We often discuss the Tuscan Coast as a perfect holiday destination that many international visitors might be less familiar with than some of the other, more famous coastal regions of the country. A major benefit of booking a villa on the Tuscan Coast is that it allows guests to enjoy all of the cultural and foodie delights for which the region is more famous while also getting to make the most of the sun, fun, and incredible beaches that are on offer. And there are some truly gorgeous beaches, indeed, that can be enjoyed while staying in one of our vacation rentals on the Tuscan Coast. Among them, the lovely Cala Violina is one of the most famous and beloved.
Why It Is Special
Cala Violina, known as the, “musical beach,” is located in the Maremma, halfway between Follonica and Punta Ala, in the municipal territory of Scarlino. Set within the Bandite di Scarlino Nature Reserve, the little beach is made up of white sand lapped by the emerald waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Amongst the white sand, there are tiny quartz crystals that make a unique sound at a particular frequency – between 500 and 2,500 hertz – that sounds somewhat like a violin when people walk on the sand or the water washes over it. Due to the enclosed shape of the cove in which the beach is found and its remote location, this sound is more prominent and obvious than it might be elsewhere. As a result, the beach gained its poetic name, the so-called, “violin cove.”
A Remote Beach
In fact, the beach is quite remote and this is an important thing to note if you have found a holiday rental on the Tuscan Coast and are planning on experiencing this lovely and unique natural gem for yourself. It can only be reached on foot or by bike, with parking available off the main road and then following a path through the Mediterranean scrubland for about half an hour. Approaching by sea is also possible, however, if you have a boat or sign up for a tour of the area. This remote location inside a nature reserve also means that Cala Violina is a pristine beauty, making a visit all the more appealing. Those who may not be up for a trek, might have mobility issues, or who need to bring various accoutrements (such as those travelling with young kids) make need to keep all of this in mind, however, if they were considering paying a visit to the area.
How To Visit In The Summer
It is also key to remember that if you want to visit from June to the end of September, you must book your spot online in advance of your visit, a measure that was put in place to protect and preserve the beach. It costs one euro per person to reserve your spot, while kids between 1 and 12 must have places reserved but go free. Children under 1 do not need to have a spot reserved for them.
Parking
When booking, you also have the option to reserve your parking in advance and at a fee, something we recommend as it will make your visit a lot easier on the day. It is also possible for those travelling with a disabled guest to send an email to request special car access to the beach.
Rules and Regulations
Only a maximum of 700 people can visit per day during these months and the beach is only accessible between 8.30am and 6.30pm. Dogs other than guide dogs are not permitted access and littering is strictly forbidden. Stewards are on site to check bookings and ensure visitors follow the rules.
So, if you are planning an escape on the Tuscan Coast and want to visit her most beloved and magical little musical cove this summer, be sure to plan ahead for smooth sailing and a stress-free day out!
