4 ideas for a special September in Tuscany

Enjoy an almost solitary beach in your favourite area: since the schools reopen in mid September and people go back to their everyday routine after summer holidays, in this period the beaches are visibly less frequently visited than in August.

Head to Vada or Calafuria in the province of Livorno (learn more about the so-called Etruscan Coast, that is the stretch of coastline between Livorno and Piombino), or pay a visit to the beaches in Maremma, such as Cala Violina, Punta Ala and Marina di Alberese (choose among the top ten beaches in the area). Furthermore, you can also consider to explore the Tuscan archipelago with its amazing islands (read how to reach them). 

September also means grape harvest time has come. The leaves turn to golden and russet shades and the grapes abound on the vines. It's beautiful to see the countryside landscapes of Chianti in this period.

Look for wine tastings and wine festivals throughout the region, especially along Tuscany's wine trails and on the occasion of grape harvest. Events like Bacco Artigiano in Rufina are the Grape Festival in Impruneta among the most awaited. Moreover, many wineries organize special events such as art exhibitions, performances, concerts and much more.

September is the perfect month for walking and hiking: in Tuscany there are itineraries for all kinds of trekkers and this month has the proper climate to enjoy this kind of activities. Exploring the mountains in the Apuan Riviera will make you discover lakes, wide meadows, gentle but also steep climbs, with viewpoints that are natural terraces over the marble quarries.

As autumn goes on, it gets time of the foliage, the natural spectacle that occurs in forests, such as those in the Casentino, Garfagnana and Amiata, where you can also taste chestnuts, mushrooms and other seasonal products.

Indulge in a relaxing day or vacation: you can choose among many different places like spas and hot springs. Tuscany boasts famous spas like the one in Montecatini Terme and also free natural springs, like in Saturnia.

Modern spas where hot thermal waters are collected in (outdoor and/or indoor) swimming pools also feature wellness treatments and massages that will help you take care of your health.

Original article by Serena Puosi