Some of the world’s most famous historic sites, churches, piazzas and artwork are in Tuscany. It is the dream vacation of many because of it offers so much – a plethora of high profile destinations, amazing food and fantastic, sunny weather. Those must-see spots are well worth visiting, and are all explored in detail in our guide, but they are not necessarily kid-friendly attractions. Luckily, Tuscany also offers some hidden, charming and family-friendly corners just waiting to be discovered by children and their parents. Below you will find three surprising destinations that kids will love. All three are off the beaten path, but don’t be intimidated – venturing off to lesser known parts of the region can actually be a great idea. It will allow you to break away from the crowds that flock to the most popular locations, as well as enjoy more active activities, out in the open, surrounded by nature. For detailed itineraries, ideas for specific activities, parks, and attractions, check the chapters about the Garfagnana, the Maremma and the Eturcan coast in our travel guide, Florence & Tuscany with Kids 2015.
1. THE MAREMMA AREA Tucked away in southern Tuscany is the beautiful Maremma area. If you’re looking for a retreat after spending time in busy, bustling Florence, the Maremma offers the respite you seek, from stunning sandy beaches and blue seas to wild woodsy nature parks. This is a nature lover’s paradise, and it isn’t that far from Florence. Not geographically anyway… Just be prepared to find yourself in a different, much calmer world, when you arrive.
This is the place to go fishing, hike in the woods, ride horses and enjoy a full range of outdoor activities. Choose an agriturismo (instead of a regular B&B) for the full rural Tuscany experience, and your kids will have some amazing material for those ever-popular ‘What I Did on My Summer Vacation’ papers when they go back to school.
3.THE GARFAGNANA AREA In northern Tuscany, the dramatic Garfagnana area awaits. The Apuan Alps are dotted with several villages where you’ll want to linger in the crisp air, mountains, meadows and caves. The great outdoors are at their finest here, in this destination for doers. If you or the children are suffering a museum overdose, the Garfagnana is the cure!The Alps here offer dazzling views, but for a real adventure, take a tour of the Wind Cave and see the Alps from underneath. Explore an ancient castle, and end your day with an adventure park. Tour around in the open spaces above ground by raft, bike or quad, or just keep it simple and hike. You will find detailed tours of the Garfagnana area, and a full list of activities and parks, including some of the most popular hikes in Tuscany and suggestions on how to visit the Marble quarries of Carrara, in our guide.
4. THE ETRUSCAN COAST Children generally love beaches, and Italy is nearly surrounded by water. The Etruscan Coast in Tuscany stretches from Livorno to Piombino, offering ample opportunities to indulge your little beachcombers and enjoy some sea and sand yourself. This area has a lot to offer besides a day by the sea with resorts. Two water parks, some fun amusement parks and archeological parks are just a few of the attractions that will tempt the younger members of the family.
Curious kids will also enjoy exploring the fascinating world of the ancient Etruscans at archeological sites, most notably the Archeological Park of Baratti and Populonia. This dazzling coastline offers something for everyone with a wonderful mix of seaside fun and intriguing history.
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