Giannutri, the smallest and most unknown island in Italy

The small Island of Giannutri is part of the Tuscan Archipelago National Park in the province of Grosseto. Also known as the Island of the Gulls (Isola dei Gabbiani), it is a natural oasis bathed by a crystal-clear sea protected by an important Marine Park rich in biodiversity. A unique place to rediscover contact with nature.

Giannutri is a small, crescent-shaped Mediterranean island with two peculiarities: it is among the smallest in Italy (along with the island of Ortigia and Budelli) and at the same time is certainly one of the most unknown. The combination of the two makes it a unique paradise.

27 people live in Giannutri. They are the residents of a place visited, all things considered, very few times and only in the summer. The village inhabited all year round, which on paper is "Spalmatoio-Ischiaiola," is actually almost never called that way.

The coast is rocky with steep cliffs, sea caves, and two small shingle beaches: Cala Maestra and Cala Spalmatoio, which are also the only two landing points. There are no sandy beaches, so sea shoes are recommended for those who are not used to it. There are no bathing establishments; here, nature reigns supreme!

What to do in Giannutri

In Giannutri, the charm of nature takes over: the beauty of its seabeds rich in biodiversity and the crystal-clear sea make it a paradise for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts, who can explore the remains of numerous wrecks off Punta Scaletta, including a Roman hull. By renting a boat, you can fully enjoy the marvelous sea that surrounds the island, admiring the different rock inlets, sea caves, and the beaches of Cala Maestra and Cala Spalmatoio.

Hiking enthusiasts can walk along paths that cross expanses of dense Mediterranean scrub, admiring ancient Roman remains such as a villa built between the 1st and 2nd centuries AD by the family of the Domitii Ahenobarbi, to which the Emperor Nero belonged. The island also offers notable points of interest for birdwatching. To enjoy an unparalleled view, you can reach Poggio di Capel Rosso, the highest point of the island.

How to get there

Ferries to Giannutri depart from Porto Santo Stefano; the crossing takes about an hour in calm sea conditions. For timetable information, contact the ferry company Maregiglio at tel: +39 0564 809309.

Alternatively, you can reach the island of Giannutri with boats (found at the port of Porto Santo Stefano) that operate the taxi boat service. Also, since it is not possible to bring a car to the island (there are no paved roads), we suggest leaving it in long-term car parks with a daily rate in Porto Santo Stefano.