Imagine a secluded retreat perched high above the shimmering Tyrrhenian Sea, accessible only by a rugged hike or a dramatic helicopter ride. Welcome to Faro Capel Rosso, a red-and-white-striped lighthouse on Tuscany’s Giglio Island that has been transformed into a unique guesthouse.
This hidden gem offers an unforgettable escape, blending Italian charm, breathtaking views, and tranquil seclusion. Read on to uncover why this lighthouse retreat is more than just a place to stay—it’s an experience that will inspire your wanderlust and might just redirect your Italian Riviera holiday plans further south.
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A Unique Stay on Giglio Island
Located on the remote southern tip of Giglio Island, Faro Capel Rosso was built in 1883 and now stands as one of Tuscany’s most intriguing accommodations.
The lighthouse opened its doors to guests in 2023 after being reimagined as a boutique guesthouse offering four spacious suites with luxurious amenities. Each suite boasts free-standing tubs and large windows that frame sweeping views of the glistening sea.
Getting here is part of the adventure. Visitors must either hike a rugged 20-minute trail or arrive via a dramatic heliport perched on the cliffs.
The reward? Complete isolation, pristine landscapes, and the chance to unwind where land meets sea in the most extraordinary way.
A Lighthouse Haven in Harmony with Nature
Faro Capel Rosso is set amidst protected woodland, home to granite steps that descend to secluded coves. Here, nature takes center stage.
The waters surrounding Giglio Island are a prime feeding ground for dolphins and whales, thanks to the convergence of two ocean currents.
Guests can explore an intricate network of trails, relish a swim in the turquoise waters, or bask in the serene ambiance of the lighthouse’s panoramic views.
Under the care of resident housekeepers Davide and Carla Moglie, the retreat extends a family-style welcome.
Guests are treated to simple, nourishing breakfasts and home-cooked communal dinners that feature Tuscan flavors.
End your day stargazing from the lighthouse’s roof terrace, where darkness unveils a celestial show like no other, free from light pollution.
When to Visit and What to Do
Giglio Island basks in a warm microclimate. Swimming can be enjoyed well into November, thanks to the prolonged Mediterranean summer.
The peak travel season from May to September is ideal for boating, diving, and sailing enthusiasts who want to explore the island’s marine paradise.
For film buffs, Faro Capel Rosso holds a special allure—it appeared in the 2013 Italian film The Great Beauty.
Even non-cinema lovers will find beauty here, with the lighthouse’s 23-mile ranging beam iconic against the Tuscan sky.
Whether you’re looking for adventure, isolation, or a slice of history, this lighthouse delivers a rare blend of them all.
Tying It Back to the Italian Riviera
While Giglio Island isn’t part of the iconic Italian Riviera, its rugged beauty and crystal-clear waters echo the heart of this coastline.
A visit to Faro Capel Rosso could be seamlessly paired with a tour of the Italian Riviera, offering travelers a more diverse coastal experience.
Start your Riviera journey in Genoa, the bustling capital, before heading to the charming seaside villages of Portofino, Camogli, and Rapallo.
Experience the Duo of Serenity and Glamour
Further south, embrace the breathtaking cliffs and colorful facades of the Cinque Terre—Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore.
The coastline of the Riviera is dotted with glamorous locales and serene seaside havens, contrasting yet complementing the solitude of Giglio Island.
While the Italian Riviera offers endless stylish and sociable experiences, Faro Capel Rosso provides the chance to recharge in uninterrupted tranquility.
Why Giglio Island Deserves a Spot on Your Itinerary
Giglio Island’s Faro Capel Rosso is an invitation to discover Italy from a new angle.
While exploring the Italian Riviera’s luxurious beaches and villages is a must, diverting your travels to Giglio Island opens doors to untouched splendor and a rare lodging experience.
Whether you’re following the coastal charisma of Portofino or hopping between Cinque Terre’s cliffside hamlets, consider adding this Tuscan lighthouse retreat for an unforgettable side adventure that perfectly balances Italy’s coastal allure.
Here is the source article for this story: What it’s like to stay in a lighthouse on a Tuscan island
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