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Open March 29th - November 2nd, 2025

Walking into Locanda al Colle, you might think you’ve mistakenly entered a private residence: there’s no reception desk, no large lobby, no uniformed bellhops. Enter into the dining hall, and you’ll find a homey kitchen in full view. Step inside a room, and you won’t see a TV nor a room service menu. But rest assured, you’ve come to the right place. In fact, this is exactly what we love about boutique hotel Locanda al Colle; it’s that it doesn’t feel like a hotel at all, but rather the countryside villa of a friend–a particularly elegant one, that is. 

And, in a way, you are; owner Riccardo Barsottelli designed the hotel as if it was his own home, with the intention of forging lasting friendships with each of his guests. Not a hotelier by trade, Riccardo simply loved hosting, throwing dinner parties, and organizing itineraries for his friends. So, after a prosperous career in the fashion industry, he opened a small, five-room inn with longtime friend Massimo; it was so successful that they expanded and opened Locanda al Colle in 2010. 

Perched on a hill in Versilia–a coastal region in northwest Tuscany–the hotel has sweeping views of the most romantic rolling countryside hills, with sightlines as far as the Gulf of the Poets and Porto Venere in Liguria. The olive groves, ancient cyprus trees, and rosemary and lavender bushes make the atmosphere serene, and almost fairytale-like. The views inside, however, are just as stunning: Riccardo is an avid art collector and has turned the hotel into a gallery too, populated by his incredible collection of art and antiques from a long lineup of big-name artists and designers; much of the art you see is for sale. Plus, Riccardo hosts exhibitions throughout the year for artists to showcase their sculptures–a testament to the hotel’s location near the city Pietrasanta, which has been a meeting point for sculpture artists since the 1800s. You’ll see the same curatorial eye in the 12 rooms, none of which are the same, with art deco pieces, 1950s furniture, fiberglass chairs, art from the 40s, and even restored wooden beams dating back to 1765.

At Locanda al Colle, the beach, mountains, hills, lakes, historic towns, and major cities of Versilia are all within reach. “It’s a favorite area for cyclists due to the variety of landscape, and a mecca for luxury shopping in Forte dei Marmi or visiting art galleries in Pietrasanta,” shares Riccardo, who rightfully loves the area. Summer brings festivals in nearby towns and perfect weather for swimming, either in the sea or in their heated pool. 

No matter that there’s no physical reception desk, Riccardo and his staff are more than happy to help organize your day. (Locanda al Colle also welcomes your furry friends, offering pet sitting during the day so you can go out and explore the area.) Maybe you hop in Serena’s Fiat 500L and zip through the hills for wine tastings, or join Swiss artist Maja Thommen on a visit to the Carrara’s marble quarries and a sculpting studio. Perhaps you follow Cinzia through the Apuanian Alps, or sip the Vermentino of winemakers Silvia and Andrea on their private boat in the Gulf of Poets. That said, you also won’t want to miss out on the on-site experiences: get a wellness massage, take a yoga class or a cooking one. But the best part of the day is aperitivo at sunset from one of their terraces–each floor has its own–followed by a superlative dinner with the flavors of the region, cooked on request by chef Gian Luca. 

All this is powered by eco-friendly initiatives, with building “A” Energy Saving classification, water heated by solar panels, rainwater recovery and waste purification used for irrigation, mixed interior plasters based on lime and natural lime paint, and an electric charging station. 

As you sink into a king-size Simmons World Class bed with Rivolta Carmignani white linen sheets, while a gentle breeze flows through your window perfumed with wild lavender, you’ll already be planning your next trip back. After all, that’s what friends are for!

A few segreti (secrets) from Riccardo:

Ristorante La Dogana – This restaurant is within walking distance from the hotel on Via Francigena, with outstanding homemade dishes like tagliolini with seabass and anchovy oil. 

Portus – Stop by this bar in Viareggio for an aperitivo by star chef Cristiano Tomei between the sea and harbor. 

Caffè al Teatro – The best place for a cocktail and people watching, according to Riccardo.  

ZOE Boutique – In Pietrasanta, don’t miss the eclectic womenswear and accessories at this store. 

Bagno Chimera – The best bagno for a beach day, our partner in Marina di Pietrasanta has an intimate setting, high-quality service, and no loud music or noisy crowds.