The minute you set foot inside Hotel Il Pellicano, a romantic hideaway on the Argentario Coast of Tuscany, the rest of the world fades away. With views of the Tuscan Archipelago and greenery at every turn, the retreat quietly blurs the line between natural and architectural.
Wild plant life, rugged cliffs and glimmering water complement the colorful, cinematic, Hollywood-off-duty vibe of the property’s interiors. Star power and film-set-worthy backdrops aren’t gimmicks, but part of Il Pellicano’s story: founded by a jet-setting British-American couple, the hotel has welcomed guests from Charlie Chaplin to Henry Fonda, and was famously photographed by Slim Aarons, historian of the modern high life.
Today, the hotel maintains its original style with a slight contemporary twist. Expect high-flying hospitality with cheeky, retro references, and a dreamy cove setting that keeps it all feeling fresh and secretive, and never too nostalgic.
- Hotel Il Pellicano has its own private sundeck right on the water’s edge, lined with lounge chairs and livened up with a juice bar. The pool above it is worth a visit, too.
- The views and easy water access make the sundeck a hotbed of activity beyond just sunning and sipping. Paddleboat excursions, snorkeling, water skiing, and sunrise yoga are all on offer.
- Early-evening aperitivo hour is a sacred ritual, where mixologist Federico Morosi runs the show at both the outdoor Bar All’Aperto and the Mad Men-esque Bar Il Pellicano in the main building. Snag cocktail recipe cards from reception to re-create his drinks at home or in your room.
- Get pampered at Pelliclub Health & Beauty. With little touches like Lisa Corti textiles and Santa Maria Novella cosmetics, this spa is anything but standard, retaining the punchy personality of the rest of the property.
- Expertly led by chef Michelino Gioia, Il Pellicano is the hotel’s high-end restaurant. Sample his talents with the percorso mare seafood tasting menu.
- Il Pellicano operates seasonally from mid-April to late October with many repeat guests shooting for the same cottages or rooms stay after stay. For prime pickings, plan on making reservations at least a year out.
- Children must be at least eight years old to stay at Il Pellicano.
- A breezy boutique with cosmopolitan merchandise chosen by Marie-Louise Sciò, creative director and vice president of Pellicano Hotels Group, stocks everything from coffee table books to beachwear. Recent Il Pellicano brand partnerships have included fashion label A.P.C. Paris and shoe brand Birkenstock.
- While dining on premises won’t disappoint, the surrounding area has cuisine and traditions worth exploring. The staff has put together a map of nearby restaurants and experiences; ask for it, along with a copy of the charming what’s-on newsletter Pellican Post Daily at reception.
- Whether through greenery or from a terrace, the views from the luxury resort’s rooms — 50 in the main building and 27 more across six cottages — won’t let you forget where you are. But to maximize the Il Pellicano experience, seek out one of the coveted sea view suites.
- Décor deviates from the standard Tuscan template: airy neutrals pair with flashes of bright colors, and luxurious marble bathrooms round things out.
- All rooms have an Illy coffee machine, a deceptively retro-looking Bluetooth Brionvega radio and a complimentary minibar.
- Il Pellicano specializes in seafood that’s been locally sourced, but seasoned with international, gourmet appeal.
- Pelligrill serves more traditional Tuscan fare. Try the Pelican Point Salad with prawns, avocado, green beans and tomatoes if you’re looking for something light and fresh.
- In addition to morning cappuccinos and stiff post-swim drinks, Bar All’Aperto turns out quick and easy bites for when you’re on the go, or just floating between bay and bed.
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