To the assault on nature!
Hiking. Between forgotten valleys, peaks and steep crests, always with a plunging view of the waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea, hiking is a must during a stay in Elba. Cross the maquis, climb Mount Capanne at an altitude of 1,019 metres, follow ancient mule tracks, reach the coast... So many walks, where the delicate scents of flowers vary according to the time of day. Although the most popular trails are located on the GTE, the Grande Traversata Elbana, many hiking routes criss-cross the island. Among them, the Pietra Murata circuit (length: 6 km, height difference: 325 metres, average time: 4 hours), which starts in the centre of the small village of San Piero, located in the municipality of Campo nell'Elba, is highly recommended. The route then crosses the south-eastern flank of Mount Capanne in a loop, in the middle of the ancient granite quarries. As everywhere else, white and red markers will guide you along the route. Opt for an outfit adapted to the season, comfortable and resistant, as well as appropriate walking shoes. And, to better observe the landscape and the wildlife, binoculars are a precious tool. The best season is from the end of May to mid-October. Finally, the website of the National Park of the Tuscan Archipelago(www.islepark.it) is a must, and for your information, the National Park's visitor centres are located in Marciana and Rio nell'Elba (open from April to October).
MOUNTAIN BIKING. A privileged destination for mountain bikers, the island of Elba offers a magnificent playground, with a wide variety of difficulties to satisfy all riders, as well as a remarkable diversity of landscapes. Magnificent signposted trails, tracks close to the sea, lush forests, cross-country or downhill enduro routes, cycle tourism is becoming more and more attractive and allows a journey closer to nature and the autonomous discovery of cultural heritage. Whether you prefer a quiet family ride through the Mediterranean scrub, or a more extreme route to the island's peaks, anything is possible! And if you want to live the adventure more gently, you can now opt more and more often for electric bikes and mountain bikes.
Climbing. The island of Elba is a real paradise for climbers who love free climbing, the pleasure of a challenge, the confrontation with nature and with themselves. Among the most interesting sites are the granite rocky routes on the western slope, around Chiessi, Pomonte and Marciana; in particular the via ferrata that leads to the top of the San Bartolomeo massif. A level 5c and a high degree of autonomy are required as there are no professional agencies on the island.
Farniente and water sports
The jagged coastline of the island of Elba, made up of a succession of peaks, islets and caves, alternates creeks, high cliffs and beaches of golden, black or white sand. No less than 200 dream spots for an active holiday between two sunbathing sessions. In the western region, you can go to the beautiful little sandy beach of Cotoncello (Sant'Andrea), in the shade of colourful tamarisk trees and surrounded by polished granite rocks, or to the beach of Cavoli, one of the most famous thanks to its crystal-clear water. In the central region, the beach of Capo Bianco, near Portoferraio, is bordered by high white cliffs plunging majestically into a turquoise blue sea. Finally, in the eastern region, the beach of Cannello, accessible only by sea, stretches with dark bands (linked to the presence of minerals) that contrast with the azure blue of the sea, as well as the beach of Barabarca near Capoliveri, in the heart of an emerald green bay and well sheltered from most winds, are also good options.
Sailing. Anchor up! Sailing off the island of Elba is a continuous discovery... The colour palette of the clear waters alternates harmoniously between turquoise and deep sea blue. The coastline is very indented, divided between indentations, steep cliffs and coves, some of which are paradisiacal. It is therefore not surprising that regattas are regularly organised here and that you can admire racing yachts manned by internationally renowned crews. The island has many yacht clubs and sailing schools offering courses for all levels all over the island.
Kayak and paddle. Kayak and paddle are ideal ways to navigate the crystal clear waters, to explore the hidden corners between the rocks and stop for example in front of the granite coves of Marina di Campo, the hidden beaches of Ischia or La Rota, the islet of Porto Caccamo, or to wade into the freshwater caves, a refuge for countless sea birds. Silent, your boat will be the privileged way to approach the marine environment. Another look at the Elbo coast!
A renowned diving destination
One of the highlights of Elba is undoubtedly its underwater wealth, protected by the largest marine park in Europe. The clear and temperate waters make it a perfect place for diving. The nature here is exuberant: conger eels, groupers, moray eels, lobsters and octopus, corals and gorgonians; not to mention the dolphins that are not uncommon to come across. A paradise that has also attracted great champions, such as Jacques Mayol and Umberto Pelizzari, who set several snorkeling records. Among the most sought-after spots: the small island of Corbella, off Mount Calamita, is one of the best dive sites for observing gorgonians. But you should also discover the Formiche della Zanca reefs, at Capo Sant'Andrea, formed by a rocky ridge descending to over 40 metres; Scoglietto, north of Portoferraio, where an underwater statue of Christ is enthroned; Capo Fonza, near Marina di Campo, torn by a fault that ends in a cave, a refuge for lobsters, octopuses, small flying foxes, nudibranchs and red gorgonians, spirographs, branches of red coral?
