Maremma Seaside Hiking: Recharge Your Batteries on the Trails of the Bandite di Scarlino
The May 1st long weekend is just around the corner, and there’s no better way to celebrate spring than by immersing yourself in nature. If you think the Maremma is just about “beach chairs and umbrellas,” get ready to change your mind. Trekking Maremma Mare is an experience that combines the scent of the Mediterranean scrub with the endless views of the Tuscan archipelago. Here, in the Bandite di Scarlino, time slows down and the silence is broken only by the sound of your footsteps and the song of the cicadas.
Beyond the beach: the Bandite Loop
Hiking along the Maremma coast means exploring a network of trails that connect hilltop villages to hidden coves. One of the routes most loved by our guests at Borgo Etrusco is the loop trail starting from Puntone. It’s not just a path to the beaches, but a true botanical journey through arbutus, holm oaks, and centuries-old oaks. This is the “Slow” tourism we love: the kind that lets you discover corners of Tuscany that most tourists overlook.
Silence as a luxury: Cala Martina and the Garibaldi Trail
While everyone heads for the most famous cove, those who choose the Maremma Sea Hike know that true peace can be found at Cala Martina. Here, where Giuseppe Garibaldi set sail to escape to safety, the sea is crystal clear and the crowds are a distant memory. Stopping to gaze at the horizon from one of the trail’s scenic overlooks is a balm for the soul, perfect for recharging your batteries before returning to your daily routine.
📸 The Director's Tip: Capturing the Essence of the Forest
When hiking, the challenge is to photograph the “greenery” without making it all look the same.
My secret: Look for contrasts. Take a photo of a path that suddenly opens up to the blue sea. Frame the dirt road that leads the eye toward infinity.
A technical tip: Use your smartphone’s “Panorama” mode to capture the vastness of the coastline as seen from the high trails. The light filtering through the tree leaves will create a “mysterious” and captivating effect that perfectly captures your “Explorer” spirit.
🇮🇹 Last call for the May 1st long weekend!
Haven't decided what to do in a few days? The Maremma in bloom is waiting for you. We've put together some unmissable offers for those who, like you, love nature and relaxation:
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✅ Long weekends on May 1 and June 2: Book now and take advantage of a 25% DISCOUNT (minimum 3 nights). The pool is open and the trails are at their most beautiful!
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✅ July Special: Want to enjoy the beach this summer? Check availability and lock in your 20% DISCOUNT (through July 18, minimum 4 nights).
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✅ 30% Cashback: Plan ahead! Throughout July (minimum 3 nights), receive a 30% credit toward your next getaway in Tuscany.
👉 [CHECK AVAILABILITY AND GEAR FOR YOUR HIKE]
CIN: IT053024B42WJVJMI4
- Published in Events
Follos: Follonica Historical Reenactment—A Journey Through Time Amid Cast Iron and Nobility
On May 10, Follonica sheds its modern guise as a seaside resort to don the elegant and proud attire of its past. The Follos Historical Reenactment is not just a parade, but a true portal through time that celebrates the era when the “City of Cast Iron” was the beating heart of the iron and steel industry of the Grand Duchy of Tuscany, under the enlightened leadership of Leopold II.
For those who choose to stay at Borgo Etrusco during this time, the event offers a unique opportunity: to experience the true spirit of the Maremma—rooted in hard work, ingenuity, and noble traditions—just a few minutes’ drive from the absolute relaxation of our resort.
A village bustling with nobles and artisans
Strolling through the streets of downtown during the parade means coming face to face with history. Ladies in sumptuous gowns, knights, artisans demonstrating ancient crafts, and figures who seem to have stepped out of a 19th-century painting bring the city to life. The heart of the event is the former ILVA site, a jewel of industrial architecture where wrought iron and cast iron tell the story of a time when Follonica was known throughout Europe.
The attention to historical detail is impressive: from the heavy fabrics of the costumes to the period hairstyles, every element contributes to recreating a magical atmosphere that enchants children and captivates adults. It’s the perfect opportunity to rediscover the charm of a lesser-known yet incredibly authentic side of Tuscany.
Why visit the Maremma in mid-May?
