Porto Ercole is a stunning historic town on the Monte Argentario, which is the comma of land that juts off the Tuscan coast into the Tyrrhenian Sea. Porto Ercole’s charms make it a popular spot with weekending Romans, and the range of accommodation reflects that. There are resorts and spas, converted historic villas, traditional hotels, and a collection of privately owned apartments and B&Bs. For our Gurus the best places to stay in Porto Ercole are those with the best views, and they have one in particular in mind.
Porto Ercole makes for a romantic, picturesque, backdrop to any escape, but we think it's especially good for sailors, walkers and families. This stretch of Tuscany’s coast is incredibly memorable to boat-board explorers — there are tiny bays and harbours all along it, offering small, private beaches with superb snorkelling opportunities. The portion of Monte Argentario’s landscape that’s actually on land, is run through with walking trails, which often take you between tiny, idyllic beaches too. Monte Argentario also makes a stunningly romantic backdrop for driving, the Via Panoramica does just as its name suggests it will.
Porto Ercole is also a good destination for art lovers and anyone with an interest in history. It is where Caravaggio died of fever (you can visit his grave in a local church), it has three castles, all built by the Spanish when this stretch of coastline belonged to them, and a beautiful collection of both architecture and art.
However it's worth remembering that this gorgeous little spot is incredibly busy during the peak summer months. So if you want to make sure of your room in one of the best places to stay in Porto Ercole, you need to get ahead of the crowds and book early.