The Grotta del Vento, or the Cave of the Wind, is a system of caves situated in the province of Lucca, in the Apuan Alps regional park. Named for the strong air currents that flow through the cave, it has been known to locals since at least the 17th century, when records show that is was used to keep food cold due to the lower temperature inside. Beginning in the 20th century there was more exploration and systematic study of the caves and in 1966 it was opened up to the public. Since then, many developments have been made in preserving the natural state of the caves to the best of their ability, while making it safer and more readily accessible to tourists – a difficult balance that has won the caves awards in the past and that makes it one of the best caves in the world to visit.
An amazing underworld of caves and tunnels is revealed upon entering the caves and can be explored via three different guided tours – revealing the incredible stalactites and stalagmites, alabaster walls, small lakes and underground streams – and are all relatively easy routes that most people will be able to tackle without a problem.
23
Jun
2017
2017
In the last post in this series, here are two more of Tuscany's most unique and best theme parks. While the region may be better known for its cuisine and culture and while there may be plenty of museums, galleries, churches, architectural gems, landmarks and restaurants to be discovered, there are also adventures to be had.
Cavallino Matto, near Livorno, is Tuscany’s biggest amusement park. Originally set up in 1967 as a stables that offered pony trekking throughout the vast pine woods near the beach of Livorno during the summer.
Called ‘Parco Gulliver’, it also included crazy golf, ping pong tables, a bar, slides, swings and was free to enter. Over the years, this business grew and expanded until it was the biggest amusement park in the region.
In 2006, Cavallino Matto was purchased by the Manfredini family, who work in the funfair business, and has only grown larger since then.
Cavallino Matto, near Livorno, is Tuscany’s biggest amusement park. Originally set up in 1967 as a stables that offered pony trekking throughout the vast pine woods near the beach of Livorno during the summer.
Called ‘Parco Gulliver’, it also included crazy golf, ping pong tables, a bar, slides, swings and was free to enter. Over the years, this business grew and expanded until it was the biggest amusement park in the region.
In 2006, Cavallino Matto was purchased by the Manfredini family, who work in the funfair business, and has only grown larger since then.
23
Jun
2017
2017
As we discussed in the last post, theme parks are probably not something that you associate with Tuscany and, admittedly, you won't find the likes of Disneyland or Universal Studios. However, Tuscany has her own unique theme parks, adventures parks and water parks that are great fun and something a little different; especially welcome to any kids (or childlike adults) in the group that might grow tired of museums and architectural gems. So, if you are planning on visiting Tuscany and are looking for a family activity that is a little off the beaten track, look no further than this list of some of her best theme parks!
Similar to Il Gigante Adventure Park in Florence, Lucca has its own adventure park to offer: Bagno di Lucca Canyon Park. If you've found your luxury villa in Lucca and are looking for a bit of an adventure, time outdoors and a little bit physical exertion mixed in with fun, then it's a perfect option.
Similar to Il Gigante Adventure Park in Florence, Lucca has its own adventure park to offer: Bagno di Lucca Canyon Park. If you've found your luxury villa in Lucca and are looking for a bit of an adventure, time outdoors and a little bit physical exertion mixed in with fun, then it's a perfect option.
23
Jun
2017
2017
A key summer activity for many people is to head to theme parks and water parks for the day. It makes for a fun, special day out that is a big treat for kids, if you are travelling as a family, and also a great excursion for friends and couples.
Tuscany might not be the first place you associate with such outings – cultural and foodie events will likely spring to mind first – but the region actually has some rather unique and interesting theme parks.
If you are planning a visit to Florence, for example, there is the excellent Il Gigante Adventure Park. One of the many surprising adventures to be had in Tuscany, it is a great spot to visit with the kids once you have found a luxury villa in Florence.
Tuscany might not be the first place you associate with such outings – cultural and foodie events will likely spring to mind first – but the region actually has some rather unique and interesting theme parks.
If you are planning a visit to Florence, for example, there is the excellent Il Gigante Adventure Park. One of the many surprising adventures to be had in Tuscany, it is a great spot to visit with the kids once you have found a luxury villa in Florence.
21
Apr
2017
2017
One of the great beauties of Tuscany is a beach that may have escaped your attention. Cala Violina is one of the best beaches in the country and endlessly tops lists that back this claim up.
A stunning soft white sand half-moon cove, it is located in the Golfo di Follonica right in the heart of the Riserva Naturale delle Bandite di Scarlino and the Le Costiere di Scarlino Area Naturale Protetta di Interesse Locale. As such, this Maremma gem is rather unlike many of Italy's other more built-up beaches in that it is completely unspoiled.
Most beaches in Italy require fees to be paid for their use and the use of their special facilities but Cala Violina is a “spiaggia libera", (literally a “free beach”) a public beach, that is devoid of the rows of bars, sunbeds and parasols that dot other shores.
A stunning soft white sand half-moon cove, it is located in the Golfo di Follonica right in the heart of the Riserva Naturale delle Bandite di Scarlino and the Le Costiere di Scarlino Area Naturale Protetta di Interesse Locale. As such, this Maremma gem is rather unlike many of Italy's other more built-up beaches in that it is completely unspoiled.
Most beaches in Italy require fees to be paid for their use and the use of their special facilities but Cala Violina is a “spiaggia libera", (literally a “free beach”) a public beach, that is devoid of the rows of bars, sunbeds and parasols that dot other shores.