5 Days in Tuscany

Ian and Jo have just returned from his annual trip to Metato, high in the hills above the Versilia coastline.

Here are a few of their highlights

1 – Dinner at La Locanda. Twice a week the owner of the accommodation in Metato hosts a dinner for his guests. We were lucky enough to have a balmy September evening so were able to dine out on the terrace. The view is spectacular and the five course meal equally divine.

2 – An afternoon stroll round Lucca. A short drive from Metato this medieval town is perfect for a leisurely stroll, coffee stop and a bite to eat  – we went to Osteria del Bastian Contrario. Some fine porcini mushrooms. A quick dip in the sea on our way back to the delights of Metato.

3 – A real find this trip was the Chiosco nel Bosco – a mountain hut that is a great local restaurant. Down the valley and up the other side valley to the small village of Casoli. Stunning views from this chalet style eatery. Superbly run by locals – indeed our waiter said the porcini mushrooms were picked him that morning! Clearly popular as the terrace was fully booked, nest time we will ring ahead to ensure prime spot.

4 – Trekking through the woods – for our Sunday lunch we headed into the woods, winding down the steeps footpaths through the woods down to the spectacular Osteria Candalla – a unique location with a magical garden. Pre lunch cocktails in the banana bar by the small stream. Then a delicious lunch. The only hitch was we had to walk home. Whilst only about 600m in a straight line this was a climb and a half. The temperatures were heading towards 30 degrees and we arrived puffing and panting back to home.

As maybe you can tell much of our time was spent eating. We left with a belly full of Tuscan delights and thoroughly relaxed. We stayed at Il Fienile this year which is a glorious small bolt hole for two people. It has a great hot tub which we made full use of.

Thanks to Stefano for his great company and to Letizia for looking after us. Alla prossima!!