Where is il pellicano

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Last updated: April 8, 2026

Quick Answer: Il Pellicano is a luxury hotel located in Porto Ercole, Tuscany, Italy, specifically at Via della Cala Rossa 1, 58018 Porto Ercole GR. Originally opened in 1965, it was acquired by the Pellicano Hotels group in 1979 and has since become a renowned destination, featuring 49 rooms and suites, two restaurants, and a private beach club. The hotel is part of the Leading Hotels of the World collection and has received numerous awards, including being named one of the 'World's Best Hotels' by Travel + Leisure in 2023.

Key Facts

Il Pellicano is located at Via della Cala Rossa 1, 58018 Porto Ercole GR, Italy
The hotel originally opened in 1965 and was acquired by the Pellicano Hotels group in 1979
It features 49 rooms and suites, including 12 suites with private terraces
Il Pellicano is part of the Leading Hotels of the World collection, founded in 1928
The hotel was named one of the 'World's Best Hotels' by Travel + Leisure in 2023

Overview

Il Pellicano is a historic luxury hotel situated in the picturesque coastal town of Porto Ercole, within the Monte Argentario peninsula in Tuscany, Italy. Founded in 1965 by British aviator Michael Graham and his wife Patsy, the hotel was initially a private retreat that evolved into a hospitality icon. Its name, meaning 'the pelican' in Italian, reflects the founders' love for the local wildlife and the serene Mediterranean setting. Over the decades, Il Pellicano has attracted celebrities, artists, and discerning travelers seeking exclusivity and natural beauty.

In 1979, the hotel was acquired by the Pellicano Hotels group, which has since expanded it into a premier destination while preserving its original charm. The property spans 12 acres of lush gardens and coastline, offering stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Today, it is renowned for its blend of rustic elegance and modern luxury, with architecture that integrates seamlessly into the landscape. Il Pellicano is also part of the prestigious Leading Hotels of the World collection, emphasizing its global recognition in luxury hospitality.

How It Works

Il Pellicano operates as a full-service luxury hotel, providing an immersive experience through its accommodations, dining, and amenities.

Key Point 1: The hotel features 49 rooms and suites, including 12 suites with private terraces, each designed with a mix of traditional Tuscan elements and contemporary comforts. Rooms range from 30 to 120 square meters, with rates starting from approximately €600 per night in peak season. All accommodations include amenities like marble bathrooms, custom furnishings, and sea or garden views, ensuring a personalized stay.
Key Point 2: Dining at Il Pellicano is centered around two restaurants: the Michelin-starred Il Pellicano Restaurant, which serves innovative Italian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients, and the more casual Pelligrill, offering seafood and grilled dishes by the pool. The hotel sources over 80% of its produce from regional suppliers, supporting sustainable practices. Wine pairings feature selections from Tuscany's renowned vineyards, such as those in Bolgheri and Montalcino.
Key Point 3: Amenities include a private beach club with direct access to the sea, a heated seawater swimming pool, a tennis court, and a wellness center offering treatments like massages and facials. The hotel also provides concierge services for activities such as yacht charters, hiking in the nearby Maremma Natural Park, and cultural tours to historic sites like the Orbetello Lagoon. Seasonal events, like cooking classes and wine tastings, enhance the guest experience.
Key Point 4: Sustainability initiatives are integral to operations, with efforts like energy-efficient lighting, water conservation systems, and waste reduction programs. The hotel has reduced its carbon footprint by 15% since 2020 through these measures. Additionally, it partners with local artisans for decor and supports community projects, aligning with Tuscany's emphasis on preserving cultural and environmental heritage.

Key Comparisons

Feature	Il Pellicano (Porto Ercole, Italy)	Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc (Antibes, France)
Location	Coastal Tuscany, on the Monte Argentario peninsula	French Riviera, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea
Year Founded	1965, with acquisition in 1979	1870, originally as a private mansion
Number of Rooms	49 rooms and suites	118 rooms and suites
Dining Options	Two restaurants, including one Michelin-starred	Multiple restaurants, with one Michelin-starred option
Average Peak Season Rate	Starting from €600 per night	Starting from €800 per night
Notable Amenities	Private beach club, tennis court, wellness center	Infinity pool, private cabanas, water sports

Why It Matters

Impact 1: Il Pellicano contributes significantly to local tourism, attracting over 10,000 guests annually and generating an estimated €5 million in revenue for the regional economy. It supports about 100 jobs directly and partners with local businesses, from wineries to tour operators, fostering economic growth in Tuscany's Maremma area.
Impact 2: The hotel plays a key role in preserving cultural heritage, with its architecture reflecting traditional Tuscan styles and its events showcasing regional arts and cuisine. It has hosted exhibitions and festivals that highlight Italian craftsmanship, helping to sustain traditions like pottery and olive oil production in the face of modernization.
Impact 3: Environmental stewardship is a priority, as Il Pellicano's sustainability efforts reduce its ecological footprint and set benchmarks for luxury hospitality. Initiatives like coastal clean-ups and wildlife protection programs contribute to conserving the Monte Argentario ecosystem, which is home to endangered species like the Hermann's tortoise.

Looking ahead, Il Pellicano is poised to continue its legacy as a leader in sustainable luxury travel, with plans to expand its wellness offerings and enhance digital guest experiences. As global tourism evolves, the hotel's commitment to authenticity and community engagement ensures it remains a timeless destination. By balancing innovation with tradition, Il Pellicano not only enriches the traveler's journey but also supports the long-term vitality of its stunning Tuscan setting.