HOLIDAYS IN FOLLONICA: SEA, SUN AND A LOT MORE
Going on holiday to Follonica means immersing yourself in a sparkling and stimulating atmosphere, a sophisticated blend of seaside fun and inland art and history.
The crystal clear water of the whole coastline, the promenade dotted with shops and ice-cream parlours, the water sports activities will make your time in Follonica unforgettable.
Unlike general beliefs, Follonica has very ancient origins that date back to the sixth century B.C., good old days for the manufacture of iron; its favorable geographic position, opposite the island of Elba (metal-mining primary centre) and the richness of wood in the forests of its surrounding, made Follonica a major landmark in the coast, for melting metals.
Since then, foundries activity has accompanied Follonica for most of its history and is today well represented by the Chiesa di San Leopoldo, built around 1830 by the architect Carlo Reishammer. The building mainly made of cast iron, has taken, in fact, the name of “The Church of Cast Iron” and celebrates the connection of the city with this material.
However, as a matter of facts, those who choose to spend their holidays in Follonica area, whether in apartments or agritourism, pick their choice especially for its beautiful fine silver sandy beaches surrounded by the typical Mediterranean scrub.
Holidaymakers’ popular opinion award Cala Violina as the most beautiful and famous of all. This enchanting and uncontaminated beach is only accessible by foot, by bikes and by sea.
On the other hand, those who choose the Gulf of Follonica for having fun and some social life can reach, at a short driving distance, two exclusive and renowned seaside resorts of Maremma: Punta Ala and Castiglione della Pescaia. And also history lovers will not be disappointed: if you are looking for great wine, glimpses of Etruscan history and medieval settings, then Massa Marittima is a must-see. Nestled around its wonderful cathedral, it is a tribute to the distinctive flavor of the past.