Archive for 'Lucca'

Lake Massaciuccoli is a lake in the Province of Lucca, Tuscany, that is home to a wildlife oasis in a marsh. While the wildlife and vegetation may have shrunk substantially since the 20th century, the lake is still an area of great natural beauty and bounty. There is much to see and do and the surroundings are pretty alright too.

A boardwalk extends over the edge of the lake and all around it, allowing you to readily and comfortably explore the flora and fauna that can be seen blooming and frolicking around the lake.

Not a particularly challenging walk, it offers a chance to get out and about and stretch your legs in a wonderfully scenic setting, without having to take on an incredibly strenuous hike; something that those with younger kids, limited mobility or less will, to appreciate.

As we mentioned in the last post, as much as Tuscany is a cultural gem, it is also a natural beauty with a wonderful and varied landscape that facilitates many outdoor pursuits, including rock climbing. If you are interested in trying something a little different on your holiday in Tuscany, or something a little off the beaten tourist path, or you happen to be an avid climber planning on spending time in Tuscany, it is a perfect match. We have already mentioned some of the best places to go climbing in the region but there are many more so take note of these destinations, pick the one that suits your plans and abilities and get out to see a different side of Tuscany!

3. Capo d'Uomo, Argentario Island

Capo d'Uomo on Argentario Island is an incredibe crag that is set in very picturesque surroundings, with the sparkling seas of the Mediterranean below and the ruins of an ancient watchtower above, overlooking it all.

Italians are serious about their pizza, as are tourist because, most of us could probably agree, it is one of the highlights of any trip to Italy. To help you have the best possible trip to Italy (and the best possible pizza), we have compiled a list of some of the highest rated and most beloved pizza places in Tuscany. Read on for the pizza you have always dreamed of and find a luxury villa in Tuscany for the holiday you have always dreamed of.

3. Lucca – Pizzeria da Felice

Pizzeria da Felice has been in business for over a hundred years and, yet, remains the most beloved pizza place in Lucca. Located on Via Buia 12, it is the type of place that inspires repeat visits; so much so that some report visiting several times in a trip and, even, twice in one day!

The Grotta del Vento, or the Cave of the Wind, is a system of caves situated in the province of Lucca, in the Apuan Alps regional park. Named for the strong air currents that flow through the cave, it has been known to locals since at least the 17th century, when records show that is was used to keep food cold due to the lower temperature inside. Beginning in the 20th century there was more exploration and systematic study of the caves and in 1966 it was opened up to the public. Since then, many developments have been made in preserving the natural state of the caves to the best of their ability, while making it safer and more readily accessible to tourists – a difficult balance that has won the caves awards in the past and that makes it one of the best caves in the world to visit.

An amazing underworld of caves and tunnels is revealed upon entering the caves and can be explored via three different guided tours – revealing the incredible stalactites and stalagmites, alabaster walls, small lakes and underground streams – and are all relatively easy routes that most people will be able to tackle without a problem.

As we discussed in the last post, theme parks are probably not something that you associate with Tuscany and, admittedly, you won't find the likes of Disneyland or Universal Studios. However, Tuscany has her own unique theme parks, adventures parks and water parks that are great fun and something a little different; especially welcome to any kids (or childlike adults) in the group that might grow tired of museums and architectural gems. So, if you are planning on visiting Tuscany and are looking for a family activity that is a little off the beaten track, look no further than this list of some of her best theme parks!

Similar to Il Gigante Adventure Park in Florence, Lucca has its own adventure park to offer: Bagno di Lucca Canyon Park. If you've found your luxury villa in Lucca and are looking for a bit of an adventure, time outdoors and a little bit physical exertion mixed in with fun, then it's a perfect option.