Maremma Park Hike: 5 trails between sea and nature

For breathtaking maritime panoramas and a stimulating physical challenge, the trails that climb up to the hills of the Uccellina are exactly what you need. These routes will take you to ancient Saracen watchtowers, offering breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and’Tuscan archipelago, with theîle de Giglio , often visible in clear weather. I particularly recommend the trail leading to watchtowers of Castel Marino and Collelungo. Although the elevation gain is significant and requires good physical fitness, the effort is largely rewarded by the beauty of the scenery.

The trail A2 is an excellent option for this, with sections that wind through the Mediterranean scrubland. It is imperative to wear closed hiking shoes and to carry a good supply of water, as there are no refreshment points along the Uccellina ridges. The trailheads generally start from Pinottolai (Strada del Mare), accessible via the park shuttles from the Alberese Visitor Center. Don't forget to buy your entrance ticket (expect 5€ for routes A5-A8, which likely include these more athletic trails) and to get a detailed map at the center. These routes offer total immersion in the wild nature of the Maremma, far from the crowds, and are perfect for lovers of hiking and grand views.

Observe the butteri and the majestic Maremma cows is a unique and authentic experience in the heart of the Maremma Park. These traditional herd guardians and their livestock are an essential part of the identity of this region. To catch a glimpse of them, the plains ofAlberese, especially around the Pineta Granducale and the trails that cross the meadows are suitable places. The Maremmana cows, recognizable by their impressive lyre-shaped horns, often graze freely in these areas. The local horses, used by the butteri, can also be seen near the fences. There is no single trail 'dedicated' to observing them, but routes such as theA7 to the mouth of the Ombrone or the Pineta Granducale loop, which cross more open areas, increase your chances.

As for precautions, it is essential to always keep your distance with the animals, especially cows and their calves. The mothers can be very protective, and a defensive reaction is possible if they feel threatened. Never attempt to feed them or get too close. Respecting their space is the key to a successful and safe observation. The Maremma Park is above all a place of wilderness and biodiversity preservation, and silence is your best ally to avoid disturbing the wildlife. The Alberese Visitor Center can give you up-to-date information on the areas where the herds are most often present. For an even deeper immersion into this culture, you might consider staying in a organic agriturismo in the Maremma, where the connection with the land and the animals is central.

To access the Maremma Park, purchasing tickets is a mandatory step and is mainly done at the Alberese Visitor Center. This center is located Via Bersagliere, 7/9 – Alberese (Gr) and is open every day. Its opening hours are generally from 8:30 a.m. until one hour before sunset. However, it is important to note that from October 20, 2025 (and until further update), the hours will be 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM every day. During the summer period, as mentioned previously, the hours may be extended, for example from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. It is always wise to check the exact hours on the park's official website or by calling the center directly at +39 0564 393238 before your visit.

Regarding prices, they vary depending on the chosen routes: for the trails A1, A2, A3, A4, A9, A10 (free), A11, C1, C2, the full price is 10,00€ and the reduced price (children aged 6 to 14, groups of at least 20 people, students up to 25 years old) is 5,00€. For the trails A5, A6, A7, A8, T1, Pinastrellaia, the full price is 5,00€ and the reduced price is 2,00€. Purchasing online is strongly recommended to save time, especially in high season, and allows you to access the park with a simple QR code. The proceeds from ticket sales are entirely reinvested in protecting the area, maintaining the trails, and scientific research, which helps preserve this magnificent ecosystem. Please note that booking is mandatory for groups of twenty people or more, who must be accompanied by a guide, and also for events or guided tours during the high fire risk period (June 15 – September 15).

For visitors arriving by car, Maremma Park is well served. If you are coming from the north, leave the Aurelia highway (SS1) about 7 km south of Grosseto at the exit Rispescia – Alberese – Maremma Natural Park, then follow the SP d'Alberese road to the village. If you are arriving from the south, take the exit for Alberese – Maremma Natural Park at the Mile 166 of the Aurelia (SS1). Once at Alberese, the Visitor reception center is your first mandatory stop. Private cars are not allowed beyond the Alberese parking lot in order to preserve the tranquility of the park and its fragile ecosystem.

The park provides a shuttle system connecting the village to the trailheads, notably towards Pinottolai, from where several routes start. These shuttles are essential and often mandatory to access the interior areas of the park. There is also a parking lot at Marina di Alberese, with an optical license plate recognition system for access control. Hourly rates vary: 2,00€ for non-resident cars, 1,00€ for guests of partner agritourism farms, 0,50€ for park residents, and 1,00€ for motorcycles over 50 cc. The opening hours of this parking lot vary according to the season, for example from 6:00 AM to 9:30 PM in April/May, and from 5:30 AM to 10:00 PM in June/July. For those traveling by train, the nearest station is Grosseto. From there, you can take a bus to the Alberese Visitor Center. Bus schedules are available on the transport company's website. Everything is in place to facilitate your access while protecting this natural gem.

For experienced hikers seeking challenges, the Maremma Park offers routes that will take you through the hills of the Uccellina, combining physical effort and historical discoveries. The trail of theAbbey of San Rabano (A1) is an excellent option. It is a loop of approximately 23.1 km with an elevation gain of 160 m, which requires good footing on sometimes rocky terrain. This hike will take you to the remains of an 11th-century monastery, isolated in the heart of a dense forest, offering a mystical and timeless atmosphere. Plan a full day to explore this fascinating site and its surroundings. It is crucial to note that access to the abbey may be closed in case of high fire risk, so always check conditions at Alberese Visitor Center before leaving.

The trails to the watchtowers of Castel Marino (A2) and Collelungo (A2) are also demanding, with marked elevation gains and narrow paths winding through the scrubland. For example, the trail of Collelungo is a loop of approximately 6.29 km with an elevation gain of 130 m, offering spectacular views of the coast and the sea. These routes require good physical fitness and closed hiking shoes. Don't forget to bring a sufficient amount of water, as there are no springs on the ridges. These trails, although more arduous, are incredibly rewarding and will immerse you in the heart of the Maremma's wild nature and history. For other historical and natural explorations, you might also be interested in our guide to Etruscan routes, which share a similar aura of mystery.

The ultimate reward after a beautiful hike in the Maremma Park is undoubtedly a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of the Tyrrhenian coast. Several trails lead to magnificent wild beaches, untouched by crowds and tourist development. The path to the Marina di Alberese beach is one of the most direct and accessible, ideal for quickly reaching the fine sand. For an even more isolated experience, the Collelungo beach is a true haven of peace, offering an expanse of pristine sand bordered by protected dunes and water of exceptional clarity. It is the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature after the effort.

However, it is crucial to respect the park's strict rules to preserve these places. Firstly, no pets are allowed, even on a leash, in order to protect the local wildlife, especially birds nesting on the ground. Secondly, these beaches are entirely natural and have no services (no bars, umbrellas, or trash bins). It is therefore imperative to take all your waste back with you with you back to the village. The cleanliness of the site relies entirely on the civility of visitors. Always bring a sufficient supply of water, a hat, and sunscreen, as shade is rare. Closed shoes are preferable to flip-flops for walking on the trails. If you are looking for alternative wild swimming spots, you could explore the secret coves of Argentario, but always respecting the environment and being well equipped.