A Tuscan villa full of history, character and style
In partnership with Villa Michaela
Villa Michaela feels like the kind of place you stumble upon and never want to leave. Nestled in the hills south of Lucca, it’s surrounded by sweeping views of the Apuan Alps. Exchange vows in the intimate chapel, toast in the ornamental garden, or spend the afternoon poolside with pizza from the oven. With a tennis court, a soundproof party room, and plenty of space for every guest, it’s Tuscany at its most relaxed and effortlessly stylish.
Heritage + Design:
Villa Michaela is timeless Tuscan charm with a welcoming vibe. Originally dating back to the 15th century, it took its current form in the early 1800s under the Nottolini family and has since been cared for by the Rhodes, Giglis, Macariuis, Simibaldis, Carbolanes, Lucchesini, Basttananis, Ciurlanis, and Rossis, each leaving their mark while preserving its history.
The Oratorio dell’Annunziata Chapel is a true standout. Designed by Lorenzo Nottolini, court architect to Lucca, it features a grand piano, a striking neo-classical façade, and beautifully restored frescoes, a space that once hosted public feasts, processions, and Sunday masses. Alongside it, the Limonaia, formerly for storing lemons—now serves as a stylish kitchen. With three floors, grand façades, lush gardens, pergolas, rose beds, and a ornamental fountain, Villa Michaela blends historic character with modern comfort, making it a setting that’s full of personality.
The Wedding Day
Morning: Guests ease into the day with breakfast in the lemon gardens or coffee by the pool, taking in the peaceful views of the Apuan Alps and surrounding hills.
Ceremony + Aperitivo: Vows can be exchanged in the historic Oratorio dell’Annunziata Chapel, among the villa’s gardens, or on the terraces overlooking the estate. Afterwards, guests wander through the grounds, enjoying aperitif and the relaxed Tuscan atmosphere.
Dinner: Alfresco dining in the gardens or the frescoed dining room features seasonal Tuscan dishes prepared by the villa’s chefs, with long tables, laughter, and the kind of food that lingers in memory.
Evening Celebrations: Music, dancing, and drinks flow into the night, whether by the pool, in the lemon orchard, or under pergolas twinkling with lights—every corner of Villa Michaela offers a moment to savour.
Location: 6km from Lucca
Max Guests: Ideal for 70 guests
Accommodation: Sleeps 39 guests across 17 rooms
Wet Weather: Large, grand dining room in case of wet weather
Ceremony: On site chapel ~ Oratorio dell’Annunziata seats 60
Airport: Pisa ~ 25km / Florence ~ 74km
Additional: Parking for 30 cars
LL Loves: We love how Villa Michaela’s old-world Italian charm sets the tone from the moment you arrive. It’s stylish and grand, yet never too formal.
The Food
Food at Villa Michaela is everything you want out of Tuscan cuisine: fresh, local and delicious. The resident chef can whip up everything from classic Italian dishes to modern twists, and you can even join in for a cooking demo in the villa’s kitchen, once the Limonaia. For weddings or private events, meals can be long, laid-back garden dinners, elegant indoor feasts, or anything in between—always seasonal, always tailored and always a highlight of the day.
Villa Michaela is Tuscany at it’s best: rolling hills, sun-dappled gardens, and that Tuscan charm that makes every moment feel cinematic.
For a Tuscan venue that’s rich in history and utterly stylish, Villa Michaela delivers it all.
Categories
PLANNING | REAL WEDDING | BUSINESS | SUPPLIER SPOTLIGHT | INSPIRATION | WANDERLUST
