10 things to do in Versilia in autumn

For a fabulous hotel spa just a stone’s throw from the sea, head to Cinquale di Montignoso, located just 3 kilometres away from Forte dei Marmi. Here are the Versilia Thermal Baths, a wellness center and thermal resort best known for its waters particularly rich in mineral salts.

One of the best features of Versilia is that you can move from the coast to the mountains in a short drive. The nearest mountainsare the Apuan Alps, limestone rocks running parallel to the coast and almost reflecting their tops onto the surface of the sea. The Apuan Alps Regional Park protects this incredible natural environment: majestic peaks with an incredible view of the sea, emerald green lakes, spectacular caves (about this... see tip number 3!).

Perched on the edge of the Apuan Alps Regional Park, in Levigliani di Stazzema, the Antro del Corchia is a unique underground system that covers more than 60 kilometres of tunnels. It is part of the largest karst system in Italy and one of the broadest in Europe. Thanks to a designated path, which runs under the mountain for a distance of about two kilometres, we can all put on a sweater and go explore the Tuscan underground!

The Via Francigena, an important pilgrimage route with plenty of monuments and artistic treasures along the way, is the perfect idea for those who want to give slow travel a try. Legs 26 and 27 of the Tuscan part of the Via Francigena are in Versilia: they run from Massa to Camaiore and from Camaiore to Lucca. Here you can find all the information about the Via Francigena in Tuscany.

Pietrasanta, also called “little Athens”, just 3 kilometres from the coast, boasts a high concentration of contemporary artists, both living and working there. Pietrasanta has also a long-standing tradition of marble workers and numerous workshops, galleries and art exhibitions. Here is what to see and do in Pietrasanta.

Under the illustrious influence of the Medici family, the areas including Pietrasanta, Forte dei Marmi, Seravezza and Stazzema became culturally and economically united, thanks to the marble business and the Medici coat of arms. Discover about the history and the traces left by the Medici, following an itinerary from Pietrasanta to to Seravezza, to then take the tight gorges between clear streams and fresh chestnut forests, reaching the green valleys of the Apuan slopes before getting to Stazzema.

Along the Lucca, Montecarlo and Versilia Wine and Olive Oil Trail, it is possible to find several farms producing and selling wine, extravirgin olive oil and many other local products. And let's not forget the refined seafood dishes along the coast!

Versilia offers different landscapes for your bike tours designed to satisfy travellers with different leisure needs. There are challenging trails for veteran cyclists and easy, relaxing bicycle routes that are perfect for youngsters as well. 

Around Massarosa lies a hilly area surrounded by olive groves that preserves evidences of a glorious past: Massaciuccoli Romana, on the banks of Massaciuccoli Lake, is a splendid archeological area. The site includes the ruins of the villa that once belonged to the Venulei family, built at the beginning of the 1st century AD, which conserves a monumental thermal complex situated in a panoramic position.

During the second half of the 19th century and early 20th century Viareggio was one of the most elegant seaside resorts in Italy. After a large fire destroyed much of the seafront in 1917, many buildings were replaced with Art Nouveau constructions, an architectural style that was very appreciated at the time. Stroll along the promenade called La Passeggiata to see the cafés, bathing establishments, hotels and villas in Art Nouveau style.

Original article by Serena Puosi