Isola del Giglio is a 23.80 km² (9.19 sq mi) pearl in the Tyrrhenian Sea, an exotic paradise that hides beautiful surprises. Giglio Island is surrounded by crystalline waters, intense blue-emerald shades, and rich, lively seabed. It is one of the 7 islands that compose the Tuscan Archipelago, the others being Capraia, Elba, Giannutri,Gorgona, Montecristo and Pianosa.
90% of its land is covered by wild Mediterranean vegetation with about 700 botanical species and can be explored by trekking along footpaths. The territory is mostly mountainous and reaches the highest peak at 486 meters a.s.l.
In 2023, the island of Giglio received an important recognition from the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO): the title of ”Best Tourism Village”! It is awarded to villages that represent excellence in programmes for the sustainable development of rural areas.
The beaches offer breathtaking backdrops and beautiful horizon views from flat sandy stretches to dramatic cliffs. Scuba divers can delight themselves by admiring various fish, caves and ancient wrecks. During summer and spring, when the sea is calm, you might be lucky to spot some whales and dolphins from your boat!
Giglio Island features three small charming villages:
Giglio Porto – a unique and colorful port with waters that will surprise you for their cleanliness and transparency despite all the boats and ferries that move around it. Here you can enjoy a gelato on the quay, visit local shops and take a boat-taxi that will accompany you to a beach or bay of your choice.
Giglio Castello – this hilltop hamlet features a castle from the XI century, with high walls, three towers and small alleys. Here you can visit the wineries that produce the typical local wine, called vino Ansonaco or Ansonica.
Giglio Campese – featuring one of the most popular local beaches, this big bay is delimited by the ancient Campese Tower on one side and a peculiar rock stack on the other. The area is ideal for surf and sail lovers, and offers unforgettable sunsets.
Giglio Island is 11 miles from the Argentario Promontory and can be reached with a 50-minute ride in a ferry boat departing from Porto Santo Stefano or with a private boat tour such as the ones departing from the Marina of Cala Galera in Porto Ercole.
Sources and photo credits: visittuscany.com and visitgiglioisland.com
MaremmaBlog 
I was planning a trip to giglio in spring 2012 (we were looking at a rental apartment in campese) but changed plans after the Concordia event. , I was worried about the crowds and didn’t want to see the ship in the water. Looks lovely and hope to get there someday!
Hello, thanks for your comment! Unfortunately the first thing you still see when you reach Giglio harbor is that huge ship which of course reminds of the horrible tragedy. We are hoping that the ship will be completely removed as soon as possible! Fortunately there have been no consequences for the local environment and the Island is still definitely a must-see full of charms. Ciao