Beetles in the Maremma: the ancient song that heralds the arrival of spring
There is one sound, more than any other, that heralds the arrival of spring in our region: the traditional songs of the Maggiolini. Between the night of April 30 and May 1, the villages of the Maremma come alive with the “Maggerini”—groups of singers dressed in traditional costumes and hats adorned with flowers—who bring the news of spring from house to house.
If you’re looking to experience the true spirit of Tuscany during your stay at Borgo Etrusco, this rural tradition will transport you back in time.
A celebration of flowers and impromptu poetry
The Maggiolini are not just singers: they are the guardians of a tradition rooted in the rural past of the Maremma. They carry the “maggio,” a branch of arbutus or laurel decorated with wildflowers and colorful ribbons. They sing of the earth’s rebirth, love, and hope, often improvising rhyming verses to thank those who offer them a glass of wine or a taste of local products.
It is a traveling festival—spontaneous and deeply felt—that transforms towns like Gavorrano, Scarlino, and the villages of the Metalliferous Hills into an open-air stage.
📸 Editor's Note: Capturing the Spirit of "May"
To photograph the Maggerini, you need an eye for detail and a keen sense of observation. Don’t limit yourself to group portraits.
My secret: Focus on the details. The straw hat brimming with fresh flowers, the hands clutching the decorated cane, or the gesture of raising a glass at the end of the song.
A technical tip: If you’re out photographing them on the night of April 30, try to make use of the warm light from lanterns or open windows. Turn up the ISO and try to capture the singer’s expression: it’s there, in the wrinkles of their face and their smile, that the true poetry of the Maremma lies. These are photos that tell a story, not just an event.
🌸 Experience Spring in the Maremma: Our Special Offers
The May 1st weekend is the perfect time to unwind and immerse yourself in these traditions. Here are the current promotions to help you plan your culinary getaway:
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May Day Long Weekend (April 24 – May 6): Immerse yourself in tradition with a 25% DISCOUNT (minimum 3 nights).
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June 2 Long Weekend (May 30 – June 3): Treat yourself to a long weekend by the sea and in charming villages with 25% off (minimum 3 nights).
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Early Summer (May 23 – July 18): Book your vacation early and save 20% (minimum 4 nights).
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Cashback Offer (June 1 – July 31): The choice for those who plan ahead. Pay the full rate and receive a 30% BONUS (minimum 3 nights) to use on your next stay!
Can't find the dates you're looking for? Remember that our Early Booking offer always guarantees you a 10% DISCOUNT any time of year (minimum 3 nights).
Book your apartment in Borgo Etrusco and let yourself be lulled by the songs of the Maremma. Spring is waiting for you!
👉 [VIEW ALL OFFERS AND BOOK YOUR LODGING IN TUSCANY]
CIN: IT053024B42WJVJMI4
- Published in Events
Basecamp Borgo Etrusco: the perfect retreat for motorcyclists in the Maremma
Every cyclist knows this: choosing the right “base” can completely transform the experience of a tour. After hundreds of miles spent tackling the hairpin turns of the Metalliferous Hills or enjoying the breeze along the Tyrrhenian coast, what you’re looking for isn’t just a bed, but a place that understands the needs of those who travel by bike.
At Borgo Etrusco, we designed our accommodations with exactly this in mind. That’s why we’ve become the go-to “base camp” for those who want to explore the Maremma with complete freedom and peace of mind.
Safety first: your motorcycle can rest easy
We know full well that a motorcycle isn’t just a mode of transportation, but a companion on your adventures. Every motorcyclist’s main concern is: “Where will I leave my bike overnight?” At Borgo Etrusco, the answer is simple: we have spacious, reserved, and secure parking areas within the property. You can unload your luggage in complete comfort, knowing that your “travel companion” is safe and ready for departure the next morning. No stress, just the peace of mind that everything is under control.
Strategic location: between the blue of the sea and the green of the rolling hills
Choosing Scarlino as your starting point means having the best of Tuscany right at your fingertips. In less than ten minutes, you can reach the most beautiful beaches of the Gulf of Follonica for a refreshing dip, or head inland and find yourself just a few kilometers away on the winding roads leading to Massa Marittima and beyond. Borgo Etrusco is situated right at the crossroads between seaside relaxation and the adrenaline rush of the hilly trails.
