Monte Argentario and Isola del Giglio

Monte Argentario and Isola del Giglio represent the maritime face of southern Tuscany: a promontory dotted with crystal-clear coves, fishing villages, and Spanish fortresses, and a wild island in the Tuscan Archipelago where time seems to move more slowly. For guests staying at Casetta di Pitigliano, they are ideal destinations for a day trip or a seaside weekend, about an hour and a half’s drive away.

On the Argentario, the coastline is a continuous sequence of free beaches and hidden coves: Cala Grande and Cala del Gesso, with turquoise waters and rocky seabeds; Spiaggia Lunga, reached by a short walk from Porto Ercole; Le Viste, convenient and close to the centre; and, on the Porto Santo Stefano side, beaches such as La Bionda, Cala Pozzarello, and La Soda, easily accessible from the road. The Feniglia Nature Reserve, which connects the Argentario to the mainland, offers long sandy beaches set in a pine forest, perfect for families.

The two main villages, Porto Ercole and Porto Santo Stefano, are well worth a visit: the former with its medieval centre, Spanish fortresses (Forte Stella, Forte Filippo, Forte Santa Caterina), and colourful harbour; the latter with its seafront promenade, seafood restaurants, and piers where ferries depart for the islands. From here, in about 45–60 minutes by boat, you reach Isola del Giglio, the second-largest island in the Tuscan Archipelago, with transparent waters and unspoilt landscapes.

On Isola del Giglio, the must-see spots are Giglio Castello, a medieval village perched at 405 metres with walls and breathtaking views; Giglio Porto, with its colourful houses and seafront cafés; and the bay of Campese, with its large beach and sea stack. The most beautiful beaches include Campese, Le Cannelle (light sand and turquoise water), Arenella (more secluded, ideal for snorkelling), and Caldane. The island can be explored by bus, on foot, or by taxi boat linking the various bays, and is perfect for those seeking relaxation, nature, and postcard-perfect seas.

For guests of Casetta di Pitigliano, a day on the Argentario or Isola del Giglio is a perfect way to alternate the discovery of inland villages with relaxation on Tuscany’s most beautiful beaches, in a setting where nature, history, and the sea blend in a unique way.