Punta Ala

12 Jan Punta Ala

An endless beach in the middle of the nature

Punta Ala is renowned not only for its regattas and luxury but also for its beaches. This charming place offers two main beaches. One is a fascinating beach directly at the end of the tourist port, and with its white pebbles permits to reach the rocks and to enjoy in relax the sea. The second beach is accessible from the pine forest and offers an excellent solution for those who are looking for a nature holiday. The vast pine forest situated along the beach is sometimes free, sometimes equipped, and has some snack areas. It is a long beach made up of fine sand and with its underwater sea bed slopes is ideal for families with children.

History of Punta Ala

Punta Ala become its name due to the great Italian aviator Italo Balbo, who 1930 had purchased some fortifications and villas in the area which later became his residences. Originally a pasture for cattle and then a Roman port, in the 20th century the touristic center became famous to be the reference point for an elite tourism and for sailing enthusiasts.
There are many ancient remains of the fortifications built over the centuries in Punta Ala:
– The Hidalgo Tower was built in the 16th century in an effort to better defend the Principality of Piombino.
– The Castle of Punta Ala (or Balbo Castle) was built in 1560 by Cosimo I de ‘Medici to control the north coast of Castiglione della Pescaia. The castle was extended by Pietro Leopold in 1788 and then restored by Balbo.
-The Appiani’s Tower is located on the Isolotto dello Sparviero, in front of the harbor.

The Isolotto dello Sparviero

On this small island located a short distance from Punta Ala harbor, Balbo built his dream house. “The Sparviero” (sparrow hawk) is a point of absolute interest for those who love bird watching or observe falcons nesting activity. It is also the ideal destination for diving enthusiasts because of the abundance of fish life.

How to get to Punta Ala

Punta Ala is situated at the southern end of the Gulf of Follonica, about 20 km north from Castiglione della Pescaia along the provincial road SP 158 delle Collacchie.