Forte dei Marmi, the vibrant and charismatic riviera Versilia, a 15 mile stretch full of 1960s charm and understated elegance. This stretch, from Viareggio to Massa, is a summer haven with the gorgeous sandy beaches to one side and the views of the Apuan Alps to another. Forte dei Marmi is stylish, with retro beach clubs and buzzing restaurants along the sand and stunning estates in the more woodsy residential blocks beyond. Perhaps the most desirable feature, you can bike wherever you go.
Forte dei Marmi's main square was built to protect the marble quarries in the Apuan Alps. Built in the early 1900's, the town soon gained an international reputation for those seeking a la dolce vita summer destination for Italian aristocrats and wealthy foreigners. Perhaps the best way to experience Forte dei Marmi is staying in a villa near the sea, though the hotel scene is also an excellent choice with plenty of options throughout the area. We sought out for a more classic interior though there are several more modern options as well.
WHERE TO STAY
Villa Agnelli
Villa Roma Imperial
California Park Hotel
Grand Hotel Imperial
Augustus Hotel
Perhaps the best way to pass time in Forte dei Marmi is to integrate into the beach club scene at the bagno. There are endless options from more classic 1960s glamour to more modern and sophisticated, the beach club scene is vibrant and full of energy. After a spaghetti alle vongole, we recommend taking a bike ride along the boardwalk to have a look around the endlessly inspiring typography on the beach club signs. They are iconic and stuck in time and we wouldn't want it any other way.
BAGNO / BEACH CLUBS
The restaurants in town and on the beach are stunning, boasting with energy and fresh fish alike. The crowds are effortlessly stylish and buzzy, making the people watching part of the experience no matter where you go. We opt for long days at the beach, enjoying lunch at a beach club in our swim suits and aperitivo and dinner in town or back on the sand.
RESTAURANTS AND BARS
Osteria del mare
Pesce Baracca
Maitó dal 1960
Ristorante Lorenzo
Caffè Principe
BEYOND THE BAGNO
Il Mercato di Forte dei Marmi - a bustling outdoor market which happens twice a week in the summer
Head to Riccardo Bathel's shop to discover their collection of antiques and design objects and curiosities
Hike the Apuan Alps. Starting from the town of Stazzema, there is an (approx.) two hour hike that will guide you through the mountain to the Forte dei Marmi mountain hut/ refugio. Here you can enjoy a stunning lunch and the fresh mountain air before beginning your descent back down.
Rent a bike from the local shops or from your hotel to bike through town, on the boardwalk or into the wooded residential streets. This is our favorite way to get around Forte dei Marmi, and perhaps our favorite thing to do there.
GETTING TO AND FROM
Getting to and from Forte dei Marmi, or various other Versilia towns, is quite simple and accessible. While the most straight forward will be to drive from either Rome or Florence, there is also the option to take a train. Both Rome and Florence offer frequent (several daily) trains to Massa Centrale if you prefer to stay on foot or bike for most of your time here.
