Via Aurelia Km 45.600, Follonica, Italy | (888) 551-4925
Beautifully landscaped property
Brickwork terrace houses with private gardens, kitchenettes, and parking
10-minute walk to beach
Extremely kid-friendly with dedicated pool and multiple activities
On-site arcade with games and pool table, sports courts, and shops
Restaurant serves Tuscan cuisine
Full- and half-board meal options available
Live nighttime entertainment
Free Wi-Fi and parking
Not within walking distance to major tourist sights
Potentially lots of bugs in the summer
No direct beach access; 10-minute walk away
This 230-house mid-range holiday village may have a slightly inflated four-star rating as the two- and three-room houses have fairly basic furniture and a simple style. While Villaggio Mare Si has a wide selection of family-friendly activities, hardly any fall into the luxury category. However, the grounds and accommodation are of a slightly higher style than that of nearby holiday village Villagiio Il Girasole. However, Girasole has direct access to a private beach, while access to Mare Si's closest beaches are about a 10-minute walk away. Village Mare Si is also some distance from anything of note, and is thus only ideal for those with cars or who just want to stay on the property.
Scene
Suburban residential vibe outfitted for families
Sometimes used as athlete housing for Follonica's winter sporting games and events, Villaggio Mare Si then transforms into a summer vacation village. Off a busy main road, the large property has beautifully landscaped grounds and multiple rows of single-level houses which all sport terracotta roofs and personal garden areas. Although the basic reception building is dated, public areas have mostly contemporary decor and furniture. There’s no lobby to speak of, but there is a rather bare TV lounge area, and a large courtyard connects many of the village's public buildings. With multiple activity areas for kids, this is a property designed with families in mind. Lots of bugs potentially appear in the humid summer months, so be sure to come prepared with appropriate safeguards.
Location
Outside of Follonica and within walking distance to the beach; major sights accessible by car
Located somewhat near a public beach on the wider periphery of the sea village Follonica, Villaggio Mare Si is best suited for those who aren't looking to leave the property or have access to a set of wheels. The village's position next to a busy main road at a slight distance from town means there’s not much to see within walking distance. However, there is a public and private beach along the Gulf of Follonica, both reachable on foot via a dedicated pathway that runs under the nearby railway. Those with a car or cab fare can reach the center of Follonica within five minutes, where there are restaurants, bars, and galleries. Visitors can also take a 20-minute drive northeast to the medieval locale of Massa Marittima, with a nature park located just outside of town as well. The world-famous leaning tower and closest airport can be found about 70 miles north in Pisa.
Rooms
Houses have lush gardens and kitchenettes, but feature basic furniture and no decor
Villaggio Mare Si has a whopping 230 single-level houses, each with private gardens, parking spaces, and basic style. Houses have either two or three rooms and can sleep a maximum of six people. Inside, white walls are bare and layouts straightforward. Kitchenettes have four gas burners, tall refrigerators, dishes, and full-sized sinks; certain units have dishwashers. Standard wooden table and chair sets and dated (but comfy) cushioned sofas fill the space, with a noticeable lack of supporting decor. Bathrooms are contemporary, but with a toilet, sink, shower, bidet, and washing machine, it's a tight squeeze.
Features
Activities for adults and children, with on-site shops
Since the town of Follonica isn't an easy walk away, it's a good thing Villaggio Mare Si has a plethora of on-site activities and features for both adults and kids. Equipped with a kids’ club which plans daily activities, children have their own dedicated pool, an arcade and game room, and an open-air playground to keep them entertained. Adults can take advantage of the tennis courts or compete in soccer games, relax in the TV room, or peruse the sports shop. The hotel has a big pool with surrounding lounge chairs. While the village has two large dining areas for their restaurant serving Tuscan cuisine and wine, guests can also grab a slice from the pizzeria or self-cater from their kitchenette. Note that stays can be half- or full-board and served either buffet or a la carte style. In addition to the sports store, the village has an on-site market where fresh vegetables, fruits, meats, and packaged foods can be purchased. Live nighttime entertainment is also available for both kids and adults.