There are certainly only a few regions in the world, which unite in their territory such a variety, as the province of Pisa it does. Its cultural wealth and scenic attractions range from the UNESCO World Heritage site of  Piazza dei Miracoli and the picturesque historic center of Pisa to the fantastic,  sandy beaches, natural oases, lakes, and the picturesque hills of the Valdera. In the province of Pisa, the scenic impressions vary from kilometer to kilometer.

The uncontested jewels include the Era Valley and  the miles of natural beach of Marina di Vecchiano, which is framed on the left hand by the nature reserve of San Rossore and on the right hand by the up to 2,000 meters high snow-white peaks of  the Apuan Alps. The Valdera (Era Valley) is located southeast of Pisa, not far away from the legendary Etruscan town of Volterra and Florence and Siena. Between the hills, chestnut forests, vineyards and olive groves, picturesque medieval towns are scattered, which offer the visitor a high cultural and artistic context. The thermal springs (Casciana, Uliveto and Montecatini) and the coastal towns of Tuscany are within easy reach.

The small villages Capannoli, Chianni, Lajatico, Palaia, Peccioli and Terricciola satisfy with their still lively medieval traditions and cultural peculiarities even the most discerning guest.

Marina di Vecchiano, which is nestled amidst the lush natural park Migliarino S. Rossore Massaciuccoli, is a real tourist gem for swimmers and beach lovers. The visitors can expect a miles long, toll-free, golden sandy beach with a clean, shallow sloping sea. Marina di Vecchiano is one of the few unspoiled Tuscan coasts which offer a warm welcome, security and  relaxation.

For a walk in the nature …

San Rossore is a beautiful park near the city center of Pisa. Inside, one can go on horseback, ride a bike, or go by a little train in order to enjoy the immaculate beauty of the  nature. The Massaciuccoli lake, where Giacomo Puccini composed part of his famous operas and where he spent many years of his life, is part of this natural paradise.

The calmness of the Mediterranean Sea, the shady green hills with shimmering olive trees, the  typical products and the genuine hospitality make the Valdera and the region of Pisa truly unique in the world.

Farm holidays in Pisa

On last Sunday in June the game of bridge takes place  in Pisa every year. At the end of a long procession, during which the participants wear traditional costumes from the Middle Ages, the two teams Tramontana  and Mezzogiono compete for the win. The game is a kind of tug of war. Object is not a rope, but a heavy car that is placed on rails. The team that manages to press the car on the bridge into the opponent’s territory  is the winner.

The game of  the bridge is a very old tournament, which has already been held since the end of 1400. At the time, when the Medici ruled the Grand Duchy of Tuscany, there was a great rivalry between the inhabitants of the two opposite banks of the Arno. First, the ruler of Florence  banned the game, because they considered it as a dangerous instrument of rebellion. But the inhabitants of Pisa were very pourd of the tournament, because it was for them the symbol of the glory and virtues of the great Mediterranean Republic, that Pisa was at that time. In the Middle Ages educational and moral virtues of chivalry were attributed to the game. Then as now, the areas of the northern bank compete with the  southern bank of the Arno. Over the years the game has not only become one of the most important traditions of the city, but also a major tourist attraction.

The Arno divides Pisa in two parts called Tramontana and Mezzogiono. If one looks at the natural course of the river to the sea, one sees on his right the northern area called Tramontana, and on his left the southern area, called Mezziogiorno. At the tournament, a total of 12 teams take part. Six come from the six districts of the northern part and the other six from the southern part of the city.

The visit of the historic Pisa can be combined with a holiday in the hinterland of Pisa, known as the Era valley. This charming valley is still largely undiscovered by tourism, and tourists get in touch with the true face of Tuscany beyond mass tourism. In the inspiring and impressive scenery, guests will find an abundance of natural beauty, history, art and architecture.

Every year in Pisa, the month of June is a historic journey back to the Middle Ages. Throughout June, the city celebrates  its ancient traditions with concerts and cultural events. The four main events are the sea of lights in honor of San Ranieri, the patron saint of the city, the historical regatta on the River Arno, the game of the bridge, and last but not least every four years, the historic regatta of the Maritime Republics, which is held each year alternately in Amalfi, Genoa, Venice or Pisa.

Around these four events many other initiatives, such as flea markets, theater performances, street fairs, concerts, exhibitions and festivals take place.

San Ranieri, who comes from the noble family Scacceri, was born in 1128 in Pisa. After his secular youth, he began with works of charity and penitence. Twice he made a pilgrimage to Jerusalem and then spent his remaining years in the monastery of San Vito in Pisa. But the patron saint of Pisa was not only a holy and mystic man, but also a man of his time, who lent his aid unreservedly to the worldly needs of his city. After his death in 1161 he was named patron saint of Pisa and the patron saint of travelers.

