The beach at Forte dei Marmi

I’ve written about Forte dei Marmi before. It is one of our favourite places to visit on the Versilia coast, about 1 hour from Bagni di Lucca. It has been popular with wealthy northern Italians since the late 19th century. Milan is only about 2 hours away, which makes it a very appealing destination by the sea for well-to-do fashion and finance types.

Forte dei Marmi is often referred to as the Hamptons of Tuscany as  it has always attracted celebreties, intellectuals and rich business owners (and us). Napoleon’s sister Elise, who was duchess of Lucca for a time, had a house here (she got around) and it is now on the market if you have a bit more than 40 million euro to throw about.

I am usually in Italy in winter, spring and late autumn, so I don’t often see people on the beach or in the water.  Last year I arrived in very late summer, so I was able to see Italians frolicking on the sunny beach at Forte dei Marmi. The white patches you can see in the mountains are not snow, but marble. (marmo/i – marble)

 

 

 

 

Usually I go to Forte dei Marmi in the off season. My favourite time to visit is when the monthly antique market is on (second Sunday and the preceding Saturday), but regular visits are needed to our favourite restaurant, Il Fortino.  On a clear day, the view from the beach is spectacular. In winter there is snow on top of the rugged mountains behind the coast, offering an incredible view.

 

 

There were several new sculptures on display for summer. There is always something going on at FdM, which is why we keep going back.

 

Last time we were in Forte dei Marmi we caught the end of a cycle race. These races are taken very seriously in Italy.

It always comes back to food at Forte dei Marmi. This time we had the delicious seafood soup at Il Fortino.

There will be a few more visits to FdM before we return to Australia. Click here more on Forte dei Marmi.