La California: Local History, Church and Nature
Accommodation in La California
La California can be explored for travel planning through specific themes: local history, the architecture of the parish church of Nostra Signora di Fatima, and nearby natural attractions. Via Togliatti has a playground for children aged 3 to 12; the Pineta di Marina offers a five-kilometre-long trail for walking, cycling or horse riding.
Local history and the church
La California began around 1840 at the crossroads where Via Aurelia met the road to Bibbona. The name La California was first recorded for the settlement in the first municipal register of residents in 1865. An osteria had opened directly at the crossroads on Via Aurelia, run by Attilio Fabbri. The 1881 census records that Amerigo Gabbani took over the innkeeping business from Fabbri. The Demi family, heirs to the Gabbanis, continued the osteria tradition until after the Second World War. Historical postcards show the Osteria Gabbani in La California.
The parish church of Nostra Signora di Fatima is another point of interest in the town’s history. It was dedicated and consecrated in October 1968. The modern-style church has low walls and a high roof whose shape resembles a hut. For travellers interested in architecture, it offers a different way to explore the history of the town than looking at the osteria and the development of the road network.
Agriculture and regional traditions
The 94th Fiera della Zootecnia was scheduled for 20 to 23 August 2026. The four days of events were dedicated to agriculture, livestock farming and regional traditions, with the Chianina breed once again at the centre.
Nearby natural attractions and trails
Near La California, the Pineta di Marina is part of the Riserva Naturale Tomboli di Cecina nature reserve. There is a five-kilometre-long trail there for walking, cycling or horse riding. To reach the Pineta di Marina, take the La California exit on the SS1 Aurelia; then follow the signs to Marina di Bibbona. From the natural parking area, an approximately 2.1-kilometre walking trail leads to the central area of the Grotte Gialle.
Another protected area nearby is the Riserva Naturale Biogenetica Bibbona. It is mostly forested and characterised by Mediterranean scrub, including holm oaks, strawberry trees and myrtles. Access rules apply: the area is freely accessible on foot, but vehicles are prohibited except for authorised vehicles. Check the access rules before your trip.
Facilities and getting around La California
Via Togliatti has a playground with a slide tower, climbing equipment and a swing for children aged 3 to 12. La California also has a dog exercise area, described as spacious, free and secure. There is a car park along Via della Camminata serving the activities and services there.
An Autolinee Toscane bus service connects Cecina, California and Marina di Bibbona.
Discover more destinations: Stazione Bolgheri, Marina Di Bibbona.
To the main travel overview: Bibbona.
