Carbonifera: Beach, Nature and Maritime History

Carbonifera is one of the beach destinations in the Parco Costiero della Sterpaia. When choosing a hotel, you can weigh up whether you want your stay to focus on the beach, nature or maritime history.

Coast and protected area

The Parco Costiero della Sterpaia covers about 296 hectares in the wide gulf between Piombino and Follonica. In 1998, Sterpaia was included in the protected area system of the Tuscany Region as an ANPIL (“Area naturale protetta di interesse locale”). This category, established by Law No. 49 of 11 April 1995, is intended for parks and regional protected areas. Parco Naturale della Sterpaia has an eight-kilometre-long beach, including six kilometres of free beach. Carbonifera is part of a beach system with light-coloured, fine sand and a narrow strip of dunes. The more extensive dunes in this system contain sections of coastal pine forest. Three quarters of the beach’s length is free beach.

A day at the beach and practical information

In the Località Carbonifera, there is an equipped beach and a beach club near the “Carbonifera 1” car park. Two restaurants are also near the car park. Use of the park is free; parking at the beach is separate: paid parking is available for cars and motorhomes. Seasonal arrangements may affect beach services, restaurants and parking. If you plan to use these facilities, check the conditions for your dates in advance.

Torre Carbonifera and maritime history

Torre Carbonifera is a 19th-century tower; its name refers to its function as a commercial landing place. A railway that transported coal from the mines of Montebamboli to the sea ended at the tower. The historical connection therefore extends beyond the structure itself to a specific link between mining and the coast. Another historical trace dates to 1970: at the mouth of the Fosso Valnera, a shelter for small boats was created under the protection of the reef. These two connections show different aspects of maritime history: coal transport and landing on the one hand, and shelter for small boats on the other.

Moorings and club facilities

Circolo Nautico Carbonifera offers members and non-members moorings, or a secure berth for boats. Moorings in the water and on land can be rented for different periods. The club has about 319 berths for boats 6.5 to 8 metres long. Facilities include parking, a crane, a slipway, drinking water and electricity at the quay; some facilities may change. If you need a berth, confirm availability and the facilities you require directly with the club before travelling.

Discover more destinations: Populonia, Fiorentina, Viticcio, Riotorto.

Go to the main travel overview: Piombino.