Giglio

Giglio is granite rather than the mixed geology of Elba, twenty-one square kilometres rising to nearly five hundred metres, with water clear enough that it is a known diving destination. Three settlements divide it: the harbour at Giglio Porto, the beach village of Campese on the west, and Giglio Castello on the ridge between, a walled medieval village of stepped alleys and vaulted passages built against Saracen raids. Terraced vineyards on the steep slopes produce Ansonaco, a wine made in tiny quantities. In 2012 the Costa Concordia struck rocks off the port and lay on its side for two and a half years before removal.

History

Giglio means "lily", but the name comes from the Latin Igilium, perhaps related to the Ancient Greek name of neighbouring Capraia. The island formed probably 4.5 to 5 million years ago and has been lived on since the Stone Age; it may later have been an Etruscan stronghold, and the Romans called it Aegilium Insula (Wikipedia, Isola del Giglio).

What's there

• Giglio Castello - a walled ridge village of vaulted alleys and stairs.
• The clear water - granite coast known for diving and snorkelling.
• The terraced vines - dry-stone terraces making Ansonaco wine.
• Campese bay - the island's main beach under a red rock stack.

When to go

May to September; ferries thin out in winter and are cancelled in rough weather. August is crowded and cars are restricted for non-residents in high season.

Before you go

Car access is limited in summer and the island roads are narrow and steep. Beaches are few and fill quickly. Out of season most places close entirely.

Nearby

Monte Argentario faces it; Giannutri lies south.