Strolls and the historic villas of Lucca

Lucca is a paradise for sport freaks with many possibilities for strolls, jogging and bike tours. The 4,2 km long promenade on the 12m high town wall of Lucca is an ideal spot for sport activities, the century old trees protect you from the sun.

Furthermore, there is a 12km long, car free, path for strolls and bicycle tours along the river Serchio in the so called “Parco Fluviale”.

Further excursions lead to the historic villas of Lucca – Villa Reale in Marlia, Villa Torrigiani, Villa Mansi, Villa Grabau and Villa Oliva – these villas are within a radius of 6km.

Villa Reale

This medieval villa was renovated during different times – it owes its today’s neo-classic look to Elisa Bonaparte, sister of Napoleon; she was the regent of Lucca and bought the villa I 1806. The park was converted into an English garden with different gardens, an alcove with a fountain, a lake and a tiny outdoor theatre. Famous artists performed in this theatre for example the violinist Niccolò Paganini. The today’s owners have opened the villa and the park to the public – different events are held.

https://villarealedimarlia.it/

Villa Torrigiani

This villa lies in Camigliano and distinguishes itself from the other villas because of the colour of the main building. The villa and the park were built in the 1st half of the XVI century – the villa has still its original furnishings.

The park with its many flowers and trees is magnificent.

https://www.villeepalazzilucchesi.it

Villa Mansi

The villa was built around 1600 and it was one of the most important ruler houses in the aristocratic republic of Lucca, famous for the beauty of its gardens and the elegant architecture. Kings, aristocratic people and ambassadors of whole Europe lodged during their stay in Lucca at Villa Mansi. A visit to the big park with its waterplays, the horse stables and the gardener’s house is a charming change.

https://www.villeepalazzilucchesi.it

Villa Oliva

Villa Oliva was built at the end of the 14th century. During the 2nd world war the villa and park suffered major damages. The necessary big renovation works were done by today’s owners. A long cypress avenue leads to the monumental entrance of the main building The park is versatile and diversified designed.

https://www.villaoliva.it/

Villa Grabau

Villa Grabau is a typical ruler house of the Lucchesian aristocracy. A long path flanked by hedges conducts to the villa. The garden behind the villa is set on a higher level and divided by a sustain with mosaics and fountain with figures in the middle. The garden offers many sights

http:// www.villagrabau.it