From the saddle to the pool: the luxury of rejuvenation
There’s no better feeling than taking off your boots and back protector after a long day on the road. Our Borgo offers spacious, self-contained apartments where you can manage your space and your gear with complete independence. And for physical recovery? Our pool, nestled in the greenery, is the ideal spot for a refreshing swim before dinner. The silence of the Mediterranean scrub will do the rest, giving you the Ruhe (peace) you need to recharge your batteries.
📢 The Director's Pick: The "End of Shift" Aperitif
After parking your motorcycle and taking a dip in the pool, there’s one last ritual I highly recommend. Take it easy, get comfortable, and head to the port of Scarlino or the ramparts of Castiglione della Pescaia just in time for sunset.
Order a glass of chilled local Vermentino. As you watch the sun dip below the horizon and the sky light up with shades of purple and orange, you’ll feel that sea breeze clearing your mind. It’s the moment when you start planning the next day’s adventures, with the taste of the sea on your lips and the satisfaction of a perfect day in your heart. This is the true essence of a vacation at Borgo Etrusco.
🌸 Book your spring and summer 2026 getaways
Take advantage of our promotions to enjoy your passion for cycling while saving as much as possible:
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Piazze d’Europa (Follonica): April 14–21: 25% OFF (minimum 3 nights).
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Spring Holidays (April 25 and May 1): April 24 – May 6: 25% DISCOUNT (minimum 4 nights).
🎁 JULY PROMOTION: You only have until April 30 to book your July vacation with a 20% DISCOUNT (minimum 4-night stay).
Don’t wait until the last minute: book your vacation at Borgo Etrusco now and secure the best base camp in the Maremma!
- Published in Events
Motorcycle Routes in the Maremma: Winding Roads, Fragrances, and Freedom Starting from Scarlino
There’s a reason why motorcyclists from all over Europe choose Tuscany for their trips: here, the road isn’t just a strip of asphalt, but a complete sensory experience. May and June are the golden months: the air is warm, the fields are a vibrant green, and the scent of blooming broom wafts right into your helmet.
If you're looking for the perfect base for your cycling vacation, Borgo Etrusco in Scarlino is your strategic “base camp.” Nestled between the sea and the hills, it offers that blend of safety and tranquility that every traveler seeks after a day spent “leaning into” the curves.
Here are three itineraries designed to help you discover the wild and authentic heart of the Maremma:
1. The Metalliferous Hills Tour: Adrenaline and Steam
Starting from Scarlino, head toward Massa Marittima, one of Tuscany’s medieval gems. From here, the road becomes winding and technical as it heads toward Larderello. You’ll pass through the famous “Valle del Diavolo” (Devil’s Valley), an almost lunar landscape characterized by boron-rich geysers sprouting from the ground. It’s a route featuring excellent pavement and fast curves, where the scenery changes with every kilometer, shifting from chestnut groves to geothermal industrial structures.
2. The Silver Coast: the endless blue
This route is for those who love the sea. Head south along the pine forest of Castiglione della Pescaia. Once past Grosseto, head toward Monte Argentario. Driving along the “Panoramica” (the road connecting Porto Ercole and Porto Santo Stefano) will treat you to breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the islands of the Archipelago. You’ll smell the scent of the sea mingling with that of the maritime pines in a pure and rejuvenating driving experience.
3. Villages and Vineyards: Between Suvereto and Bolgheri
A gentler but no less charming route, ideal for those who want to enjoy the scenery. Heading north, it passes through Suvereto, voted one of Italy’s most beautiful villages. The back roads here wind through world-class vineyards and centuries-old olive groves. Continue on to Campiglia Marittima, and if you’re still in the mood for paved roads, head all the way to the famous cypress-lined avenue in Bolgheri. This is the picture-perfect Maremma, the one that invites you to slow down and breathe.
📢 The Director's Pick: The "End of Shift" Aperitif
After miles of winding roads, the ritual of the aperitif is sacred. My favorite spot? The port of Scarlino or the medieval ramparts of Castiglione della Pescaia.
My advice is simple: order a glass of well-chilled local Vermentino and let the sun do its work as it dips into the sea. No filters needed: the sea breeze cooling your skin and the golden light of the sunset are the true Ruhe (peace) that every motorcyclist deserves after a busy day. It’s the moment when fatigue transforms into pure Tuscan pleasure.
🌸 Our Spring and Summer Offers
Don’t miss this chance to experience the Maremma at an unbeatable price. Borgo Etrusco welcomes you with reserved parking for your motorcycle and spacious apartments where you can relax:
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Piazze d’Europa (Follonica): April 14–21: 25% DISCOUNT (minimum stay of 3 nights).
