Ansedonia

Ansedonia is an exclusive destination in Maremma, Tuscany, perched on a promontory 114 metres above sea level and part of the municipality of Orbetello. This corner of Tuscany preserves the remains of the ancient Roman colony of Cosa and sits between two magnificent dark sand beaches overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Unlike the classic Maremma villages, Ansedonia presents itself as a constellation of elegant villas nestled within Mediterranean scrubland. Crystal-clear waters, shallow seabeds teeming with marine life and the Duna Feniglia Nature Reserve make this an ideal spot for those seeking a holiday centred on nature, tranquillity and culture.

Beaches at Ansedonia and nearby

The promontory divides two stretches of coastline with distinct characteristics. What sets these beaches apart is the dark-coloured sand rich in minerals and shallow seabeds extending several metres from the shore, ideal for families with children.

On the north-western side stretches the final section of the Tombolo della Feniglia, which connects Argentario to the coast. Over four kilometres of fine sand protected by a centuries-old pine forest that’s home to easily spotted fallow deer.

In the initial stretch you’ll find beach clubs with bars and restaurants. Further along, the beach becomes wilder with kilometres of free shoreline where driftwood creates natural shelters. The calm, transparent waters, watched over by lifeguards at the established beaches, are perfect for children.

On the south-eastern side lies the Ferriere Beach, also known as Tagliata Beach after the ancient Roman structure of the same name. This stretch extends for about ten kilometres to the border with Lazio, dotted with beach clubs and restaurants alternating with free beach areas.

The presence of Torre Puccini, a medieval fortification used by composer Giacomo Puccini as a residence after 1919, lends this stretch an evocative atmosphere. Heading further south, the sand becomes lighter in colour, creating spectacular contrasts with the blue of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

What to do and see in Ansedonia

The main attraction in Ansedonia is the archaeological site of the City of Cosa, a Roman colony founded in 273 BC following the defeat of Etruscan cities. Imposing cyclopean walls, stretching over a kilometre and built from enormous limestone blocks, encircle the city with eighteen towers and three monumental gates. Walking along the perimeter offers spectacular views over Argentario and the Orbetello Lagoon.

Within the archaeological area, the Forum preserves the remains of the Basilica and the Curia-Comitium complex, whilst the acropolis contains the foundations of the Capitolium, a temple dedicated to the Capitoline triad. The National Archaeological Museum, built on the remains of a Roman house, displays over two thousand artefacts documenting life in the colony. Entry to the archaeological area is free; the museum costs €2.

Along the coast, it’s worth visiting the Spacco della Regina, a natural crevasse used by the Romans as a water channel, and the Tagliata Etrusca, an impressive eighty-metre artificial channel carved into rock in the 1st century BC to prevent the harbour from silting up. The medieval towers dotting the promontory, including the Torre di San Biagio and Torre Puccini, round out the area’s historical heritage.

Around Ansedonia

Ansedonia makes an ideal base for exploring southern Maremma. A ten-minute drive away is Porto Ercole with its hilltop village and Spanish fortresses. Inland, Capalbio enchants with its medieval alleyways and rampart walks, whilst nearby the Tarot Garden surprises with Niki de Saint Phalle’s colourful sculptures. The Orbetello Lagoon, fifteen minutes away, offers the chance to sample the famous local bottarga. For wine lovers, it’s possible to visit local wineries and taste the excellent whites from the Costa d’Argento.

Where to stay in Ansedonia

Ansedonia’s accommodation reflects the exclusive character of the destination. Most options consist of private villas and quality apartments nestled in Mediterranean scrubland, often with direct beach access or panoramic views. These solutions guarantee maximum privacy and peace and quiet.

For those preferring hotels and services, facilities are concentrated in nearby Orbetello and along the Tombolo della Feniglia, offering boutique resorts and four-star hotels with spas and gourmet restaurants. Bed & breakfasts in the surrounding countryside provide a more intimate welcome at reasonable prices, often with a swimming pool and breakfast featuring local produce. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially for July and August.

Apartments and vacation homes in Ansedonia

If you prefer space, privacy and the ability to prepare your own meals to a hotel holiday, book a holiday home at Ansedonia. We recommend a few below, but in this case we advise you to book early because houses and apartments for rent at Ansedonia are in high demand.

Ansedonia Weather