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- The Versilia coast

The Versilia coast


Versilia is the pearl of the Apuan Riviera, a suggestive sandy coast bathed by the Tyrrhenian Sea, the most limpid mirror for the Apuan Alps to reflect their majestic image.

This "marble kingdom" familiar to Michelangelo offers excursions to the quarries of Carrara and Massa and spectacular views of the coast introduced by luxuriant hills and pine woods.

 

Riviera of Versilia  extends from Forte dei Marmi, commonly called "il Forte" , passing through Marina di Pietrasanta, Lido di Camaiore ,Viareggio until Torre del Lago and it expands into the municipalities of Seravezza and Stazzema; it offers moreover the chance of visiting the most important touristic centres of Tuscany that can make your holiday really complete.

Versilia beach seaside is made of several miles of beautiful clean white sandy beaches, restaurants and shops, enjoy the beach to take baths, to get a tan under the sun, or sit in a chair and read a book under an umbrella.

Versilia renowned name is not only deserved for its beautiful sandy beaches, in the shade of the Apuan Alps. It has been the homeland and meeting point of great artists since the beginnings of 1900. In those days, world-known artists, such as Lorenzo Viani and Galileo Chini, have made Versilia famous; it was the Liberty period, which has still left its strong mark in the lounges and palaces in Viareggio

Also in those days, Pietrasanta became the destination for sculptors who found there not only well-equipped workshops where they could accomplish their works in marble, but also the most skilled art foundry.

Forte dei Marmi has been the most fashionable resort in Versilia since the first elegant holiday homes were built in 1800, surrounded by pine forests opening onto a splendid beach. It has since attracted artists, painters, poets and writers who were enchanted by its surroundings, now equipped with high quality tourist facilities, although it retains the relaxed atmosphere of a small residential community. Also visit the Apuans Alps (mountains)

Enjoy the food

You will not forget our excellent cuisine. There are several famous fish dishes, as well the traditional Tuscan cuisine. You may prefer a pizza prepared in the traditional way or a terrific "spaghetti allo Scoglio" (spaghetti with seafood). Don't miss out on savoring the wonderful range of Tuscan wines, such as the "Montecarlo" white wine or the more classic "Chianti" reds. Most dishes are served with vegetables.

Enjoy the nightlife

At night you can take a quiet "passeggiata" (stroll) along the promenade, maybe tasting a "gelato" (Italian ice-cream), or choose the exciting nightlife. Viareggio, with its well-known "Versilian" discos, was a starting point for many a famous italian singers. In July and August you can see the "Puccini Festival" in Torre del Lago.

Enjoy the climate

The climate is naturally affected by the geographical configuration of this territory. At sea level, during the hot seasons, the mountains moderate the humidity, while the winter is more temperate due to the beneficial influence of the sea.

The climate is very temperate with an average of 270 sunny days a year in which to enjoy the many attractions in this area: sport and folklore, art shows, cultural meetings, and plenty of shopping and social life

Versilia has a very well-developed network of roads and railroads lines, and excellent bus and coach services providing links between the coast and the interior of Tuscany.

Versilia area occupies the north-western part of Tuscany, between the ridge of the Apuan Alps and the Tyrrhenian Sea, with a coastal strip of about 20 kilometres in length.

The south is bordered by the Lake of Massaciuccoli and the pinewood of Migliarino, while the north is bordered by the mouth of the Cinquale.

The territory of Versilia is divided into the administrative Communes of Pietrasanta, Forte di Marmi, Seravezza and Stazzema.  Camaiore, Massarosa and Viareggio are the outskirts.

It is a strip of coastline 10 kilometres wide at its minimum and 18 at its maximum. Despite this, the natural environments are quite varied; in fact, from Versilia's highest peak, la Pania della Croce, 1859 metres above sea level, to Forte dei Marmi, it is only 15 kilometres in a beeline

 Viareggio, whose fishing port grew alongside the boat building industry as the early bathing establishments began to develop.

Viareggio is the largest centre of Versilia, is also famous for its winter Carnival, its smooth and wide sandy beach and its lush pine park.


Today the Versilia and its sea attracts so many Italian and foreign tourists. The whole coastline is equipped with organised beaches that offer a service characterised by traditional Tuscany welcome and by all the comforts you might request during a holiday.