Still a relatively undiscovered gem, Monte Argentario is the perfect base for island hopping around the Tuscan archipelago and exploring the sandy beaches and hidden coves of the peninsula. The rugged coastline is dotted with crumbling medieval ruins, sandy beaches and pebbled bays that are only accessible by boat. For the natural hikers and lovers of the outdoors, some of the island’s best beaches can be found by foot and often with a slightly steep climb down to the shore.
Read this article for a round-up of our favourite coves and beaches on Monte Argentario and our top tips for making the most of your stay in our villas on the Tuscany coast and Maremma.
The beach cove on the Via Panoramica: Cala Grande
Cala Grande translates as “Big Cove” and is home to three beautiful pebbled bays: one is wide and long while the other two are smaller and more intimate. The cove is a hotspot for boats and yachts sailing around the promontory and is easily accessible from neighbouring Porto San Stefano if you are thinking of chartering your own.
If you are planning a trip inland, you’ll approach Cala Grande along the Via Panoramica, a picturesque road that runs along the Argentario Coast from Porto San Stefano to Porto Ercole. This scenic drive takes in the beauty of this wilder, more rugged part of Tuscany’s coastline and the views over Cala Grande are no exception! Stop to take photos of where the low rocky cliffs, luscious green hills and vineyards meet the bright azure of the sea before heading down to the beach. Pack your sun lotion, plenty of water and a picnic, and prepare for a 25-minute walk of medium-hard difficulty down to the first of the bays. There is plenty of shade throughout the day, but this is wild Argentario at its best.
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The cove overlooked by a 16th-century Spanish tower: Cala del Gesso
Dotted along the Argentario coast are the ruins of medieval watchtowers and forts built by the Spanish and Sienese. Cala del Gesso is a small sheltered cove with a fine pebbled beach and the ruins of a 16th-century tower rising above a right-side cliff. There is a very intimate and tranquil atmosphere at Cala del Gesso, which looks out across the sea towards the picturesque Argentarola Isle. A classic secluded Argentario beach, be sure to pack food and water and anything else you might need for the day.
The Via dei Pionieri is a 700-metre path that connects the beach with the road, with quite a challenging slope down to the water. Take your time and avoid the hottest parts of the day to reach and leave the beach. But rest assured the views and the crystal clear water are well worth the effort when you get there!
The cove with calming natural pools: Cala Mar Morto
The name of this cove means “Dead Sea” due to the natural rocky barrier that prevents waves from directly reaching the shore. This means the water is calm and clear, forming natural pools that are perfect for swimming, snorkelling and exploring with your kids.
The beach is made up of large smooth pebbles and wide rocky areas. The path from the road is about 500 metres long and will take about 20 minutes to walk down. With an average difficulty level, it is easier to access than some of Monte Argentario’s other untouched coves. There is a small kiosk cafe on the road above the beach but nothing when you reach the shore so make sure to pack plenty of water and supplies. The sun is strong so sun cream and a parasol to keep you well-shaded are essential, especially if you are planning a long beach day!
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The sandy beach situated in a nature reserve: La Feniglia
The sandy beach of La Feniglia is situated on the tombolo, which is the long strip of land that connects the island with the mainland and divides the Orbetello Lagoon from the Tyrrhenian Sea. La Feniglia is set within the Duna Feniglia Nature Reserve where white sandy beaches meet thick swathes of pine forest.
Only accessible by bike or foot, the beach is about a 10-20 minute walk from the nearest car park. With 10km of pristine beach here, there is plenty of room for privacy even in the height of summer. Most of the beach is free, but you will also find a couple of beach clubs with bars, restaurants and rentable sun loungers and parasols.
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The small sandy beach with stunning views near Porto Ercole: L’Acqua Dolce
L’Acqua Dolce is a stunning sandy beach with fine pebbles both along the shoreline and in the shallows. The path down to the beach is about 100 metres with quite a steep climb, but it is worth it for the coastal views across the bay alone. There is a car park about 10 minutes away, which is great if you are planning a trip with your kids. But be aware that except for sun loungers and parasol rentals in the summer, there are no amenities here. Be sure to bring everything you need with you.
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The most accessible beach on Monte Argentario: La Gianella
La Giannella is another beach that is situated on the opposite tombolo to La Feniglia. This sandy stretch alternates between free expanses of beach and several beach clubs, restaurants and bars. There are many access points from the beach onto the Strada della Giannella — one of the two main roads connecting Monte Argentario with the mainland, making it easy to access.
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Getting around Monte Argentario
The state of the roads on Monte Argentario vary, but to make the most of the island’s natural beauty and stunning sea views, we recommend renting a 4x4. This wild stretch of Tuscany’s coast calls for a car that can handle off-roads as well as the main scenic drives like the Via Panoramica. Rent a luxury SUV with Veloce Fast Cars, like the Mercedes G63 AMG, perfect for on and off-road travel so you can see the whole of Argentario in style.
You can also opt to rent a boat of your choosing, whether a tender, traditional Gozo or a larger yacht. Renting a private boat with a skipper is one of the best ways to see the island, especially the stunning hidden coves that are hard to access on foot. If you are travelling with children it also takes the stress out of beach days. Contact our complimentary Concierge for expert local advice on the best services available and for help booking ahead of your vacation.