Archive for 'Water & Amusement Parks'

In the last post in this series, here are two more of Tuscany's most unique and best theme parks. While the region may be better known for its cuisine and culture and while there may be plenty of museums, galleries, churches, architectural gems, landmarks and restaurants to be discovered, there are also adventures to be had.

Cavallino Matto, near Livorno, is Tuscany’s biggest amusement park. Originally set up in 1967 as a stables that offered pony trekking throughout the vast pine woods near the beach of Livorno during the summer.

Called ‘Parco Gulliver’, it also included crazy golf, ping pong tables, a bar, slides, swings and was free to enter. Over the years, this business grew and expanded until it was the biggest amusement park in the region.

In 2006, Cavallino Matto was purchased by the Manfredini family, who work in the funfair business, and has only grown larger since then.

As we discussed in the last post, theme parks are probably not something that you associate with Tuscany and, admittedly, you won't find the likes of Disneyland or Universal Studios. However, Tuscany has her own unique theme parks, adventures parks and water parks that are great fun and something a little different; especially welcome to any kids (or childlike adults) in the group that might grow tired of museums and architectural gems. So, if you are planning on visiting Tuscany and are looking for a family activity that is a little off the beaten track, look no further than this list of some of her best theme parks!

Similar to Il Gigante Adventure Park in Florence, Lucca has its own adventure park to offer: Bagno di Lucca Canyon Park. If you've found your luxury villa in Lucca and are looking for a bit of an adventure, time outdoors and a little bit physical exertion mixed in with fun, then it's a perfect option.

A key summer activity for many people is to head to theme parks and water parks for the day. It makes for a fun, special day out that is a big treat for kids, if you are travelling as a family, and also a great excursion for friends and couples.

Tuscany might not be the first place you associate with such outings – cultural and foodie events will likely spring to mind first – but the region actually has some rather unique and interesting theme parks.

If you are planning a visit to Florence, for example, there is the excellent Il Gigante Adventure Park. One of the many surprising adventures to be had in Tuscany, it is a great spot to visit with the kids once you have found a luxury villa in Florence.

If you are planning a visit to Florence between April and November and are looking to fill up an itinerary, you might consider looking into attractions that are a little off the beaten track and more varied. Typical itineraries of the area focus largely on culture, art and food and, while these are things that are key to any Tuscan visit, it is not all that the region has to offer.

In fact, there are many surprising adventures to be had in Tuscany. Just find a luxury villa in Florence and spend a few days of your trip trying out some of the more unexpected activities that are boasted by the city and the area around it.

One such option is a trip to Il Gigante Adventure Park.

When planning a summer holiday, many people will scope out a good water park to visit to cool off on hot days, have fun and relax.

If you have decided on a vacation rental in Tuscany and are wondering what water parks the region has to offer, you need look no further – we've done all of the hard work for you!

On the Etruscan Coast, you'll find Acqua Village, which was nominated for the prestigious title of “Best Water Park in Italy” in the Parksmania Awards 2013.

Suitable for all ages and fun for all the family, groups of friends and couples, it is the perfect place to spend some time on your next holiday in Tuscany.