If you are looking for travel inspiration in Tuscany, here are some of the most idyllic villages for you to visit in Maremma. What do they all have in common? They are off the beaten path, surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes and steeped in history.

This means that you can alternate your holidays between activities in nature (such as hiking, cycling and golfing) and cultural tours to learn about local history, architecture and traditions. And let’s not forget about the food! Maremma Tuscany is home to the Strade del Vino, or local wine trails that wind their way through local towns with the most incredible wines and products.

Porto Ercole

Porto Ercole has been part of “I borghi più belli d’Italia” (the circuit with Italy’s most beautiful towns) since 2014. It’s a delightful seaside village on the eastern side of the Argentario Promontory. The colorful harbor characterizes its silhouette just like the majestic ancient fortresses called Forte Stella, Forte Filippo and Forte Santa Caterina. The historical center is surrounded by walls built by the Sienese in the 15th century, and can be accessed through the gothic-style door with a beautiful clock tower.

Capalbio

Also known as “little Athens”, this charming hilltop town features the Church of San Nicola, Palazzo Collacchioni and Capalbiaccio Castle. From its ancient walls, you can enjoy beautiful views of the sea and of the Tuscan countryside. Nearby you cannot miss the Tarot Garden mixing art and nature.

Montemerano

This hidden gem near Scansano’s vineyards is one of “I borghi più belli d’Italia”. Stroll through its ancient alleys and breathe history! Among its top sights are the Church of San Giorgio and the magnificent Piazza del Castello: this scenic square is intact in its medieval layout and stone houses.

Orbetello

This unique town is located in the center of the homonymous lagoon, an important nature reserve managed by the WWF. In addition to bird watching and cycling along its beautiful bike trails, in Orbetello you can enjoy historical sights like the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta and the remains of the Roman city of Cosa in the nearby fraction of Ansedonia.

Sovana

This is a tiny hamlet of Etruscan origins, but its charm is enormous. Take your time to walk around its historical center, to admire the Duomo, and to take a beautiful photo in front of Palazzetto dell’Archivio. And nearby, don’t miss the Etruscan Necropolis of Sovana.

Sorano

Welcome to the “Matera of Tuscany”: this small village owes its nickname to a large amount of tuff used in the construction of the houses and because it is reminiscent of Matera in Basilicata.

Pitigliano

Pitigliano is also known as the “Jerusalem of Tuscany” for its 16th-century synagogue and the Jewish communities that lived here throughout the centuries. It’s a wonderful town that, just like Sovana and Sorano, rises above a huge tuff rock. These three villages are known as “I borghi del tufo” (the tufa rock hamlets).

Porto Santo Stefano

Located in the northern part of the Monte Argentario Promontory, this panoramic village has a great seafaring tradition. Today, Porto Santo Stefano hosts important events like the Argentario Sailing Week and traditional festivals such as the Palio Marinaro dell’Argentario. The Spanish Fort welcomes you with its splendor!

Massa Marittima

In addition to having a cute historic center, Massa Marittima has obtained important awards for its environmental quality. Located in the heart of the Metalliferous Hills, it features the natural areas of Lago dell’Accesa, the Marsiliana Nature Reserve and the Interprovincial Park of Montoni. If you like archaeology, don’t miss the site of Poggio Castiglione.

Gavorrano

Also nestled in the Metalliferous Hills, Gavoranno is a charming medieval town with views over the rolling hills and the valley down to the sea. Its Parco Minerario, set in an abandoned quarry and dedicated to the area’s mining past, is worth visiting, just like its fortress of Castel di Pietra. Nearby you can find the art garden by Daniel Spoerri.