Our insider tip for a day at the sea: a small, wild cove on the Romito coast between Calafuria and Quercianella, where Mediterranean scrub runs down to surprisingly clear water.
The Romito coast
South of Livorno the coast road runs high above the sea, between scrub-covered hills and sandstone cliffs shaped by wind and waves. Along this stretch, just past the Calafuria tower, lies the Cala del Leone.
There are no bathing establishments and no facilities – just rocks, a small beach and the sea. That is exactly why it's a favourite with anyone looking for a still-natural piece of coast.
Getting there
From the road you walk down: first a path through the scrub that passes below Castello Sonnino, then a long stairway of more than 200 steps and finally a short scramble over rocks. The climb back up takes some puff.
Not to be missed
- Clear waterRocky seabed and transparent water – ideal for snorkelling.
- Unspoilt natureMediterranean scrub, rocks and not a single building on the beach.
- Calafuria towerThe old watchtower on the coast, a little further north.
- Sunset over the seaThe coast faces west: in the evening the sun sets straight into the sea.
Our tip
Come early in the morning or on a weekday – the cove is small and fills up quickly in summer. It pairs well with an evening in Livorno and the sunset from Terrazza Mascagni, about 15 minutes further north.
Good to know
- There are no facilities: bring water, something to eat and shade (umbrella or a cloth).
- Parking is only possible in a few lay-bys along the coast road, often full in summer.
- Because of the long stairway and the rocks, the cove is not suitable for pushchairs or people with limited mobility. Water shoes recommended.
- Don't swim when the sea is rough, especially with a south-westerly wind. Please take your rubbish with you.
