Easy hikes and walks in Zona Di Protezione Speciale Poggio Tre Cancelli

The Baciocca Baths, located in the Montioni Natural Park between Follonica and Grosseto, are a small thermal complex built around 1809 at the behest of Elisa Bonaparte Baciocchi, Napoleon's sister. Today they appear as ruins immersed in vegetation, but at the time they were an elegant wellness center with marble tubs made by Antonio Canova.

To the west, the seafront is very long, maintaining its characteristics for at least 3 km. The most frequented part, however, which in my opinion constitutes the seafront of Follonica in the strict sense, is the stretch (certainly not very long) that goes from piazza XXV aprile to the east (where technically the promenade continues along the aforementioned via Carducci) to the intersection with via Merloni to the west. It is a paved stretch, effectively pedestrianized (although in reality the signs only indicate limited traffic), sufficiently wide, with benches and low walls for sitting and many trees (mostly plane trees and snowberry bushes). On the sea side are the bathing establishments, alternating with empty stretches corresponding to the free beach or private houses, while on the opposite side are the shops, including pizzerias, restaurants, and ice cream parlors. Pleasant in appearance and obviously very crowded after dinner, compensating at least in part for the not-so-excellent architecture present.

Parco Ex Ilva It was the seat of the Royal Imperial Foundries and is now a Park of Industrial Archaeology. Its foundation dates back to the mid-16th century, but its core, the San Ferdinando Furnace (within which the Museum of Cast Iron Arts of Maremma is currently located), was built in the early 1800s. Subsequently, the Royal Foundries were expanded and two other furnaces were built: the San Leopoldo Furnace and the Maria Antonietta Furnace. Thanks to the increase in processing, they also began to produce artistic artifacts, always in cast iron. One of these is visible today at the main entrance of the Foundries: it is the so-called Cancellone which, to this day, is one of the symbols of the city, in neoclassical style. Inside the park, you can find the Palazzina del Granduca, the Clock Tower, and a mechanical workshop which is now the seat of the Cast Iron Library. The foundries were decommissioned in 1961.

In the evening, Follonica changes its appearance and becomes a pleasantly lively city. The promenade fills with people strolling, the bars open their outdoor tables, and the atmosphere is relaxed but vibrant. It's the right place for those who want to go out without seeking extreme nightlife.

From Boschetto to Pratoranieri, from Torre Mozza to Carbonifera, passing through the pine forests of Levante and Ponente. Follonica sets the standard when it comes to free beaches. On the Tyrrhenian Sea, the coast can be for everyone, without barriers or entrance fees (click here to find out how much a day at a beach resort costs). But the freedom to lay your towel wherever you want is not the only value at stake. A summer of safety is guaranteed, with lifeguards even on stretches of coastline without concessions. A widespread presence rarely found, which sets the standard nationally. The small Tuscan town is a fine model, which the rest of Italy should also aspire to.

Viale Italia is the place for the summer "struscio".

It's hard to find a newsstand nowadays, in an era where information is gathered quickly and hastily on the internet, printed paper is now a "niche" thing.

Among the most beloved seaside destinations in Tuscany, Follonica offers everything you could wish for from a seaside holiday: sandy and equipped beaches, clear waters, a long promenade full of bars and shops, services for families, and a welcoming yet never chaotic atmosphere.