Tuscany usually evokes images of ancient hill towns, vineyards, and olive groves as far as the eye can see; this was our Tuscany until we discovered the Maremma. The Maremma is a spectacular coastal area with all good things Tuscany, plus gorgeous beaches and the warm Tyrrhenian Sea.
The Maremma stretches between the provinces of Livorno and Grosseto and is a few hours drive from either Florence or Rome. Regardless of our departure point, our destination is L’Andana, a luxury resort located on a 500-hectare estate.
Stay and Do
Arrival at L’Andana is via a long driveway flanked by cypress and maritime pine trees. L’Andana was once a Medici villa where Grand Duke Leopold II spent the summer and the aura of prestige remains.
There are 33 rooms and suites to choose from; some offer a cozy mezzanine for reading or the possibility of an extra bed or two. The suites offer spa bathrooms, exquisite linen bedding and luxury bath products.
Drifting off in a secluded lounge chair while being serenaded by cooing doves appears to be a popular past-time at L’Andana. The large estate offers more active pursuits including short-course golf, cycling and a choice of pools. Other amenities include a decadent spa and a kid’s club – the perfect combination for guilt-free pampering.
If you can tear yourself away from the pleasures of L’Andana, the Maremma beaches will not disappoint. Beach options range from wild and secluded to renting an ‘umbrella’ at a beach club along with the masses. Our preference is to reserve umbrellas at Bagno Alessandro near Castiglione della Pescaia and soak in the atmosphere. If you haven’t experienced a beach club in Italy, I highly recommend it – at least once.
The turquoise waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea beckon even the most reluctant swimmers. In spots, the warm shallow water appears to stretch all the way to the yachts anchored offshore.
Eat
Each day at L’Andana begins al fresco, with perfectly prepared cappuccino and decadent breakfast pastries from the Alain Ducasse kitchen. Lunch choices are plentiful – L’Andana, the beach club or one of the nearby villages. We often dine on property at La Villa restaurant or the Michelin-starred Trattoria Enrico Bartolini.
Travel Tips – Beach Vacation Tuscany
- There is a lot to see in the Maremma and a rental car is a good idea if you plan to visit L’Andana.
- Check out the Stay Proposals at L’Andana and subscribe to the newsletter for the best offerings.
