Part of a larger territory of 40,000 sq km, characterized by a great variety of natural resources, the Natural Park of Maremma covers about 100 sq km and includes the part of the Maremma coast that goes from Talamone to river Ombrone, bordered inland by the Via Aurelia. The surface of the Park is mostly delimited by the Uccellina Mountains which, running parallel to the coast, are covered with flourishing Mediterranean wood and reach their maximum height with Poggio Lecci (417 m).
The natural beauties
In the northern part, the flattest of the park, it is possible to find wetlands and marshlands created by the mouth of the river Ombrone, while a real autonomous ecosystem can be traced inside the pine wood near Marina Di Alberese, the result of reforestation carried out by Leopold II of Lorraine. Thanks to its geographical position, during the ornithological migration season, the Natural Park of Maremma becomes the favourite destination for many species of birds, so that it is an ideal place for bird watching. Besides the usual presence of horses and cattle grazing in the wild, you will meet many other forest animals, such as hare, hedgehog, porcupine, wild rabbit, fox and groups of wild boars that often make raids in the area of pastures. And also deer, roe deer, wild cat and marten. The ancient buildings
Although the Park of Maremma is mostly renowned for its natural beauties and the flourishing vegetation, it also presents historical and architectural relevances, such as the several watchtowers about 15 m high, built in the 15th century to protect against the pirates and placed in a strategic panoramic position. In addition, we find the Abbey Complex of San Rabano, located between Poggio Lecci and Poggio Alto and founded as a monastery in the 12th century. Connected to Via Aurelia from the Strada della Regina, the architectural complex consists of a church, a monastery and a watchtower, called Torre dell’Uccellina.
Logistic information
Depending on the touristic season, you can choose among different itineraries inside the park. In Alberese you will find a Visitor Center, where you have to get an entrance ticket. You can visit the location individually, in groups or with a specialized guide: on foot, on horseback or by bike, the Natural Park of Maremma is open to visitors all year long.
