Little Gem No. 119 | Mediterranean Villa

For more than 30 years, this family-run retreat has been part of the fabric of the Versilia coast. Its story began in 1984, when Adua Minari, originally from Emilia, decided to turn a long-held culinary dream into something tangible, with the support of her husband, Luigi Tabarani.

What began as a family project has grown quietly over the decades, while remaining firmly rooted in the people who started it. Today, the property is still in the hands of the family, with Ilda and Riccardo carrying the story forward.

Set in the hills above Forte dei Marmi, the house feels distinctly connected to its surroundings: the sea below, the Apuan Alps beyond, olive trees and citrus in the garden. There is a strong sense of continuity here, but it is not nostalgic. The interiors bring together Italian design, vintage pieces and contemporary comfort, creating a place that feels personal.

The hospitality is equally intimate. Breakfast is homemade, with cakes, biscuits, jams and focaccia prepared in the kitchen each morning, while traditional Tuscan dishes can be prepared for dinner on request. It is this combination of family history, food, design and genuinely attentive hospitality that gives the house its character.

The space

The property unfolds around a Mediterranean garden, with terraces and quiet corners designed for lingering and slow mornings.

At its heart is a (heated) swimming pool surrounded by sun loungers and umbrellas, while a panoramic terrace looks out towards the Versilia coast. In the late afternoon, this is the place for an aperitivo as the light begins to soften over the sea.

There is also a small sauna tucked into the garden and a shaded outdoor fitness area. Inside, two generous living rooms provide space to read, relax by the fireplace or simply retreat from the heat of the day. An open kitchen and breakfast room form the social centre of the house.

The interiors are deliberately understated: soft beige and grey tones, natural textures and carefully chosen pieces of Italian and international design, including vintage furniture from the 1950s and 1960s. Nothing feels overly coordinated; the rooms have the character of a much-loved family home.

The bedrooms

The suites are individually designed rather than treated as identical hotel rooms, each combining Italian design pieces with a softer, residential feel.

There are Deluxe, Garden, Superior, Junior and Family suites, with details ranging from fresh flowers to Diptyque bathroom products. Every room has its own character, and all offer views towards the sea.

The attention is in the small things: considered lighting, individual furnishings, fresh flowers and the feeling that someone has actually thought about how you might want to spend your time here.

Location

The house sits in the hills just above Forte dei Marmi, with the Versilia coastline stretching out below and the Apuan Alps rising behind it.

It is an ideal base for exploring this particularly beautiful corner of Tuscany: the beaches and restaurants of Forte dei Marmi are close by, while Pietrasanta, known for its galleries, sculpture and thriving contemporary art scene, is within easy reach. The towns and villages of the Versilia coast are also close enough to explore without turning every outing into an expedition.

And then there is the appeal of coming back up into the hills at the end of the day, where the pace changes and the sea is still visible from the terrace.

Nearest airport

Pisa International Airport — approximately 35–40 minutes by car.

Nearest train station

Forte dei Marmi-Seravezza-Querceta station — approximately 15–20 minutes by car.

The property is easiest to reach by car, particularly if you plan to explore the coast, Pietrasanta and the surrounding countryside.

Price indication

Prices start from €380 - €470 per night | depending on room type and season 

Booking

For availability, more information or to book directly, click the Availability button above. It will take you straight to the owners.