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Spring Holidays (April 25 and May 1): From April 24 to May 6: 25% DISCOUNT (minimum stay of 4 nights).
🎁 JULY EARLY BIRD OFFER: If you book your July vacation by April 30, you’ll lock in the price with a 20% DISCOUNT (minimum 4 nights).
Secure a spot for your motorcycle and enjoy some relaxation.
- Published in Events
Beaches of the Maremma: the luxury of silence and the ritual of a spring picnic
There’s a secret that only we locals know well: the beaches of the Maremma in late April and early May are true paradises on earth. While in summer they’re sought-after destinations from all over the world, in spring they return to being wild realms of sand, driftwood, and blooming Mediterranean scrub. For those staying at Borgo Etrusco, this is the ideal time to reclaim your time and enjoy the ritual of a picnic by the sea, enveloped in that Ruhe (peace) that rejuvenates the spirit.
Cala Civette: the hidden gem
If Cala Violina is the “diva,” Cala Civette is her shyer—and, in many ways, more charming—sister. Located just a few minutes from Scarlino, this bay is watched over by the ancient tower of the same name, which rises above the green promontory. In spring, the light-colored sand contrasts with the emerald green of the water in a way that seems tailor-made for a photograph. It’s the perfect place to spread out a towel, open a basket of local delicacies, and listen to nothing but the sound of the waves.
Sterpaia Park: Centuries-Old Oaks and Dunes
Continuing toward the Gulf of Follonica, Sterpaia Park offers a landscape unlike any other in Italy. Here, centuries-old oak trees reach down almost to the sand, providing natural shade that’s perfect for a day outdoors. Strolling along the shoreline at this time of year means having miles of coastline almost entirely to yourself, where the wind-sculpted tree branches become natural sculptures ready for a stunning photo.
📢 Editor's Pick: Reflections and Geometries
As a photography enthusiast, I’d like to share my favorite spot for the spring holidays. Head to Cala Civette in the early morning. The side light highlights the textures of the rocks, and the silhouette of the tower is reflected in the water, which is as smooth as a mirror. Don’t forget to frame the Mediterranean scrub flowers that reach right up to the sand: the color contrast between the yellow of the flowers and the blue of the sea is my favorite “perfect shot.”
Enjoy spring with our special offers 🌸
A springtime visit to the Maremma is a treat you should treat yourself to at least once in your life. Don’t wait until these beaches get crowded: book your apartment in Borgo Etrusco now and get ready to experience the luxury of silence.
Here are the current promotions for your upcoming weekends:
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"European Squares" Weekend (Follonica): April 14–21: 25% OFF (for stays of at least 3 nights).
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Spring Holidays (April 25 and May 1): April 24–May 6: 25% DISCOUNT (for stays of at least 4 nights).
- Published in Events
What to see in Castiglione della Pescaia: the pearl of the Maremma, just a short walk away
If you’re looking for the perfect blend of coastal elegance, medieval history, and untamed nature, what Castiglione della Pescaia has to offer will take your breath away. Known as “Little Switzerland” or the “Pearl of the Tyrrhenian Sea,” this town is a must-see for anyone staying at Borgo Etrusco. In just a 20-minute drive, you can go from the absolute peace of our hills to the vibrant atmosphere of one of Italy’s most beautiful villages.
The Medieval Village and the Charm of the Castle
The first thing to do in Castiglione is to head up to the old town. As you pass through the medieval gates, you’ll find yourself in a labyrinth of flower-lined alleys that lead all the way to the castle. From up here, the view is a true paradise for any photography enthusiast: the vista stretches from the crystal-clear waters of the coast to the silhouettes of Giglio Island and Elba. It’s the ideal spot to capture the “blue hour” of evening, when the lights of the harbor begin to reflect on the sea.
The Canal Harbor and La Dolce Vita
As you head down toward the modern part of town, the canal harbor is the beating heart of the town. Here you can watch the fishing boats return at sunset, an ancient ritual that still offers authentic and evocative scenes today. Strolling along the pier, surrounded by the scent of salt and the chatter of fishermen, is the best way to savor the Maremma “dolce vita” before enjoying a chic aperitif at one of the many bars in the town center.
