Beaches and pine forests: for sun worshipers and shade lovers

The Etruscans made such an indelible mark on this stretch of coast between Livorno and Piombino that it has been called after them: Costa degli Etruschi - the Etruscan Coast. Along this stretch, the views of the sea, often framed by shady, lush pine forests, are always varied and evocative alternating between long sandy beaches and high cliffs. These are our favourites around the hu Park Albatros Village:

Along the Via della Principessa to San Vincenzo

The hu Park Albatros village nestles on a long green strip backing onto the sea, protected by the Mediterranean scrub which resounds with the hum of cicadas during the summer months. This green strip is, in fact, the Pine Forest of San Vincenzo, a place to explored on foot or by bicycle, with ‘royal’ access to the beach. ‘Royal’ as the area is traversed by the long Via della Principessa, Provincial Road 23 dedicated to Elisa Bonaparte, Napoleon’s sister, princess of Lucca and Piombino. One part of the sandy coast is even dedicated to our four-legged friends, the BauBeach San Vincenzo is a well-equipped bathing establishment right beside the entrance to the extensive Rimigliano Nature Reserve.

Rimigliano beach and oasis

Once out of the pine forest, kick off your shoes and enjoy the sensation of fine, golden sand underfoot on the Rimigliano beach inside the Rimigliano Nature Reserve. There are numerous entrances to this 6-km long beach, which is divided into sectors and suitable for the whole family. From here, you can gaze as far as the islands of the Tuscan archipelago and enjoy the sensation of being immersed in an unspoilt environment served with facilities, including a refreshment point, showers, toilets, picnic tables and wooden walkways for the disabled.

Beach and pine forest of Baratti

Known for its dark, shimmering sands, a ferrous remnant of Etruscan ironworking, the beach stretches all along the crescent-shaped Baratti gulf and is  ensconced in the heart of the Baratti and Populonia Archaeological Park. It was here that the Etruscans founded their port. To get to the beach, you’ll need to walk through the cool pine forest with its tall, windswept maritime pines which provide shade where you can stroll, rest or cool off during the hottest hours of the day. The crystal-clear sea, shallow waters, nearby parking facilities and services, including bars and restaurants, make it perfect for families. If you like fried seafood and other delicacies, follow the queue for Al Polpo Marino, a pleasant kiosk with seating in the sun and shade. Otherwise, if you want to take a break from sunbathing, visit the archaeological park: an  extensive necropolis is on the low ground while the acropolis id tucked away the top of the promontory, next to the village and castle of Populonia.

The Buca delle Fate (Gulf of Sirens)

If it’s adventure and wonder you’re seeking, take a walk through the Mediterranean scrub on the Gulf of Baratti to explore a magical, almost mythological place: the Buca delle Fate. This tight rocky inlet sits on the promontory between Piombino and Populonia. Its name comes from a legend that tells of fishermen being enticed by mermaid songs as they passed nearby. To get there: park on the piazza called ‘il Reciso’ on the road going up towards Populonia and then take the path number 301.  It is a well-signed trail about 1.5-km long (about a 20 minute walk) and is easy enough for children, just make sure you have sturdy shoes, hats, a good supply of water and food.

The nature reserve and beaches at Sterpaia

The Sterpaia beach is situated between the districts of Piombino and Follonica and is embedded within the Sterpaia Nature Reserve. The beach consists of an 8-km long stretch of sand, 6 km of which are public beaches, backed by a dense pine forest. Under the shade of the pines there are parking areas, bars and even trendy clubs, such as the Spanish-style beach bar Nano Verde. Clear, shallow waters make it a safe place for bathing and also for activities such as kayaking or windsurfing. The bathing establishments present provide pushchair and wheelchair access, equipped rest areas and accessible toilets.

The hidden beach of Calamoresca

Tucked between the cliffs of Punta Falcone and the entrance to the Via dei Cavalleggeri hiking trail that crosses the Piombino promontory and connects it to the Gulf of Baratti, the Calamoresca beach is in a small bay surrounded by wild nature that meets the turquoise sea. Despite its proximity to the Piombino district of Salivoli, this is a perfect nook along the coast if you want to avoid the more crowded tourist resorts. It is just a short walk down to the sea. There is also a bathing establishment and a bar-restaurant here that are popular with the locals: Calamoresca Beach.

Northwards: the marinas of Castagneto Carducci, Bibbona and Cecina

Going further north, the marinas of Castagneto Carducci, Bibbona and Cecina feature a series of quiet beaches that are easy to access. The shoreline is flanked by shady pine forests - like that of the Tomboli di Cecina Nature Reserve, and beaches that offer a balance between public beach and bathing establishments, so you’ll find the perfect spot for you!

Southwards: the 'resonating' Cala Violina

A little further south, towards the Maremma, one of the most fascinating beaches on the entire coast awaits discovery: Cala Violina. Within the Bandite di Scarlino Nature Reserve, Cala Violina (literally ‘violin bay’) is a gem of a beach with fine quartz sand and blue waters. You will need to arrive by foot, bike or sea (these are the only ways allowed; the nearest car park is 1.5 km away) to discover why it's called that ‘Violina’ (spoiler: by simply stepping on the sand you can ‘play’ the sound of a violin... with your feet!). Access is limited to just 700 people per day, so be sure to reserve your place here before you set off.