Piombino – Ph. Sergej Onyshko/shutterstock
The Tuscan Maremma is a fascinating region that combines the beauty of the sea with charming historic villages. Here you can discover enchanting beaches, breathtaking natural landscapes and centuries-old culture. In this article, we will explore some of the most beautiful coastal villages in Maremma, perfect for your summer vacation. Among them, Castiglione della Pescaia, Porto Ercole, Giglio Castello and Piombino stand out. Let’s discover the peculiarities and must-see attractions of these wonderful villages.
Castiglione della Pescaia
Located in the heart of the Maremma Grossetana, Castiglione della Pescaia is a charming seaside village renowned for its golden beaches and the quality of its seawater. Dominated by an ancient medieval castle, the town stretches along a promontory offering spectacular views of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Castiglione della Pescaia’s historic center is an intricate collection of cobblestone alleys and stone houses dating back to medieval times. The majestic Rocca Aragonese, a 15th-century fortress, offers an unmissable vantage point. Strolling through the village’s narrow streets will revive the atmosphere of bygone eras, with charming little squares, ancient churches and museums.
Ph. poludziber/shutterstock
Castiglione della Pescaia’s beaches are among the most beautiful in Tuscany. Rocchette Beach, characterized by fine sand and crystal clear waters, is perfect for families and sunbathers.
In addition to the sea, Castiglione della Pescaia offers many recreational activities: trekking in the Maremma Natural Park, biking and water sports such as sailing and windsurfing. There is also no shortage of cultural and gastronomic events during the summer, especially festivals celebrating Tuscan cuisine.
Porto Ercole
Porto Ercole, located in the Argentario Promontory, is renowned for its wonderful beaches that offer breathtaking scenery and crystal clear waters. Among the most beautiful beaches in Porto Ercole, there are some gems that cannot be overlooked.
Baia “Le Viste” is a little piece of paradise hidden among the cliffs. Accessible on foot through a path that passes among lush Mediterranean scrub vegetation, this beach offers golden sand and a clear sea. It is an ideal place for those seeking tranquility and an authentic connection with nature.
Cala Galera, located near the marina of the same name, is another iconic beach in Porto Ercole. Characterized by a sandy beach and turquoise-hued waters, Cala Galera is easily accessible and offers many amenities, including restaurants and bathing establishments. It is perfect for families and those who want to spend a relaxing day without straying too far from amenities.
Porto Ercole – Ph. Eupastor64/flickr
Le Grotte, a small, picturesque cove surrounded by impressive cliffs, is ideal for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. The water here is particularly clear, allowing a rich marine life to be observed. The name “Le Grotte” comes from the many natural cavities that dot the coastline, offering shady shelters perfect for a break from the sun.
Another beautiful beach is Poggio Pertuso, located in a protected bay and surrounded by lush vegetation. The beach consists of small pebbles and fine sand, and its calm waters make it an ideal place for swimming and relaxing. Its proximity to the port of Porto Ercole makes it easily accessible, while maintaining a quiet and relaxing atmosphere.
Cala Grande, one of the best-known beaches on the Argentario Promontory, can be reached via a scenic path. It consists of three small white pebble beaches that contrast beautifully with the surrounding green Mediterranean scrub and blue water. The beach is perfect for those who love diving or simply enjoying the surrounding natural beauty.
Cala del Gesso, one of the pearls of Argentario, is reached by walking up a steep but rewarding path. The beach consists of white pebbles and sand and is situated opposite the Argentarola islet, creating an enchanting visual spectacle. Cala del Gesso is an ideal place for those seeking a day at the beach away from the crowds, immersed in a natural landscape of rare beauty.
Cala del Gesso Argentario – Ph. Valerio Clementi/flickr
Acqua Dolce, a beach accessible only by sea or via a long footpath, offers an idyllic and secluded setting. The sand is fine and white, with crystal clear waters that invite long swims. The beach is surrounded by high cliffs that create a unique atmosphere of isolation and tranquility.
Each beach in Porto Ercole offers something unique, whether you prefer the adventure of a hike to hidden coves, or the convenience of fully equipped establishments. Regardless of the choice, they all share the common characteristic of crystal-clear waters and breathtaking scenery, making Porto Ercole a must-see destination for sea and nature lovers.
