Hiking on the Mediterranean coast
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One of the most beautiful coastal hikes in Tuscany leads from Puntone di Scarlino on the Maremma coast, from cove to cove, to Cala Violina – a bathing cove with fine, light sand, considered by many to be the most beautiful in Tuscany. The coves are only accessible on foot, by bicycle, or by boat. Important: In summer, access to Cala Violina is only possible with a reservation.
Coastal hike to Cala Violina at a glance
- Start: Puntone di Scarlino, at the small boat harbor.
- Length: The total distance is approximately 8 km, lasting half a day to a full day including swimming breaks.
- Protected area: Bandite di Scarlino Nature Reserve, Municipality of Scarlino (Province Grosseto).
- Sommer: Cala Violina vom 1. Juni bis 30. September nur mit Reservierung (max. 700 Personen pro Tag, Stand 2026).
- Take along: Plenty of water, sunscreen, swimwear – there are hardly any supplies at the bays.
The route: from bay to bay
The trail begins in Puntone di Scarlino at the small marina with its sailing school. Parking is available a little above the harbor. From there, the path follows the coastline, leading from one cove to the next, separated by cliffs that jut far out into the sea, offering stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea . Along the way, you'll pass smaller coves like Cala Martina before reaching Cala Violina. You can stop for a break on the fine sand or pebbles at any of these coves, take a dip, and then continue on your way.
Cala Violin
Die Bucht verdankt ihren Namen dem hellen Sand, der beim Darübergehen Töne erzeugt – so, als würde leise eine Violine gespielt. Sie liegt im Naturschutzgebiet Bandite di Scarlino; vom nächstgelegenen Parkplatz aus erreichen Sie sie auf einem rund 30-minütigen Weg durch den Wald. Vom 1. Juni bis 30. September ist der Zugang auf 700 Personen pro Tag begrenzt und nur mit vorheriger Reservierung möglich – informieren Sie sich vor dem Besuch bei der Gemeinde Scarlino über das aktuelle Verfahren.
Continue towards Punta Ala
Those wishing to continue further can follow the coast past Cala Civette towards Punta Ala. Plan your return journey in advance – public transport connections are infrequent.
Hiking with a dog
Attention: In Italy, there are restrictions on dogs on beaches and in nature reserves. The route is through a forest inhabited primarily by wild boar, but also red deer and porcupines – dogs can pick up a scent and disappear into the woods. Dogs are only officially allowed on beaches where explicitly permitted, such as designated dog beaches (Spiaggia per cani). Nevertheless, we frequently observed Italians walking their dogs to Cala Violina and entering the beach. Our conclusion: A well-behaved dog that doesn't cause any trouble usually doesn't bother anyone – but if problems arise, it can become expensive. More information: Traveling with a dog to Tuscany.
Tips for the hike
- Season: The trail is accessible year-round. Start early in the height of summer and bring plenty of water; it's quieter and more pleasant in spring and autumn.
- Bathing shoes: Some bays are rocky.
- Other beaches: Tuscan coast from Scarlino to Grosseto and Tuscany beaches.
- Nearby: Castiglione della Pescaia and the weekly market in Follonica (Fridays) – see Markets in Tuscany.
- Stay: Accommodation in Scarlino; Campsites by the sea under Campsites right by the sea.
- More tours: Hiking in Tuscany.
Frequently asked questions about the hike to Cala Violina
Do I need to reserve Cala Violina?
Vom 1. Juni bis 30. September ist der Zugang auf 700 Personen pro Tag begrenzt und nur mit Reservierung möglich. Informieren Sie sich vor dem Besuch bei der Gemeinde Scarlino (Stand 2026).
How do you get to Cala Violina?
Accessible only on foot, by bicycle, or by boat. From the nearest parking area, it's about a 30-minute walk through the forest; alternatively, you can hike along the coast from Puntone di Scarlino.
Why is the bay called Cala Violina?
Because the fine sand produces sounds reminiscent of a violin when walked upon.
How long is the coastal hike from Puntone?
The total distance is approximately 8 km. Including swimming breaks, you should plan for half a day to a full day.
Are dogs allowed at Cala Violina?
Dogs are generally only allowed on Italian beaches where explicitly permitted. In nature reserves, dogs must be kept on a leash.