May is the month of rebirth. Nature is in full bloom, the days are getting longer, and the weather is perfect for strolling without the summer heat. Attending the historical reenactment in the morning and enjoying the sea breeze in Scarlino in the afternoon is the perfect combination for a rejuvenating weekend. At Borgo Etrusco, you’ll find the peace and quiet you need to rest after the festive buzz of the event, surrounded by the greenery of the Mediterranean scrub.
📢 Editor's Pick: Vintage Photos
For those who, like me, never go anywhere without their camera, the Follonica Historical Reenactment is a real visual “playground.” The period costumes offer incredible textures and colors for portraits.
My photography secret? Don’t just photograph the parade as a whole. Look for the details: the lace on a collar, the way light reflects off wrought iron, the expressions of the artisans at work. Use a wide aperture (such as f/2.8 or f/4) to blur modern elements (like signs or cars) and isolate the subject in costume. You’ll get timeless images that look like they were taken a century ago. Capturing the proud gaze of a lady or the decisive gesture of a blacksmith is the best way to bring home a little piece of Maremma history.
🌸 Our Offers: Where History Meets the Sea
Event season is officially here! Take advantage of our special offers to ensure an unforgettable stay at Borgo Etrusco:
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Spring Break (through May 6): If you're planning a getaway for the reenactment, take advantage of our 25% DISCOUNT (for stays of at least 4 nights).
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European Squares Weekend: From April 14 to 21, experience international cuisine in Follonica with a 25% DISCOUNT (minimum 3 nights).
⚠️ ATTENTION – SUMMER PROMOTION: Remember, you only have until April 30 to book your July vacation with a 20% DISCOUNT (minimum 4 nights). Don’t miss out on the chance to experience a summer in the Maremma at the best price guaranteed!
Experience history, capture the moment. Book your weekend at Borgo Etrusco now!
- 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 Massa Marittima: A Journey into the Medieval Heart of Tuscany
If you thought the Maremma was just beaches and pine forests, get ready to change your mind. Just 20 minutes from Borgo Etrusco stands the proud town of Massa Marittima, one of Italy’s most spectacular art cities. If you’re wondering what to see in Massa Marittima, know that every stone here breathes history, from the era of the free communes to its glorious mining past.
Piazza Garibaldi: Perfect Harmony
The best place to start is undoubtedly Piazza Garibaldi. It is considered one of the most beautiful squares in the world thanks to its asymmetrical and ingenious architecture. Here stands the Cathedral of San Cerbone, a travertine cathedral that seems to change color depending on the light. It is the perfect spot to sit at a table, order a coffee, and enjoy the spectacle of time slowing down.
Culture and Entertainment: “Massa in Scena”
Visiting Massa Marittima in the spring also means immersing yourself in its vibrant cultural life. During long weekends, you can attend the performances of “Massa in Scena,” a festival that brings theater and the performing arts within the medieval walls, creating an exciting connection between history and the present. It’s the perfect opportunity to experience the town not just as a tourist, but as a privileged spectator of its living beauty.
📢 Editor's Pick: Perspective Games
As a photography enthusiast, Massa Marittima is a constant challenge. My advice? Don’t photograph the cathedral head-on. Move to the side of the steps leading up to the Palazzo Pretorio to capture the slant of the facade and the geometric lines of the square. Play with the long shadows of late afternoon that cast dark shapes on the white travertine: that’s when the city reveals its most photogenic and magical side.
Our Spring Offers 🌸
Book now and save on your weekends in the Maremma:
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"European Squares" Weekend (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% OFF (minimum 4 nights).
- Published in Events
Squares of Europe Follonica 2026
Piazze d’Europa Follonica 2026: a gastronomic journey to the heart of the Gulf
With the arrival of spring, the Tuscan coast comes alive with unmissable events, and Piazze d'Europa Follonica 2026 isundoubtedly one of the most eagerly awaited events of the season. On April 17, 18, and 19, 2026, the Follonica seafront will be transformed into a lively international market, where exhibitors from every corner of the continent and beyond will offer their finest crafts and gastronomic delights. Staying at Borgo Etrusco during this period will allow you to experience the excitement of this event while remaining just a few minutes' drive from the tranquility of our hotel.
