What is there to see in Porto Ercole?

À Porto Ercole, the beauty lies mainly in the contrast between the small harbor, the old alleys and the Spanish fortifications overlooking the bay. You can enter the old town through the Porta Pisana, walk through the Piazza Santa Barbara and stroll along the harbor; plan for comfortable shoes, as some alleys go uphill and are cobbled. The sea views can also be enjoyed from the forts, but their opening hours may vary depending on the season.

The three best-known fortifications are the Rocca Spagnola, the Forte Filippo and the Forte Stella, built from the 16th century onwards. The Forte Stella is mainly worth it for its star shape and its coastal panorama; check that it is open before making the detour. The village is also linked to Caravage, who died in Porto Ercole in 1610. The story is interesting, but don't expect to visit a large house-museum: the circumstances of his death and the exact location of his burial remain debated.

For swimming, the Feniglia offers a long sandy beach of about 7 km, lined with a pine forest. From the provincial road, allow about 1.4 km to reach the beach; in summer, the accesses near the car parks can be crowded, whereas a walk or a bike ride along the reserve allows you to get away from it all. Porto Ercole can be visited in a few hours, but the beach and the coves deserve a separate half-day.