If your idea of the perfect walking holiday is a mix of exploring rugged trails inland, and enjoying fabulous coastal walks, the Maremma area of Tuscany is calling. Stretching along the southern coastal locality between the Livorno and Grosseto provinces, and taking in the rugged regional park of ‘Parco dell’Uccellina’, the area provides walking trails for all levels of competence and fitness.
Hiking is an excellent form of exercise for the lower body, heart and lungs. Nordic walking however, uses stout walking poles and is an increasingly favoured method of distance trekking which also exercises the muscles of the upper body. The coastal Nordic walks will take you through areas of colourful heather and wild rosemary, while further inland the trails will lead you through the forests and woods of a range of broadleaf and coniferous tree species.
So many things to do in Maremma
What better way to unwind after a hard day’s Nordic walking, than with a visit to the fabulous thermal waters of Saturnia. The town sits on a hill overlooking the springs, and remains of its Greek, Etruscan, and Roman past are still visible in the form of its Roman Gates, which date back to 2 B.C. Other close areas of interest are the Bagno Santo (Holy Bath), the medieval walls, the Church of Santa Maria Maddalena, and the Archaeological Museum.
The Diaccia Botrona nature reserve is a protected area stretching almost 2,500 acres. Part dry and part wetland, a good pair of Wellington boots should be in your kit if you want to make the most of viewing the herons, geese and wild ducks on your walk around the marshes. In the dry areas you will find not just fox, badger and hedgehog; but various bird species, hawks, tortoise, porcupine, tree frogs, and grass snakes, as well as the parks multimedia museum.
A visit to Tuscany encompasses much more than just trekking. Be sure to visit the Colli di Maremma and its fabulous vineyards. Try the local wines, and sample traditional local cuisine. The cities of Castiglione della Pescaia and Massa Marittima, and the delightful small towns of Scarlino, Buriano and Vetulonia can all be included in your walking itinerary. Rub shoulders with the locals, and immerse yourself in true Tuscany culture.
Finally, give those burning feet a break, and make your way to one of the unspoilt beaches along the Rocchette coastline such as Castiglione della Pescaia, Punta Ala and Cala Violina. Unspoilt is the byword, so be sure to include a packed lunch and drink in your rucksack, in case any local amenities are closed.
All right
Excellent place, wonderful staff. Everyone is friendly and they try to help you in any possible way. The price is fare for what you get. The place is very comfortable and clean. I highly recommend for either a short or a long stay.
RickPereira
Excellent structure
Staff were excellent and very friendly. Great to place to stay with kids. When we had a problem with the air conditioning the issue was resolved by moving us to an alternative apartment. Good location to relax far from the crowds but short drive to city centre and beach.
archy89
Very good
Very good location and staff.
Not expensive.
Easy to reach by car. Good pools. The beautiful starry sky.
Comfortable clean rooms.
Beautiful air-conditioned.
Very friendly staff at the reception.
Recommend for travelling by car.AVGorbatov