Territory and activities in the Tuscan Maremma
Residence Scoglietto 50 – A Punta Ala (Grosseto)

Punta Ala’s main beach is distinguished by its large free beach area, which also includes a dog-friendly area known as Bau Beach Piastrone. Easily accessible from the pay car park along the provincial road, it offers the convenience of a nearby bar for a quick refreshment.

A short walk from the centre of Punta Ala, at the foot of Punta Hidalgo, is the picturesque Cala del Barbiere. This small cove can be reached via a short path that starts from a car park and passes through a cool pine forest. The presence of trees near the shore provides natural shade during the hottest hours. The beach, characterised by a combination of sand and stones, is a place rich in history: Etruscan and Roman remains have been found here, and in 1973 scenes from the film The Duck in the Orange were filmed here.

Right next to the marina is the Spiaggetta del Porto di Punta Ala. Access is through the Marina di Punta Ala and the beach, surrounded by rocks, is entirely occupied by a bathing establishment. The shallow water and golden sand make it perfect for families with children. The panorama offers spectacular views: the Isolotto dello Sparviero (SparrowHawk’s Islet) a short distance away and, in the background, the island of Elba. Climbing along a path, you can reach a vantage point from which to admire Punta Ala Castle and the surrounding promontory.

Moving towards the southern coast, one encounters Cala Tartana and the Spiaggia del Poggettone. These coves, immersed in a wild landscape, are less accessible than the other beaches in the area. The path to reach them is rather steep, so appropriate clothing is recommended. Spiaggia del Poggettone, in particular, is made up of stones and rocks, making it advisable to wear suitable shoes. There are no bathing establishments, but the unspoilt charm of these places and the breathtaking views repay the effort of the walk.

Nestled in the heart of the Val di Cornia, behind Campiglia Marittima and the promontory of Piombino, the San Silvestro Archaeo-mineral Park offers a unique experience of history, geology and nature. This fascinating site, part of the Val di Cornia Park system, takes visitors on an extraordinary journey through ancient mining tunnels and paths rich in historical and archaeological evidence.

Dominating the landscape is the medieval village of Rocca San Silvestro, a settlement created around the mining activity that has marked the history of this area since Etruscan times, continuing until 1976. Today the park offers numerous guided itineraries, educational workshops, thematic events and visits designed for young and old, allowing everyone to discover the mining past of this area in an engaging and interactive way.

Between Volterra and Massa Marittima, two authentic masterpieces of medieval Tuscan town planning, lies the suggestive territory of the Colline Metallifere, an area rich in history and charm, shaped over the centuries by mining activity. Here, the intense colours of the landscape and the geological formations tell of the presence of minerals in the subsoil, once a source of wealth for these lands.

Already in Etruscan times, the extraction of pyrite, copper, zinc and lead sulphides was a mainstay of the local economy. The dense surrounding forests provided the timber needed to fuel the forges and blacksmith shops, contributing to the prosperity of this civilisation. Mining continued until relatively recent times, leaving a natural heritage that is now protected.

Today, the real resource of the area is geothermal energy, exploited through the boraciferous geysers that characterise the striking Devil’s Valley. This area, dotted with ‘lagoni’–small cavities from which natural gas flows-offers scenery of rare beauty. At the centre of the valley, the geothermal power plant at Larderello collects and distributes steam from underground, testifying to the perfect balance between nature and energy innovation.

In the heart of the Etruscan Coast, just a few kilometres from the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Gulf of Follonica, are the Terme del Calidario, also known as Terme di Venturina, a thermal complex immersed in an area rich in history and natural beauty. Located in the hamlet of Venturina, in the municipality of Campiglia Marittima, these ancient springs offer a unique wellness experience, thanks to their privileged position between the sea and the hills.

The Venturina thermal baths are located at a meeting point between three of the most suggestive areas in Tuscany: the Etruscan Coast, the Val di Cornia and the Maremma. This makes them a perfect destination for those who wish to combine the relaxation of thermal waters with the discovery of breathtaking landscapes and historical evidence.

About ten kilometres from the thermal park is the promontory of Piombino, one of the area’s most iconic geographical landmarks, offering spectacular views of the Island of Elba and the Tyrrhenian coast.

Vetulonia and Populonia: two Etruscan cities between history and archaeology

Vetulonia, once a flourishing Etruscan city, stood in a strategic position near Lacus Prile, a vast lagoon that provided access to the sea and trade links. The first settlements date back to the 9th century BC, with rapid economic development thanks to the exploitation of metal deposits and trade with Sardinia, central Europe and the eastern Mediterranean.

