When you think about Tuscany, what comes to mind? Rolling hills, sloping vineyards, olive groves, and sunflowers? How about sandy beaches and a rugged coastline full of pine trees? Known as the Maremma, Tuscany’s coastline flies under the radar, but if you’re searching for an authentic local experience it’s worth a visit. In this unspoiled corner of one of Italy’s most visited regions, you can start your day with an excursion in the countryside to visit a winery like the acclaimed Rocca di Frassinello (designed by award-winning architect Renzo Piano), savor an al fresco lunch at La Spiaggia Beach Club, sunbathe, swim, and go golfing or yachting in the afternoon. Though Italy is strewn with fantastic beaches, ask Florentines where they go on summer vacation and they’ll likely tell you they go to the Maremma. After all, when they’ve got everything they need so close by, why leave Tuscany? Spend a few days at this charming coastal resort and you might feel the same way.
What makes Punta Ala so special is the feeling of stumbling upon one of Italy’s hidden gems.
As soon as you arrive at Baglioni Resort Cala del Porto in Punta Ala, the staff will welcome you warmly. The vibe is more charming summer B&B than palatial estate—just the place to relax after a city break in Florence. Check into one of the rooms painted a cheery shade of yellow or green, then head out to the pool overlooking the sea or make your way to the beach club. “What makes Punta Ala so special is the feeling of stumbling upon one of Italy’s hidden gems,” says General Manager Nicola Abate. “Baglioni Resort Cala del Porto is unlike any other beach resort in Italy, where its stunning location on the Tuscan coast meets authentic Italian charm.”
Italian beach clubs are designed to fulfill all your needs so you can concentrate on the very important task of relaxing, and La Spiaggia does this to a T. The clubhouse has a fitness center on the ground floor, along with changing rooms and outdoor showers; La Spiaggia restaurant serves artful riffs on traditional Tuscan cuisine, with fantastic salads, pastas, and fish. The blue and green interiors play off the colors of the water just outside, but the place to be is on the terrace, enjoying the sea breeze, a nice wine, and views of the Mediterranean.
After lunch, the best thing to do is get out on the water. Baglioni’s team can arrange a yacht excursion to the Maremma’s hidden coves and peaceful beaches. You’ll depart from the marina and sail along the shore, spotting the summer homes of Florentine’s upper crust. From here you can even see the island of Elba, where Napoleon was exiled in 1814. Bring your swimsuit and a bottle of prosecco and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a leisurely afternoon under the Tuscan sun.