Porto Ercole in the province of Grosseto, in the Tuscan Maremma is a captivating journey through sea, art and nature.
A picturesque village on the Tyrrhenian Sea
Porto Ercole is a picturesque village located on the southern coast of the Argentario promontory overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea; a hamlet of the municipality of Monte Argentario that charms visitors with its history, crystal-clear sea and timeless atmosphere. It is very popular with Roman residents, who flock here in the summer months, as it is easily accessible by car being only 150 kilometres from the Eternal City, There is no shortage of accommodation: from the world-renowned luxury boutique Il Pellicano to guesthouses, budget-friendly options, self-catering properties and villas.
Easy access by car and train
And with Florence just 180 kilometres away, it also draws visitors from all parts of Tuscany. The A12 motorway connects Rome to Civitavecchia, Italy’s biggest cruise port, and from there, a short scenic road leads directly to the Argentario promontory and Porto Ercole. For those travelling by train, the nearest station is Orbetello-Monte Argentario, which is well connected with regional services to and from Rome and Pisa. From the station, buses and taxis make it easy to reach Porto Ercole.
Tradition has it Caravaggio was buried here
The historic centre of Porto Ercole is a medieval gem with ancient walls. Strolling along its alleyways you come to the Church of Sant'Erasmo, where, according to tradition, the painter Caravaggio was buried. It was in Porto Ercole, in fact, that the artist died in 1610 in circumstances still shrouded in mystery. The town is dominated by four Spanish fortifications: Forte Filippo, Forte Stella, the Spanish Fortress and Forte Santa Caterina from all of which there are spectacular views of the bay.
Hidden coves, cycle paths and idyllic islands
The hidden coves and turquoise waters of Porto Ercole’s Cala Galera, Le Viste and Acqua Dolce are perfect for swimming, snorkelling or simply relaxing. A few kilometres away Orbetello, with its lagoon and elegant historic centre, is well worth a visit, and from Porto Ercole there are many scenic trails and cycle paths that cross the Argentario promontory. Not far away, Monte Argentario offers breathtaking views and unforgettable sunsets while little Porto Santo Stefano, on the opposite side of the promontory, is an ideal starting point for boat trips to the beautiful islands of Giglio and Giannutri.
