Hidden Corners of Forte dei Marmi: A Local’s Guide from La Serena Hotel

Forte dei Marmi may be known for its elegant beaches and designer boutiques, but behind its refined facade lies a world of quiet charm and subtle beauty. For travelers seeking authenticity and calm, the town offers a wealth of lesser-known places that reveal its more intimate side. From its shaded pine groves to silent seaside paths, here is a curated selection of hidden corners to explore during your stay at La Serena Hotel.

The Shaded Promenade Behind the Dunes

Just steps from La Serena Hotel, a little-known walking path runs parallel to the coastline, tucked behind the dune line. Sheltered by maritime pines and cooled by coastal breezes, it is the perfect early morning or late afternoon escape. Locals walk dogs here, cyclists pass in silence, and birdsong replaces the sounds of the busy beach clubs just beyond the trees.

Vittoria Apuana’s Quiet Charm

To the east of the town center lies Vittoria Apuana, a serene and residential district with hidden villas, lush gardens, and wide, shaded streets. This area is less frequented by tourists and retains a quiet, authentic atmosphere. Strolling through this part of town reveals Forte dei Marmi's elegant everyday life—from discreet gardens to old lemon trees hanging over stone walls.

Sunrise on the Pontile

Most visitors gather at Forte dei Marmi’s iconic pier during the golden hours of sunset, but sunrise is when its beauty truly shines. Early risers will find it nearly deserted, with the Apuan Alps bathed in pale light behind the town and the sea stretching calm and uninterrupted. It is a moment of solitude and reflection, a peaceful start to the day before the town wakes.

The Edges of the Market

While the bustling Piazza Marconi market is popular with shoppers, those who wander to the quieter corners of the square will find vintage book stalls, old maps, and handmade household items often overlooked. These stands attract locals more than tourists and offer a glimpse into the town’s everyday rhythms.

Coastal Walks Beyond the Beach Clubs

For those willing to walk further along the shoreline, beyond the rows of umbrellas, the beaches become wider and less structured. There are patches where dune grasses grow freely and shells collect in quiet arcs. These spots offer a slower, more contemplative view of the Versilian coast, ideal for a morning walk or sunset photo.

Rooftop Views from La Serena

Sometimes, the hidden gem is right where you are. La Serena Hotel's own rooftop offers a quiet retreat with sweeping views over the town and sea. Whether you're enjoying a light aperitivo or simply unwinding after a day of exploring, this serene vantage point allows you to experience Forte dei Marmi from above—a perspective few visitors seek out.

Stone Benches and Garden Paths

Throughout the town, especially in the older quarters and near the Fortino, small garden spaces and shaded benches offer unexpected retreats. These are places where locals read the newspaper, sip a morning espresso, or sit in quiet conversation. Many of these benches are nestled near flowerbeds or under old pine trees, offering a chance to rest and observe without hurry.

Discovering with Intention

What makes these corners special is not only their privacy, but the mindset with which you approach them. Staying at La Serena Hotel encourages this pace of discovery. With its calm atmosphere and thoughtful hospitality, it invites you to explore not with a checklist, but with curiosity. Our concierge team is always happy to suggest quiet walks, scenic corners, and reflective spaces known best to those who call Forte dei Marmi home.

From hidden gardens to peaceful beaches, Forte dei Marmi reveals its soul slowly. And from the refined setting of La Serena Hotel, you are perfectly positioned to discover it all—one quiet step at a time.