Another year, another gorgeous Tuscan winter that just won’t end fast enough. It is royally cold in the Maremma – end of times, breath-freezing, hold on to your umbrellas windy cold.
In light of the fact that you can’t step outside of the house without getting hypothermia, I am concentrating on the things to look forward to when the weather improves – the newest, most exciting sights this part of Tuscany has to offer in 2015.
More slopes and space on Monte Amiata
It was a rocky start on the Monte Amiata ski slopes with really lacklustre snow fall and terrible conditions, but that’s all behind them. The ski resort was expanded and improved last year to include more downhill runs and a dedicated area for snowboarders to do awesome tricks and Nordic skiers to try and not break a hip as they drag themselves cross country.
The extra bits mightn’t be Northern Italy-worthy, but it’s good value for money with a whole day ski pass costing just €20. You can rent everything you need on the slopes and you’re really not going to find anything better in central Italy, so why not make a day of it? Find out more on the official ski website.
The new and improved Cascate del Mulino
After a month’s worth of work and thousands of travertine blocks, Saturnia‘s Cascate del Mulino is back open for business and more beautiful than ever.
The natural hot springs were damaged by last year’s floods and very nearly swept away, but some truly clever architects have fixed them up without destroying their organic aesthetic. You can enjoy new, wider and more secure pools along with the old gorgeous 37°C water and spectacular view for free whenever you like.
Montemerano – Italy’s newest most beautiful village
Montemerano will be celebrating its status as Italy’s newest crowned most beautiful village with a plethora of events and festivals. The picturesque medieval village has up until now been simply known for its lovely frescoed church, two-star Michelin restaurant and striking Piazza del Castello.
But now it’s officially one of the country’s most beloved destinations, so beware of the crowds. For a real treat, visit during the Festa di San Giorgio at the end of April, when the town is transformed into a medieval village complete with jousting competition.
Burger King, Grosseto
Nope, not a typo, the Maremma’s first Burger King is set to open in Grosseto in March of this year. Hate it? Well, never underestimate the comfort of home cooking when you’re overseas. The MacDonald’s across from Rome’s Parthenon has held a special place in my heart since my very first visit to Italy in 1999, if nothing else than for a free toilet when you’re busting to go.
I’ve seen Italians at fast food joints and I don’t expect you’ll be able to pick up a burger and fries without lining up for days until mid-June. But if you’re in the capital and looking for something with an English menu, it’s not to be pooh-poohed.
“La colomba ritrovata. Un viaggio inedito nella Maestà di Ambrogio Lorenzetti” – Massa Marittima
A fantastic exhibition of one of Italy’s most under-appreciated gothic painters, Ambrogio Lorenzetti. Known for his allegory of good government and bad government, Lorenzetti painted creepy dark toned and religious themed frescoes throughout the 14th century.
In the Maremma, he’s best known for his gold-flecked Maestà depicting Mary and the saints, but the exhibition features pieces brought in especially from all over Tuscany, so it’s not one to miss.
Catch it a the Complesso museale di San Pietro all’Orto in Massa Marittima until May.