Giglio, Giannutri and Formiche di Grosseto: the wonderful islands of Tuscany Maremma

Let’s find out why these 3 treasures part of the Tuscan Archipelago worth a visit

The uniqueness of Tuscany is known worldwide. Among other reasons, everybody loves its amazing landscapes and the excellent food and wine offer.

Today, we guide you through the National Park of Tuscan Archipelago, the biggest European marine reserve. This protected area is composed of 7 islands located in front of Tuscany Maremma, between the province of Grosseto and the one of Livorno.

If Elba Island is the queen of the Archipelago, its “sisters” are as beautiful as it.

The smaller one is Gorgona, while the others are Capraia, Pianosa, Monte Cristo - do you remember Dumas’ romance “The Count of Montecristo”? -, Giannutri and Giglio. In addition to the 7 islands, the marine protected area also includes other wonderful treasures such as the Formiche (Ants) of Grosseto.

A beautiful, unspoiled nature dominates each island and gifts it with an amazing variety of flora and fauna. The Mediterranean brush, the crystal clear sea, the speechless panoramas are the special ingredients of these magical destinations.

Let’s find out more about the island of the province of Grosseto: Giglio, Giannutri and Formiche.

Giglio Island

Giglio is the second biggest island of the Tuscan Archipelago. A one-hour trip from Porto Santo Stefano or Talamone will bring you to Giglio Porto (harbour). The colourful houses and the emerald sea will immediately catch your eye. Beyond the harbour, there are lovely hills hosting vineyards. Going west, there is Campese, the biggest sandy beach enriched by an ancient tower. Wonderful bays surround the island. 

The fortress is the medieval heart of Giglio Castello, a typical Tuscan “borgo” protected by walls and crossed by narrow streets. 

A wild nature covers the 90% of the island. Trekking and diving lovers will enjoy on Giglio amazing experiences.

Giannutri Island

20 persons live here in wintertime, there is only one building and there aren’t cars: Giannutri is a heaven to be discovered on foot. Greeks named it Artemisia, while Romans “Diana”, due to its arch shape.

Diving and snorkelling enthusiasts will appreciate the biodiversity of the seabed. In fact, you will find gorgonians, corals, seahorses, starfish, snappers, bream, sponges and, perhaps, even wrecks of sunken ships. Trekking lovers will enjoy the breathtaking view once reached Monte Mario and Poggio di Capel Rosso, 88 meters above the sea level.

There are no sandy beaches on Giannutri, but cliffs, bays and coves with a transparent sea. Cala Maestra and Cala Spalmatoio are the only wonderful gravel beaches.

In addition to its natural beauty, Giannutri also offers an archeological experience: the ruins of Villa Domizia. The villa was built between the 1st and 2nd centuries AD. and owned by the Roman family of the Domizi Enobarbi. The remains are of extraordinary value: columns, arcades and mosaics overlooking an emerald sea. However, this archaeological area can only be visited accompanied by a qualified staff.

The island can be reached in 1 hour by taking the ferry from Porto Santo Stefano. This is the ideal place to gift yourself with a one-day trip to a unique place.

Formiche di Grosseto

From the Tuscany Maremma Natural Park, you can admire the coast ad see 3 islets: Le Formiche di Grosseto. Formica Grande is the biggest one and host a lighthouse. Formica Media is a long narrow strip of rock, while Formichino is the smallest and is composed by two skerries. 

This slice of heaven offers depths of over 100 meters. This is why it is a very popular destination among divers. In fact, the rocks are far from the coast, so the water is crystal clear. Here you can see a vibrant marine life, as well as shipwrecks and archaeological ruins that have found a new home on the seabed.

You have to jump on a private boat to be able to reach Formiche di Grosseto.

Can’t wait for the holidays?

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