After booking this amazing villa hidden in the little village of Bolano, just seven miles from LaSpezia, we never expected what we found. From the second we got to the electric gate and rang the bell to viewing the beautifully dressed Stefania Bocchia, the property owner, we were amazed. Clean, well furnished and the pool which was intended for the children proved to be the hidden gem. We spent every night in the Gazebo and pool area drinking Limoncello, wine and other spirits while munching on Parmegiana cheese, breads, olives and fruit. The panoramic view of the mountains surrounding the Villa are breath taking. We traveled each day to La Spezia where we caught the trains to the Cinque Terra towns. Stefania was most helpful recommending outstanding restaurants, the last of which was in the medieval village of Bolano at the top of the mountain. It was a throw back in time but the ambience and food were terrific. Anyone in their right mind should go to this paradise in Bolano and meet the gracious, beautiful and amazing Stefania. Grazie Tante! Jerry Silecchia and family (all nine of us)

The house was gorgeously decorated and very clean! The views of the valley were peaceful and serene! We were a few minutes drive from a wonderful little grocery store that had milk, butter, fresh bread, and super fresh produce! It was truly an authentically Italian experience! Stefania was always available by text if we had a question. The house was great for 8 people and a 20 minute drive from La Spezia.

Our hosts were incredibly kind and helpful. They took excellent care of us and answered all of our questions. We spent a rest day there and it was very relaxing. We booked one of the meals from the menu they offer for our first night there. It was better than any restaurant and sitting outside enjoying our meal was wonderful. All in all a great place to stay. Thank you Stefania and Pietro for taking such excellent care of us.

Villa Altar is in the peaceful hills bordering Tuscany and Liguria, and only twenty minutes drive from the big port of La Spezia, the gateway to the Cinque Terre. The villa itself is like something from a luxury photo shoot - lovely pool, surrounded by olive trees, with a gazebo for evening drinks and relaxing. On one side is the coast and on the other, the most beautiful rolling hills and sunsets. Inside the house, everything is clean and cool. And there's a wonderful outside eating area with BBQ and lighting. Stefania, the host, is utterly charming and helpful, and will tell you all you need to know about the area. Note: if you're not from Italy, the recycling takes getting used to. It's much more thorough than in the UK, which is a good thing, but read the instructions carefully or you'll be left with bags of stuff you don't know what to do with. Enjoy a wonderful stay. The pretty Cinque Terre with it's bright villages teetering on the rocky coast is on the doorstep, and it's ridiculously, brilliantly easy to get to by train. Swim off the harbour at Manarola - snorkel with the bright blue anchovies, and jump off the tall rock if you dare! I would say that PortoVenere is my favourite town, which isn't exactly in the Cinque Terre but close, and more 'everyday' with interesting streets and shops and fewer tourists. Lucca and Pisa are just an hour away, and Florence 1.5hrs. There is a lot to see, and if you like hiking or swimming, this is the place for you. Best things is, after a hard day's sightseeing, coming back to Villa Altar and watching the sunset with a glass of something delicious, listening to the cicadas until nightfall.

Booked this house for a family holiday. Beautiful house and garden/pool area. Both Stefania and Cristina were very helpful both on booking and while we were there. 5 minute drive to nearest town for shops/restaurants and good place to stay to visit Cinque Terre and La Spezia.

We had the pleasure of staying at Villa Altar for a week this past June. We went with another couple and all found the villa beautiful and very comfortable. We especially liked the swimming pool and sitting area as well as as eating outside at the large comfortable table under the flowering arbor. The owner's family would even bring us fresh lettuce from their garden. Stefania, the owner, was very helpful and accommodating. She has decorated the villa artistically and yet comfortably. We found this to be a peaceful retreat. Cars are needed to visit the nearby towns and the train station in La Spezia, but once returning home each night we found the tranquility of being on top of the hill with splendid views rejuvenating. We would recommend this villa for those who what to get away from it all.