Il Pelagone Hotel & Golf Resort Toscana

You know what caught me off guard about Il Pelagone? It’s actually tucked away in this rolling countryside outside Gavorrano – I mean, you’re not exactly in the heart of Tuscany’s tourist circuit here, but honestly, that’s what makes it special. The drive up through the Maremma hills is gorgeous, all those olive groves and vineyards stretching out, and then you hit this sprawling resort that feels like someone’s wealthy uncle’s estate. The golf course dominates the landscape (obviously), but even if you’re not into golf, the setting is pretty spectacular. I stayed there last September when the summer crowds had thinned out, and the staff actually had time to chat – turns out the concierge used to work in Siena and had great intel about the coastal towns nearby.

The rooms are solid four-star quality, nothing groundbreaking but comfortable with that warm Tuscan color palette they do so well. What I really appreciated was how quiet it gets at night – you’re far enough from any main roads that you just hear crickets and maybe the sprinkler system on the golf course. The restaurant surprised me too; I was expecting typical resort food, but they source a lot locally and the chef clearly knows his way around Maremman specialties. Try the wild boar if it’s on the menu – it’s actually from a farm about twenty minutes away. The breakfast setup is extensive, though it can get a bit chaotic when the golf groups roll in around 7 AM (fair warning if you’re not a morning person).

Here’s the thing about the location – Gavorrano itself is pretty sleepy, but you’re perfectly positioned for day trips. The coast is maybe thirty minutes away, so you can hit Castiglione della Pescaia or even Follonica for proper beach time. And if you want to venture inland, you’re not far from some lesser-known hill towns that tourists usually skip. The parking situation is easy – plenty of spaces, no stress there. Check-in was smooth, though I’d recommend calling ahead if you’re arriving late since the reception area isn’t huge and they seemed to close things down by 11 PM. Overall, it’s one of those places where you can tell the 8.3 rating is earned – nothing flashy, but they’ve got the fundamentals right, and that Tuscan countryside setting really does something for you after a few days.