Bordering the Tyrrhenian Sea, the Maremma is a picturesque coastal region that encompasses Tuscany’s south-west and Lazio’s north. Prior to the 16th century, it was predominantly marshland and was drained by order of Ferdinando I de’ Medici, becoming home to cattle herders known as “butteri”.
Things to do in Maremma Coast
With its historic cities, laid-back beach resorts and protected parks, the Maremma is a worthy detour from Rome or Florence.
Sightsee in Grosseto. The Maremma’s most populous city is Grosseto, which lies on an alluvial plain of the snaking Ombrone River. It centres around a well-preserved historic core with a turreted palazzo that is ringed by 2,900-metre-long city walls. In the heart of Grosseto is the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, which combines Italian Gothic, Romanesque and Classical architectural styles. History buffs can visit the Archaeological Museum, which showcases a fascinating collection of Etruscan artefacts.
Relax on the beaches of Principina a Mare. Lapped by the Tyrrhenian Sea, Principina a Mare is a charming seaside town and a popular getaway destination for Italians. You can rent a beach umbrella and sun lounger for a day of swimming and sunbathing at Spiaggia Libera Principina a Mare or paddle a canoe along the surrounding coastline. Dotting the beach are uniquely designed huts made from local driftwood.
Explore Parco Regionale della Maremma. Encompassing 9,000 hectares of forested hills and riverine wetlands, Parco Regionale della Maremma is an ideal spot for hiking and wildlife watching. You can climb to the 414-metre-high peak of Poggio Lecci for elevated views across the Maremma region while keeping your eyes peeled for deer, stone martens and badgers. Along the banks of the Ombrone River, you may be lucky enough to spot ospreys, plovers and flamingos.
Getting around Maremma Coast
The Maremma is around two hours’ drive from Rome and 1.5 hours from Leonardo da Vinci International Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Trains connect to major towns and cities throughout the region while buses serve smaller destinations. Renting a car is the most convenient way of exploring the Maremma.