Viareggio, a vibrant and spirited city on the sea. With a famous Carnival that each year brings to life the traditions and joviality of this ancient land. The Hotel Astor, which is just 20 kilometres from Pisa airport and has breath-taking views over Tuscany’s most famous promenade, can become your luxuriant hideaway, a place in which to recover one’s stamina and one’s spirit. It is also close to Lucca, the splendid Cinque Terre and, for the joy of opera lovers, the Giacomo Puccini Theatre at Torre del Lago.

Windows that soar skywards to make you feel that you are suspended on a cloud, spectators of a colourful world that remains magically removed although just a stone’s throw away. The rooms are pervaded by that unmistakable tang of the sea, warmed by the sun which steals though by day, only to be replaced by the stars at night.

With the tireless lapping of the sea as a backdrop, the sweet nothings whispered by the winds filter through the evening air into the La Conchiglia restaurant where culinary delicacies that only the sea and skilful chef can create, blend into a magical fusion of local and contemporary traditions.

Wellness: Climbing up so you can feel you almost touch the sky, you come to solarium and the vista of a magnificent ocean-going liner putting out to sea. Let guide you through an itinerary that incudes gym with its views over the promenade, the sauna, Turkish bath and Jacuzzi, ending in the relaxation area which is designed to help you get energy back an then relax. And to cool off, a swim in splendid indoor pool.