Villa Reale di Marlia

Be one of the first to stay in this artfully restored property, new to the rental market from 2026!

Located just outside of Lucca in the rolling hills of Tuscany, the historic Villa Reale di Marlia offers a truly special luxury escape. Usually an open-air museum intertwining history, art, and nature, the property is now opening its doors to the luxury villa rental market, allowing privileged guests to glimpse the opulent lives of its past inhabitants and create their own lasting memories.

The property’s roots stretch back to medieval times, when it was a fortress. At the centre of the estate is its main villa, originally constructed in the 1600s and transformed into a royal residence in the 19th century by Elisa Bonaparte Baciocchi, sister of Napoleon and Princess of Lucca. The villa has since been expertly restored to its former glory and transformed into a luxury villa for rent.

Within the walled estate, 16 hectares of carefully curated gardens offer plenty of space to soak up the Tuscan sun. New buildings were added throughout the estate’s long history, including the Clock House, the Bishop’s Villa, and two chapels. Guests can wander paths once trodden by the likes of Salvador Dali, Jacqueline Kennedy, and the Duke & Duchess of Windsor or enjoy a dip in the tiled swimming pool, constructed in 1928 at the behest of Countess Anna Laetizia Pecci-Blunt.

Amongst the treasures waiting to be discovered are the Green Theatre – an outdoor theatre formed by clipped hedges, where performances were once, the Water Theatre – a water feature with impressive fountains, an ancient fishpond, and a 16th-century nymphaeum – a grotto dedicated to Greek god Pan. At the eastern end of the park, a sparkling artificial lake beckons, watched over by marble statues of Greek gods and goddesses.

The interiors of the main villa are a fascinating blend of styles, with remnants of Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassical elements. Throughout the many living rooms, libraries, and dining rooms, high ceilings, polished marble floors, detailed wall frescoes, and opulent wooden furnishings create a sense of grandiosity. A professional kitchen provides space for the private chef to prepare delicious meals while guests relax in the bar, perhaps sampling a drop from the villa’s wine cellar.

The villa’s 11 en-suite bedrooms have been beautifully restored and transformed into private sanctuaries for up to 22 guests. The nine master suites are set across the villa’s first three floors, each featuring a king-size bed and most boasting a separate living room. The loft on the third floor has two twin bedrooms, perfect for younger guests. For larger groups, sofa beds can sleep up to five additional guests.

A stay at Villa Reale di Marlia allows guests to immerse themselves in the estate’s rich history and beauty. It is an idyllic setting for a luxury Tuscan holiday or a memorable special event with loved ones.