Each year on June 17th, Pisa honors its patron saint, San Ranieri. In the late afternoon at about 6 o’clock begins the display of the rudder of the patron saint, which is transported on a galleon of the Ancient Maritime Republics on the Arno. The celebration continues with a procession, during which the participants wear costumes from the fifteenth century. At about 7 o’clock the historic regatta will be held, where representatives of the four ancient maritime republics, Pisa, Genoa, Amalfi and Venice will participate. The winning team will be  awarded by the mayor with a medal.

During the whole day several boat trips along the Arno will be offered. At the two banks are set up stands, where visitors have the opportunity to taste the typical dishes and sweets of the city.

On the eve of June 17th the historic center of the city and the Arno river turn into a sea of lights. Days before this great event more than 70 000 candles are placed on the facades and the Leaning Tower, which are then lit up at dusk. At midnight a spectacular fireworks will take place on the Arno river.

A vacation in Pisa on the occasion of the Pisan June will remain in memory for lifetime.

… enjoying the beautiful scenery of Pisa

… the pleasure of taking breakfast on a panoramic terrace

… the pleasure of a cool refreshment in a swimming pool

In Lari the cultivation of cherries looks back on a centuries-old tradition. In fact, in this romantic town, with  its 9,000 inhabitants, are grown 19 different award-winning varieties.

The celebration of the cherry in Lari, in the province of Pisa, which normally takes place on the last weekend in May and the first weekend in June, is one of the oldest festivals in Tuscany. This year it is celebrated from May 29th, till June 6th. During the festival numerous artistic and cultural events are organised. The real protagonist is, of course, the cherry of Lari and its 19 traditional varieties. On the main square stands are set up, where the producers not only offer baskets of fresh cherries, but also products such as jams and liqueurs, that are made from this sweet, red fruit. Besides good food, musical entertainment, contests and night markets are provided.

the Castle of Lari

the romantic streets of Lari

on the roofs of Lari

The peculiarities of the soil and climate of the Pisan hills are the basis for the unique cherry varieties of Lari. The farmers of Lari have passed their knowledge and experience about the techniques of cultivation for centuries from generation to generation. With great pride, they are still maintained by the young farmers.

The delightful village of Lari is surrounded by a picturesque landscape of fields and vineyards and is situated at an altitude of 130 meters. It is very well accessible from Collesalvetti Ponsacco and Casciana Terme. In addition to delicious cherries the hilly area offers two more treasures: the exquisite Pisan Chianti  and first class olive oil.

In the times of the Etruscans  the idyllic Lari was  a strategic axis of the trade routes between Volterra and the lower Arno valley. For this reason, in the Middle Ages the town was a permanent dispute between Volterra, Pisa and Florence, which eventually became the ruler. Thus, after the conquest of Florence, the Castle of the vicars of the twelfth century became a Medici fortress. With its Castle of the vicars, churches and ancient walls Lari evidences its illustrious past untill today.

May and June, are two of the best months for a holiday in Tuscany. The calendar is filled with folklore, food and wine events. Particularly noteworthy is the Pisan June.

La Mia Toscana offers romantic vacations in farm houses along with a rich sports and cultural program.

New Moon is the second Book of the Twilight Saga by Stephenie Meyer, which was published on September 6th, 2006 in the United States. The film on the novel was shown  in the cinema in November 2009. The shooting programme began in Vancouver on March 16th, 2009  and in Italy on May 19th, 2009. The actors, Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson and Taylor Lautner are the same as in the previous Twilight.

The book is about vampires  and the “Volturri” are among the protagonists. Aro and Sulpicius, Marcus and Didyme and Caius and Athenodora are the heads of this ancient and powerful vampire family called the Volturi, who live in Volterra, Italy. The Volturi do not follow the diet of the “vegetarians” that characterizes the Cullens, but are nourished by human blood and lure their victims directly in their house, because their tradition prohibits the hunting of humans. The “Volturri” are considered as the royal family among the vampires. Their dynasty is about three thousand years old and the other vampires have deep respect for them. Their  skin is translucent, almost transparent, and very much colder than the skin of the the other vampires and their  eyes have the appearance of a dusty veil.

The Volturi act as guarantors for the only law of the vampires: The existence of the vampires must be kept secret. At no price people can know of their existence. The vampires, who break this law, are cruelly punished by the Volturi.  Their overwhelming military power and their unique skills were even feared by so large clans like the Cullens.

… back to the footsteps of Edward and Bella in “New Moon” in Volterra

Back to the footsteps of Edward and Bella in New Moon, where  the arts and the ancient history of Volterra form the backdrop for the novel by Stephenie Meyer.

