Lower Maremma
The coastal plains
CAPALBIO
A splendid medieval village that rises on a wooded hill. Steps lead up to the top of the surrounding walls where breathtaking views can be seen across the plains of Maremma to the coastal pine forests and sea. The atmosphere of the village’s narrow streets is unique.
CASTIGILIONE DELLA PESCAIA
A famous resort known for its long beaches and pine forest. The town was an ancient fishing village which has now become a port also for tourist boats. The centre extends uphill and is enclosed by mighty walls with towers, gates and a 15th century castle. A very picturesque and popular town with little shops selling arts, crafts and local products. The area has many bathing beaches equipped for water sports and it is also possible to hike, bike and ride horses in the pine forest.
FOLLONICA
The second largest city in the province, Follonica is located on the coast. It is a modern town with a drastic population increase in the last 50 years. The whole bay is flanked by sandy beaches and there is a large pinewood to the south.
GROSSETO
This is the chief city of Maremma and capital of the province, set on the Ombrone river. The city was damaged during World War II but still has a lovely old town centre enclosed by hexagonal walls. Inside these walls there is a piazza with the cathedral and a maze of streets with shops, restaurants and bars. Large stores and all amenities can be found in Grosseto. Nearby at Roselle are the impressive ruins of an Etruscan-Roman town.
MAGLIANO
This small town has a medieval appearance. During the Middle Ages it was dominated by the Republic of Siena which fortified it with a mighty wall which is still well preserved today.
MAREMMA NATURAL PARK
Also known as “Parco dell’Uccellina” this regional park is of rare beauty. It runs parallel to the coastline from Principina a Mare to Talamone and was one of the first protected areas in Italy. You can walk or horse-ride through the interior, and take a canoe ride up the River Ombrone.
ORBETELLO
The charming town of Orbetello was linked to Argentario in 1842 when a causeway was constructed from the town to the mainland, separating the lagoon into two. These placid lagoons now make up a nature reserve where flocks of birds, including flamingos, come to rest and feed. Il Mulino (The Mill) is the the last remaining mill of the nine that were built by Siena in XVI century in the lagoon. The old town is surrounded by Etruscan walls dating back to the 5th century BC. The main street running through the town is flanked on either side by little shops, cafès and restaurants.
PUNTA ALA
Has the most exclusive yacht club on this part of the coast, beautiful sandy beaches and a golf course overlooking the sea. Restaurants are to be found along the beach and at the port.
TALAMONE
Situated on top of a rocky promontory, this picturesque village is dominated by its 15th century fortress from which there are spectacular views of the coast and islands. It has a port for fishing and tourist boats, a swimming area on the rocks and an exclusive bay for windsurfing.