Ghiacci Vecchi Residence – apartments with pool in Tuscany, close to the sea and sandy beaches

The Tuscan coast is a stunning land, so distinct from the central part of the region. Here, cypress trees gradually give way to towering umbrella pines, long sandy beaches stretch for miles, and in July, fields
of blooming sunflowers dazzle with their vibrant colors. It is in this picturesque setting that you’ll find Ghiacci Vecchi – a complex of affordable apartments located just a short distance from the scenic beaches of Baratti and Rimigliano. Set amidst expansive grounds filled with flowers and greenery, the property features two swimming pools, numerous attractions for children, a petfriendly environment, and a variety of amenities such as a restaurant, pizzeria, and charging stations for electric vehicles. Through my recommendation, Ghiacci Vecchi warmly invites you to enjoy a summer getaway where relaxation meets the discovery of this charming corner of Tuscany, offering special discounts for all blog readers who book using the provided code. Here are the details!

The Charming Tuscan Coast

The Tuscan coast reveals a different face of this iconic region – more diverse, livelier in the summer, and offering countless opportunities for relaxation, while still preserving the unique charm of a land immortalized in numerous books and films about la dolce vita. Here, the hilly landscape gently flattens out, yet still hides picturesque hilltop towns with histories dating back to the Middle Ages. The local vineyards, as in the rest of Tuscany, produce high-quality wines, and the cuisine, while loyal to tradition, is enriched with a greater variety of delicious seafood. The beaches – sandy and perfect for leisurely relaxation – conceal quieter corners; it only takes a step away from the bustling resorts to find your own tranquil spot in the shade of pine trees, even at the height of summer.

Comfort and Nature at Ghiacci Vecchi

Ghiacci Vecchi is a place where nature and comfort come together, filling each day with the unparalleled charm of the Tuscan landscape. Nestled in the heart of the Etruscan Coast, surrounded by nature reserves and sandy beaches, this retreat invites you to leisurely explore the beauty of Tuscany.

Situated close to the popular hu Park Albatros campsite, Ghiacci Vecchi offers comfortable apartments that are the perfect starting point for exploring this picturesque corner of Italy. While the absence of organized transfers to the property and very limited bus connections make having your own or a rented car essential, nothing prevents you from renting a bike onsite and enjoying the nearby trails at a leisurely, nature-inspired pace.

Ghiacci Vecchi Apartments

The property offers comfortable accommodations – from compact studios to spacious bungalows – all featuring fully equipped kitchenettes and air conditioning available upon request for an additional fee. Guests can enjoy freshly renovated interiors and family-friendly services, such as cribs, high chairs, and extra bedding sets. Upon arrival, you’ll find beds ready for use and a full set of towels. For stays longer than 10 days, an additional set of clean linens is provided at no extra charge after the first week. Optional extra linen changes are also available at a cost of €15 for 2 people and €25 for 4 people. Wi-Fi is available exclusively in common areas.

Available Apartments:

• Bungalow TC – A spacious bungalow ideal for larger families, featuring a partially covered terrace.
• Bungalow BC – Comfortable accommodation in a bungalow with a private, partially covered terrace, perfect for small families with children.
• Studio Apartment M – A compact yet functional studio for two people, located on the ground floor of former farm buildings, with a fully equipped kitchenette and a private terrace.
• Studio Apartment MS – A spacious, two-level studio with a mezzanine, providing comfort
• and functionality for couples.
• Apartment BB – A functional apartment with outdoor space, accommodating 2 adults and 2 children, conveniently located on the ground floor.
• Apartment BA – A two-level apartment with a bedroom and mezzanine, ideal for a family with one child, situated on the first floor.
• Apartment BS – A spacious ground-floor apartment with two large outdoor areas, accommodating 2 adults and 2 children, perfect for families seeking space and comfort.
• Apartment TE – A spacious first-floor apartment with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a separate living room, and a large balcony, ideal for families or groups of friends.
• Apartment BMS – A two-level apartment located on the first floor of a former farmhouse, offering two bathrooms and ideal for 2 adults and 2 children (0-12 years). It has a private entrance via a small balcony.
• Apartment BM – Situated on the ground floor of a former farmhouse, this apartment is a great choice for families with children, accommodating up to 2 adults and 2 children (0-12 years). Recently renovated, it features two bathrooms and a very spacious bedroom with a double bed.
• Apartment TB – Located on the ground floor of a farmhouse, this recently renovated apartment is perfect for families, accommodating up to 6 people. It includes two bathrooms and two spacious bedrooms with double beds.
• Apartment SALA – The Sala apartment, spanning 70 m², is on the ground floor and accommodates up to 6 people (including a maximum of 4 adults). It features two spacious bedrooms with double beds.
• Apartment BBP – Located on the ground floor of a large farmhouse, this apartment accommodates 2 adults and 1 child (0-12 years). It includes a kitchen-living room with a double sofa bed, a TV, and a fully equipped kitchenette.

