Corte dei Tusci

Set among green pines and just a few minutes walk to the fine sands and sun loungers on the hotel beach, Corte dei Tusci is surrounded by nature. Unfortunately, it is also across from a chemical plant and in front of a large incinerator. While the hotel keeps a close eye on the pollution levels (which we double-checked as safe during our visit), there is a slight chance of smell during wind shifts. However, this doesn't seem to bother the many repeat guests.At its front, the hotel's classic Tuscan style rises three levels, complete with rounded roof tiles, flowered windows, and arched accents. While the style isn't fancy, it is clean and contemporary. A bright lobby with tiled floors and wicker furniture welcomes guests toward a basic wooden reception desk. The hotel bar can also be found in the area. Grounds are well-landscaped with grass, shrubs, flowering plants, and tall pines.

Located along the central coast of the Gulf of Follonica, Corte dei Tusci can be found just off the main road which connects Follonica and Castiglione della Pescaia. While the hotel's side of the road is covered in green pine trees leading to the sea, just across the street lies an industrial plant producing chemicals which are transported off a pier connected to the hotel beach. Follonica itself is just under two miles to the north, and Grosseto Airport, to the south, can be reached in 45 minutes by car.

Guest rooms at the hotel are split between the main building and a few detached beachside apartments. Of the 119 clean, mid-range rooms, six have disability access. All have large outdoor patios or terraces that face either the pine forest or the sea and come with air-conditioning, mini-fridges, and small boxy TVs. Bathrooms are also basic with contemporary style and include a shower and bidet. If you tend to go to bed early, try to grab a room away from the pool as noise from the nightly shows may be bothersome. The apartment-style units are directly on the beach and therefore slightly off-site from the main hotel grounds. Even though these are set up with self-catering kitchenettes, they feature the same features and style of other rooms. Guests on both properties have access to all hotel amenities and activities.

The beach has fine white sand and is shallow enough for the first few feet for children to play safely. It can be reached by following a path through the pine woods. And the hotel has two sparkling pools at its center, accompanied by a handful of basic sun chairs. Activities for both kids and adults are organized daily, while the nightly shows are simple, entertaining, and respectful. Unlike many other hotels, the staff will not force you to participate.The air-conditioned restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating and serves a wide buffet selection of Mediterranean and Tuscan cuisine with unlimited water and jug wine. If that's not enough or you prefer spirits, there’s a very informal lobby bar as well. A few days a week there are themed dinners, and small children have a dedicated meal space at an earlier time twice a day. Note that you may want to bring a flashlight if you are planning to navigate the unlit hotel paths after dark. Animals are welcome and the hotel has a dedicated dog park. There’s also free Wi-Fi, parking, and breakfast. Rates for half-board and full-board plans are available.