Lovely rustic villa in the foothills of the Apuan Alps with stunning views over vinyards, the town and the sea. We were warmly greeted by owners Francesca and Manu, who invited us to join them for a buffet and to taste some of the wine they produce. The villa is set on a steep hillside on 3 levels (so you need to be ok with going up and down stairs!) The pool is set on the same level as the ground floor and has seating and sunbeds alongside. The local ameneties in nearby Ripa are limited, but there is a choice of supermarkets within a few minutes drive towards Forte Dei Marmi. FDM is clearly an 'up market' seaside town with lots of designer shops and a number of restaurants and cafes, mainly set out around the centre that joins the beach at the point where the pier is situated. The beachfront, which stretches for miles in both directions is mostly taken up by private beach clubs. These comprise restaurants and bars and a slice of the beach that they charge you (some a lot!) for using. There are small sections of beach set aside as free to use. We found a community run club called 'Commuale Levante' just before you leave FDM. €20 a day for use of 2 deckchairs, a sunbed and parasol. It's restaurant (Alle Boe) was very friendly and reasonably priced. Best place we found for eating out was nearby Pietrasanta, which has a real old-town feel, but is also a centre for sculpture of all kinds, which is all around you. Daytrip to walled town, Lucca (40 mins drive) was well worth it.
