Not only sea and wild beaches, but hills dotted with towers, walls that tell stories of battles, and villages that seem to come straight out of a history book. Shaped by the Etruscans, the Republic of Siena, the Spanish and the Medici, this part of Tuscany preserves an authentic medieval heritage, where every fortress becomes a privileged panoramic viewpoint between sky and the Tyrrhenian Sea.
If you are wondering what to see in Maremma beyond the sea, here are 6 places that will make your journey even more fascinating.
1. Rocca Aldobrandesca of Talamone – The balcony over the sea
Dominating the village and overlooking a spectacular stretch of coastline, the Rocca Aldobrandesca is one of the most iconic symbols of Maremma. Built in the Middle Ages and expanded over the centuries, it offers extraordinary views of Argentario and the Maremma Park.
– Why visit: to admire one of the most beautiful sunsets on the Tuscan coast, where history meets the sea.
– Access: the interior is not always regularly open; guided tours are sometimes available. The outer areas and village walkways are freely accessible and offer magnificent views.
2. Forte Stella in Porto Ercole – The spanish sentinel
With its elegant star-shaped plan, Forte Stella has dominated the promontory of Porto Ercole since the 16th century, when it was part of the Spanish State of the Presidi. Together with Forte Filippo and the Rocca, it formed a strategic defensive system protecting the coast.
– Highlight: a 360° view over the Tyrrhenian Sea and Argentario, among stone walls and endless horizons.
– Access: open seasonally with fixed visiting hours, especially in spring, early summer and September. It is advisable to check opening times before visiting.
3. Castle of Capalbio – The charm of an untouched village
In the heart of one of Maremma’s most elegant villages, the Castle of Capalbio preserves its medieval walls intact. Walking along the ramparts means embracing hills, vineyards and the sea appearing on the horizon.
– Why visit: to experience an atmosphere suspended in time, authentic and surprisingly quiet.
– Access: generally open on weekends (Saturday and Sunday), typically from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm.
4.Spanish Fortress of Porto Santo Stefano – The guardian of the port
Imposing and scenic, the Spanish Fortress of Porto Santo Stefano has dominated the harbor since the 17th century. Today it hosts exhibitions telling the military and maritime history of Argentario.
– Why visit: to combine culture and breathtaking views in a single stop.
– Access: easily reachable on foot from the town center; generally open to the public with seasonal museum hours.
5.Castle of Montemassi – The medieval icon
Perched on a scenic hill, the Castle of Montemassi is one of the most evocative castles in southern Tuscany. Its walls recall the ancient conflicts between Siena and Florence, set within rolling hills that look almost painted.
– Why visit: to breathe in the most authentic Maremma, far from crowded routes.
– Access: the remains of the fortress can be freely reached during the day through the medieval village.
6.Forte delle Rocchette – Between pine forest and sea
Surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and overlooking the sea, the Forte delle Rocchette embodies the wild soul of the Maremma coast. Here nature becomes part of the historical scenery, creating a perfect balance between stone and landscape.
– Highlight: the unique combination of pine forest, cliffs and ancient walls.
– Access: the structure is not always open inside; however, the surrounding area and panoramic paths are accessible and highly scenic.
Why Is Maremma Different?
Within just a few kilometers, you can move from crystal-clear waters to a medieval tower, from a fragrant pine forest to a panoramic walkway suspended above the Tyrrhenian Sea. Here, the walls are not just remnants of the past: they become natural terraces, privileged viewpoints where history and landscape merge in a unique way.
Did you enjoy this inspiration? Staying in one of the Gitav properties between Argentario, Talamone and Castiglione della Pescaia allows you to explore these fortresses with the freedom to experience Maremma between sea, nature and culture.