Stay at Hotel Cavalieri Del Mare in Marina di Massa

Hotel Cavalieri Del Mare occupies an 18th-century Tuscan villa that once belonged to the Sforza family, set within a 7,000-square-meter pine forest. The large outdoor swimming pool has sunbeds, umbrellas, a solarium, and a shallow end; the park also includes a children's playground and ping pong. Free outdoor parking is available for cars, bikes, and motorbikes, and electric vehicles can be charged on-site for €35 per day using a type 2 socket.

The hotel's 16 rooms are individually decorated, with maritime-inspired, Tuscan antique, or minimalist themes. Double Standard Rooms have maritime style or Tuscan antique charm; Double Superior Rooms are defined by Tuscan antique charm, and ground-floor Superior Rooms offer minimalist decor. Triple Rooms are spacious, may include a balcony, and suit families or guests with a pet; baby cribs are available for €25 per day, and pet accommodations are arranged case by case.

The hotel operates on a Bed & Breakfast basis, with breakfast offering savory and sweet options and homemade cakes. Gluten-free dishes are available and certified AIC; the always-open bar serves a wide selection of cocktails and cold meals. A coffee house on site and wine/champagne are also available.

The hotel is 200 meters from the beach in Marina di Massa, in the quiet Ronchi district, with a backdrop of mountains; it sits along the historic Salt Road that once connected the duchy of Massa-Carrara with the duchy of Modena-Parma. Pisa, Pietrasanta, Lucca, and Forte dei Marmi are within easy reach; Florence and Siena are each a two-hour journey away, and a regular train service runs to Cinque Terre. Excursions can be organized from the hotel, and Massa-Carrara is the sole Italian destination nominated by The New York Times among the 52 must-visit places for 2024.

Children have a dedicated play area in the 7,000-square-meter pine forest, with outdoor play equipment. Pets are welcome in almost every area of the hotel, and all breeds of dogs and other animals are accepted when notified in advance; baby cribs cost €25 per day. Guests can join yoga classes, use the solarium, or rent bicycles 300 meters from the hotel to reach beaches in Versilia.

Location: 200 meters from the beach in Marina di Massa

Grounds: 18th-century Tuscan villa in a 7,000-square-meter pine forest

Dining: Bed & Breakfast with homemade cakes and gluten-free AIC dishes

Parking: Free outdoor parking plus EV charging stations

Pets: All breeds of dogs accepted in almost every area

Culture: Massa-Carrara named by The New York Times among 52 must-visit places for 2024