Where Nature Reflects in the Water: The Lipu Massaciuccoli Oasis
Monday, August 18, 2025,
On the shores of Lake Massaciuccoli, in the heart of Tuscany, lies a hidden treasure: the Lipu Massaciuccoli Oasis – Chiarone Nature Reserve.
A paradise for birdwatchers, nature lovers, families, and anyone who longs to slow down and reconnect with the rhythms of the natural world. Here, silence speaks, colors shift with the seasons, and every visit becomes an unforgettable journey.The Magic of the OasisImagine walking along wooden boardwalks floating just above the water, the reeds swaying gently around you, and the sudden, graceful flight of a heron breaking the stillness. At every turn, the landscape reveals something new: rare species like the bittern or marsh harrier, the calls of coots and grebes, or the delicate bloom of aquatic plants.The atmosphere here is unlike anywhere else. In certain moments, the lake looks like an impressionist painting—soft light, golden reflections, and water mirroring the sky. It is a place that invites you to breathe deeply, slow your pace, and simply be present.A Journey Through TimeThe Lake of Massaciuccoli is not only a natural jewel but also a place rich in history. The Romans once built splendid villas on its shores—remains of mosaics and baths can still be seen in the archaeological area of Massaciuccoli. Walking through the Oasis, you can sense this blend of past and present: nature that has always been here, and people who have cherished it for centuries.An Experience for EveryoneThe Reserve is open all year round and welcomes more than 40,000 visitors annually. It offers something for all ages and interests:Birdwatching paradise: From observation hides along the 800-meter wooden walkway, you can spot rare species like the bittern, marsh harrier, and purple heron, alongside ducks, coots, grebes, and many migratory birds.Immersive boardwalks: A gentle path over the marshlands, perfect for families with children and easily accessible for everyone.Educational activities: A small natural history museum and guided tours make it an inspiring place for kids.Water adventures: Explore the lake’s canals on a guided boat trip, or paddle quietly by canoe or kayak for a closer look at its hidden corners.Moments of peace: Whether at sunrise, when mist rises from the water, or at sunset, when the lake glows gold and pink, the tranquility here is unforgettable.Visitor InformationAdmission: Free (guided tours and boat/canoe activities may have a fee)Opening hours: The Oasis is always open; check the LIPU website for guided activities and eventsAccessibility: The boardwalk is suitable for all visitorsLocation: Massaciuccoli, a hamlet of Massarosa (Lucca), inside the Migliarino, San Rossore and Massaciuccoli Natural ParkBeyond the OasisA visit to the Oasis can be combined with exploring the surrounding area:Torre del Lago Puccini: Just a few minutes away, this lakeside town celebrates the world-famous composer Giacomo Puccini. Every summer it hosts the Puccini Festival of Torre del Lago, an internationally renowned opera event and the only festival in the world entirely dedicated to the Maestro. Staged in the open-air theater on the shores of Lake Massaciuccoli, right next to Puccini’s villa where he lived and composed many of his masterpieces, the festival presents his greatest works in the very landscape that inspired them. Each year, thousands of opera lovers from around the globe gather here to experience the magic of Puccini’s music under the Tuscan sky.Tuscan hills and villages: Rolling hills dotted with vineyards and olive groves surround the lake, offering scenic drives and authentic food experiences.Local flavors: Don’t miss the chance to taste the products of the area, from wines to olive oil, often enjoyed in traditional trattorias with a lake view.A View Like No OtherFor those who wish to stay close to this enchanting corner of Tuscany, Villa alle Poiane offers a privileged view over Lake Massaciuccoli. From its terraces, the panorama changes constantly with the light and the seasons—sometimes serene and blue, sometimes golden, sometimes cloaked in mist. A truly fascinating, one-of-a-kind place to call home during your Tuscan holiday.
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History, Tradition and Where to Taste It
Thursday, August 14, 2025,
A journey through flavours and culture in Lucca’s cuisine
First-time visitors to Lucca are enchanted by its Renaissance walls, cobbled streets and timeless atmosphere. But there’s one experience that wins them over even more: sitting down to enjoy a plate of steaming tordelli lucchesi, served with a rich meat ragù and a generous sprinkle of cheese. This dish embodies the history, culture and soul of the Lucca area.Origins and history
The tordello lucchese was born in the countryside around Lucca between the late 19th and early 20th century as a Sunday and holiday dish. It was the perfect way to reuse leftover boiled or roasted meat, stale bread and garden greens, turning them into a hearty filling.
The name “tordello” is a local dialect variation of “tortello,” a pronunciation that gives this pasta its distinctive Lucchese identity. Unlike other Tuscan or Emilian versions, the pasta sheet is slightly thicker so it can stand up to cooking and sauce.
