Hu Montescudaio Village

This park’s near some of Tuscany’s most sought-after sights and spaces, both inland and at the coast. If you’re after a stint at the seaside, submerge yourself in the clear shores of the beaches around Vada, Cecina and Bibbona (all within 20 minutes’ drive) or seek out the dramatic cliffside scenery near Castiglioncello (20 minutes). Alternatively, unfurl your towel in the teeny cove of Populonia (45 minutes) and soak up the spectacular views over to Elba, perhaps while planning a trip to this terrific Tyrrhenian Sea island in the Tuscan Archipelago National Park. Once you’ve had enough of spreading out on soft sands, head into hamlets near the park among the cypress trees and vast vineyards that characterise the region, like Bolgheri (20 minutes), Castagneto Carducci (25 minutes) and Campiglia Marittima (30 minutes). A bit further away – but still a cinch to reach on a day trip – are top Tuscan places known for their attractive architecture: think the mountain settlement of Volterra (40 minutes), the leaning tower city of Pisa (45 minutes) and the Renaissance walled town of Lucca (an hour).