Carneval Fornoli

Posted on January 31, 2018 by Debra Kolkka

I am truly sorry to be missing this event this year!

Carnevale is a fun time of the year. I hope everyone has a great time.

Demidoff Chapel

Posted on January 23, 2018 by Debra Kolkka

Russian prince Nicolai Demidoff donated a hospital to Bagni di Lucca to enable the people of the town to benefit from the thermal waters. It was built in 1825.

He also commissioned the tiny chapel across the stream from the hospital. The Demidoff chapel was designed by Giacomo Marrucci and was inspired by the Pantheon in Rome.

There was originally a wooden bridge across to the chapel, but it was destroyed by a flood in 1836. The current stone bridge was built soon after by the son of the prince and designed by Giuseppe Pardini.

The little chapel looks stunning in any season, but particularly when covered with snow.

Here is an early photo of the chapel, before the surrounding trees had grown.

The hospital is now Villagio Globale, a popular place for those wishing to enjoy the thermal waters. You will find Villagio Globale and the chapel in Ponte a Serraglio, on the road towards Granaiola.

La Sosta

Posted on January 14, 2018 by Debra Kolkka

La Sosta, near Pescaglia, is a bit of a drive from Bagni di Lucca, but is a great place for Sunday lunch.

The little restaurant is nestled into a pine forest beside a church.

There is an outdoor eating area for sunny days.

We visited on a cool autumn day and chose to sit in the cosy indoor area.

It isn’t a big room and it was soon packed.

The food is great! Porcini mushrooms and pumpkins are in season so it made sense to order some. The pasta below has pumpkin and spicy sausage…delicious.

Pumpkin risotto.

Scaloppine with porcini mushrooms.

Excellent fried vegetables.

The table next to us ordered a feast.

La Sosta is open through the week for dinner and Sunday lunch. It is in Pascoso,via Pescaglia or Fabbriche di Vallico.

Phone…0583 357657

A new Bar Italia

Posted on January 8, 2018 by Debra Kolkka

Bar Italia has been the heart of Ponte a Serraglio for decades. It was the first place I went to when I arrived in the village almost 15 years ago. I go there, or to Il Monaco, both belonging to hardworking Annalisa, every day when I am in my apartment. Annalisa is ably helped by her sister Suzanna and her team.

Bar Italia has closed for a little while for renovations. Luckily, Il Monaco will take over until the new bar is ready. I don’t know where I would be without my morning coffee and sfoglia.

There was a send off on the last night of the old bar and friends gathered for the party. I was not there, but others have taken photos to share. Thank you Paola, Paul and Collette.

The plans for the new bar were discussed.

Here is a sneak peek at the new chairs.

Several people chipped in to begin the demolishing of the old bar.

Last to go was the coffee machine.

I hope the lovely lady stays.

I wish Annalisa the very best and look forward to the brand new bar. I will be there for the grand opening. I’m sure there will be another party and everyone will be invited.