For me, Barga was love at first sight. I’d heard (and read) a lot about it before I visited, of course. Its strong ties to the UK. Its unique position as the gateway to the Garfagnana region. As a plus, I’d always wanted to visit the nearby Devil’s Bridge (which, by the way, is absolutely… Read more »
Read More5 Amazing Ports in Italy You Can Visit on a Mediterranean Cruise
Exploring Italy as part of a Mediterranean cruise is one of the most relaxing ways to experience the country’s beauty. Say goodbye to airport stress, and hello to smooth sailing, comfort, and unforgettable destinations. From the historic charm of Naples to the glamour of Portofino, the artistic vibe of Ravenna, the Tuscan gateway of Livorno,… Read more »
Read MoreMy Perfect Day in Florence, Things I Love to do in My Adopted City
One of the joys of life is spending a day in Florence. You’d have thought after more than 10 years living in Tuscany that the thrill might have worn off. But it never really does. When I drive my ancient Fiat Panda over the Via Volterrana and see the Duomo rising up into my eyeline… Read more »
Read MoreSerchio Valley Driving Itinerary: Rivers, Bridges, Mountains and a Scottish town
Recently we spent a couple of days exploring the Serchio Valley in Tuscany. For anyone wanting to get away from the tourist chaos (and heat!) of summer, this makes for a perfect escape. It’s an easy trip in the car and a wonderful way to enjoy nature, tranquillity, and see some of the less well-known… Read more »
Read MoreBarga, The most Scottish town in Italy, and why I love it
Tuscany doesn’t want for variety. From countryside to coastline, a trip out here can make you feel like you’ve won the holiday lottery. Its Renaissance cities, Medieval hilltop towns and ever-changing landscapes, offer the traveller an embarrassment of riches. So with all the possibilities for a weekend away in Tuscany, did I really need to… Read more »
Read MoreFlorence in Summer, What to do and What not to do
We won’t lie to you. Florence is hot in summer. The kind of humid heat that sticks to your skin. In July and August temperatures can reach 37/38 degrees C (99 F), which can make sightseeing pretty unpleasant. Having said that, if you’re travelling to Florence in summer there are ways to enjoy the city,… Read more »
Read MoreTop Summer Events in Tuscany: Food, Music, Medieval Re-enactments
If you travel around Tuscany during Summer, you’ll find a variety of festivals and events livening up the towns and villages. With the long days and hot weather, people tend to spend time outside later when it’s cooler. Parks, piazze and open-air theatres put on their Summer Festivals throughout the region, with concerts, sagre (food… Read more »
Read MoreStaying Secure While Travelling in Tuscany: Essential Tips for Modern Travellers
A trip to Tuscany is one of life’s greatest pleasures. From the Renaissance wonders of Florence to the Medieval jewel that is San Gimignano, there’s so much to be discovered. But while you’re out there ticking sights off your bucket list, it’s crucial not to let your guard down when it comes to safety and… Read more »
Read More3 Small Towns in Tuscany We Love to Visit in Summer
There are three very special small towns in Tuscany just we can’t get enough of in Summer: Massa Marittima, Barga, and Pitigliano. These idyllic hilltop towns offer the visitor Romanesque art, good living, spectacular views and some special events during the Summer. Let’s be honest, there’s a lot of competition when it comes to picturesque… Read more »
Read MoreThe Eternal Appeal of Tuscany’s Landscapes: from the Etruscan to AI
The iconic landscapes of Tuscany have become a part of our collective imagination. They are synonymous with romance, beauty and dreams of the good life, and because of this they have found their way into hundreds of films and paintings, postcards and screensavers – all trying to capture the essence of Tuscany’s charm. But why… Read more »
Read More
