Giannella between lagoon, beach and history

Giannella is a suitable destination for travellers who wish to combine coastal landscapes, nature observation and historic sites. The Tombolo della Giannella is a sandy strip of land that separates the lagoon from the sea and is covered with woodland and Mediterranean maquis.

Beach and lagoon landscape

The Spiaggia di Giannella stretches for eight kilometres between Santa Liberata and Le Saline. It can be reached via the Albinia exit of the SS Aurelia; then follow the signs to Porto Santo Stefano. Giannella therefore offers a clear connection to the coast, while the tombolo explains the distinctive landscape between the lagoon and the sea.

Oasi di Orbetello and birdlife

The Oasi di Orbetello is designated as a Zona Speciale di Conservazione (IT51A0026), a Zona di Protezione Speciale (ZPS IT51A0026) and a Ramsar site. Guided visits begin at the Casale della Giannella; visitors then travel by their own car or motorcycle for approximately seven kilometres to the entrance of the Oasi. This entrance cannot be reached on foot or by bicycle. At the Oasi di Orbetello, visitors can observe thousands of birds, including flamingos, herons, cranes, waders, birds of prey and numerous songbirds.

Pelagos, fortresses and ancient history

Since August 2023, the historic Casale Giannella has housed an interactive museum dedicated to the Pelagos Sanctuary. The museum in the Casale Giannella uses immersive projections and interactive installations to provide information about the species of the Pelagos area, the threats to its biodiversity and possible conservation measures. At the mouth of the Albegna lies Torre e Forte delle Saline, a coastal fortification built in 1660 at the behest of Philip IV to protect the Via Aurelia and the isthmus of the Tombolo della Giannella.

Excursion destinations in the surrounding area

Vulci, an ancient site, is located near Giannella. Also nearby are Tantulli Ulisse beach, the Museo della Fortezza spagnola, the Acquario Mediterraneo dell'Argentario zoo and Braccio beach. The surrounding area of Giannella also includes Forte Filippo, Forte Stella and Riva del Marchese beach.

Accommodation and excursion planning

When choosing your hotel for a trip to Giannella, you can therefore consider different priorities: the long stretch of coastline, birdwatching in the Oasi, the Pelagos Museum or the historic destinations in the surrounding area. Cyclists can follow the route from Orbetello to Santa Liberata, which offers views of the Tombolo della Giannella and reaches the town of Santa Liberata after the Diga. The information about the Oasi and the cycling route should be considered as different visiting options.

More destinations in the same destination area

Albinia, Ansedonia, San Donato Vecchio, Fonteblanda, Talamone, Orbetello Scalo

To the main travel overview: Orbetello.