Between the 7th and 6th centuries BC, Vetulonia became an important burial centre, as demonstrated by the monumental tombs of Pietrera and Diavolino along the Via dei Sepolcri. In the 6th century B.C., the city walls were built, which are still visible today, although it is assumed they may have belonged to a cult building. During this period, however, the city began to lose importance in favour of nearby Roselle and Populonia, although it maintained a significant sacred area at Costa Murata, with valuable artefacts from Greece and Etruria.

With the arrival of the Romans, Vetulonia experienced a revival, witnessed by the construction of new residential and commercial districts between the 3rd and 1st centuries B.C., such as Poggiarello Renzetti, Costia dei Lippi and Costa Murata. Remains of paved streets, workshops, stately homes and a domus with atrium and cistern have been found here.

The Archaeological Park of Baratti and Populonia

Not far from Vetulonia, the Archaeological Park of Baratti and Populonia offers a fascinating journey through Etruscan and Roman history. The park is divided into two main areas:

Lower part: houses the Etruscan necropolis, the calcarenite quarries and the ancient industrial quarters, where haematite from the island of Elba was worked to produce iron ingots.
Upper part: preserves the acropolis of Populonia, with the remains of temples, buildings, mosaics and roads from the Roman phase, as well as the huts of the first Etruscan settlement and the walls that protected the town on the seaward side of the Gulf of Baratti.

Roselle Archaeological Park: A Journey through Etruscan and Roman History

Just a 20-minute drive from Residence Scoglietto 50 in Punta Ala, the Roselle Archaeological Park offers a fascinating experience immersed in history. Founded by the Romans and later developed by the Etruscans, this archaeological site allows you to explore ancient walls, remains of villas, temples and a well-preserved Roman theatre.

Strolling through the ruins, you can discover the evolution of the city from its Etruscan origins to its transformation into an important Roman centre. The park is located in a panoramic position, which also offers spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.

Perfect for lovers of history, culture and nature, the Roselle Archaeological Park is an ideal destination for a trip with family or friends to discover one of Tuscany’s most significant sites.

Maremma Natural Park: Discover the Wild Beauty of Tuscany
Just a 30-minute drive from Residence Scoglietto 50 in Punta Ala, the Maremma Natural Park, also known as the Uccellina Park, is a still unspoilt corner of Tuscany, ideal for nature lovers. This park, which stretches along the coast, is a true paradise for lovers of trekking, birdwatching and horseback riding.

Strolling along paths through the Mediterranean maquis, you can admire breathtaking views of the sea, as well as discover the local fauna, including fallow deer, wild boar and numerous bird species. There is also no shortage of historical evidence, with the remains of ancient settlements and the presence of fascinating watchtowers overlooking the coast.

Perfect for a day in the open air, the Uccellina Park is the ideal destination for those who wish to experience Tuscan nature in all its authenticity.

Historic Towns to Discover Near Punta Ala

If you stay at Residence Scoglietto 50 in Punta Ala, you will have the opportunity to explore some of Tuscany’s most fascinating historic towns. Just a few kilometres from our property, you can immerse yourself in the rich history, art and culture of the region. Here are some unmissable destinations:

• Grosseto: Just a 30-minute drive from Punta Ala, Grosseto is a medieval city surrounded by Renaissance walls. Stroll through the historic centre and admire the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, Piazza Dante and the Archaeological Museum. The city is also an excellent starting point for exploring the Maremma and its surroundings.
• Massa Marittima: This charming medieval town, located about 45 minutes from Punta Ala, is famous for its beautiful Piazza del Duomo, the Palazzo Comunale and the Cathedral of San Cerbone. Massa Marittima offers a panoramic view of the Tuscan countryside and is a perfect place to stroll through the characteristic alleys.
• Volterra: About an hour from Punta Ala, Volterra is one of the most fascinating Etruscan cities in Tuscany. The city is known for its ancient walls, the Roman Theatre, the Etruscan Museum and the Palazzo dei Priori. The historical centre, with its cobbled streets and medieval towers, will take you on a journey into the past.
• Siena: About an hour and a half’s drive away, Siena is one of Tuscany’s most famous cities, famous for its Piazza del Campo and the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta. The historic centre of Siena is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a rich cultural experience, including museums, churches and centuries-old traditions such as the Palio.
• Piombino: Only 20 minutes away from Punta Ala, Piombino is a coastal town with a charming historic centre, the Castle of Piombino and a breathtaking view of the Gulf of Baratti and the Island of Elba. An excellent destination for a day trip, Piombino is also the starting point for ferries to Elba.

Each town offers a unique mix of history, art and breathtaking scenery, making your Punta Ala holiday even more special. Be sure to explore these wonders during your stay!