As in the book,  you will go through the city gate of the terrible Volturi clan…

You will look at the impressive buildings and stroll through the narrow streets where the darkness poses a risk and a hazard and where life and death walk a tightrope …

Suddenly you feel the wind around you, it’s Edward, you can feel him standing behind you …

This frightens you out of your senses and you run as fast as you can to the bell tower. You want to save him at any cost, even if it costs you the life …

Wherever you go, you will walk on the trails  of the powerful lords of Volterra. The fear is palpable, and you will have the impression to feel the cold hands of the Volturri on your shoulder…

Information:

The  tour to the places of the famous bestseller “New Moon” lasts about 90 minutes and will end with a great surprise for all  participants.

For your accommodation we recommend our two farmhouses, two ancient vineyards.  Imagine you read the book in the old vaults of these vineyards, and then go to the places, about which you have read scary stories.  Are you afraid, or can we expect your visit?

We are looking forward to meeting you!

The Piazza dei Miracoli in Pisa, which together with the Baptistery, the Duomo, the Leaning Tower and the monumental cemetery forms the most important religious complex in the city,  is an obligatory stop for all visitors, who come to Tuscany. Because of  its uniqueness the place ranks among the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Choosing Viale delle Cascine is the best way to reach the field. In Via C. Cameo, we turn right and on our arrival the first thing we see, is the  gigantic Romanesque Baptistery, built under the direction of Nicola Pisano. Inside it is decorated with an imposing pulpit, which shows the story of Christ.

Behind the cathedral stands the Baptistery. Its overwhelming facade expresses with its many columns and pilasters, the harmony of the Romanesque architecture. In its immediate vicinity the Museo dell’Opera can be visited. It shows pictures, models and documents, that describe the phases of the construction of this complex architecture.

The Tower of Pisa, also known as the leaning tower, defines the freestanding bell tower of the cathedral. Due to its huge imbalances it has become one of the symbols of Tuscany  throughout the world.

In the past the most famous people of Pisa were buried in the monumental cemetery. Today it is a kind of art gallery, where numerous Etruscan and medieval works are on display.

Leaving the Field of Miracles, we reach Via Cardinal Maffi, where we come to the palace of the Archbishop of Pisa. Turning right into Via Carducci, we reach the historic city center, whose main focus is the Piazza dei Cavalieri.

Here we come to the church and the castle, which are dedicated to St. Stephen. Both commemorate, how the saint fought against the Saracens. We also admire the Palazzo dell’Orologio, often also called the dungeon tower, because Count Ugolino, a Pisan nobleman died here in 1200 of hunger. He was held prisoner, by the Ghibellines, because he wanted to introduce a Guelph government.

The area around Pisa is characterised by beautiful landscapes, traditions, and silence. Located in the heart of Tuscany, it is an ideal starting point for exploring the many treasures of Tuscany.

Exploring Tuscany with its beauty, traditions and treasures

This year the idyllic village of Lari celebrates in the cooperation with the Province of Pisa, the tenth edition of the “Month of Peace”. “With this iniziative we want to set the course for a better future for ourselves and for our children,” said the mayor of Lari. “During the period, in which we live, this is strongly necessary. I am increasingly convinced, that the establishment of peace begins in our consciousness and how we live with our neighbors and the entire community.”

View of the Church of Lari

the stairs leading to the castle of Lari

the courtyard of the castle

Photo gallery from Lari: Die Seehubers

Main theme of this year’s edition of the month of peace will be the integration. The integration of all races, is a perfect opportunity to overcome any tendency of social conflicts between the different cultures , because none  integration often leads to episodes of violence and darkness, says the mayor of Lari.

The varied program offers visitors from around the world exhibitions, theater performances, reflections, commemorative events and the participation in peace marches.

On Sunday, April 11, the photo exhibition “Doing so, as knowing nothing” will be inaugurated. The exhibition, which runs until April 23th, shows photographs from Palestinian refugee camps in Lebanon.

On the following Sunday,  April 18th ,the market of barter, an initiative launched by the youth of Lari, will take place. People from all over the world are cordially invited to exchange without money. Any types of articles like books, clothing, furniture, music, fruits, vegetables, spices, plants or toys can be exchanged.

On April 25th,  the anniversary of the liberation will be celebrated. The photo exhibition “Never Again” will be inaugurated in the Teatro Comunale di Lari and in the Castle of Lari, an unique play, entitled “Sapere Aude”, will be performed. The play shows a  journey to the extermination camp Auschwitz, which beginns in 1944 with the entry of a group of Jewish women and which lasts until the liberation by the Red Army.

The highlight of the month of peace is the peace march through the beautiful hills between Crespina, Lari and Perignano.

