This itinerary takes you from the relaxing sulfurous waters of Saturnia to the wind-swept cliffs of Giglio Island, through medieval villages, breathtaking trails, and crystal-clear sea — an experience that will awaken your senses and reveal a lesser-known but no less fascinating side of Tuscany and its islands. Giglio Island is a treasure trove of biodiversity, a model of sustainability where life moves slowly between the arrival of a boat and the strike of a hoe on the earth, and the Mediterranean vegetation captivates with its fragrance in a truly magical setting.
Your adventure begins in the heart of the Tuscan Maremma, where wellness and nature come together in a unique experience, before sailing to the enchanting Giglio Island.
Head to the famous Cascate del Mulino — try to go early in the morning on a weekday to avoid the crowds. It's worth visiting and soaking in their sulfurous waters.
For true thermal relaxation, head to the Terme di Saturnia spa complex, where the water first emerges from the ground. It's a vast facility where you can bathe in the natural pool fed directly by the spring. Take your time enjoying this healing water — great for the skin and joints — but remember: your swimsuit will forever smell of sulfur!
Tips for Day 1
Il Grottino
A charming farmhouse nestled in the Tuscan countryside in the Saturnia area.
Check availability on Booking.com →Compare on Trip.com →It's time to leave the quiet of the spa behind and set sail for one of the gems of the Tuscan Archipelago: Giglio Island, and its captivating medieval village.
Leave Saturnia and drive to Porto Santo Stefano — from here, you could also extend your trip to include Argentario. Board the ferry with your car; note that bringing cars to the island is usually allowed only from mid-September to late May, so always check local regulations. You can book your ferry on Toremar's official website.
Upon arrival at Giglio Porto, drive up to Giglio Castello and park at the designated area. Take time to wander the alleys of Giglio Castello — don't miss the evocative Church of San Pietro.
Tips for Day 2
Casa di Tina at Castello del Giglio
A charming home in the heart of Giglio Castello.
Check availability on Booking.com →Compare on Trip.com →The third day is dedicated to exploring the island's wilder side, with a scenic hike to its southernmost tip.
From your Casa di Tina, hike to Poggio della Pagana, then continue to the stunning Capel Rosso Lighthouse. Be warned — there are no refreshment points along the way, so bring water and snacks. At the end of the trail, enjoy a swim in the crystal-clear sea — a true slice of paradise. You can also reach Cala Torricella and Cala dei Fiori from Poggio della Pagana, but these routes are not well-marked and sometimes completely untraceable — only recommended for experienced hikers. Return via the Capel Rosso trail to finish this stunning hike across Giglio's wild nature.
Tips for Day 3
Casa di Tina at Castello del Giglio
A charming home in the heart of Giglio Castello.
Check availability on Booking.com →Compare on Trip.com →The fourth day is all about relaxation at the beach, ending with a spectacular sunset.
Drive to Giglio Campese and enjoy a peaceful beach day. Have a light lunch by the sea and, as sunset approaches, hike for about 30 minutes to Cala degli Scogli, the Campese Sea Stack, and Cala Pozzarelli — this is where the sunset is at its most magical and absolutely unmissable. Make sure to head back immediately after the sun goes down to avoid walking in the dark, unless you have a headlamp.
Tips for Day 4
Casa di Tina at Castello del Giglio
A charming home in the heart of Giglio Castello.
Check availability on Booking.com →Compare on Trip.com →The final day is all about exploring the port, tasting local wines, and enjoying one last enchanting view before departure.
Along the road down to Giglio Porto, visit some local wineries — don't miss tasting Ansonaco, the island's signature wine. One highly recommended stop is the Fontuccia Winery.
From Giglio Porto, take the easy trail to Spiaggia delle Cannelle — a final dip in emerald waters before saying goodbye to this marvelous island.
Before departing, make sure to visit the memorial at the end of the port dedicated to the victims of the Costa Concordia disaster — a poignant site of memory and reflection.
Tips for Day 5
Experiences nearby
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