distance away. The traditional stone, tile and timber home was beautiful, clean and well cared for inside and out. Housekeeping came mid-stay for new linens and a cleanup which was welcomed. It was too cold to use the pool but we would have felt very private had we done so. The home itself is furnished well and although there were only two of us it would certainly host a large group well.
Dining at Bar Santini in San Cassiano was delightful and we had a few informal meals in BDL but we prepared most of our meals in the well equipped kitchen at home. Definitely take advantage of the markets in Fornoli and Bagni Di Lucca on the given days to collect your produce and other items. The several supermarkets in town had most all we needed. Prices at both restaurants and grocers were surprisingly reasonable with our nicest four course meals costing €30-40 for the two of us! We had a cook come in to prepare a meal one evening which was fantastic and would have fed six people and the fee was very reasonable!
There are too many cute little towns and restaurants to list but one of our favorites was the cliff city of Montefegatesi. Make sure to walk to the top to see the view from the Dante memorial as it is breathtaking!
Most of the locals do not speak English but with our little bit of Italian, Google Translater and a good deal of sign language and gesturing we made out well and it added to the adventure!
If your only experience in Italy has been Rome, Florence, Pisa, etc, we can highly recommend visiting this most beautiful part of this very special country and can highly recommend La Dioma!
