The Maremma

When you think of Tuscany, your mind probably does not go cowboys. But within the region lies a lesser known area called The Maremma. This is the land of butteri; a one thousand year old tradition of distinguished mounted cattle herders who shepherd the longhorn grey cattle native to, and named after the region: Maremmana. In fact, their famed horses are also named after the area: Maremmano. And their shepherd guard dogs? Also called Maremmano.

Unspoiled, untamed and not very convenient to reach, The Maremma is 5000sq km of coastal area that borders the Tyrrhenian Sea. It’s a quietly magical place that prides itself on its land, its animals, and it’s slow, natural way of life.

It’s also home to Parco della Maremma (Maremma Regional Park), aka ‘Uccellina Park’, a protected area of 9000 hectares with a rich mix of biodiversity; thick pine forests, sand beaches, wetlands, woodlands, cliffs, caves, mountains. The park is also one of the greatest migratory stopovers in the Mediterranean, frequented by thousands of bird species on their routes. Beginning mid-October they arrive from Northern Europe. In spring and summer, from Africa.

Foxes, wolves, porcupines, wild boar, deer, tortoises and more also call the park home.

Widespread within the park are cultivated agricultural areas; olive groves, vineyards, fruit trees, pastures, which has resulted in the park establishing a recognized ‘mark of quality’ for the sustainable products produced within the protected area: honey, oil, wine, dairy, fruit and beer.

Agricultural activity drives The Maremma and has created an atypical niche in Italian tourism called, “agri-turismo”, with working farms doubling as guesthouses and b&b’s, often run by families who have farmed there for generations. They reflect The Maremma itself - no airs or pretensions, just honest and naturally wonderful.