The 2025 season at Ghiacci Vecchi begins on May 21st!

You can find all the details and photos of specific accommodation options at Ghiacci Vecchi website here.

The Restaurant at Ghiacci Vecchi

The I Gelsi restaurant-pizzeria, located within the resort, offers à la carte dishes of traditional Tuscan cuisine, delicious pizzas, and local wines that are the pride of the region. In the evenings, the restaurant invites guests for dinner and also offers takeaway meals, which you can enjoy in the comfort of your apartment. Guests staying in the apartments can also take advantage of the half-board option. The restaurant serves breakfast as well – both sweet and savory – featuring fresh bread, cheeses, and cold meats.

The pools at Ghiacci Vecchi

The resort offers two well-designed pool areas that cater to the needs of both adults and children. The first pool, with a maximum depth of 1.5 meters, is perfect for swimming enthusiasts.

The second, shallower pool (depth ranging from 45 cm to 1.1 m) is designed with the youngest guests in mind. It features a new slide that will bring plenty of joy to children.

Both pool areas are fenced for the safety of children, and access is only possible with a special card provided to guests upon check-in. The pool areas are also equipped with sun loungers, inflatable toys, and a bouncy castle, ensuring great fun for the whole family.

Electric Vehicle Charging Available

If you’re driving an electric car, you can easily charge your vehicle at Ghiacci Vecchi while relaxing by the pool or enjoying the comfort of your apartment’s terrace.

Beaches Near the Ghiacci Vecchi Apartments

Rimigliano Beach

Rimigliano, the closest beach to Ghiacci Vecchi, is considered one of the most beautiful in Tuscany. It offers tranquility, peace, and a connection with nature. There are no noisy bars, rows of sunbeds with umbrellas, or urban hustle and bustle. Instead, a dense pine forest separates the beach from the road for motor vehicles and bicycles.

This beach stretches an impressive 6 kilometers between the town of San Vincenzo and the Gulf of Baratti. In 2024, it was awarded the prestigious Bandiera Blu, a distinction given to beaches for their exceptional water quality and environmental care. Relaxing or simply taking a walk along this beach offers an unforgettable encounter with nature. As the sun begins to set, the beach becomes a popular spot for anglers.

Interestingly, this beach has another unique feature. In its central section, one of the few official naturist beaches in Italy has been established – Spiaggia Naturista Nido dell’Aquila Limite Nord.

San Vincenzo Beach

For those who prefer beaches with full facilities, such as bars, restaurants, and beach equipment rentals, San Vincenzo is the perfect choice. This stretch of beach has been consistently awarded the Bandiera Blu since 2006.

Baratti Beach

Just south of the Ghiacci Vecchi resort lies Baratti Beach, where history and nature meet in extraordinary harmony. Located within the Gulf of Baratti, part of the Baratti and Populonia Archaeological Park, this beach has witnessed human activity for centuries; during the Etruscan era, it was a key center for iron production. Evidence of this can still be seen today in the characteristic dark-colored sand, scattered with remnants of iron slag that serve as a reminder of ancient metallurgical processes. The dense pine forest surrounding the beach not only provides natural shade but also creates a serene atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and picnics.

Sterpaia Beach and the Nearby Beach in Follonica

Spiaggia della Sterpaia, located within Parco Costiero Sterpaia between the towns of Piombino and Follonica, is an ideal destination for nature lovers and families seeking peaceful relaxation, just a 25-minute drive from the Ghiacci Vecchi apartments. The beach stretches for approximately 8 kilometers, featuring light, fine-grained sand that perfectly complements the crystal-clear waters and gentle slope into the sea. Beyond the beach lies a beautiful coastal forest filled with Mediterranean vegetation. This natural area provides shade on hot days and serves as a perfect spot for walks and picnics. Additionally, Spiaggia della Sterpaia has been awarded the prestigious Bandiera Blu for years. For those seeking more amenities, the beach in the town of Follonica (pictured below) offers a pleasant experience with access to bars, restaurants, and sunbeds for rent.

Swimming in the sea is a major attraction near the Ghiacci Vecchi resort, but it’s far from the only one.

