Isola del Giglio is an authentic jewel of the Tuscan archipelago that absolutely deserves a visit during your vacation in Principina a Mare. Embraced by crystal-clear emerald-colored sea and protected by wild and unspoiled nature, this island offers unique emotions to those who decide to discover it.
Reachable by ferry from Porto Santo Stefano in about an hour of navigation, Giglio is the perfect destination for a day trip or for a stay of a few days. Its beaches, panoramic trails and characteristic villages captivate families, elderly visitors and nature lovers, including four-legged ones.
The three villages of the island: Giglio Porto, Castello and Campese
The island is small but full of charm, with three main villages worth visiting. Giglio Porto welcomes you with its colorful houses overlooking the sea, small restaurants serving fresh fish and the relaxed atmosphere typical of seaside villages. Here you can stroll on the pier, admire the fishermen’s boats and sip an aperitif with a view of the port.
Giglio Castello is the medieval village perched on the hill, 400 meters above sea level. Its fortified walls, narrow alleys and stone houses will take you back in time. The panoramic view from the walls is simply spectacular, with the turquoise sea extending as far as the eye can see. The village is quiet and perfect for an afternoon walk, although the climbs might be challenging for those with mobility difficulties.
Giglio Campese is the most modern village, located in the bay of the same name on the western coast of the island. Here is the largest beach of Giglio, dominated by a Medici tower and characterized by unique red sand.
The beaches of Isola del Giglio
The sea of Giglio is famous for its transparency and colors ranging from turquoise to intense emerald. There are three main beaches and all deserve a visit.
Campese beach is the largest and most spacious, perfect for families with children thanks to its sandy seabeds and well-organized services. Beach clubs offer umbrella and sunbed rentals, while the shoreline is free for those who prefer wild beaches. Children will love playing with the red sand and swimming in a calm and crystal-clear sea.
Cannelle beach is perhaps the most evocative, with its white fine sand surrounded by lush Mediterranean vegetation. The water here is particularly transparent and the seabeds rich in marine life make it perfect for snorkeling. Here too there are beach clubs and free areas.
Arenella beach is smaller and more intimate, ideal for those seeking tranquility. Reachable with a short walk from the port, it offers a splendid sea in a more intimate setting.
Trekking and nature trails
If you love walking and want to discover the island from a different perspective, Giglio offers numerous hiking trails that cross the Mediterranean scrub and offer unforgettable panoramas. The routes are well marked and of varying difficulty, suitable for both experienced hikers and families with older children.
The trail connecting Giglio Porto to Giglio Castello is one of the most popular and offers stunning views of the sea. During spring, the meadows fill with wildflowers and the scent of Mediterranean scrub accompanies every step.
For lovers of more challenging trekking, the tour of the island through coastal trails requires a full day but offers unique emotions, with panoramas spanning the entire Tuscan archipelago.
What to do on Isola del Giglio
Beyond the sea and trekking, the island offers many other activities. Diving enthusiasts will find very rich seabeds with wrecks and underwater caves to explore. Numerous diving centers organize guided excursions for all experience levels.
The village of Castello hosts small museums, craft shops and wine bars where you can taste the local wine, Ansonaco del Giglio, a fresh and mineral white that pairs perfectly with fish dishes.
During summer, the island comes alive with festivals, concerts and cultural events that make evenings even more pleasant.
How to organize your visit
To reach Isola del Giglio from Principina a Mare you need to get to Porto Santo Stefano, from where the ferries depart. The drive takes about an hour. Ferries connect the port to the island several times a day, with more frequent departures during summer. The crossing takes about an hour.
We recommend leaving early in the morning to enjoy a full day on the island. Bring sunscreen, a hat and comfortable shoes if you plan to do some hiking.
Experience the magic of Isola del Giglio from your base in Principina
Staying in Oltremare Apartments in Principina a Mare allows you to easily organize unforgettable excursions like the one to Isola del Giglio. Request a quote now and book your vacation between sea, nature and discoveries in the wonderful Tuscan Maremma!