What to Do in Maremma in December, A Guide for Visitors

Maremma in December, A Winter Wonderland in Tuscany

Maremma, the enchanting region in southern Tuscany, transforms into a serene, wintery retreat in December. With its mild temperatures, quiet landscapes, and festive atmosphere, December offers a unique and peaceful experience for visitors. Whether you’re looking to explore medieval towns, relax in thermal springs, or enjoy the holiday season’s delights, Maremma has plenty to offer during this magical time of year.

1. Visit the Medieval Villages Decked in Holiday Charm

In December, Maremma’s medieval villages, such as Pitigliano, Sovana, and Massa Marittima, are adorned with festive lights and decorations, creating an old-world holiday charm. Stroll through narrow cobblestone streets lined with glowing lanterns, visit Christmas markets, and discover artisanal crafts, local foods, and traditional gifts.

Pitigliano, known for its dramatic cliffside setting, comes alive with nativity scenes and holiday festivities. The historical center hosts markets, while local restaurants serve seasonal delicacies. Don’t miss Montemerano, a small medieval village that hosts charming markets and events during December, making it a perfect stop for holiday shoppers.

2. Experience Christmas Markets

December is the season of Christmas markets, and Maremma does not disappoint. Towns like Grosseto, Orbetello, and Scansano host lively markets where you can browse handmade crafts, holiday decorations, and gourmet foods. You’ll find stalls selling everything from local cheeses, wines, and olive oils to artisanal ceramics and leather goods.

The Christmas markets are also an ideal place to sample Tuscan holiday treats, like panforte, a rich, spiced fruitcake, or ricciarelli, almond cookies that are a specialty of the region. Warm up with a cup of mulled wine or hot chocolate as you soak in the festive atmosphere.

3. Relax in the Saturnia Hot Springs

As the temperatures cool in December, there’s no better way to relax than in the warm, healing waters of the Saturnia Hot Springs. These natural thermal baths remain a comfortable 37°C year-round, offering a rejuvenating experience surrounded by the scenic beauty of the Tuscan countryside.

December is a peaceful time to visit, as the summer crowds have long gone. Spend a few hours soaking in the mineral-rich waters, known for their therapeutic properties, and enjoy the tranquility of this winter retreat.

4. Explore Maremma’s Castles

Maremma is home to stunning castles and fortresses that are particularly captivating in winter. Visit the Castello di Montemerano, a medieval fortress offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. In nearby Sovana, the Rocca Aldobrandesca stands as a testament to the region’s ancient history, and its panoramic vistas are even more striking against a crisp December sky.

The Rocca di Pitigliano is another must-see, with its towering position overlooking the valley below. Touring these castles during the quieter month of December offers an opportunity to enjoy their beauty without the crowds, making it a more intimate and rewarding experience.

5. Take a Wine Tasting Tour

December is an ideal time to indulge in a wine-tasting experience in Maremma. The region’s vineyards, especially around Scansano and Magliano in Toscana, continue to offer tastings of their exquisite wines, particularly Morellino di Scansano. The cooler months provide a cozy atmosphere to sample full-bodied reds, including IGT Toscana wines like Capricci, an oak-aged Sangiovese.

Head to the Enoteca Scansanese, a boutique wine shop in Scansano, for a tasting of some of the best local wines, or book a visit to one of the area’s vineyards. Many wineries also offer food pairings, featuring local cheeses, cured meats, and olive oil, making it the perfect winter activity.

6. Hiking and Nature Walks

Maremma’s natural beauty is striking year-round, and the mild winter weather in December means that hiking and nature walks are still very much on the agenda. The Maremma Regional Park (Parco della Maremma) offers a range of trails that lead through forests, marshlands, and along the coastline. The winter season allows you to explore the park’s unspoiled beauty in peace, without the bustling crowds of summer.

December is also a fantastic time for birdwatching. The park is home to various migratory bird species, and the cooler weather makes for pleasant hiking conditions. Bring a pair of binoculars and spot flamingos, herons, and hawks in their natural habitat.

7. Truffle Hunting

December is prime truffle-hunting season in Maremma, particularly for the prized white truffle. Join a local guide and their trained dogs on an adventurous hunt through the oak forests around Capalbio and Manciano. Truffle hunting is a unique, hands-on experience that will give you a deep appreciation for this Tuscan delicacy.

