There are some interesting villas to the north not far from Lucca.

Villa Imperiale is on the rooad out to Segromigno Terme and has a very fine 17th century park.

Villa Mansi is a late 16th century villa about 3 km. south of marlia on the road to Camigliano

Villa Torrigiani is another 16th century villa with a fine park with amusing fountains just south o Segromigno.

All are open to the public.

My kids enjoyed Collodi, from whence came Pinocchio's "father". There is a very tame, but charming Parco Pinocchio that has come quirky sculptures and is scenically lovely. The town itself is lovely. I take the Clap bus and just asked the driver to let me off at the foot of the hill that leads to Collodi and walk up. Very small and a a bit touristy, but delightful and surrounded with beautiful countryside. Taking the train up into the Garfagnana is also great. As is a trip to Carrara to see the marble mines.

Many thanks for the info. I have been trying to find out if we are able to tour a Marble Quarry/mine over the period we are there 27/12 to 2/1/09. I would appreciate if someone could point us in the right direction so that I can find this out. We don't have anything like this in New Zealand so would be a memorable experience for the family.

We found that the best way to go to Cararra and the surrounding marble mining areaas was to hire a driver. We researched trains and buses and found that neither of these was adequate to get close enough to the mining areas to see what you really went to see. I'd suggest contacting Tau Touring. They are Lucca-based and very accommodating. Also, at the time of year you'll be there, you want to be very cognizant of the weather. There is some times snow/ice in "the hills", though it's usually later in the winter that this is a hazard. It is indeed a fascinating area. Have the kids read "The Agony and The Ecstasy" and learn about the incredible effort Michelangelo had to make to get the marble he wanted (and the ways in which he was connected to those who mined it) for his sculpture.