Giglio Castello
Giglio Castello is a fortified village located on Giglio Island, a corner of paradise in the Tyrrhenian Sea. This ancient settlement offers an authentic atmosphere and breathtaking views. The village enclosed by ancient medieval walls retains its historical charm intact. The Rocca Aldobrandesca, which dominates the landscape, is a testament to the island’s long history of defense. Strolling through the narrow streets of the village, you will encounter houses built of local stone.
The beaches and coves of Giglio Island are true land paradises in the Tuscan Archipelago: the Campese Beach, the Cannelle Beach, the Arenella Beach and the Caldane Beach. Campese Beach is the largest and one of the main tourist settlements on the island. It is located on the northwestern coast and is characterized by coarse dark red sand. It offers a wide range of tourist services and facilities, including bathing establishments, diving centers, bars, restaurants, and boat rentals.
Giglio Castello – Ph. Ali W/flickr
On the east coast of the island is Baia delle Cannelle, which overlooks the beautiful Argentario promontory. It is the second largest beach on the island and is known for its fine white sand and crystal clear sea, making it comparable to the most sought-after tropical destinations.
In addition to these four main beaches, Giglio Island offers numerous hidden bays and coves of rare beauty. Among them, Scalettino Beach, located in Giglio Porto, is a small beach with a thin tongue of sand and smooth granite rocks. Similarly, Caletta del Saraceno, also in Giglio Porto, offers beautiful backdrops and a tranquil setting, perfect for a brief escape from the hustle and bustle.
On the left side of the Campese Beach is the Petruso Cove, which can be reached by boat or a short walk. This cove is less crowded than the main beach and offers enchanting backdrops. A little further along the Franco promontory are three other beaches: the Spiaggia di Mezzofranco, the Spiaggia della Carciofaia, and the Spiaggia dei Pozzarelli. These small west-facing coves benefit from wonderful sunsets.
Baia delle Cannelle – Ph. Ali W/flickr
Taking a boat tour of the island allows you to discover these hidden, unspoiled coves, where taking a solitary swim in crystal-clear waters is an unforgettable experience.
Piombino
Piombino is a coastal resort in Tuscany that offers a wide variety of beaches, each with its own unique and distinctive beauty. Piombino’s beaches are known for their fine sand, crystal-clear waters, and stunning views that stretch to the horizon.
One of the most renowned beaches is Baratti Beach, located within the Gulf of Baratti. This beach is famous for its calm, clear waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. Behind the beach is a pine forest that provides shelter from the sun and the opportunity for pleasant walks in the shade. The presence of ancient Etruscan and Roman remains nearby adds an additional element of charm to this place, making it a perfect destination for those who wish to combine relaxation and culture.
Another beach of great importance is Cala Moresca. Featuring a natural inlet and protected by high cliffs, Cala Moresca is perfect for those seeking tranquility and breathtaking scenery. The waters here are particularly clear, making it an ideal place for divers. The beach is accessible via a path through dense Mediterranean scrub, making arrival an even more rewarding experience.
Piombino – Ph. StevanZZ/shutterstock
Buca delle Fate is an enchanting cove located near Baratti. Its main characteristic is the varying color of the sand, which ranges from white to gray, combined with the crystal clear turquoise waters. This cove can only be reached via a hiking trail, which enhances the sense of adventure and isolation, features highly sought after by nature lovers.
Calamoresca Beach is one of the most popular with locals and tourists, thanks to its proximity to the town of Piombino. It is a pebble beach with a large green area equipped for picnics and children’s games. The water is clear and suitable for swimming, and the view of the sea is simply enchanting, with the Island of Elba visible on the horizon. This place is an excellent choice for families.
Finally, Carbonifera Beach offers a completely different landscape. Located within a protected natural area, this beach is less crowded and has a very wide sandy shoreline. The sand dunes and surrounding vegetation make the place fascinating and perfect for those seeking direct contact with nature. The waters here are particularly suitable for children thanks to the gently sloping seabed.
Piombino’s beaches are thus a perfect mix of natural beauty, ancient history and modernity, offering something for every taste. From wild, hidden coves to beaches equipped with all amenities, Piombino is undoubtedly a gem of the Tuscan coast.
Buca delle Fate – Ph. Matteo Lodovichi/flickr
The Tuscan Maremma is a must-see destination for those seeking a vacation that combines nature, culture and the sea. The villages of Castiglione della Pescaia, Porto Ercole, Giglio Castello and Piombino offer unique and unforgettable experiences, each with its own characteristics and values. You just have to plan your trip to Maremma and discover these enchanting locations.
