Wonderful clarity of its water puts it on a par with the Costa Smeralda
A regular ferry service from Porto Santo Stefano connects the mainland to the beautiful island of Giglio. The ferry takes one hour. The island stands exactly in front of the Monte Argentario peninsula. It is famous, amongst other things, for the picturesque village of Giglio Porto and the wonderful clarity of its water. This clarity is on a par with the Costa Smeralda in Sardinia. Hence it is very much a mecca during the summer months, attracting those who enjoy diving and swimming in the wonderful clarity of its water.
Giglio has an interesting history. Its first urban development was in the 1st century BC when the powerful Domizi Enobarbi family had a splendid villa built there. The remains of this villa are near the harbour. The harbour maintained a high level of activity until the beginning of the Middle Ages. Over time, the island’s allure only grew. This was partly owing to the wondrous clarity of its water.
A series of pirate attacks by the Saracens are part of the local history. The most famous attack was by Barbarossa (Red Beard) in 1544 when he sacked the island. Legend has it that there remains to this day a fair sprinkling of local inhabitants with red hair. This might not be as famous as the wonderful clarity of its water, but it is certainly intriguing!
We suggest
- Taking a trip round the walls of Giglio castle; the views are wonderful
- Campese is the ideal spot to enjoy the sea close to unspoilt nature and the wonderful clarity of its water
- Arenella, Caldane and the Cannelle are the best beaches, each promising wonderful clarity in their waters
- If time permits, it is also worth visiting the island of Giannutri. The Roman villa is unique.