COSTA DEGLI ETRUSCHI - ETRUSCAN COAST

The Etruscan coast stretches for 90 km from Leghorn to Piombino, with its long coastline, sandy beaches, hidden bays and the green hinterland, with its pine groves, sheltered forests, Etruscan necropolis and numerous picturesque medieval villages; all this you will find at Costa degli Etruschi!

The Etruscan coast also offers a huge variety refering to the landscape: in the north between Leghorn and Castiglioncello, the coast starts rocky and many beaches are rather hidden in small bays. After that, the coast becomes flat and there are long and wide sandy beaches, mostly lined with pine forests. After the Gulf of Baratti to the port city of Piombino, the coast becomes steep again. Here, the small bays are partially accessible only by sea.

The most famous beaches are: Castiglioncello, Rosignano, Vada, Cecina Mare, Bibbona Marina, Castagneto Marina, San Vincenzo, Venturina, Baratti and Piombino.

The name of this beautiful coastal area is tied to the presence of the Etruscan civilization that inhabited this area from the beginning of the 9th century BC (way before the Romans).
At the Archeological Park of Baratti and Populonia, in the Gulf of Baratti between San Vincenzo and Piombino, you can nowadays visit one of the most important sites, including a large necropolis, in this area left by the ancient Etruscans. Don't miss to visit Populonia Alta, a wonderful tiny hamlet, built up on a hill faced of the Gulf of Baratti, which is the first and unique coastal village built by Etruscans.

In June the main cities of the Etruscan Coast celebrate the arrival of Summer in a special Blue Night which provides with parties, concerts, shows and several cultural, food and wine events.

Holiday at the Etruscan Riviera does not only mean: sun, beach and sea. On the Etruscan coast there are many interesting places to visit and discover:

Castagneto Carducci Beautiful medieval village, Castagneto Carducci is located exactly between land and sea. It's story has its origins with the Count Della Gherardesca, owner of many lands and the castle, which is located in the heart of this medieval village.

Donoratico Halfway between Castagneto Carducci and the sea lies Donoratico, one of the most popular and lively places at the Etruscan Coast. Castagneto Carducci is known for its large pine forest with it's Mediterranean vegetation. The water quality is excellent. On these wide beaches, you will find plenty of free beaches!

Bolgheri Old town, which is famous thanks to the beautiful cypress trees that became celebrated by Giosuè Carducci and the castle (made of red bricks). Bolgheri is worldwide known, mainly because of its very excellent wines.

Baratti The famous seaside resort is known for its clear waters, fine beaches and rich iron deposits.

Campiglia Marittima In the heart of the Val di Cornia, the town is crossed by the wine road, which is characterized by excellent wine and olive oil production.

Culinary Delights: The Costa Etrusca is characterized by endless olive groves and vineyards. This is also reflected in the culinary specialties of the region, such as the excellent olive oil and the first-class wines. In the whole region of Tuscany you will find excellent fish and seafood. Tuscany is also known for its sausage, ham and cheese varieties.

Caroline's Toscana offers a selection of holiday homes that are either located directly at the Etruscan Coast, or 30-40 minutes away. The location is just ideal because you may combine culture and sea, surrounded by the most important cultural cities of Tuscany (Volterra, San Gimignano, Pisa, Lucca etc).

What would you most like? A charming bed & breakfast, an idllic holiday apartment at an "Agriturismo" estate or a stunning villa with private pool .......... have a look!