Rimigliano Coastal Park

Rimigliano Coastal Park stretching along the previously mentioned Rimigliano Beach, is one of the most enchanting places on the Tuscan coast. This protected area, covering 650 hectares, is a haven for nature enthusiasts. The park features a diverse landscape, ranging from sandy dunes to dense Mediterranean forests, providing shelter to both visitors seeking shade and the local wildlife. Walking along the park’s trails, you can take in the scent of sun-warmed woods, admire the dunes, and enjoy the soothing sound
of the sea. The park not only preserves unique ecosystems but also offers visitors an exceptional space for relaxation and connection with nature.

Thermal Springs in Venturina Terme

This unassuming town, located just a few kilometers from the sea, holds a remarkable treasure – thermal springs that have been renowned and cherished since Etruscan and Roman times. It is a place where modernity meets history, creating an ideal setting for relaxation and rejuvenation. The local thermal baths offer tranquility amidst stunning landscapes, while nearby vineyards and olive groves complete the uintessential Tuscan experience sought by admirers of this exceptional region. After a day spent soaking in mineral-rich waters (link to the thermal spa website), it’s worth indulging in the local flavors at small trattorias that serve traditional regional dishes.

Suvereto – a medieval gem 14 km from Ghiacci Vecchi

On the hills of the Etruscan Coast, surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, lies Suvereto – one of the most beautiful small towns in Tuscany, listed among “I Borghi più belli d’Italia”. The town’s name derives from the Latin word “suber,” meaning “cork,” which refers to the cork oak forests surrounding Suvereto.

Suvereto has preserved its remarkable medieval charm, which can be felt at every step while strolling through the narrow, cobblestone streets laid centuries ago. The old walls and wellpreserved landmarks, such as the Romanesque church of San Giusto, the Palazzo Comunale, the ruins of Rocca Aldobrandesca castle, and the 18th-century church of Madonna sopra la Porta, take visitors on a true journey through time.

don’t know if you’ll believe me, as I could hardly believe what I was seeing myself, but while exploring this town on a beautiful day in mid-July, and on a Saturday no less, I was probably the only foreign tourist there. What an incredible feeling!

Suvereto is also a paradise for food lovers. In addition to traditional Tuscan cuisine at its finest, you can sample local DOCG wines and olive oil, both boasting authentic and exquisite flavors. The town hosts numerous festivals, not just culinary ones:

• In December, the Sagra del Cinghiale – a wild boar festival – attracts enthusiasts of Tuscan cuisine;
• In the summer, Calici di Stelle offers wine tasting under the starry sky;
• Serate Medievali, on the other hand, transports visitors back to the Middle Ages through historical reenactments and traditional costumes.

As a fun fact, I’ll add that Suvereto is also worth visiting for New Year’s Eve. Why? I’ll tell you all about it soon in a separate article.

Fields of Blooming Sunflowers

And it was in the area around Suvereto, just a few kilometers past the town heading towards Ghiacci Vecchi, that on a July morning in 2024, my friend Kasia Forino – who lives in the area and works rofessionally as a wedding and event photographer – and I spotted a beautiful field where sunflowers were in full bloom, fresh and eagerly stretching towards the sun. We didn’t need a better invitation to stop and take a few photos.

When exactly do sunflowers bloom in Tuscany? It largely depends on when spring arrives and how warm the days become. Generally, sunflowers are characteristic of the early summer season and can be spotted as early as late June, while their full bloom is almost guaranteed by early July.

Interestingly, and worth noting, in highly sought-after areas like Val d’Orcia or Chianti, where every square meter of land is worth a fortune, sunflowers are not cultivated—or at least not in large quantities. It’s much easier to find them along the Tuscan coast. How long can you expect sunflowers to bloom? Again, it depends on the season. Several years ago, I spotted and photographed my first sunflower field in Umbria while heading to Orvieto around July 26th.

What Can You Visit Around Ghiacci Vecchi?

Exploring by Car

Within about an hour’s drive in any direction, you’ll find plenty of attractions, among which I especially recommend:

• The famous Volterra, with its Etruscan roots, is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in all of Tuscany. For connoisseurs seeking undiscovered gems, I also recommend visiting the nearby villages of Querceto and Montegemoli.
• The charming town of Massa Marittima, where you can climb the Torre del Candeliere and enjoy stunning views while walking along the city walls.

• Malutkie Bolgheri słynące z produkcji wysokiej jakości wina, do którego od strony wybrzeża wiedzie droga obustronnie porośnięta imponującą aleją cyprysową. The tiny village of Bolgheri, renowned for its high-quality wine production, is accessible via a scenic road lined on both sides with an impressive cypress avenue stretching from the coast.

