Archive for 'Tourist Attractions'

Montecatini Terme is a lively commune in the Valdinievole of Pistoia in Tuscany.

Its economy is mostly based on tourism which stems from the steaming thermal springs which are heated from deep within the earth here.

Montecatini Terme has been inhabited since ancient times because of this precious thermal source. Because of this, Montecatini Terme has been the centre of many bitter feuds between Florence, Siena and Arezzo provinces. Eventually it came within the territory of Pistoia.

Spend a delightful few hours in the town of Quarrata in Pistoia province. This town is actually made up of seventeen frazioni including the village of Casini and the hamlet of Olmi.

Stay in a gorgeous villa in Seano which is only four kilometres away from Quarrata.

There are several enchanting attractions in the town including the ideally named ‘Villa Magic’.
This was an ancient castle that dates back to 1320 and in 1583, was acquired by the Medici family.

Visit the bustling town of Pescia in Pistoia Province which is situated along the banks of the River Pescia. This area is well known for its flower and olive tree cultivation which adds lots of colour and tranquillity to the scenery here.

Begin your day by walking around some of the structural attractions of Pescia such as the old flower market building, the communal palace and the ornate cathedral.

Be sure to explore one of the frazioni of Pescia called Collodi. This is the birthplace of Carlo Lorenzini who wrote the beloved children’s book, ‘Pinocchio’.

Why not stretch your legs in the lively town of Monticiano?

This pretty part of Siena province is situated on the right bank of the Val di Merse and is included in the Metalliferous Hills nature area that is bordered by several regions.

Visit the local ‘Buca dei Falchi’, a huge cave full of stalactites and stalagmites for a few hours or stroll along the many guided walking, cycling or horse riding tours available around this picturesque town.

The ancient hamlet of Castello di Tocchi is only a few minutes’ walk away and would be the perfect setting to enjoy a picnic meal as you gaze around the peaceful environment of colourful flowers and trees. Sit back and relax in the healing thermal springs of Bagni di Petriolo, a frazioni of Monticiano which is very popular with tourists.

Stop off in the quaint town of Poggio a Caiano on your next vacation to Prato province in Tuscany. Stay in a quaint vacation rental in Carmignano which is only four kilometres away

It’s situated around nine kilometres south of Prato and is made up of ten frazioni including Calcinaia and Poggetto. One of the main sights to see in Poggio a Caiano is the lavish Medici villa.

In 1473 this ruined shell of a house was bought by Lorenzo de’ Medici. It was redesigned to have a quadrangular base around a huge central hall with windows all around overlooking the tranquil countryside.