By Alex Harrington
After a thrilling sail from the rugged coast of Corsica, The Albatross found herself gently rocking in the azure waters off the Tuscan coast. Tuscany’s allure is legendary, but the coastal villages, each a gem in its own right, promised a unique blend of culture, cuisine, and craftsmanship that we eagerly anticipated exploring.
Arrival in Porto Santo Stefano
Our first stop was Porto Santo Stefano, a picturesque fishing village on the Monte Argentario peninsula. As we approached the harbor, colorful fishing boats bobbing in the water and pastel-hued buildings cascading down the hillside welcomed us. The harbor buzzed with life, a blend of locals and tourists enjoying the serene beauty of the Tuscan coast.
We docked The Albatross and set off to explore. The narrow, winding streets were filled with charming shops and cafes, each exuding a rustic charm that felt timeless. The aroma of freshly baked bread and brewing espresso wafted through the air, inviting us to take a break and savor the local flavors.
Sampling Local Cuisine
No visit to Tuscany is complete without immersing in its world-renowned cuisine. We discovered a cozy trattoria near the harbor, where we were treated to a sensory feast of local delights. The antipasti platter was a masterpiece featuring an assortment of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and bruschetta topped with ripe tomatoes and basil.
For the main course, we couldn’t resist the classic Tuscan dish, Pappardelle al Cinghiale—wide ribbons of pasta served with a rich, savory wild boar ragu. The flavors were deep and complex, a testament to the region’s culinary heritage. Paired with a glass of robust Chianti, it was a meal to remember.
Exploring Orbetello
A short sail brought us to Orbetello, a charming town on a lagoon connected to the mainland by a narrow strip of land. The town’s unique position between the sea and the lagoon gave it a distinct character, and it offered stunning views in every direction.
We wandered through the historic center, where medieval walls and ancient buildings spoke of a rich history. The Piazza della Repubblica was a lively hub surrounded by cafes and artisan shops. With her eye for detail, Liz was particularly drawn to a small workshop where a local craftsman created exquisite ceramic pieces. The delicate patterns and vibrant colors of the pottery were captivating, each piece telling a story of tradition and skill passed down through generations.
Castiglione della Pescaia: A Coastal Gem
Continuing our journey, we sailed to Castiglione della Pescaia, a coastal village that seemed to have leaped from the pages of a storybook. The old town, perched atop a hill, was dominated by a medieval castle offering panoramic coastline views.
We hiked up to the castle, exploring its ancient walls and battlements. The view from the top was breathtaking, with the village below and the shimmering sea stretching out to the horizon. The climb worked up our appetites, and we returned to the waterfront for another culinary adventure.
Here, we dined on freshly caught seafood, simply prepared to highlight its natural flavors. Grilled octopus, branzino (sea bass), and a hearty seafood risotto left us satisfied and content. Each bite reminded us of the rich bounty of the Mediterranean and the skill of the local chefs who transformed it into culinary masterpieces.
Artisanal Crafts in Viareggio
Our final destination along the Tuscan coast was Viareggio, known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant carnival. Beyond the beach was a town rich in artisanal crafts and artistic heritage. We visited a local workshop where master artisans crafted intricate marquetry and wood inlay, a traditional art form known as “intarsia.”
Sam was particularly fascinated by the craftsmanship, watching intently as the artisans skillfully assembled tiny pieces of wood to create stunningly detailed designs. These workshops preserved a tradition that was both an art and a testament to Tuscany’s rich cultural legacy.
Reflections on the Tuscan Coast
As the sun set over the Tuscan coast, painting the sky in hues of pink and gold, we gathered on the deck of The Albatross, reflecting on our journey. The coastal villages of Tuscany had revealed themselves as places where time-honored traditions thrived alongside stunning natural beauty. From the savory delights of local cuisine to the intricate beauty of artisanal crafts, each village offered a unique experience celebrating the region’s heritage.
— Alex Harrington
Sailing away from Tuscany, we carried memories of sun-drenched days and warm, star-filled nights. The Tuscan coast had not just charmed us; it had captivated us with its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Our Mediterranean adventure continued, but Tuscany had left more than just an indelible mark on our hearts; it had become a part of us, a reminder of the joys of discovery and the timeless allure of this beautiful region that we will carry with us forever.