Within one to two hours’ drive, you can visit:

• The famous Pisa, where the Leaning Tower is just one of many attractions. I recommend my blog guide to Pisa and, for food enthusiasts, a culinary guide with tips on where to eat well in the city.
• The stunning Lucca, beautifully located at the foot of the Apuan Alps.
• Malownicze wybrzeże Cinque Terre w Ligurii, choć to propozycja wyłącznie dla rannych ptaszków gotowych wstać o świcie i ruszyć w dłuższą drogę.
• San Gimignano, the city of towers, often called the “Medieval Manhattan,” which is perfect to combine with a day trip to the previously mentioned Volterra.
• The postcard-worthy Val d’Orcia, particularly breathtaking in spring and autumn. A mustsee there is the charming town of Pienza, known as the “Pearl of the Renaissance,” and for fine wine lovers, the town of Montalcino.
• Free thermal springs scattered across southwestern Tuscany. You can find more details in this guide.

• Pitigliano, built on a tuff rock, is perfect to combine with a day trip to the hot springs in Saturnia.
• The medieval city of Siena, one of the most beautiful and best-preserved towns of its era in all of Italy. In addition to exploring its historic landmarks, you can witness the famous Palio horse race twice a year for free, and on any day, enjoy fantastic food. Wondering where exactly to eat? You’ll find the answers in my culinary guide to Siena.
• The lesser-known valley called Val di Merse, home to the roofless ruins of the San Galgano Abbey, and just a few kilometers away, the medieval town of Chiusdino.

Exploring by Train

The train station in Campiglia Marittima, located just 4 km from Ghiacci Vecchi, offers convenient connections to Pisa, the city of La Spezia (a gateway to the Cinque Terre coast), and even Florence. Most routes require one transfer, but there are also 4-5 direct connections daily. For example, according to the current schedule, you can take a direct train at 7:29 AM and arrive at Florence’s main station by 9:33 AM. You can check schedules and ticket prices on the Trenitalia website.

Unfortunately, reaching the Campiglia Marittima station from Ghiacci Vecchi by public transport is quite challenging. However, you can park your car at the station and continue your journey by train. This is an excellent option, especially for those planning to visit major cities. Pisa, Lucca, and Florence all have train stations located very close to their historic city centers. Traveling by train is not only fast and comfortable but also saves time otherwise spent searching for parking. Tuscan trains are clean, comfortable, and generally punctual.

Holidays with Your Dog at Ghiacci Vecchi

Ghiacci Vecchi is a true paradise for dogs, where every well-behaved four-legged friend is warmly welcomed. Within the resort, you’ll find a four-hectare poplar grove where your dog can run and play in the shade of tall trees. The entire property is fully fenced, ensuring a safe and secure environment.

Accommodation with Your Dog

Dogs and small pets are welcome in selected ground-floor apartments. Depending on your needs, you can choose a two-person apartment (BB, BC, BS) or a three-person option (TB, TC). To make your stay even more comfortable, simply inform the resort about your pet when making the reservation. This way, the staff can ensure they provide the best accommodation option tailored to your needs.
Note! When traveling with a pet, an additional final cleaning fee of €30 applies. Only one dog is allowed per apartment.

Dog-Friendly Beaches

In the area, there are beaches that welcome the whole family, including your pet. These
include:

• Dog Beach San Vincenzo;
• Baratti Beach – accessible to dogs on the stretch between Chiesa di San Cerbone and Casone.

Discount Code for Readers of the Italia by Natalia Blog

Dear Readers! The owners of Ghiacci Vecchi, in collaboration with whom I wrote this article, are offering you special discounts for your stay in 2025. When booking a stay of at least one week directly on the Ghiacci Vecchi website and using the code TOSKANIA25, you’ll receive discounts, the amount of which depends on the chosen dates:

• 20% discount for stays from May 21, 2025, to June 6, 2025, and from September 13, 2025, to September 20, 2025.
• 15% discount for stays between June 7, 2025, and June 27, 2025, as well as between September 6, 2025, and September 12, 2025.
• 10% discount for stays between June 28, 2025, and September 5, 2025.

Gdybyście mieli więcej pytań lub potrzebowali indywidualnej oferty, to śmiało piszcie wiadomość do biura Ghiacci Vecchi na adres: info@ghiaccivecchi.it lub przez stronę internetową, zarówno w języku angielskim jak i włoskim. Buon viaggio! If you have any additional questions or need a personalized offer, feel free to contact the Ghiacci Vecchi office at: info@ghiaccivecchi.it or through their website, in either English or
Italian. Buon viaggio!

[This post was created in collaboration with Ghiacci Vecchi]