Pietrasanta
All photos Courtesy of Fanny Castro
Three miles north of Pisa, you’ll find the magical little town of Pietrasanta. I don’t know if it’s because of all the artists who have lived and worked here, but there’s something incredibly vibrant about this small place.
It’s tiny, yet completely magical, with the mountains rising in the background.
Food?
All photos Courtesy of Fanny Castro
For such a small town as Pietrasanta, there are surprisingly many great restaurants to eat at. Here I’ve gathered my favourites that I think you should visit when you’re here.
Giacomo Pietrasanta: Just as good as in Milan, with an extremely cosy little courtyard, so make sure to ask for a table outside if you’re dining here.
Trattoria Gatto Nero: Tuscan food at its absolute best. Perfect for a long lunch.
Trattoria Da Beppino: A charming trattoria with incredibly good food. Make sure to book a table in advance.
Osteria Stappasogni: Italian cuisine with a modern twist.
Locanda del gusto: One of Pietrasanta’s most popular spots, so reservations are a must.
Lé bar a vins: A very cosy enoteca with an impressive wine selection. Go here if you want to drink well and get help finding some of the best wines.
BO?
All photos Courtesy of Fanny Castro
I think I say this every single time I visit a new place: “I could live here.” And honestly, I feel like that’s the best possible review a town can get. Pietrasanta is exactly that for me. I get just as excited and inspired by this tiny village as I do by New York.
So when you go to Pietrasanta, you should stay exactly here:
Hotel Paradis Pietrasanta: A boutique hotel in a small palazzo right in the heart of Pietrasanta. You really feel that you’re in an artists’ town when you stay here, every room is decorated with carefully curated sculptures and paintings, and no two rooms look the same. Even if you’re not staying here, it’s still worth coming by for a drink at the bar and taking in the atmosphere of the hotel.Albergo Pietrasanta: A super cozy hotel right in the middle of the village. Very Italian in style, with a beautiful and intimate courtyard that makes you want to slow down and stay a little longer.Locanda al colle: It’s located just outside the village, in a nearby town called Camaiore, about a 10-minute drive away. And it’s absolutely worth it, I love everything about this beautiful little hotel.Must-sees?
All photos Courtesy of Fanny CastroI would definitely recommend a visit to Museo dei Bozzetti which opened in 1984 with the aim of showcasing the many sculptors from all over the world who have come to Pietrasanta to create their work. After your visit, I’d continue along the cultural path and explore some of the many art galleries scattered throughout the town.
When you feel ready for a break from culture, head to the main square and sit down for an Aperol Spritz while watching the world go by, before making your way to the antique shops spread around the village. There are so many hidden gems here, beautiful interior pieces you can’t help but fall in love with.
If you’re visiting during the warmer months, the sea is only about 10 minutes away, so why not combine culture with a beach day? Truly the best of both worlds.
All photos Courtesy of Fanny Castro