10 Extraordinary Nature Spots in Tuscany

Crete Senesi surrounds Tuscany with two 'seas': one is the azure Tyrrhenian, while the other is formed by the waves of lightly-coloured land. This area between the Val d'Orcia valley and the Chianti region is one of the most stunning and frequently photographed in Tuscany and Italy as a whole.

This huge area of clay land that extends into barren hills comes in countless shades with deep furrows resulting from water erosion, while the rows of cypresses along the gentle slopes complete the scenery. This moon-like landscape is crossed by provincial roads you can explore, and there are numerous hamlets and holiday farms where you can stop and take a break.

Riserva Naturale Tomboli di Cecina (Tomboli di Cecina Nature Reserve) is a wild area that stretches across 15 kilometres below Marina di Cecina. Here, the characteristic tomboli along the coast give way to one of Italy's most amazing forests in terms of plant and animal life.

The tomboli are sandy isthmuses created at the water's edge to protect the crops from salt and winds. Over the centuries, these artificial structures have become the habitat for countless local wildlife species and are one of Tuscany's natural wonders.

Balze del Valdarno (Crags of Valdarno) is an amazing landscape that's the result of the erosion phenomena that have affected the region for millennia.. Found in the huge natural area between Florence and Arezzo, First the water from a prehistoric lake and then winds have worked patiently, shaping the land to give visitors a contrasting panorama where the points of natural spires and pinnacles are interspersed with sheer drops into gorges.

You can discover the magic of the crags and get all the best views by following one of the official hiking routes.

Tuscany's Etruscan Coast is found at the southern tip across from the island of Elba, where stunning nature meets local ancient history. Its value has been enhanced even further with the creation of various parks: 4 natural parks, 2 archaeological parks, as many museums and 1 resource centre where both the past and present will amaze you.

It's a great way to learn more about the region, with countless activities for both young and old alike.

Calafuria Coast is an unmissable stop along the coast. This rocky, jagged stretch of coastline looking out over the crystalline Tyrrhenian Sea and also known as Romito, is characterized by coves and unforgettable views.

It's the perfect place to top up your tan or take in a romantic sunset in summertime, although the sea is rough during the rest of the year. It's also an idea spot for snorkelling fans: here, in the shade of the ancient tower that stands on the main beach, you'll be able to dive into the water and see the lively biodiversity of a coral reef.

The Antro del Corchia cave is Italy's largest cavern system. Hiding under the small town of Leviglani di Stazzema, in the province of Lucca: with over 70 kilometres of caverns, tunnels and galleries, this underground complex in the heart of the Apuan Alps Regional Park is also one of the largest in Europe.

Created by millions of years of geological activity, today, the karst channels are open to the public and can be visited with a guide who will accompany you through rooms dozens of metres high that are home to incredible stalactites.

The Lungiana region straddling Tuscany and Liguria has characteristics of both regions – Tuscan softness and Ligurian ruggedness – exemplified by the Stretti di Giaredo (Giaredo Gorge). This natural wonder consists of narrow gorges carved out of the rock by the Gordana stream and today is a real wild natural paradise with incredibly beautiful views.

There are five canyons you can visit here, dotted with small waterfalls and natural pools, but be aware that to reach them all and admire their colourful walls, you must know how to swim and you will need to be accompanied by a guide.

Grotta del Vento (Wind Cave) gets its name from the strong air current that constantly runs through it and is found on the slops of Monte Pania Secca in the province of Lucca. Inside, the complex is home to a wide variety of karst phenomena, from stalagmites and stalactites to small underground lakes, and also vertical wells and waterways.

As this is a tourist cave, the visit is easy and the area is full of amenities. A wide array of tours makes it the perfect place for all kinds of visitors, from adventure routes for the most active to more low-key options for families.

Bagni di Lucca is home to the Riserva Naturale Orrido di Botri (Orrido di Botri Nature Reserve). The reserve gets its name from the narrow, very deep limestone orrido (gorge) that stretches down 200 metres in some places and was created by the River Pelago eroding the Apennine rocks.

Here, between the high rock walls, you'll be able to follow the course of the stream to discover hidden and unspoilt views, where the local plant and animal life dominate an untouched natural habitat. In short, it's a unique spot that's a must for any lover of nature and adventure.