Casa Santa Zita is a little gem, hidden away in the old paved streets of Lucca Old Town. Accessed through a courtyard at the end of Vicolo del Pescatore. There are 50 stairs to reach the apartment, if you want to put the steps in, but there is a modern lift to take the strain as well, with an amazing view of the Torre Guinigi as you step out of the lift. The apartment itself has to be seen to be believed, a description just does not do it justice. The well stocked kitchen area has everything you need for cooking and cleaning, including a dishwasher and a washing machine. The bed was really comfortable and the shower both quick acting and efficient. Sonia and the concierge team are readily accessible by phone and email and are more than happy to answer your queries (I managed to find a newsagent that sold the Gazetta dello Sport, thanks to Manuel). As mentioned, the musical sounds from the collegio next door regularly drift across into the apartment and the enclosed garden downstairs, which adds a certain Italian feel to your stay. Must also mention the complimentary use of two bikes , a must for traversing around the town walls, if the 2.5 miles is a bit too far for you to walk. As far as eating out goes, you literally can't go wrong. However the well documented listings in the handbook that can be found in the apartment gives you plenty of options. Our favourites? Nearby, Osterian Nova 'restaurant' and Pult and il Bistro by Piqui 'wine bars'. Further afield, on Via San Paolina, Rusticanella2 da Luca and Osteria del Bastian Contrario. With a special mention to Pasticceria Dianda - a four minutes walk to pastry paradise! And Suffice to say we will be making plans to visit Casa Santa Zita again, which is probably the best endorsement one can give. Diolch yn fawr iawn i bawb am arosfa hyfryd / many thanks to you all for a lovely stay!