A charming seaside village on the Argentario coast and a renowned marina, Porto Ercole lies in the center of a bay dominated by mighty fortresses of the past.
The wild nature and the characteristics of its coves have made Porto Ercole a vacation spot off the usual tourist track. The old town, with its small squares overlooking the sea, cobbled lanes and flower-decked balconies, overlooks the bustling little harbor and a promenade from which you can look out to embrace the deep blue of the water and the deep green of the Maremma.
The gateway to the historic center is topped by the Torre dell’Orologio (Clock Tower).
A monument recalls that it was in Porto Ercole that Caravaggio lived the last period of his life, as a fugitive.
There are many activities that can be tried and all are related to the natural features of the area: from the many trails for bike enthusiasts, to exploring the seabed, to sailing lessons.
You cannot absolutely miss the Feniglia beach, a long stretch of sand in the Duna Feniglia Natural Park.
In addition to its natural beauty, Porto Ercole's charm also derives from the imposing Spanish fortresses that were built in the 16th century during the Stato dei Presidi (Presidi State): the Rocca Spagnola (Spanish Rock), which towers over the town, has an irregularly starry shape which has undergone several changes over time; it consists of four bastions, one of which includes the circular tower of Porto Ercole’s lighthouse, built in 1862.
A few kilometers from the center we find Forte Stella, a star-shaped fort that overlooks the sea. It was built in the second half of the 16th century by the Spanish, who turned to Cosimo I de' Medici to build this majestic structure.
Don’t miss, on the first week-end in May, the Notte dei Pirati (Pirates' Night), one of the most anticipated folk events, which transforms the village into a pirate's lair.
