La Rocca Rossa is a lovely rose-colored villa near the ancient village of Montemarcello, skirting the border of Liguria and Tuscany. Set in the hills above the glistening, clean coast of the Mediterranean, the private villa feels secluded while the popular coastal towns of Lerici and Sarzana are just a few minutes away. The famous marble quarry of Carrara, where Michelangelo procured his stone, is nearby.

The villa is set in the steep hills that rise from the Gulf of Poets. It is set in a lushly landscaped fenced-in garden that is bordered with hedges and shrubs. Its elevated position provides panoramic views of the sea. La Rocca Rossa is a single-story villa built in 2009 with wide windows and abundant natural light. A covered porch shades the entry. Lounge chairs and bistro furniture make the portal a nice spot for relaxing and dining "al fresco."

The villa is attentively furnished for comfort with many touches to make it feel homey, and bright. The living space enjoys an airy, open floor plan. Entry is made directly into the living room, which has an angled ceiling lined with whitewashed wood beams and a fireplace lined with local stone. An oriental rug makes a colorful contrast to the pastel walls and furnishings. There is a modern-styled sofa that seats three along with two armchairs. The living room also has satellite TV and a stereo, as well as a house computer with high speed Internet.

Open to the living room is a dining niche with an antique table and chairs providing seating for six. A rustic sideboard and mirror, and festive glass chandelier compliment the room. Pretty prints line the wall.

Off the living room is a compact but well-planned and fully equipped kitchen, complete with marble countertops, four-burner stovetop and oven, microwave, dishwasher and coffee machine, as well as quality cookware and dishware.

A short hall behind the living room leads to the two sunny bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms. Both have comfortable double beds and antique accent pieces. Ceiling fans and window screens are provided. Each bedroom has an ensuite bathroom with a shower; they are attractively tiled and outfitted with modern, stylish fixtures.

The villa is surrounded by gardens and foliage. The swimming pool is placed at the end of a pathway in a panoramic spot, and is ringed by lawn and bordered with olive trees and shrubs. There is a lovely view of the Mediterranean. Wood decking surrounds the small pool, which is dotted with canvas lounge chairs.

The villa has high speed internet, ceiling fans, satellite TV, stereo, washing machine, window screens, barbecue grill, microwave oven, and a safe. Maid service is provided twice for cleaning as part of the weekly rental price. The villa's owners live nearby in a separate house on the premises. They will not intrude on guests' privacy but are available to offer assistance and recommendations.

La Rocca Rossa is located outside the charming walled village of Montemarcello, which has been named "one of the prettiest villages in Italy." It is a compact, pastel town with narrow alleys, stone archways, and tucked-away piazzas. There are a handful of shops and restaurants. The village is closed to vehicular traffic, making it ideal for children to explore. Below on the sea are compact marinas crowded with boats. Montemarcello is located between Lerici and Sarzana, which have an array of shops and eateries along with their commanding castles and imposing fortresses.

La Rocca Rossa is ideal for those who desire a seaside vacation in a stunning natural landscape, well connected to popular sights while remaining outside the crowded tourist destinations.