Castiglione della Pescaia

In the historical center, you can visit the Rocca (or Castle) dating back to the 15th century. The intriguing Church of San Giovanni Battista with its characteristic bell tower is housed in a building that once served as a munitions depot and is well worth a visit.

Lake Prile was once east of the village, but went dry over the centuries and a vast marsh was formed. This was resolved by the Grand Dukes of Lorraine, who also built the well-known house of Rossa Ximenes. Today, there is the Diaccia Botrona nature reserve, considered the most significant wetland in Italy.

The territory of Castiglione della Pescaia is perfect for long walks, horseriding or cycling. The asphalted roads or paths that go among the moss and pine needles make it ideal. The sea is very pleasant with long stretches of beach with fine and clear sand extending to the edges of the pine forests. Here, summer lovers will find everything they need for sailing and water sports, or to enjoy a relaxing lifestyle beside the seaside. The beaches of Castiglione della Pescaia allow you to be immersed in nature away from the noise and crowds of resorts.

While you are in the area, take advantage and visit the surroundings of the village that are certainly worth a visit. Nearby by you can find fascinating locations such as Vetulonia, one of the most important Etruscan cities where you can visit the necropolis and Archaeological Museum. Also worth seeing is Tirli, a village where you can get a feel for what life was once like in the Maremma, it's also known for its rustic and genuine cuisine. Then there is historic Buriano, with its medieval castle and remarkable panoramic view of the Maremma. Finally, about fifteen kilometers from Castiglione della Pescaia, you can find Punta Ala, a well-known and luxurious tourist resort, known for its marina that is equipped with some of the most avant-garde equipment in the whole Mediterranean.

Events held regularly in Castiglione della Pescaia include the Palio Marinaro, a competition on rowboats between the neighborhoods, held in summer; the Palio di Vetulonia, the traditional donkey race held in September; the Torneo di Palla eh!, a game that may even have been handed down by the ancient Romans and is now widespread in many villages and hamlets of the Maremma.

Castiglione della Pescaia is one of the best places for a holiday in Tuscany, including from a food and wine perspective. Excellent wines are produced in this area, not to mention cheeses and cured meats; but the king of the table is wild boar, which is prepared as a second course or as a condiment for tortelli alla Maremmana. You should also try the fish dishes, such as the risotto alla Femminelle, anguilla sfumata (eel) and baccalà alla maremmana.