Discover a relaxed walking holiday in Tuscany and Liguria
Your base in Marina di Pietrasanta, on the Tuscan Coast, is quieter than some of its neighbours but just as attractive. Your holiday includes three different, beautiful walks to the stunningly beautiful ‘Gulf of Poets’, just across the border in Liguria, Byron and Shelley: along the river in Lucca, and in the Serchio Valley in the Apuan Alps – the ‘Marble Mountains’, whose stone is used in the cathedrals and baptisteries of the major Tuscan cities.
This holiday with walks blends gentle walking with rich culture, charming towns, and some of Italy’s most memorable scenery. Your adventure begins with a scenic coach ride to Nozzano Castello, where sweeping coastal views set expectations high for the rest of the week. After exploring the medieval castle, enjoy a relaxed circular walk beside the river and through peaceful countryside before returning to the village.
A highlight of this trip is the included full-day excursion to Florence. Travelling by coach and then a short train journey, you’ll arrive right in the heart of the city - just moments from the cathedral. An expert local guide will lead a fascinating walking tour, taking in icons such as the Cathedral, Piazza della Signoria, and the church of Santa Croce. There’s also plenty of free time for sightseeing, browsing the shops and grabbing a coffee or bite to eat, before returning to the hotel by train and coach.
Your journey continues with a visit to the enchanting walled city of Lucca, where you’ll have time to wander its medieval streets or enjoy a gentle stroll along the ancient ramparts.
Another day brings a scenic walk from the village of Calci through olive groves and fragrant pine forests, with panoramic views unfolding as you climb. Explore centuries-old watermills and castle ruins before a leisurely descent to the magnificent Certosa Monastery. A well-earned coffee and treat at a beloved local patisserie will round off the day perfectly.
Finally, you’ll venture to the maritime village of Tellaro, one of Italy’s officially recognised ‘Most Beautiful Villages’. After time to explore its winding lanes and colourful harbour, enjoy a coastal walk to Lerici, where you can soak up the charm of the Bay of Poets at your own pace.
Blending culture, gentle adventure, and plenty of time to relax, this holiday offers a wonderfully balanced taste of Tuscany and Liguria.
Holiday Highlights
- Seven nights half board
- Half board at the Hotel Joseph in Marina di Pietrasanta
- Three guided walks
- Local knowledgeable walking guide
- s Flights included from your local UK airport
- Transfers & Luggage included
- Included excursion to Florence
Itinerary
DAY ONE – Arrival Day
Flight to Pisa, on arrival you will be met for the short transfer to the Hotel Joseph, Marina di Pietrasanta, for 7 nights half board accommodation.
DAY TWO – Walk 1
Depart the hotel and enjoy a scenic coach transfer to Nozzano Castello. During the journey, the guide will introduce you to northwest Tuscany, with a particular focus on Versilia. The drive itself offers stunning views of the coastline, making for a memorable start to the day. Upon arrival in Nozzano, you’ll first explore the medieval castle, then take a leisurely circular walk along the river and through the beautiful countryside, before returning to Nozzano Castello to meet the coach. From there, it’s a short transfer to the historic town of Lucca. In Lucca, you’ll have free time to stroll along the city’s ancient ramparts or explore its charming medieval centre. Afterward, you’ll return to your hotel by coach. Today’s walk covers 4 miles, plus time spent exploring the city.
DAY THREE – Included excursion to Florence
Included excursion to Florence, You will travel by coach to Sesto Fiorentino, and then by train the short distance into the centre of town. This way you arrive in the centre of town, close to the cathedral, and avoid a long walk into town from the coach parking area. During your day in Florence, your official local guide will conduct a walking tour, passing some of the masterpieces including the Cathedral, Piazza della Signoria and the church of Santa Croce – where Galileo insisted to the end that the earth moved around the sun, rather than vice-versa. You will also have free time for shopping and sightseeing. You will return by train and coach.
DAY FOUR – Free day in resort.
Free day in resort.
DAY FIVE – Walk 2
5 MILES – 250m Ascent Set off on a memorable journey to Calci, a picturesque village nestled in the serene Gracious Valley. As the name suggests, this valley is a peaceful and beautiful place, offering breathtaking views at every turn. You’ll begin by strolling through the heart of the village before taking a gentle climb through olive groves. As you continue, the landscape transforms into a fragrant pine forest, where you’ll be treated to stunning panoramic views. After a slightly steeper section, you’ll reach a quiet country road that leads you through small villages clinging to the hillsides. At the end of the valley, you’ll explore ancient watermills and the ruins of an old castle. From here, we’ll enjoy a pleasant downhill walk, on both paved and unpaved paths. For lunch, you’ll stop at a traditional Circolino (local bar) or a nearby spot. After lunch, you’ll continue with a mostly downhill or flat walk to visit the magnificent Certosa Monastery, a stunning 700-year-old landmark. you’ll end our day with a stop at one of the best patisseries in the area, where you can enjoy a delicious coffee.
DAY SIX – Free day in resort.
Free day in resort.
DAY SEVEN – Walk 3
3 MILES – 300M ASCENT/DESCENT You begin your journey today with a transfer north to the maritime village of Tellaro on the Gulf of Poets. Tellaro is on the list of the ‘Most Beautiful Villages of Italy’. The colourful fishermen’s houses cluster close to St George’s Church. From there, after you’ve explored the amazing “carrugi”, the typical narrow alleys of Liguria, you start your hike towards Lerici, with free time to explore this picturesque inlet of the Bay of Poets.
DAY EIGHT – Departure Day
Free time until you transfer to the airport for your return flight.
Accommodation
The Hotel Joseph offers spacious lounge areas, lifts, a bar, a restaurant, terraces and an outdoor pool area with a terrace and fine views of the Versilia Coast. There is a wellness centre with treatments available (charges apply). Bedrooms are in two adjacent buildings and have a bathroom with a shower, a safety deposit box and Wi-Fi is available. Twin rooms also have a balcony.
Hotel Features
Dates & Prices
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