Afterward, enjoy a truffle-based meal at a local trattoria, where chefs transform these earthy gems into exquisite dishes like truffle pasta, risotto, or even pizza. It’s an authentic Tuscan experience that food lovers won’t want to miss.

8. Feast on Seasonal Tuscan Cuisine

Tuscan cuisine shines in the colder months, with hearty dishes designed to warm and comfort. In December, you’ll find local restaurants serving up winter specialties like wild boar stew, ribollita (a traditional bread and vegetable soup), and polenta with game meats. The use of fresh, seasonal ingredients like chestnuts, mushrooms, and truffles makes every meal an indulgence.

If you’re staying in Maremma for the holidays, consider booking a traditional Tuscan Christmas dinner at a local agriturismo or restaurant. From handmade tortellini to roast meats and panettone, the culinary delights of Maremma during the holiday season are unforgettable.

9. Holiday Festivities

December in Maremma is filled with holiday spirit. In the lead-up to Christmas, towns across the region celebrate with festive events, concerts, and nativity displays. One of the most impressive is the Presepe Vivente (living nativity scene) in Petricci, a small village that reenacts the nativity with live actors and animals, creating a truly magical atmosphere.

In larger towns like Grosseto and Orbetello, you’ll find beautifully decorated piazzas, holiday concerts, and light displays. The festive energy is infectious, and it’s a great time to experience local traditions and celebrations.

Why Visit Maremma in December?

December in Maremma is ideal for those seeking a peaceful and authentic experience of Tuscany. The mild winter weather, coupled with the festive atmosphere, creates a perfect blend of relaxation and celebration. Whether you’re exploring medieval villages, indulging in the region’s wines and cuisine, or soaking in thermal springs, Maremma in December is full of magical moments waiting to be discovered.

Plan your winter escape to Maremma and enjoy the warmth, beauty, and traditions of Tuscany during the holiday season!

Where to Stay in Maremma in December, Lavender Cottage at Tenuta Le Mandorlaie

When visiting Maremma in December, you’ll want a cozy and tranquil retreat to relax after exploring the region’s beauty. One of the best places to stay is Lavender Cottage, located on the organic vineyard estate of Tenuta Le Mandorlaie, near Scansano. This charming cottage is the perfect choice for couples or solo travelers looking to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying the luxury of privacy and comfort.

Lavender Cottage, A Cozy Winter Retreat

Nestled within Tenuta Le Mandorlaie’s organic vineyards and olive groves, Lavender Cottage offers an intimate escape surrounded by the serene Maremma countryside. With its rustic charm and modern amenities, it provides a comfortable base from which to explore the region in December.

Private and Peaceful

The cottage is secluded enough to give you complete privacy, yet it’s only a short drive from local towns like Scansano, famous for Morellino di Scansano wine.

Comfortable Amenities, Inside, you’ll find a cozy living space complete with a fully equipped kitchen, a comfortable bed, and a fireplace—ideal for warming up after a day of exploring.

Breathtaking Views, Wake up to panoramic views of the vineyards, olive trees, and rolling hills that stretch out across the landscape. The winter months provide crisp air and clear skies, making the views even more stunning.

December Magic at Tenuta Le Mandorlaie

Staying at Lavender Cottage during December also gives you the opportunity to experience the authentic Tuscan countryside in winter.

Wine and Olive Oil Tasting, As the estate produces its own organic wines and olive oil, guests can enjoy tastings of the estate’s wines, including the full-bodied Capricci, and sample the freshly pressed organic extra virgin olive oil from the latest harvest.

Explore the Estate, Take a peaceful stroll through the vineyard and olive groves. The December atmosphere, with its crisp, cool air, creates an ideal setting for a morning walk.

Romantic Evenings, End your day with a cozy evening by the fireplace or step outside to gaze at the stars—Maremma’s rural location offers stunning night skies.

For those seeking a serene and authentic Tuscan experience, Lavender Cottage at Tenuta Le Mandorlaie is the perfect home away from home during your December visit to Maremma. Whether you’re exploring medieval towns, relaxing in thermal springs, or indulging in festive activities, this charming cottage provides an unforgettable stay.

Book your stay at Lavender Cottage