Talamone

Introduction

Talamone is a small maritime village located on the southern Tuscan coast, in the heart of the Grosseto Maremma. 

Characterized by a picturesque harbor and perched on a hill overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, Talamone is proposed as a a renowned seaside resort in which the sea, the coast and the splendid views are protagonists all year round, not just in summer. From Talamone one can easily explore the Tuscan hinterland or venture into the nearby Maremma Natural Park, with which it borders on the southern side. 

With its typical restaurants and the cobbled streets, this location enchants anyone who visits it, offering an authentic experience of the charm of the Maremma coast. Talamone's special location favors a thermal wind with a northwest direction always exceeding 15 knots, making the village a favorite destination for lovers of the surf, of the kitesurfing and all the water sports in general. 

The particular beauty of the village of Talamone meant that, in 2008, it was chosen as part of the set of the James Bond film "Quantum of Solace" in which the main character has a meeting at the very Tower of Talamonaccio.

Historical background on Talamone

His name, Talamone, dates back to Etruscan origins when the village, located along the southern coast of Tuscany, was known as Tlamun. 

Initially, the settlement stood on the hill of Talamonaccio where the Etruscans, around the 4th century B.C., built a temple in honor of the god Tinia, facing the sea as a landmark for vessels coming from the south. Of the temple today remain, still visible, the bases of some columns, the ruins of the sacred area and the magnificent pediment, on which is represented the myth of the Seven against Thebes, the famous tragedy of Aeschylus. 

The terracotta ornamentation was placed on the rear facade and, after touring almost all over the world in traveling exhibitions, is now preserved at the Archaeological Museum in Florence. 

Twice Talamone was the protagonist of important events: the battle between Romans and Celts headed for Rome, which took place in 225 B.C., and Gaius Marius' march against Rome, which saw the village completely razed to the ground by Sulla, for supporting the consul of the Roman Republic. The proximity of the more malarial areas of the Maremma, led Talamone to gradual abandonment except for the period when became part of the State of the Principals, in the second half of the 16th century, during which some important coastal fortifications such as the Capo d'Uomo tower and the Rocca Aldobrandesca were restored. 

Talamone was one of the stopovers made by Admiral Nelson during the expedition to Egypt in 1798, but the small port is remembered, above all, for Giuseppe Garibaldi who stopped there with the Thousand in 1860 to stock up on water and weapons.

What beaches to visit if you are in Talamone

Talamone, with its prime location on the southern Tuscan coast, boasts the presence of some beaches that are particularly popular with tourists. 

Located close to the historic center of Talamone, we find the Cannon Beach. Although it is a rocky beach of modest size, its popularity is unquestionable. Its clear, clean waters attract many bathers, but what makes it special is its location sheltered from the winds and the panoramic view it offers of the Argentario promontory and the island of Giglio. Snorkelers will be happy to explore its rich and inviting seabed. 

A short walk from the historic center, we find the famous Women's bathroom. Do not be fooled by the name: this is the bathhouse that dominates the entire beach, built on a platform overlooking the cliff. 

Although small and often crowded in the summer season, it offers a breathtaking view of the Rocca Aldobrandesca of Talamone. Finally, although we are geographically on the border with Orbetello, it is also fair to mention the Fertilia Beach.

It is a natural extension of the territory of Talamone. This sandy beach stretches southward, enveloped by the Gulf of Talamone, and is easily reached from the town of Fonteblanda The beach is particularly popular because, thanks to the presence of schools and rental outlets, it becomes A one-stop shop for kitesurfing, windsurfing and other water sports enthusiasts.

What to see in Talamone, besides the beaches

Talamone is not only sea and beaches, but also has interesting attractions that you can visit during your stay. 

Particular importance it has, no doubt, the Rocca Aldobrandesca, which imposingly dominates the landscape of Talamone, as early as the first half of the thirteenth century. 

Located on the highest point of the village, this medieval fortress encapsulates centuries of history and tradition. Once used as a defensive bulwark, the fortress has now become one of the main attractions to visit in Talamone. 

From up there, the gaze can s

aziare on a breathtaking panorama that embraces the Tyrrhenian Sea, allowing views of the entire country and the sea horizon. 

The towers and imposing walls of the fortress represented a very important defensive bulwark (during the 14th century it was one of the coastal towers of the Republic of Siena). 

Descending to the beating heart of Talamone, one comes across its port. This place, despite being a modern marina with all its features, still retains an unmistakable historic charm. You can stroll along its docks, immersing yourself in the authentic atmosphere of the village, watch the boats come and go, and savor the peaceful pace of marine life. Around the harbor, restaurants and cafes provide an opportunity to savor the delicious local cuisine, perhaps enjoying a plate of fresh fish overlooking the sea. 

A short distance from Talamone, the Tower of Talamonaccio emerges as a silent guardian. This ancient tower, built to serve as a lookout point against potential invasions by sea, is a monument to the military strategy and prudence of a bygone era.

What islands can be seen from Talamone?

From Talamone, overlooking the vastness of the Tyrrhenian Sea, you can admire the profile of theGiglio Island, belonging to the island district of the Tuscan Archipelago. 

Its presence is so close and commanding that, on a clear day, it almost seems as if it can be reached within minutes. 

In addition to the Lily, in the distance, you can also see the the silhouette of theGiannutri Island, a small island with wild and unspoiled charm, located further south. On days when the sky is particularly clear, you have the chance to see Elba Island and Corsica on the horizon, as well as the small Montecristo Island.

How to reach the islands, from Talamone?

Have we intrigued you and do you want to admire the islands of the Tuscan Archipelago even more closely? The opportunity is there, just take advantage of it!

To reach and visit the island of Giglio or Giannutri, it is sufficient go to Porto Santo Stefano, a characteristic seaside resort located on the Argentario Promontory (only 26 km away from Talamone, easily reached in half an hour by car proceeding in a southerly direction). Once you reach the site, all you have to do is. Conveniently park your car in the village (unless you have decided to board the ferry) and go to the ferry departure area, located at Piazzale Candi 8 - Ferry Terminal, at the Valley Port.

Here you will find our company's ferries, Maregiglio, ready to welcome you and take you to your destination. 

Essential thing to remember! Have you decided to visit Giglio or Giannutri in the middle of summer? Our advice is to book your ticket online, well in advance. The reason is quickly stated, as the large influx of tourists does not allow for the certainty of finding a free seat, either on the outward or return journey. 

Ferries to Giglio and Giannutri are always guaranteed year-round, but we always recommend that you view updated period schedules in advance, to find the right time to leave and return. 

That's not all! Our company also strongly focuses on daily experiences, which will allow you to discover the beauty of the Tuscan Archipelago without having to forcibly arrange a vacation period there. 

Starting from Porto Santo Stefano, you will be able to discover the following. mini-cruises: