Archive for 'Islands'

Gorgona Island is the smallest and most northerly of the islands of the Tuscan Archipelago, measuring just over 2km² and being occupied by just 300 people. Despite its tiny size, the island has a rich and varied history. Set in the rich blue sea off the Tuscan coast, it rises as a craggy formation from the water, covered in plants. In fact, over 90% of the island is covered in Mediterranean bush and is home to over 400 species of different plant-life. The water is also left untouched by mankind, as the sea around the island is protected, and is particularly clear and vibrant as a result. If you want to visit this little gem in the Ligurian sea, just find yourself a pretty vacation rental in Livorno nearby and take the trip out to Gorgona Island for a day.

As if the Tuscan island of Elba wasn't close enough to paradise on earth as it is, were you aware that it is also home to a world famous and exceptionally beautiful spa? The Thermal Baths of San Giovanni, located in front of Portoferraio gulf, are known for the healthy properties of its waters. Built in a thermal basin over five hectares of muddy land, rich in iron, iodine and sulphur, are the perfect natural setting for the ultimate day of relaxation. Between the stunning surroundings and naturally occurring ingredients, it's certainly unlike most spas you'll visit. Why not find a luxury villa on the Tuscan Coast and take a day out to experience the Thermal Baths of San Giovanni for yourself?

The island of Elba, the biggest of the Tuscan Archipelago and the third largest island in Italy after Sardinia and Sicily, is most well-known as the site of Napoleon's exile and if you ever get the chance to visit, you might be wishing for the same punishment! Hardly a depressing or prison-like place, it is, rather, more like a paradise. Surrounded by crystal clear, rich blue waters with cloudless skies overhead, dotted by perfect beaches, little towns, castles and blessed by nature, it is a stunning place and the ideal place to escape to on your next holiday. Find a villa with pool on the Tuscan Coast and you can then start exploring this dream-like island for yourself.

Located in the glimmering Tyrrhenian Sea, off the coast of Tuscany, Pianosa Island is one of the smallest islands in the Tuscan Archipelago. It is also almost entirely uninhabited exception made for wildlife, nature, a handful of humans and the ghosts of the past. So flat that it is barely visible, and often described merely as looking like a darker blue line in the sea, it was most recently home to a prison that is now abandoned. Since its closure, Pianosa Island has become a popular spot for diving enthusiasts as there is a huge variety of saltwater fish and vegetation and dolphins often make appearances. Find a villa with pool on the Tuscan Coast and you could spend a day exploring this fascinating island and its stunning surroundings.

Off the coast of Tuscany there exists an especially beautiful island called Isola del Giglio, or Giglio Island. With Etruscan roots, it has, however, a distinctly medieval appearance of a particularly romantic character. Stone structures and stone houses are dotted across the island which is otherwise rather unspoiled by man. Ninety percent of the territory of Isola del Giglio is uninhabited and flora and fauna of great beauty and interest dominate, especially in springtime, when the island becomes a riot of colour, displaying incredible beauty. Additionally, as it is an island, it obviously has particularly wonderful sea views.