7 nights from £391
Montecatini Terme is an elegant and historical spa town set amidst green Tuscan hills rich with olive groves. Famed for its ‘Liberty’ style buildings, the Italian equivalent of ‘Art Nouveau’, this flamboyant architecture defined the town’s heyday when visitors included Puccini, Rossini, Mascagni, Strauss and even the great Caruso. The cultural life and musical activities ensured an air of exclusivity prevailed. From 1898 Giuseppe Verdi spent 19 consecutive summers drawing inspiration from the beautiful formal gardens, wide avenues and thermal spas, still open today for those wishing to take the waters. But Tuscany is intrinsically linked with the Middle Ages and high above stands the medieval Borgo of Montecatini Alto, linked by a funicular railways operating between May and September, or there is a local bus operating all year. This is a delightful place to spend an afternoon. Wander through the alleys and piazzas, enjoy the panoramic views and delve into the intriguing history of this ancient settlement. Frequent trains and buses connect Montecatini with Florence, Pisa and the lesser known but equally rewarding Lucca. Viareggio, the capital of the Versilia coast is a favourite for Italian beach lovers.
Montecatini & Environs
Montecatini has a wide selection of bars, restaurants, quality shops and a weekly market on Thursdays. There are eleven spas offering a full range of thermal treatments and in the summer months there is a programme of open air concerts. Local trains and buses operate regularly to Florence, 30 miles away. One way ticket costs approximately €4 and the journey time is 50 minutes. Pisa, Pistoia, Lucca and Viareggio are all well served by local transportation. For the more adventurous, Siena can be reached by train via Florence. This programme is designed for independent exploration.
