Lido di Camaiore Holidays

Sandwiched between bustling Viareggio and scenic Marina di Pietrasanta, Lido di Camaiore's a cosy, artsy beach town in Italy's Tuscany. A true Tuscan beauty, it's got the Apuan Alps inland and the blue Ligurian Sea lapping against a sandy shore. At dusk, the laidback bars and restaurants along the promenade are just the spot for a glass of sparkling prosecco wine.

You've pitched up in a great place for exploring other Tuscan towns. Pisa and its leaning tower are a 40-minute drive away, while Florence, the region's culture-rich capital, can be reached in an hour and a half. Closer by, duck into one of Viareggio's waterfront discos when the sun goes down – they're just five minutes down the coastal road by car.

Right by the cheery promenade, Lido di Camaiore's wide beach sprawls up and down the coast to neighbouring towns. There are sunloungers and parasols to rent – perfect for a nap-as-you-tan session. Active sorts can hire a pedalo or a 'pattini' – a small wooden boat – or cruise along the floral prom's scenic cycling route.