Excursion Hiking the fortresses & porto ercole tour at Porto Santo Stefano

Porto Ercole is known for its Spanish forts that were built during the Spanish domination and still characterize the unique landscape of the Argentario promontory.

Hike to Forte Filippo

Your hike will begin at the tender pier, with a short transfer to Porto Ercole. You will climb to Forte Filippo, a long winding road towards the top of the cliff, stopping for some lecturers on the way. Once on top, you will be able to walk the entire perimeter of Forte Filippo walkway built for the soldiers who controlled the territory at the time. A large stretch of coast is visible - from the Feniglia strip of land - nowadays a nature reserve - to the southern coast of Tuscany. The premises of Forte Filippo are inhabited so the visit will only be external.

Spanish Fortress, Porto Ercole

The tour will then continue downhill to Porto Ercoleand to the historic centre of Porto Ercole, follow your guide to the Spanish Rocca. See the imposing emblem of the State of the Presidios that dominates the main portal. Glance at the little islands and bays of the Argentario Southern coast and the exclusive villas perched on the cliff.

After your external visit, you will descend with your guide to the old Borgo with its noble palaces and the footprints of artist Caravaggio. Michelangelo Merisi, known as Caravaggio, reached Porto Ercole and actually died here so he is honored by the Town hall.

Scenic Drive

After this rather short and interesting tour, your guide will escort you to the coach for a scenic drive on the promontory. Drive along the Via Panoramica to Porto Santo Stefano and stop for some photo stops, last but not least the Fortress overlooking the port.

After this tour you will have the opportunity to return to the tender pier at your own pace, or stop by a restaurant or cafeteria while you walk back to the pier.

Points of interests

points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Porto Ercole, Spanish Fortress, Scenic road

Note

Please note: This hiking tour involves an extensive amount of activity including approximately 4.35 miles (about 7 km) of hiking at times over uneven surfaces and steep inclines, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and between 25 to 30 steps in the borgo. Limited time to rest during stops. This tour is only suitable for in good physical conditions. Therefore the tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. We suggest wearing comfortable clothing, hiking shoes, sun protection, sunglasses, hat and Euro currency or credit cards for purchases from the ship. The tour is recommended for guests over the age of 10.