The traditional recipe
It starts with fresh egg pasta rolled by hand, filled with a mixture of beef and pork, Swiss chard or spinach, bread soaked in broth, eggs and spices (often nutmeg or marjoram). After being cooked in salted water, the tordelli are served with a meat ragù and topped with Parmesan or Pecorino. Every family guards its own “secret” recipe: some prefer more greens, others more meat, and some add a touch of herbs.
Curiosities and anecdotes
• Star of many village festivals, such as those in Camigliano and Segromigno.
• Local saying: “If there’s no tordello, it’s not Sunday.”
• Differences with the Viareggio or Pisa versions are often hotly debated — a true Lucchese will defend their recipe with pride.
Where to taste it today
To enjoy an authentic tordello lucchese, stop by a country trattoria or a historic osteria inside Lucca’s walls. Many places also offer cooking classes where you can learn to make them by hand — the perfect way to bring a little taste of Tuscany home.
The Lucchese tordello is more than a dish: it’s a family story, a bond with the land, and a celebration of togetherness. Sitting down to a plate of tordelli is like stepping into the history of the Lucca area… one bite at a time.
If you’d like to discover Lucchese cuisine while enjoying an authentic Tuscan experience, Tuscanhouses will guide you in choosing villas, farmhouses, and apartments where you can not only taste tordelli, but also learn how to make them, surrounded by the unique landscapes of our region.
The tordello lucchese was born in the countryside around Lucca between the late 19th and early 20th century as a Sunday and holiday dish. It was the perfect way to reuse leftover boiled or roasted meat, stale bread and garden greens, turning them into a hearty filling.
The name “tordello” is a local dialect variation of “tortello,” a pronunciation that gives this pasta its distinctive Lucchese identity. Unlike other Tuscan or Emilian versions, the pasta sheet is slightly thicker so it can stand up to cooking and sauce.
The traditional recipe
It starts with fresh egg pasta rolled by hand, filled with a mixture of beef and pork, Swiss chard or spinach, bread soaked in broth, eggs and spices (often nutmeg or marjoram). After being cooked in salted water, the tordelli are served with a meat ragù and topped with Parmesan or Pecorino. Every family guards its own “secret” recipe: some prefer more greens, others more meat, and some add a touch of herbs.
Curiosities and anecdotes
• Star of many village festivals, such as those in Camigliano and Segromigno.
• Local saying: “If there’s no tordello, it’s not Sunday.”
• Differences with the Viareggio or Pisa versions are often hotly debated — a true Lucchese will defend their recipe with pride.
Where to taste it today
To enjoy an authentic tordello lucchese, stop by a country trattoria or a historic osteria inside Lucca’s walls. Many places also offer cooking classes where you can learn to make them by hand — the perfect way to bring a little taste of Tuscany home.
The Lucchese tordello is more than a dish: it’s a family story, a bond with the land, and a celebration of togetherness. Sitting down to a plate of tordelli is like stepping into the history of the Lucca area… one bite at a time.
If you’d like to discover Lucchese cuisine while enjoying an authentic Tuscan experience, Tuscanhouses will guide you in choosing villas, farmhouses, and apartments where you can not only taste tordelli, but also learn how to make them, surrounded by the unique landscapes of our region.
Relax and Events in the Hills of Camaiore
Saturday, August 9, 2025,
With rolling hills, charming historic villages, delicious cuisine, and traditions to experience, Camaiore is the perfect destination for those seeking relaxation, culture, and unique events in Tuscany.
Camaiore is a true gem in the Versilia area, combining the peace of rolling hills with the vibrancy of a town rich in history. As a stop along the famous Via Francigena, it welcomes pilgrims and travellers from all over the world. In September, the town will host the 10th edition of FrancigenAmica, an event dedicated to those who love to discover the area at a slower pace, through walks, cultural encounters, and authentic flavours.Camaiore is also a paradise for food lovers. Among our favourite spots are Ristopasta, perfect for homemade pasta enthusiasts, Alan, a must for meat lovers, and Le Cantine Angeli, which turns into a cosy restaurant on weekends.In August, the town comes alive for Camaiore d’Altri Tempi (11–17 August 2025), a historic market exhibition that brings the charm of the past back to life. The old town fills with antique, vintage, and collectibles stalls, live performances from the Gran Teatro dei Burattini, sports events such as the Camaiore–Pedona hill climb, and musical moments ranging from Queen and Renato Zero tribute bands. But the music continues until the end of August: on August 23, the Santo Stefano Magra Philharmonic & G. Puccini Philharmonic will perform, while on August 24, Enrico Ruggeri will take the stage.In a world that moves fast, “Camaiore d’Altri Tempi” is an invitation to slow down, enjoy the streets and squares as meeting places, and rediscover the traditions that make this corner of Tuscany so unique.If you’d like to discover the Camaiore area and experience the magic of these festive days, you can stay in one of our holiday homes – the perfect starting point to explore Versilia and its traditions.