The Scarlino Bandite Nature Reserve is one of those places that tells the story of the most authentic Maremma, made of silence, Mediterranean scrub fragrances and sea views that remain etched in memory. Located between Follonica, Scarlino and Punta Ala, this protected area represents an ideal destination for those who wish to enrich their vacation in Tuscany with experiences in direct contact with nature, without giving up proximity to the sea.
Those who choose to stay in accommodations immersed in greenery, such as OasiMaremma Village, have the opportunity to easily reach the reserve and experience it as a true natural extension of their vacation. The reserve is in fact only a few minutes by car from the Village, as well as the main beaches of Scarlino and surroundings.
What is the Scarlino Bandite Nature Reserve
The Scarlino Bandite is a large protected natural area that extends over 8,000 hectares, once a hunting reserve and now protected for its high environmental value. The territory is characterized by gentle hills that slope down to the sea, dense forests, clearings and panoramic trails that offer spectacular views of the Tyrrhenian coast.
It is a perfect reserve for those who love true nature, far from mass tourism logic, but at the same time easily accessible and well organized.
Geographically, the Bandite promontory overlooks the Gulf of Follonica, with altitudes reaching over 200 meters in the inland areas and a succession of panoramas that, on the clearest days, extend to Elba Island and Corsica.
The main access points to the reserve include areas such as Cala Violina, Cala Martina and Cala Civette, where you can leave your car to start your excursion.
A natural environment between Mediterranean scrub and wildlife
One of the most fascinating elements of the Scarlino Bandite Nature Reserve is its biodiversity. Here holm oaks, cork oaks, strawberry trees and Mediterranean scrub bushes dominate, which in spring and summer release intense fragrances and vivid colors.
It is not uncommon to encounter fallow deer, wild boar, foxes or observe various species of birds, making the reserve an interesting place also for those who love birdwatching or nature photography. It is the ideal context to slow down the pace and rediscover a more authentic contact with the environment.
For those who spend their days alternating relaxation at the facility and outdoor activities, the Bandite represent a perfect balance between nature and comfort.
Trails and routes: what to do at the Scarlino Bandite
The reserve offers a network of well-marked trails, suitable for different levels of preparation. There are simple routes, ideal for families with children or for quiet walks, and longer, panoramic itineraries for those who love trekking.
Walking at the Scarlino Bandite means crossing shaded forests, reaching panoramic points overlooking the sea and enjoying a sensation of space and freedom that is difficult to find elsewhere. It is a perfect activity for couples seeking romantic experiences, but also for families who want to experience nature in an educational and engaging way.
From the OasiMaremma Village blog we often tell about experiences like these, ideal for discovering the territory in a slow and conscious way. Now let’s look together at some of the best-known trails that you can easily walk.
Trail to Cala Violina
- Departure / Arrival: Bandite access area → Cala Violina
- Approximate length: about 3–4 km (one way)
- Difficulty: easy
- Recommended for: families, couples, occasional walkers
It is one of the most frequented and panoramic routes, immersed in Mediterranean scrub, which leads to one of the most iconic beaches in the area. Also ideal for those who are not used to long treks.
Cala Civette – Cala Violina route (coastal loop)
- Departure / Arrival: Cala Civette → Cala Violina → return
- Approximate length: about 8–10 km
- Difficulty: medium
- Recommended for: regular hikers, lovers of panoramic walks
An itinerary much appreciated for its sea views and for the variety of the landscape, alternating coastal stretches and more inland areas. Requires a minimum of training, especially in the warmer months.
Internal Bandite trails (hill routes)
- Departure / Arrival: various internal accesses to the reserve
- Approximate length: variable, from 2 to over 10 km
- Difficulty: easy / medium
- Recommended for: those seeking tranquility, nature and less crowding
These routes cross forests and hills, offering views of the Gulf of Follonica and a more intimate contact with the natural environment. They are also ideal in the intermediate seasons.
For detailed and updated maps, we suggest consulting official portals and platforms dedicated to trekking such as Visit Tuscany.
When to visit the Scarlino Bandite Nature Reserve
The Scarlino Bandite Nature Reserve is one of those places we always recommend, because it offers different emotions in every period of the year. In spring and in autumn it is perfect for walking calmly, breathing the fragrance of Mediterranean scrub and enjoying the colors of nature without the intense heat.
In summer, instead, we like to suggest it in the cooler hours of the day, perhaps early in the morning or late afternoon, combining a walk among the trails with a dip in the sea.
It is always advisable to wear comfortable shoes, bring water and respect the rules of the protected area, to experience it in a sustainable way.
How to access and parking
- Reserve entrance: the natural area itself is free and does not require a general access ticket.
- Parking: parking is available near the main trails (paid in high season), especially at the starting points for excursions and coves.
- The reserve is easily accessible by car:
From Follonica or Scarlino: follow the signs to SP158 Collacchie – Castiglione della Pescaia/Follonica and take the dirt roads that lead to the various access trails. - Public transport: is not particularly frequent, so the car remains the most convenient means to explore the reserve with flexibility.
Why include the Scarlino Bandite in your Maremma itinerary
Including the Scarlino Bandite Nature Reserve in your itinerary means enriching your vacation with an authentic experience, capable of combining sea, nature and wellness. It is one of those places we love to recommend, because it tells the story of the truest Maremma, made of trails immersed in greenery, regenerating silence and panoramas that remain in time.
Guests staying at our village will find themselves immersed in nature, but at the same time in a strategic position: in just a few minutes you can reach the Scarlino Reserve, the beaches, the villages and all those places that make a vacation in Maremma special, without giving up the comfort and tranquility of your stay.
