Villa Balena Italy

Evoking a historic element through its opulent features and majestic architecture, Villa Balena offers a beautiful residence for guests looking to forget the stress and strains of everyday life. The imposing house is nestled in central Italy’s Tuscan coastline in the very heart of Viareggio – a resort city with a sandy beach, summer water sports and charismatic promenade.
The spectacular property features nine bedrooms, two of which are suites, and nine en-suite bathrooms to offer the utmost comfort and privacy. The rooms are decorated with ornate wallpapers and four-poster beds and natural light floods in through the large windows or balcony doors. On a sunny afternoon, reflections from the pool dance on the floor! Contemporary artwork and careful renovations add a chic freshness – an amalgamation of features those with great taste will appreciate.
Step outside to the expansive gardens filled with aromatic rose bushes and majestic trees framing the modern pool. Featuring Roman steps for effortless access and multicolour neon lights, this stunning retreat is designed for having guests over for long garden soirées. On quiet days, have your breakfast, lunch and dinner al-fresco on the veranda or find a spot away from the rest of the group on one of the lovely balconies.
When it’s time to explore, you’ll be pleased to find that sandy beaches, local cuisine and the typical amenities of a bustling seaside city are waiting for you just beyond the front door. Make sure to visit at the end of summer when the city hosts its acclaimed carnival – it also has a complex which houses the Carnival Museum, with small reproductions of the city’s allegorical floats. On warm days, cool off in the waves at one of the nearby beaches and don’t forget to reserve a spot in one of the many seafood restaurants framing the promenade to enjoy the day’s freshest catch.
Set amongst the Tuscan wine and olive groves, the city of Lucca is a 30-minute drive away. With a beautifully preserved historic centre that includes palazzos, squares, Romanesque churches and handsome fortifications, it’s perfect for wholesome strolls finished with a hearty meal of fresh pasta and wine.
Pisa, with its famous leaning tower, is also located only a 30-minute drive away, helping you tick this architectural wonder off your bucket list.
Lovers of art and Renaissance architecture will love exploring the true gem of the Tuscan crown, Florence. Easy to reach in less than 2 hours by car, it’s filled with ancient buildings, prestigious statues such as Michelangelo’s David, as well as museums and a bustling dining scene.The Tuscan landscape is considered among the best that Italy has to offer. With its splendid hills, elegant architecture, olive trees and sun-kissed vineyards, the views at every turn are enchanting and awash with seasonally changing colours. Visitors to Tuscany come for many reasons – some in search of fine art and others to explore the extraordinary countryside, while wine buffs descend to enjoy the simple but wonderful cuisine and wine.
This dazzling holiday house is right by the brilliant beaches of Versilia, in the northwestern province of Lucca. The coastline is known for its long white beaches, pine forests and the Apuan Alps which loom dramatically in the background. Versilia and neighbouring Viareggio are ideal places for a sun-soaked getaway, with lots of restaurants and shops for stocking up on cocktail ingredients and other holiday essentials to make your stay more comfortable.
Right at the border of Liguria and Tuscany, you can find the city of La Spezia, the gateway to the Cinque Terre National Park. Its 1800s maritime arsenal and the Technical Naval Museum with ship models attest to the city’s seafaring heritage. Once you reach the hilltop St. George’s Castle, you can see many artefacts from the Middle Ages in its archaeological museum and enjoy cinematic views of the verdant backcountry and villages below.
Originally an Etruscan village, 13th-century walls still encircle the enchanting hilltop town of San Gimignano and its skyline brims with mediaeval towers, including the stone Torre Grossa. The best way to enjoy the old-world atmosphere is to walk around its charming Piazza della Cisterna on a sunny day.
In Livorno – a port city on the west coast of Tuscany – you can stroll around the seafront and admire majestic cruise ships in the modern harbour. After exploring its canal-laced Venezia Nuova quarter and seeing many Renaissance fortifications, head to the city’s main gathering place – Terrazza Mascagni. The busy promenade with checkerboard paving is a fantastic spot for witnessing a Mediterranean sunset at one of the many terraced bars.At Excellence Luxury Villas we pride ourselves on going that little bit further for our guests. From private chefs to babysitters we can help you arrange those little extras that make it a truly memorable holiday. Simply fill in the concierge request from below or contact Excellence Luxury Villas Concierge Team who will be happy to help. We can typically help you arrange any of the following:
– Maid service/extra cleaning – Private chef/cook/catering- Welcome hamper/pre-stocked fridge- Local day-trips or tours- Airport pick-up/drop-off- Babysitting / childcare services- Bike hire
Extra services included at this property: 
– Restaurant Discount (20%)- Admittance to Versilia Lido
Extra services available at this property: 
– Chef- Catering (lunch and dinner in the villa)- Breakfast – Cooking classes- Bartender training/Masterclass- Wine tasting- Babysitting- Wellness treatments – Hairdresser- Live music and DJ set
Please note that all extras are subject to availability and must be requested in advance of the holiday (prices on request). Due to some rural/remote locations, not all services will be available at all properties. However, we will always do our best to fulfil your requests!