What to expect from Piazze d’Europa Follonica 2026
The event is a true triumph for the senses. Strolling among the stands, you will be tempted by the aromas of Spanish paella, German sausages, French pastries, and Greek specialties, not to mention the finest products from Italy's regions. But Piazze d'Europa Follonica 2026 is not just about food: you will also find traditional crafts, homewares, and fine fabrics. The days in April, now significantly longer and brighter, make the experience even more enjoyable, allowing you to enjoy the exhibition from morning until late evening in a festive and convivial atmosphere.
The awakening of spring in the Gulf
Visiting Follonica during this long weekend also means enjoying the first real warmth of the Maremma. The mild climate in mid-April is ideal for exploring the area surrounding Borgo Etrusco, alternating international tastings at the market with moments of pure relaxation in nature. The event attracts thousands of visitors every year, making the city a cosmopolitan and vibrant center, perfect for those seeking a dynamic but rejuvenating vacation.
📢 The Director's Council
The days in mid-April finally give us magical light that lasts until late. My personal advice for getting the most out of Piazze d'Europa Follonica 2026 is this: around sunset, treat yourself to a long, slow walk along Follonica beach, starting from the center and walking north as the sun sets behind Elba. Only after filling your eyes with the colors of the sky should you immerse yourself in the joyful chaos of the market. Let your instincts guide you and try something new: an Ethiopian dish, a Belgian craft beer, or a warm pretzel. It's the perfect way to end a spring day in Maremma, combining the peace of our sea with the discovery of distant cultures.
Special Offer Piazze d’Europa 2026: Don't miss the opportunity to participate in Piazze d’Europa Follonica 2026! Book your stay of at least 3 nights at Borgo Etrusco and take advantage of a 25% discount. We look forward to seeing you for a weekend of taste and relaxation!
- Published in Events
Easter 2026 in Follonica
Easter 2026 in Follonica: the lure of the sea and relaxation in the Maremma
Choosing to spend Easter 2026 in Follonica means treating yourself to the first real taste of summer in one of Tuscany's most picturesque gulfs. In April, the city leaves behind its winter tranquility to welcome the first warm rays of sunshine, offering visitors a vibrant atmosphere that is still far from the mass tourism of the peak months. Staying at Borgo Etrusco will allow you to enjoy all the energy of the coast while maintaining the peace and regenerating silence of the Scarlino hills.
What to do in Follonica at Easter 2026: between sea and nature
One of the unmissable activities during Easter 2026 in Follonica is undoubtedly a walk along the seafront. Kilometers of pedestrian coastline connect the center with the wildest areas of the gulf, perfect for those who love walking with only the sound of the waves as a backdrop. The Levante and Ponente pine forests also offer the ideal shade for an Easter picnic in the open air or for those who want to do sports, from running to cycling.
If you are looking for even closer contact with nature, Parco della Sterpaia is just a few minutes away by car. Here, centuries-old oak trees overlook the sandy beach, creating a unique landscape. It is the ideal place for a rejuvenating outing under the warm April sun, breathing in the salty air that blends with the scent of the Mediterranean scrub.
Art, Shopping, and the History of Cast Iron
For those looking for a touch of culture, MAGMA (Museum of Cast Iron Arts in Maremma) tells the industrial history of the city in an interactive and fascinating way, ideal for families too. The former Ilva area, where the museum is located, is a gem of restored industrial architecture that is well worth a visit. The center of Follonica, with its boutiques and historic cafés, is perfect for afternoon shopping and enjoying a homemade ice cream while strolling towards Piazza a Mare.
📢 The Director's Council
To experience Easter 2026 in Follonica like a true local, I suggest treating yourself to an aperitif around 6:30 p.m. at one of the bars right on the beach. Order a glass of chilled local Vermentino wine and accompany it with some warm, freshly baked schiacciata bread. Watching the sun set directly behind the Island of Elba, painting the entire gulf orange and purple, is a sight that alone is worth the trip. It's my favorite way to recharge my batteries.
Unmissable Offer: Celebrate spring with us! For your Easter 2026 in Follonica, Borgo Etrusco has a special offer for you special 25% discount on stays of at least 3 nights. Book now and secure your place in paradise at the best price guaranteed.
- 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