The old country house is built of thick stone walls (cool in summer, warm in winter) and is completely refurbished to a high standard. It is at the end of the village near woods and close to a stream. It is in a place where time seems to have passed by, the locals still make there own bread (there is a fully functional wood burning bread/pizza oven at the rear) pasta, sauces, home made wine etc Many that stay use it as a base to tour Italy. As far North as the Alps, South Florence, West The Italian Riviera, East Venice... etc ,are all within 2/3 hrs. drive or train journey. PATRICK SYMMES.( travel writer and auther, stayed in our house) wrote an article in TRAVELER MAGAZINE. here is the link http://www.concierge.com/cntraveler/articles/501350 THE VILLAGE Castelletto is a small village near Vernasca and Lugagnano (10 mins drive) for small shops etc. It is on the Via Francigena, one of the old pilgrim routes, that where used by people from all over Europe, to get to Rome. The whole area is full of places of interests. Medieval castles, Castellarquato and Vigoleno, where opera concerts are held, just to name a few of many. There are many market towns, 1 for every day of the week. There is an abundance of things to do and see. Clients have remarked how beautiful and peaceful, and how friendly the locals were. So come and see for yourself. PS.WE ALSO ARRANGE CATERING FOR WEDDINGS AND ORGANIZE COOKING CLASSES THE AREA. Emilia is a dynamic area, but is also famous for its great FOOD ,the products that have come from this area are just to many to mention, besides it all together another matter trying it here. CULTURE ,many concerts and operas are held in the medieval castles. Emelia is also great for GOLF, in fact there are 5 in this area, and another 15 in the region. Its also famous for its cars and bikes, the FERRARI museum is in Modena, LAMBORGHINI, and the DUCATI BIKES in Bologna. Also vintage car exhibitions, and races are programed.