Spiaggia del Quercetano

Quercetano Bay is set in the little seaside town of Castiglioncello, not far down the Tuscan coast from Livorno. This pretty spot was put on the map by the cult classic 1960s film, Il Sorpasso (The Easy Life). With its diminutive castle, pine forest and laid-back charm it’s not hard to see why Castiglioncello continues to draw a crowd.

The coastline here is one of rocky outcrops and steep, green cliffs punctuated by a number of golden sand beaches. The village’s main strand, Spiaggia del Quercetano, is just one such beach and sits nestled in a small bay overlooked by villas perched on the cliffs.

All in all the beach at Baia del Quercetano stretches around 400 metres. This is divided up into various paying sections (bagnis) and a respectable segment of free beach - if you can live without your lounger and umbrella.

The beach is very popular with tourists and locals alike. Most come just to relax in the sun but the warm clear water is ideal for swimming and snorkelling too. Quercetano can even be a place to go surfing on the right day.

With plenty of restaurants and bars nearby, beachgoers can enjoy a meal and a drink while taking in the stunning views. The terraces above Quercetano beach are the perfect spot to take in a sunset whilst sipping a glass or two of the local wine.