Isola del Giglio

• Arcipelago Toscano

It is particularly mountainous and the coasts are jagged and rich in small coves and inlets, the vegetation present consists of Mediterranean flora: holm oaks, broom, low bush of cistus. Giglio Castello, a small historical centre of the island, is located at an altitude of about 400 metres. The ancient fortress was built at the time of the Pisan domination and later strengthened by the nobles of the Grand Duchy of Tuscany to defend themselves from attacks by Saracen pirates. At the foot of the great walls stretches the village with its stairways, intriguing alleys and narrow streets, while Giglio Porto, the ancient fishing village, is today the commercial heart of the island, with its many shops, restaurants and offices that now hardly blend in with the characteristic pastel-coloured houses overlooking the sea. Among the wonderful beaches, we would like to point out that of Campese, a paradise of sun and relaxation. Despite the bad shipwreck on the Costa Concordia, in January 2012, the marine ecosystem of the island has not been damaged and is still working at a fast pace to remove the wreck completely. Getting to Giglio Island is very easy, you have to keep in mind that the embarkation is in Porto Santo Stefano (Monte Argentario GR), so, from all directions, you have to reach the Orbetello lagoon.