The name Scarlino comes from the Gothic word “scherlin,” meaning “torch-light procession,” and points to the role played by the town’s lighthouse in the Roman port of Scabris (today’s Puntone port.)
Recent archeological digs in the Puntone area unearthed an important Etruscan necropolis and burial mound, signs of early settlements dating back to the 6th and 7th centuries BCE. Perched on top of a hill, Scarlino functioned as a defensive stronghold for the Aldobrandeschi family, who fortified the area with a castle that still dominates the town’s landscape.
Be sure not to miss the stretches of untouched coastline, home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Tuscany, such as Cala Violina and Cala Martina. Here, away from the bustle of residential areas, you’ll find expanses of spectacular Mediterranean scrub. Don’t miss the Oasis for the Protection of Fauna of the Scarlino Ridge and the Poggio Spedaletto Nature Reserve.
The hills, wooded with chestnut trees and holm oaks, are perfect for adventures in the quiet Maremma countryside, just a few kilometers from the Etruscan settlements at Vetulonia and Roselle. The Scarlino area is also renowned for the quality of its agriculture and traditional local products, such as olive oil and chestnuts.
Follonica is certainly among the most favourite places on the Maremma coast, thanks to its mild climate and its shady areas which have made it an ideal destination for enjoying a summer relax with the whole family.
A particularly popular beach in the area is Carbonifera, immersed in the Sterpaia coastal park. Here, you can find fine sand dunes, a centuries-old lush pine forest, and a shallow seabed.
The hinterland is the perfect backdrop to this crystal-clear sea, with typical Tuscan villages including Montieri and Gavorrano. The latter lies on the side of Monte Calvo, preserving the typical architectural structures of the Middle Ages: the castle, arches, doors, walls and large turreted buildings allow you to walk in the timeless place, as if in another era.
Finally, the village of Massa Marittima is particularly charming with the magnificent Cathedral of San Cerbone and the Public Fountain, known as Fonte dell’Abbondanza.
Every August, the historical re-enactment called Le Carriere del 19 is held, a costume event created to commemorate the end of the cholera epidemic of 1855. The districts of the town (Rocca, Centro and San Donato) compete in an archery competition and a relay race. Additionally, there are costumed processions, theatrical performances and other events organized for the occasion.
As in all the territories of the Maremma, Scarlino is a centre that's known and appreciated both by tourists and gourmet lovers. Here, high quality products are formed from careful and sustainable agriculture. Extra virgin olive oil is highlight of these areas, and make sure to try the local chestnuts and mushrooms.
