Camping by the sea in Tuscany

The Tuscan coast on the Ligurian Sea is different. Long beaches are followed by hills, sometimes mountains, which push themselves into the crystal-clear water as cliffs. Dense forests and vineyards line the Riviera Ligure. A tantalising aroma wafts over the beach from the restaurants. Camping by the sea in Tuscany is a pleasure holiday. In the mild air, it is a pleasure to share the day's experiences with the family over a glass of wine in the evening.

Destinations

In Marina de Bibbona, south of Livorno, Camping Village Le Esperidi is an unspoilt campsite right by the sea in Tuscany with pitches in the pine forest and on the dune belt. Close to the medieval village, massages are just as much a part of the services on offer as the modern outdoor fitness park. Internet access via WLAN is available in some parts of the spacious grounds. With its fortress and narrow alleyways in the historic centre, Bibbona is a place where you can discover something new every day. First-class restaurants, cosy ice cream parlours and lovingly decorated shops in stone houses invite you to stroll around. The Parco Giochi Bibbolandia is an Eldorado for children, as the wide range of play options includes a pool with fun boats.

On the Tuscan island of Elba, the Tallinucci campsite is located on the sun-kissed south coast in the enchanting bay of Lacona. In a mixed forest of conifers and eucalyptus trees, campers are spoilt free of charge by the owner family with fresh herbs and tomatoes from their own garden. Leisure activities include guided boat trips and hikes, an outdoor fitness park and massages. There is also an agility course for dogs. Napoleon's place of exile is home to numerous historical sites, including the medieval defence tower Marina di Campo, which can be visited on a bike tour. A long stretch of the route leads along the pilgrims' path La Via dei Rosmarina, which is considered one of the most beautiful hiking trails on Elba due to its views of the cliffs.

Top tips

• The deep bay between Piombino and Punta Ala is an excellent choice for nature-loving camping by the sea in Tuscany. Day trips to Elba are an experience from the ferry harbour in Piombino. In San Luigi, the Acqua Village Follonica water park provides all-day family fun. And the dense forests to the east of the Punta Ala Golf Club are ideal for cycling tours, combined with a swim in the Ligurian Sea on secluded beaches.
• If you prefer a livelier holiday, choose a campsite by the sea in northern Tuscany near Livorno and Pisa. Between Calambrone and Marina di Pisa, the Luna Park di Tirrenia is set up like a fairground with a rollercoaster and water games. The Sunlight Park attracts visitors with various pools and a fast-paced slide complex. Less than 200 metres from the sea, the forest belt along the coast is perfect for shady walks.

Activities and excursions

Tuscany is world-famous for its unique capital Florence, the Leaning Tower of Pisa and for its excellent wines. And some delicacies from Tuscan cuisine are worth every trip.

Travel back in time to the Middle Ages in Pisa

Barely 10 kilometres from the sea, Pisa is an ideal excursion destination for amateur historians. A number of attractions are gathered around the central Piazza del Duomo, including the Leaning Tower of Pisa and the circular Baptistery. Fans of classical music will also find the Opera Palace and the Opera Museum in the neighbourhood of Pisa's magnificent cathedral.

Florentine cuisine - simple ingredients, cleverly prepared

It is only around 90 kilometres from the Riviera Ligure to Florence. Extremely popular due to its historical sights, the journey is also worthwhile to savour unique dishes. For example, near the Dominican church of Santa Maria Novella in Via della Porcellana. In the unassuming Trattoria Sostanza, warm pancakes with tender artichoke hearts are served as a starter. A bollito misto is recommended as a main course, as the hearty stew with vegetables, veal and beef is an extremely tasty Florentine classic.

Wine tasting on a prison island

Gorgona is the smallest and northernmost island in the Tuscan archipelago. A large part of the island is taken up by the prison, which is why visits are only possible by appointment every Tuesday. The effort is worth it, as a red wine unique to Tuscany is produced on Gorgona, which impresses with its intense colour and strong aroma.

Horse riding over the sea

Horse lovers get their money's worth in Populonia. From the farm near the marina, well-trained horses take you into the dense pine forest of the hilly peninsula. The ruins of the San Quirico monastery, the pre-Christian necropolises and the hidden bathing bays are popular resting places for romantics and lovers. Some sections of the trail lead over cliffs, around 100 metres above the sea.

Events

Tuscany's eventful history plays a major role in many of its events.

May

• Wine tasting: On the last Sunday in May, Tuscany's winegrowers traditionally organise free wine tastings.

May - August

• Balestro del Girifalco: Historical competition between crossbowmen from the three neighbourhoods of Massa Marittima, preceded by a parade in medieval costume.

June

• Giostra dei Bastoni: Historical festival with knights' games and medieval market in San Gimignano.
• Luminara di San Ranieri: During the festival of the patron saint, all the historical buildings in Pisa are illuminated in a special way.

July - August

• Palio di Siena: Since 1147, the neighbourhoods of Siena have been competing in a spectacular horse race on the Piazza del Campo every year.