Monte Argentario and the surrounding Tuscan Maremma region are rich with things to do, whether you're drawn to the sea, the countryside or the table. From secluded beaches and island excursions to medieval hill towns and world-class wine, this area offers an incredible variety of experiences - all within easy reach of our apartment in Montiano. Here is your complete guide to the best activities and experiences during your Argentario vacation.
Beaches & Swimming
The Argentario coast is famous for its stunning beaches - from the long golden sands of Feniglia and La Giannella to the hidden rocky coves of Cala del Gesso and Cala Piccola. With over 30 distinct beaches and swimming spots within a short drive, you can visit a different one every day. Read our detailed guide to Argentario beaches for descriptions, parking tips and recommendations.
Boat Trips & Sailing
Exploring the coast by boat is one of the most memorable things to do in Argentario. Rent a small motorboat from Porto Santo Stefano or Porto Ercole and discover coves that are only accessible from the sea. Day trips to Isola del Giglio and Giannutri are also highly recommended. See our boat rental guide for everything you need to know about renting and excursions.
Diving & Snorkeling
The waters around Argentario are among the clearest in the Mediterranean, with rich marine life, posidonia meadows and even shipwrecks to explore. Dive schools operate from Porto Santo Stefano and Porto Ercole, catering to beginners and experienced divers alike. For details on the best dive sites and schools, visit our diving and snorkeling guide.
Cycling
Flat lagoon paths, panoramic coastal roads and wine country trails make Argentario an excellent cycling destination. Whether you prefer road cycling, mountain biking or a gentle e-bike ride, there are routes for every level. Our cycling guide covers the best itineraries and rental information.
Hiking & Nature
The Maremma is a paradise for walkers. Parco della Maremma offers coastal and hilltop trails through pristine Mediterranean landscape, while the Duna Feniglia nature reserve provides a shaded forest walk between lagoon and sea. Argentario's own coastal paths lead to dramatic viewpoints and secluded bays. Explore our hiking in Maremma guide for trail details and tips.
Wine Tasting - Morellino di Scansano
The hills behind Montiano are home to the Morellino di Scansano DOCG wine appellation, producing robust, elegant reds from the Sangiovese grape. Dozens of wineries in the area offer tastings and cellar tours - some with spectacular panoramic terraces overlooking the vineyards. The villages of Scansano and Magliano in Toscana are excellent starting points for a wine route. Pair your tasting with local pecorino, salami and bruschetta for a true Maremma experience.
Thermal Baths - Saturnia
About 45 minutes inland from Montiano, the Cascate del Mulino at Saturnia are among Italy's most famous thermal springs. Steaming, mineral-rich water at 37°C cascades over natural limestone terraces into pools where you can soak for free, year-round. The experience is magical - especially at sunrise or sunset. The nearby Terme di Saturnia spa resort offers a more luxurious version with pools, treatments and gardens.
Medieval Villages
The Maremma countryside is dotted with beautifully preserved medieval villages perched on hilltops. Magliano in Toscana is encircled by intact 14th-century walls. Capalbio, known as the "little Athens of Maremma," charms with its labyrinth of stone streets. Pitigliano, dramatically built atop a volcanic cliff, is one of the most photogenic towns in Tuscany. Each village rewards a half-day visit with history, local food and sweeping views over the Maremma landscape.
Porto Santo Stefano & Porto Ercole
The two harbour towns of Argentario are attractions in themselves. Porto Santo Stefano is lively and bustling, with a scenic waterfront, excellent seafood restaurants and the ferry terminal for island trips. Porto Ercole is smaller and more intimate, with Renaissance fortresses, a connection to Caravaggio and some of the prettiest harbour views in Italy. Visit both to appreciate the different character of each.
Golf
The Argentario Golf Resort & Spa, set among olive groves and Mediterranean scrub, offers an 18-hole championship course designed by David Mezzacane and Baldovino Dassù. The course blends seamlessly into the Tuscan landscape, with views over the lagoon and Argentario. Even non-golfers will appreciate the resort's spa and restaurant.
With so many things to do in Argentario and the Maremma, our apartment in Montiano provides the ideal base - centrally located between the coast, the countryside and the hill towns, with easy access to every experience this remarkable region has to offer.