Relax in the peaceful countryside of Tuscany

Pomaia, which belongs to the municipality of Santa Luce,  is one of the most picturesque places in the province of Pisa. The economy is primarily based  on agriculture and tourism. Because of the Tibetan-Buddhist monastery of Lama Tsongkhapa this idyllic spot is famous throughout the world.
The breathtaking monastery is like a little Tibet in the middle of Tuscany. Richard Gere spents here meditation holidays several times a year. Not far from the monastery, he has acquired a small property within the beautiful landscape. Also the Dalai Lama is  frequently a guest. Pomaia itself, is a small medieval town amidst the green hills of Pisa and belongs  to one of the most beautiful Tuscan countrysides. The old core consists of small houses and a church square.

In fact, the monastery of the tradition Ghelug is one of the largest and most active centers of Tibetan Buddhism in the Western world. The center was founded in 1977 by Lama Thubten Yeshe and Lama Zopa Rinpoche and is a member of the Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition (FPMT) and the Italian Buddhist Union (UBI). It is especially known for its high-ranking and renowned teachers, who were chosen by the Dalai Lama himself to teaching the Dharma in the Western world. The teachings of the Dharma are open to the public on the weekends throughout the year . All these courses are based on the authentic teachings of the Buddha Shakyamuni, who lived  in India 2,500 years ago.

In this place of peace and brotherhood, the monks also have a small Tibetan temple, prayer flags, Buddha statues and holy pictures. The visit of the Buddhist center of Pomaia provides the opportunity of an interreligious encounter.

From Pomaia we recommend to visit the lake of Santa Luce and Castiglioncello, one of the most charming seaside resorts of Tuscany, which is only  9 km away.

Holidays in Tuscany

Santa Croce is part of the lower Arno valley, which offers the right balance between antiquity and modernity.

It lies on the right bank of the Arno River, slightly downhill from its confluence with the Egola Stream. Although the orthogonal street grid and the spacious central square are typical of castrensian settlements during the Roman period, the origin of the town is more commonly traced back to the feudal age. At the end of the 18th century the first tanneries laid the foundations for the future economy of the town. Over the years Santa Croce became the Tuscan city of leather tanning and the leather and shoe-making industry.

The Collegiate Church of San Lorenzo in the Piazza Garibaldi was built in the 13th century and subsequently  enlarged in Renaissance style. Its interior has a nave and two aisles, a rectilinear apse and two side chapels. The church preserves glazed terracottas, which once were in possession of the famous aristocratic family Della Robbia. The chapel houses a most valuable treasure, the holy face , a local artwork of Byzantine tradition (12th and 13th century). A painted wood sculpture from the 14th century, which represents the Annunciation of the Virgin, is another artwork of great interest.

The Villa Pacchiani houses a permanent  exhibition of contemporary art. The theatre Verdi was inaugurated in 1902 and thanks to the participation of the most distinguished names of the national theater it  offers every year  a theatre season of great cultural interest. Mostly it houses the most famous actors of the new Italian dramaturgy.

The lower Arno valley itself is one of the most populated areas in Tuscany. Since the Middle Ages, the valley boasts an efficient trading system. Thanks to an ingenious system of towlines, which allowed boats to navigate upstream, the river Arno became a strategic trade route. The valley is famous for its fertile soil and thriving agriculture. The construction of the Leopolda railway in 1840 led to the development of many charming villages, which became important sectors of the woodworking, engineering and leather tanning industry.

Source Pictures: fondelli.nadia ; wikipedia

Farm holidays in Tuscany

Golf and Tradition in Tuscany

The lovely valley of the river Era extends in front of the slopes of Volterra. This lush region is filled with healing waters and has been inhabited since the Etruscan period. The presence of the Etruscans is witnessed by many highly cultural monuments and finds. The gently rolling hills and the deep green cypress are fertilized by four rivers: Era, Arno, Roglio and Cascina. Nature lovers and sports enthusiasts are inspired by panoramic hiking paths.

Who, however, is looking for a holiday full of wellness and relaxation, finds in Casciana Terme, a glamorous spa resort, a rich offer. The spa, which was founded in the 11th Century, has already been known in Roman times for its healing hot springs. The wellness center is a welcoming facility, which is situated in the charming village center of Casciana Terme.  From the external thermal pools one enjoys a picturesque view of the surrounding parks.

In its elegant and comfortable interior, visitors can enjoy all kinds of massages and thermal treatments. The harmony between body, mind and spirit will be balanced with the help of warm water, fango and oriental massages, and under the supervision of experienced professionals. The thermal water is particularly famous for healing venous blood circulation disorders, rheumatism and arthritis, rhinitis, pharyngitis, bronchitis and all kinds of gynecological diseases. The spa also offers drinking cures. The water, which is enriched by calcium-sulfate-bicarbonate helps for diseases of the liver and bile duct.

The treatments are in full compliance with the various cultural traditions of the Orient and the Western world. Within the beauty of the nature, its many smells, sounds and colors and the many historic sights, people recover their vital force in an instant

package holiday Tuscany

horseback riding

wellness