4.6
(1536)
7,571
hikers
15
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Area Naturale Protetta Di Interesse Locale Della Sterpaia traverse a diverse coastal landscape along the Tyrrhenian Sea. The park features fine sandy beaches backed by intricate dune systems, alongside ancient woodlands dominated by centuries-old oaks and various pine species. Hikers will find brackish soil areas and back-dunes intersected by canals, characteristic of the former Maremma marshland. This blend of coastal and forested environments provides varied terrain suitable for family outings.
Last updated: May 13, 2026
5.0
(2)
8
hikers
6.61km
01:40
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(4)
19
hikers
15.0km
03:46
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
4.5
(2)
11
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
13
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
8
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Around 5 km from Follonica we find the beach of Carbonifera. It owes its name to the ancient hydraulic station built in 1870 for the reclamation of the area. The small tower of the station together with the small pier are the reference points of this enchanting beach nestled in the uninterrupted sandy coastline that rises from Follonica up to Piombino. You can leave the car in an equipped parking lot, reach the sea on foot and choose between free beach and equipped beach. The sand is light and fine, the shallow water suitable for children offers spectacular plays of light and color. The pine forest behind offers a pleasant relief on the hottest days.
1
0
In the late 1940s, a short distance from the nearby Torre Mozza, the Carbonifera landing stage operated. It was built to load lignite extracted from Montebamboli, which reached the sea thanks to the railway. To allow loading, a jetty was built where wagons arrived by gravity. The railway was closed at the beginning of the 1900s, and the infrastructure serving the mine met the same fate.
1
0
To see Follonica there is the Torre Azzurra, you can't go wrong
1
0
A few miles from Elba and the other islands of the Tuscan archipelago, nestled on a stretch of coast full of charm and beauty, in the center of the Gulf of Follonica.
1
0
In the center of the Gulf of Follonica, on a strip of fine sand, stands an ancient and imposing sixteenth-century fortification, which served as a lookout and defense point for the coast: the Torre Mozza, which gives its name to the beach. In this stretch of the Etruscan Coast, history dominates the beach and emerges from the sea. A few dozen meters from the shore, an ancient Roman road emerges from the sea's surface. Legend has it that it was a section of the first road on the Peninsula: the ancient Via Aurelia. This is the unique feature of the beautiful Torre Mozza beach, where you feel like you're diving into a natural pool: the ancient Roman road ensures that the water in this stretch has two different depths, and also provides shelter from waves and currents.
0
0
The name of the beach derives from an ancient coastal tower from the 1500s located close to the sea, made up of three bodies built in different eras and phases. The body that looks towards the sea is the ancient watchtower, which had defensive functions from pirate incursions. Torre Mozza was part of a coastal control and defense system that developed along the entire Maremma coast, with a dense series of towers, of which Torre Mozza is one of the most evocative and best preserved.
0
0
Very beautiful, especially with a clear view
2
0
There are over 15 family-friendly hiking trails in Area Naturale Protetta Di Interesse Locale Della Sterpaia. Most of these, about 12, are rated as easy, making them ideal for families with children.
The park is beautiful year-round. Spring is particularly lovely when wildflowers cover the dunes. Winter offers clear, sunny days and tranquil, empty beaches for a peaceful experience. The ancient woodlands provide welcome shade during warmer months.
You'll find a diverse range of terrain, from fine, light-sand beaches and intricate sand dunes to lush woodlands with centuries-old oaks and pine forests. Some areas also feature brackish soil and wetlands, offering varied landscapes for exploration.
Yes, many of the family-friendly trails are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Sterpaia Nature Reserve Beach loop from Carlappiano is an easy option that takes you through coastal areas.
Families can explore historical towers like Mozza Tower and Carbonifera Tower, which add historical interest to the scenic views. You'll also encounter ancient oak forests, unique sand dunes, and the beautiful Sterpaia Nature Reserve Beach.
Many parts of the park are designed to be accessible, with comfortable pathways leading to the beach, some equipped with shaded decks. The easy-rated trails, particularly those through the pine forests and along the flatter coastal sections, are generally suitable for young children and can accommodate strollers in many areas.
While the park is generally welcoming, specific rules for dogs on trails and beaches can vary by season and area. It's always best to check local signage upon arrival or consult official park information regarding pet regulations to ensure a pleasant visit for everyone.
Yes, within the pine forests, you'll find equipped picnic areas with tables and wooden seating. These spots are perfect for outdoor meals and offer a relaxing break during your hike.
Given the coastal and woodland environment, we recommend packing water, snacks, sunscreen, hats, and insect repellent. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, and swimwear might be a good idea if you plan to enjoy the beaches. Don't forget a camera for the beautiful scenery!
Yes, there are various parking areas available along the park's perimeter, especially near popular beach access points and trailheads. These are generally well-marked and provide convenient access to the family-friendly hiking routes.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.57 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, the combination of beach and forest trails, and the historical elements like the ancient towers. The accessibility and well-maintained paths also receive positive feedback.
Certainly! The Carbonifera Beach – Carbonifera Hydropower Station loop from Area naturale protetta di interesse locale della Sterpaia is an easy, family-friendly option that takes you along the coast and offers lovely views.
For families looking for a longer adventure, the Carbonifera Beach – Mozza Tower loop from Perelli 2 is a moderate 15 km route that combines coastal walking with views of historical towers, perfect for a full day of exploration.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.