Luxury holidays in Grosseto

Occupying the southern end of sun-soaked Tuscany, the province of Grosseto answers the prayers of solitude-seekers everywhere: it’s one of the least-densely-populated areas in Italy. However, it would appear those Italians are all missing a trick, as Grosseto is a treasure trove of hidden villages, fertile olive groves and sweeping beaches. The capital city of the same name – which can be dated back to the Middle Ages – boasts a gawp-worthy ancient history: the Medicean Walls, Romanesque Cathedral and the Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi are just a few of the sights on offer. Outside the city walls, the little villages of Bagnoli, Gavorrano and Marsiliana are not-to-be-missed day-trip destinations with traditional stone-walled houses, winding streets and picturesque churches; meanwhile, the beaches at Punta Ala and Talamone have golden sands and clear-blue water.