📢 Editor's Pick: Focus on Nature
If you love nature photography, you can’t miss the Diaccia Botrona Nature Reserve, right on the outskirts of Castiglione. It’s a unique ecosystem where, with a little patience and a good telephoto lens, you can photograph the pink flamingos that inhabit the marsh. My secret? Head to Casa Rossa Ximenes during the golden hour: the sky’s reflections on the waterways create natural scenes that look like they’ve been painted. It’s the perfect place to rediscover that Ruhe (peace) that makes the Maremma such a happy place.
Our Spring Offers 🌸
We’ve put together two unmissable promotions so you can experience the magic of Tuscany in bloom:
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European Squares Weekend (Follonica): From April 14 to 21, enjoy the tastiest event of the year! 25% DISCOUNT on stays of at least 3 nights.
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Spring Break (April 25 and May 1): From April 24 to May 6, treat yourself to a rejuvenating getaway. 25% OFF for stays of at least 4 nights.
Don’t wait for the dream to end: book your front-row seat for spring in the Maremma now!
- Published in Events
Things to do in Castiglione della Pescaia: Spring 2026 Guide
What to do in Castiglione della Pescaia: guide to spring 2026
If you are planning your Easter holidays, knowing what to do in Castiglione della Pescaia will allow you to enjoy one of the most exclusive destinations in the Maremma to the fullest. In spring, this ancient seaside village awakens with spectacular colors, offering a perfect mix of seaside relaxation and historical itineraries. Staying at Borgo Etrusco, you can reach the beautiful Castiglione della Pescaia in less than twenty minutes, enjoying the best of the Tuscan coast.
Explore Castiglione Castle and the Medieval Village
The first thing to do in Castiglione della Pescaia is undoubtedly to climb up to the old town. Passing through the medieval walls, you will find yourself in a labyrinth of flower-filled alleys leading up to the castle. From here, the view of the coastline and the Tuscan archipelago is breathtaking. The beauty of Castiglione lies precisely in this contrast: the elegance of history overlooking the modernity of the canal port, where fishing boats return every evening.
Nature and Sport in the Diaccia Botrona Reserve
For outdoor enthusiasts, a must-see destination is the Diaccia Botrona Nature Reserve. Considered the last remnant of the ancient Lake Prile, it is the ideal place for birdwatching or cycling. If you are looking for dynamic activities to add to your list of things to do in Castiglione della Pescaia, we recommend a walk along Rocchette beach, where crystal clear water laps one of Italy's most beautiful pine forests.
📢 The Director's Council
For a truly special evening, find a table in one of the small bars overlooking the walls of Castiglione. Order a glass of local wine and enjoy the sunset as it sets the boats in the harbor ablaze. It's the most authentic way to feel the heartbeat of this land, far from the hustle and bustle. Ask at reception for recommended restaurants.
Spring Special Offer: Experience the magic of Castiglione della Pescaia this Easter! Book a minimum 3-night stay at Borgo Etrusco and take advantage of a 25% discount. Your spring in Tuscany starts here.
- Published in Events
🌍🍴 Weekend in Europe's Squares – 25% discount at Borgo Etrusco
📅 Valid from April 14, 2026, to April 21, 2026
🌿 A spring weekend of taste and relaxation in Maremma!
On the occasion of Piazze d'Europa Follonica 2026, the seafront of Follonica will be transformed into a large international market where you can discover gastronomic specialties, European street food, and artisanal products from across the continent.
Stroll among the aromas of international cuisines, sample traditional dishes, and experience the festive atmosphere of one of the most eagerly awaited spring events in the Maremma.
🏡 Borgo Etrusco is the ideal starting point to enjoy the event and relax in the tranquility of the countryside, just a few minutes from the sea.
Our spacious and comfortable accommodations are perfect for couples, families, and groups of friends who want to discover the Maremma and enjoy a relaxing stay.
✨ Book now and take advantage of the special discount!
Details of the European Squares Offer:
✅ 25% DISCOUNT for stays of at least 3 nights
✅ Offer valid on:
🏡 Studio apartment with basement
🏡 Studio apartment (max. 2 people)
🏡 Two-room apartment (max. 3 people)
🏡 Three-room apartment (max. 4 people)
🏡 Four-room apartment (max. 6 people)
🔒 Book with confidence:
📌 30% deposit required at the time of booking
📌 Free cancellation up to 15 days before arrival (deposit refunded)
📌 For cancellations after this date, the deposit will be retained
🌞 Enjoy a weekend surrounded by the flavors of Europe and the beauty of the Maremma!
📩 Book your stay at Borgo Etrusco now and secure the best price.
- Published in Offers