Fonteblanda

On the Gulf of Talamone, Fonteblanda is a village that is officially part of the town of Orbetella. It sits on the unspoiled coastline of the Maremma region of Tuscany, an area known for its "wildness" - where fields of wild flowers, grains and pastures occupy the landscape. There are still active cowboys herding cattle and sheep, and much of the coast and the land that fronts it is protected by nature parks and wildlife refuges.

It is said that the name derives from the springs that bubble up bringing sweet water to the surface, "bland" water from a natural fount. The town is a destination for those seeking a low-key spot to enjoy the long stretches of golden sand beaches. All the watersports imaginable are available here, including windsurfing, snorkeling, boating and jet-skiing.

While small, there is a picturesque boat marina, along with a handful of restaurants, gelateria, pastry shop and some coffee bars. The surrounding area is full of historic towns, open spaces, parks and mountain trails. Hiking, horse riding, and bird watching are popular pastimes. There are also hot springs nearby.

Fonteblanda has some excellent wineries that produce local vintages unique to this zone. Try the Ciliegiolo or the white Vermentino. Vines have occupied the low hills here since the Etruscan times and are the perfect accompaniment to the zone's seafood specialties as well as the locally-raised beef.

Fonteblanda is near Grosseto; sights include Monte Argentario, Viterbo, the wine town of Montalcino, the Etruscan zone around Vetralla, and the marble quarries of Massa Marittima.