If you’re staying at the Terme Marine Leopoldo II in Marina di Grosseto, you’re in the heart of the Maremma. You’ve already discovered our pine forests and the relaxation offered by the thermal waters, but the Maremma has much more to offer.
Just a 40- to 50-minute drive south lies the Costa d’Argento, better known as the Argentario—a perfect destination for a day trip that will leave you with wonderful memories.
We’ve put together a complete itinerary for you to enjoy a perfect day, starting off at a leisurely pace after breakfast and returning to enjoy the relaxing spa experience by evening.
What Is Monte Argentario: History and Geography
Before you go, it’s worth understanding what makes this place so special—and its very existence is already a fascinating story.
The Argentario is the southernmost tip of the southern Maremma, a small but densely populated area situated between the promontory and the Orbetello lagoon. Geographically, it is located in the province of Grosseto, in southern Tuscany, on the border with Lazio.
The Argentario has not always been part of the mainland. It was originally a true island. Over the centuries, the accumulation of sand formed two long strips of land, called tombolos, which gradually connected it to the Maremma coast: the Tombolo della Giannella to the north and the Tombolo della Feniglia to the south. Today, the promontory is also connected by the artificial isthmus on which Orbetello stands, the town that serves as the gateway to the area.
The name “Argentario”
No one knows for certain where its name comes from, and this makes it all the more intriguing. According to some scholars, the name derives from particularly shiny crystals found on its rocks. According to others, it dates back to the activities of the argentarii—the bankers of ancient Rome—who operated here through the Domitia clan. What is certain is that this promontory has borne the name “Argentario” since at least the 5th century A.D.
The beaches of the Argentario: Which one should you choose?
The Argentario offers an incredible variety of beaches and coastlines. Here’s a roundup of the best beaches.
Family-Friendly Beaches: The Feniglia and Giannella Spits
If you’re traveling with children, the Tomboli beaches are the perfect choice. La Feniglia and La Giannella are two long stretches of fine, golden sand, sheltered by lush pine forests, with shallow, sandy waters ideal for young children. Along the shore, you’ll find well-equipped beach clubs, bars and restaurants. La Feniglia, in particular, is also a nature reserve: as you walk or bike along it in the shade of the pine trees, it’s easy to come across fallow deer grazing undisturbed—a sight that never fails to amaze children (and not just them).
Wild coves for adventure lovers
This is where the Argentario is at its best. The headland is dotted with coves accessible only on foot, via narrow trails through the Mediterranean scrub, or by boat. The effort is rewarded with emerald-green waters, rocky seabeds teeming with marine life, and a tranquility that’s almost impossible to find elsewhere in August. Among the most popular are Cala del Gesso, Cala Piccola, and Cala dei Santi. Bring water, comfortable shoes and a snorkel mask – you won’t regret it.
Beaches Near the Villages: Convenience and Amenities
For those who prefer to enjoy the sea while sipping an aperitif, the beaches closest to town offer everything you need. Pozzarello, near Porto Santo Stefano, is a mixed sand-and-pebble beach with clean waters and easy access. Near Porto Ercole, on the other hand, you’ll find several options with beach clubs and equipment rentals—perfect for those who want to enjoy the sea without sacrificing comfort.
What to See in the Argentario: Villages, Fortresses, and Culture
The beauty of the Argentario is that it’s not just about the sea. The two main villages on the promontory are two completely different worlds, and both are worth exploring.
Porto Santo Stefano: The Lively Main Town
Porto Santo Stefano is the largest and liveliest town on Monte Argentario. Its waterfront promenade, designed by the famous designer Giorgetto Giugiaro, is the heart of local life: a stroll past shops, restaurants, and ice cream parlors overlooking the harbor, where luxury yachts and fishing boats are moored. Heading up toward the top of the town, you’ll reach the Spanish Fortress, built between the late 16th and early 17th centuries, which today houses two permanent exhibitions: *Memorie Sommerse*(Submerged Memories), dedicated to underwater archaeological finds, and *Maestri d’Ascia*(Shipwrights), on the ancient art of shipbuilding.
If you happen to be in town on August 15, don’t miss the Palio Marinaro dell’Argentario: a rowing competition between the town’s four districts that reenacts an ancient pirate attack. An authentic and captivating atmosphere, a far cry from the usual tourist events.
Porto Ercole: The Most Glamorous Village (With an Illustrious Secret)
Porto Ercole is smaller, more intimate and, in some ways, even more charming. It is no coincidence that it is included on the list of Italy’s Most Beautiful Villages. The historic center, which is closed to cars, is best explored on foot as you wander up and down the narrow streets, stairways, and small squares that suddenly open up to the sea. On either side of the village stand the Spanish Forts: Forte Stella (often open for exhibitions), Forte Filippo, and the Rocca, all of which are in excellent condition.
The famous secret? It was here, on July 18, 1610, that the painter Caravaggio died. A small mausoleum houses some of his remains and following the trail dedicated to him takes you through the oldest and most authentic part of the village.
The Scenic Route: A Must-See Itinerary
The Strada Panoramica, one of the most beautiful roads along the Tuscan coast, runs between Porto Santo Stefano and Porto Ercole. It winds along the slope facing the open sea, amid olive groves, Mediterranean scrub, and breathtaking views of the Tuscan archipelago. The best way to enjoy it is to take your time, stopping at the natural viewpoints along the way. Have your camera ready, or you’ll be stuck looking at other people’s photos for years.
The Argentario as a Day Trip from Marina di Grosseto
As mentioned earlier, guests at Terme Marine Leopoldo II have the opportunity to visit the Argentario on a day trip, as part of a classic outing. In about a 50-minute drive, you can reach a completely different world and return in the evening for some well-deserved relaxation, along with a wealth of memories and some beautiful photographs.
Here’s a sample itinerary to help you plan your day:
- Morning: Departure from Marina di Grosseto. Arrival in Porto Santo Stefano, a walk along the waterfront, and a visit to the Spanish Fortress.
- Lunchtime: Drive to Porto Ercole (a 20-minute drive along the Strada Panoramica). Lunch at one of the village’s restaurants.
- Afternoon: Explore the historic center of Porto Ercole, followed by a choice between a cove within walking distance or a walk through the Feniglia Nature Reserve.
- Evening: Return in time for dinner in Marina di Grosseto.
A day that’s worth the trip—and one that makes you want to come back.
Would you like to plan your hike? Ask our staff at the front desk for advice: we’ll be happy to suggest a plan for the day based on the weather and book a spa treatment for you for when you return.
