A legendary luxury hideaway perched above a secluded cove near Porto Ercole on the Monte Argentario peninsula. Beloved by European and international celebrities since the 1960s, Il Pellicano offers a Michelin-starred restaurant, seawater pool, spa, and an incomparable Tyrrhenian Sea setting.
Il Pellicano Hotel occupies a privileged cliffside position above a sheltered cove at Punta Sbarcatello, near Porto Ercole, on the Monte Argentario peninsula in the southern Maremma district of Tuscany — approximately 170 km south of Florence and 140 km from Rome. Founded in 1965 by British architect Michael Graham and his American companion Patsy Daszel, the hotel was designed as a private retreat and quickly became a discreet refuge for international artists, royalty, and celebrities. That aura of refined privacy has been carefully maintained across six decades.
The property comprises 50 rooms, suites, and hillside cottages, the majority positioned on terraced levels with direct Tyrrhenian Sea views. The architecture is a sustained example of mid-century Mediterranean design: whitewashed walls, weathered terracotta rooftiles, and dark wood shutters framing unobstructed sea horizons. Cottage suites on the lower terraces have the most direct connection to the water and to the saltwater pool carved into the rocks above the sea. Interiors use hand-painted Vietri tiles, wicker furnishings, and a warm nautical palette throughout.
The Pellicano Restaurant carries a Michelin star and specializes in coastal Maremma cuisine — fresh seafood from the surrounding waters, Maremma truffles, wild herbs, and local pecorino — plated with refined technique. The terrace restaurant, open for lunch through the summer season, is one of the most coveted lunch settings in all of Tuscany; the views and the informality of the midday service make it particularly special. The Bar Pellicano handles aperitivi and lighter meals through the day in a more casual atmosphere.
The wellness offering centers on the seawater pool, a hammam, and a fitness center. Watersports — sailing, waterskiing, snorkeling, and boat excursions to the Tuscan Archipelago islands of Giglio and Giannutri — are available through the hotel. Tennis courts, a putting green, and a resident fitness instructor extend the outdoor programme. The hotel maintains a deliberately phone-free ethos in its common areas and operates with an adult-focused, unhurried rhythm. The property opens seasonally, typically from April through October.
Amenities
- sea pool
- spa
- Michelin restaurant
- bar
- wifi
- boat trips
- water sports
Location
Localita Sbarcatello, 58018 Porto Ercole GR, Italy
42.4100, 11.1995 View on map
Highlights
- Legendary mid-century luxury cliffside retreat above the Tyrrhenian Sea, founded 1965 near Porto Ercole
- Michelin-starred Pellicano Restaurant with terrace lunch and dinner overlooking the sea
- Saltwater pool carved into the rocks above the Tyrrhenian — one of Italy's most dramatic hotel pools
- Boat excursions to Giglio and Giannutri islands of the Tuscan Archipelago from the hotel's private cove
- Unhurried, phone-free atmosphere in a 50-room cliffside property beloved by European tastemakers
Tips for visiting
- Book a cottage suite on the lower terraces for the most direct connection to the saltwater pool and sea
- Reserve the terrace lunch table well in advance in summer — one of Tuscany's most coveted midday experiences
- The hotel discourages mobile phone use in common areas; embrace the deliberately unplugged atmosphere
- Porto Ercole village is a 5-minute drive; the Orbetello lagoon nature reserve is 20 minutes north
- The property is seasonal (April–October); confirm exact opening and closing dates each year before booking
Accessibility
The hotel's cliffside and multi-terrace layout is connected throughout by external stone steps; there is no lift between terrace levels. The terrain presents significant challenges for guests with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. Contact the property directly before booking to assess whether the specific rooms and facilities required can be accessed.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Il Pellicano Hotel on a beach?
The hotel is set on cliffs above a sheltered private cove rather than on a traditional sandy beach. The saltwater pool is carved into the rocks. Nearby beaches at Feniglia and the Tombolo della Giannella are 15–20 minutes away by car.
How far is Il Pellicano from the main Tuscan cities?
Porto Ercole is approximately 170 km south of Florence (around 2 hours by car) and 140 km from Rome (about 1 hour 30 minutes). The nearest town, Porto Ercole, is 5 minutes away.
Is the hotel family-friendly?
Il Pellicano maintains an intentionally quiet, adult-focused atmosphere. Children of all ages are technically welcome, but the hotel's pace and character are best suited to couples and small adult parties. Families should consider the property's ethos before booking.
Are watersports included in the room rate?
Most watersports activities — sailing, waterskiing, and boat excursions — are available at additional cost through the hotel's concierge. Arrangements should be made shortly after arrival as capacity is limited.