Before we dive into the details, could you briefly introduce yourself and your family members?

My name is Riccardo Barsottelli. Together with friends, not family, I manage Locanda al Colle Luxury Guesthouse, a luxury guesthouse.

We would like to share a bit about you as a person with our clients. Would you like to tell us more about yourself?

I love going into the mountains for hiking and skiing, but I am also passionate about art and culture. You can find me just as easily in museums, art galleries, and theaters as on mountaintops.

When and how did the property come into your life, and what motivated you to make it a part of your life?

The smaller part of the property originally belonged to a friend who has since passed away. We started a Bed & Breakfast there in 2000. In 2010, we transformed it into a luxury guesthouse. Although the house was inspected together with my friend before the first renovation, the original project was not fully developed. My suggestions turned out to be very useful in the transformation into a B&B.

Can you tell us more about the process of renovating and decorating your property?

After purchasing the larger adjacent property in 2006, we spent two years planning and another two years on construction, renovation, and landscaping before we could open. Unfortunately, my friend was unable to see the final result. The project was led by Marco Innocenti, an architect I have known since school. He is extremely precise and understands my vision, allowing us to continuously make adjustments and improvements without ever getting tired.

What makes your property truly special to you? Are there any special memories or moments that make it particularly dear to you?

I have known this house since my twenties and am originally from this region. After living and working abroad for 20 years, it felt like coming home. The house has always been an open space for friends from around the world. The only difference now is that guests pay, but the hospitality and atmosphere remain unchanged.

How would you describe the atmosphere and interior of your property?

The atmosphere is relaxed, refined, and eclectic, with a mix of influences that together create a unique ambiance.

What part of your property do you find the most beautiful, and why?

The panoramic terrace overlooking the Gulf of Poets and Portovenere is the most beautiful for me. It holds many memories of parties and evenings with friends. On a clear winter day, you can even see Corsica in the distance.

What makes the location of your property unique and special?

Our location offers stunning views, as we are high enough above sea level. At the same time, we are close to ancient towns like Pietrasanta and Lucca, and historical sites. We are just 30 minutes from Pisa Airport and 15 minutes from the sandy beach. Mountains, hills, sea, and lakes are all easily accessible, and the marble quarries of Carrara, Cinque Terre, Portovenere, and Florence are all within an hour or a little more by car.

Are there any sustainable or eco-friendly practices associated with your property that you are proud of?

We use solar panels to heat the pool and the water in the bathrooms. Additionally, we recycle waste, collect rainwater for irrigation, use water-saving taps, and reuse flooring and wooden beams. All these sustainable practices have been implemented since the opening.

What motivated or inspired you to rent your property to guests?

After welcoming friends to my homes abroad and organizing their days and activities, it felt like a natural step to make this my profession. Additionally, I wanted to achieve a better work-life balance. We are open from April to October, and the winters are reserved for our vacations and recharging energy.

Can you give a vivid description of the overall experience that guests can expect during their stay at your property?

With us, it’s actually quite simple: it feels like you are visiting friends, where you are fully taken care of and have no household tasks to do. And of course, you eat and drink well, as is proper when you are in Italy. Dinners are served every evening, except wednesday when there's cooking class and on sundays, because thats when we can prepare a cold cuts platter with cheese and salad.

In what ways does your property stand out from others? What unique features make it an unforgettable experience for guests?

The feeling of home and the relaxed atmosphere make a holiday with us very calming. We avoid everything that resembles a hotel, such as a reception, elevators, TVs in the rooms, or uniforms with jackets and name badges. We want our guests to truly feel at home.

What is the nicest compliment you have received from a guest?

The best compliment we have received is: "It feels like home."

Do you have any recommendations for guests to make the most of their vacation? Your valuable tips will be featured on your property page!

Explore the historic centers nearby after 5:00 PM, take a refreshing dip in the waterfall and pool of Candalla, join an artist-led tour of the marble quarries above Carrara, and if you love shopping, don’t miss the Wednesday morning market in Forte dei Marmi. End your day with a relaxing coffee or spritz at Bar Principe, which has recently been beautifully renovated!