Hidden gems between Tuscany & Liguria

If you love wine and beautiful landscapes, Ca’ Lunae is definitely a place to visit during your holiday in Tuscany. It’s situated in the heart of the Colli di Luni, amongst olive trees and Mediterranean scrub, with the sea in the distance. You can take a guided tour of the historic winery and learn how the wines are grown and produced here. Afterwards, you’ll taste a selection of wines, such as crisp white Vermentinos and robust reds, alongside local delicacies like extra virgin olive oil and small bites. It’s a relaxed way to truly experience the flavours, culture and nature of Lunigiana.

Pin Bon is a cosy restaurant in Lerici with a stunning view over the Golfo dei Poeti, where the water meets the coast. You can sit in a light-filled dining area indoors or on the terrace, which features large windows offering panoramic views of the blue sea and, at times, even the islands on the horizon. The menu features fresh seafood dishes and local ingredients delivered daily by local fishermen. Try, for example, the seafood spaghetti. You can also choose from more traditional Ligurian dishes featuring meat and homemade pasta, all prepared with regional flavours. The prices are fair for what you get, and paired with a glass of local wine, it really is a place you’ll want to dine at if you’re in the area. So do pop into this wonderful restaurant during your holiday in Tuscany.

La Burlanda is a small-scale family-run business and agriturismo set in the mountains at the heart of the Lunigiana, between Tuscany and Liguria. It supports the local community and offers guests an authentic taste of farm life, with charming accommodation built from local materials and a kitchen that uses its own produce, such as its own olive oil, wine and seasonal dishes. You can rent a room or stay in your campervan whilst enjoying the surrounding nature, going for walks through the Mediterranean scrub and exploring the countryside and medieval villages. It is a place where tranquillity, harmony with the landscape and authentic farm life come together.

If you love hidden beaches, this is definitely a place you should visit. Spiaggia del Groppolo is a small, unspoilt beach in Tuscany on the Ligurian coast, not far from Lerici and Tellaro. It lies tucked away amongst rugged rocks and is only accessible via a narrow and sometimes steep footpath. The descent, but especially the climb back up, are quite challenging and require a fair bit of fitness, so it’s important to prepare well and wear sturdy shoes. Precisely because it takes a bit of effort to get there, it remains peaceful and feels almost like a secret cove. The beach is pebbly and the water is clear and deep blue, perfect for swimming or snorkelling. There are no facilities, so make sure to bring plenty of water and food, and above all, enjoy the tranquillity, the natural surroundings and the unspoilt, authentic character of this place.