This Scenic Region Of Italy Is Perfect For A Road Trip Through Tuscan Wine Country

Italy is celebrated as the world's ultimate destination for wine lovers with centuries-old vineyards and charming villages. Among the numerous wine regions in the country, Tuscany is recognised globally for its wine varieties and also offers amazing travel experiences. Aside from visiting popular areas like Chianti or Montalcino, Bassa Maremma is a gem worth exploring. This wine destination is a must-visit when traveling throughout Italy or if you are on a road trip in Tuscany. Unlike Tuscany's more crowded destinations, this region is a beautiful and quieter Italian countryside as you drive through olive groves and medieval hilltop towns.

Located in the province of Grosseto, Bassa Maremma is easily accessible by car from Rome, about 3 hours away, or Florence, which is about 2 hours and 30 minutes away. The nearest major airport is Rome Fiumicino (Leonardo da Vinci International Airport), about 165 km away. You can rent a car at the airport and drive to Grosseto, then head southwards along the Bassa Maremma. The route was first inhabited by the Etruscans and later became wild pasturelands during the Roman era. The remnants and history of the area are still evident from the medieval fortifications and villas on the hillsides.

Bassa Maremma captures Tuscany's coastal charm, and you'll have plenty to discover along the way. For instance, you can stop by Orbetello town, one of the best sites to visit in Italy for ancient History lovers who also appreciate wine tasting. It is on a small strip of land near a lagoon with Feniglia and Giannella sandbars. Since the town has Etruscan origins and Spanish influences, there are numerous monuments and ramparts to explore in its historic centre. Visit the Santa Maria Assunta Cathedral to marvel at the beautiful architecture. In the heart of Grosseto is Magliano, a town on top of the hill filled with olive trees and vines. If you want to explore the countryside of Magliano, visit the Natural Park of Maremma, known for its butteri (cowboys), and you can spot wildlife like foxes, mules and deer. Discover the 25 km of coast in the park with cliffs, sandy beaches and surrounding marshes. Another must-visit attraction in Maremma is Saturnia Hot Springs, near Grosseto. The thermal springs or natural pools are filled with 37.5°C sulphurous water, which cascades down the stones and greenery. The open-air baths are free to access, and you can soak in the waters.

If you are a wine connoisseur, you must visit Scansano, a medieval village in central Maremma. Start with a tour of the Vine and Wine Museum in Palazzo Pretorio, which takes you through the history of wine making in the town, which is also popular for Morellino. You will also discover six DOC wines produced in the area and learn about their flavour profiles. Take a wine tour in Vignaioli del Morellino di Scanso, discover the vineyards and learn about the popular wines of Maremma. Make sure you taste some of the wines produced at the winery.

Your road trip through Bassa Maremma is incomplete without a stop at Capalbio, a medieval village known as the "last town of Maremma". Enclosed by Renaissance walls, the town has narrow alleys and terraces overlooking the Tuscany countryside. Just outside the town is Tarot Garden, which is a collection of sculptures and statues designed by artist Niki de Saint Phalle. Some works in the garden have been designed by other local artists and painters.

Head to Porto Santo Stefano, a seaside town on Monte Argentario, overlooking the peninsula. The main attraction in the town is the Spanish Fortress. The underrated tourist destination in Italy is a monument built in the 17th century to protect the town, and it also served as a palace. The fortress displays permanent exhibitions of "Master of the Axe" and "Submerged Memories". The exhibitions pay homage to ship manufacturers and archaeological relics. Another gem in the area is Pitigliano, perched on tufa cliffs. It was known as 'Little Jerusalem,' due to the historic Jewish quarter during the Renaissance era. Learn about the history of the Jewish community in Pitigliano at the Museum of Jewish Culture. The museum houses various exhibitions and objects used in worship.