THE CORNIA'S VALLEY

30 min.

The Parks of the Val di Cornia, in the province of Livorno, which stretch along the coastal strip opposite the Island of Elba, tell the thousand-year-old story of a country where the remains of the Etruscan town of Populonia and the evidence of the past activity of mining and metal-working are entwined with the splendid natural environments of Mediterranean sea and scrub.

The various archaeological and natural sites of our Parks make this area an interesting alternative to the traditional tourist destinations: a place where nature and archaeology converge to let you discover the charm of the “Toscana Minore”.

A Tuscany which is still unknown but from a tourist standpoint is greatly appreciated by those who have already discovered it.

Piombino, situated on a headland facing the Tuscan Archipelago, has a wealth of interesting history and protected natural areas, making it one of the loveliest, most fascinating areas of the Costa degli Etruschi to explore. Fascinating reminders of the Etruscans are preserved in the Baratti-Populonia Archaeological Park.

Piombino, which was governed for a time by Napoleon's sister, Elisa Bonaparte, was an important centre in medieval and renaissance times, and old traditions survive side by side with today's dynamic, efficient town.

The setting is splendid kilometres of coastline with sparkling sea, nature reserves and productive countryside crossed by the Costa degli Etruschi Wine Route, home to Val di Cornia DOC wines.
All kinds of water sports can be enjoyed here, and the countryside is full of trails for hiking, biking and horse riding. Local dishes made with fish or products from the countryside are full of aroma and flavour.