Elba

Relatively unknown to most tourists, the island of Elba exudes charm and history. Quaint villages and magnificent coastal and mountain scenery are abundant as you venture towards the west of the island. Pass by the small resort of Procchio, noted for its fine beach. Continue inland to Poggio and Marciana, perched like twin sentinels on Monte Capanne. On your return, you’ll make a stop at a typical Tuscan ceramic shop.

The attractive little seaside resort of Marciana Marina is favoured by holidaymakers. You’ll make a short stop at Marciana Marina for souvenir shopping and sightseeing. Historical monuments include The Tower, built in the 16th century to defend the village from pirates.

With its large, curving beach backed by pinewoods, Marina di Campo is a picturesque old town with a fishing harbour and winding streets.

The small resort of Porto Azzurro is lined with colourful waterfront cafés and yachts. The town takes its name from the colour of the sea, and is dominated by a 17th century Spanish fort.

Named after the underground rooms of a huge Roman Villa, Punta delle Grotte offers views of the picturesque coastal scenery.

Enjoy a local style lunch in a restaurant in Marina di Campo.

With a broad promenade that runs along a pebble beach, Marciana Marina is an attractive little fishing town. You’ll have a short while here for independent sightseeing. During your stop, you’ll also visit a local outlet shop, where you can sample the famous Aleatico and Moscato wines.

Take a drive up to Punta della Paolina to enjoy the splendid views of the delightful coastal scenery. The tour continues through the small resort of Procchio, noted for its fine beach, and along the winding coastal road.

Driving across the central plain of the island, you’ll reach Marina di Campo. Situated on the south of the island, Marina di Campo has a large sheltered bay and wonderful pine-fringed beach. A short stop will allow you to enjoy this small resort at your leisure.

Leaving Portoferraio, drive northwards to see the beaches of Biodola and Procchio. From Procchio, you’ll cross the island travelling south to visit Marina di Campo and Porto Azzurro. The road connecting them passes green hills offering superb views of the heart-shaped Gulf of Stella.

Wander the idyllic old town of Marina di Campo, which boasts a sweeping beach, fishing harbour and quaint winding streets. Relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Porto Azzurro features a maze of alleys with a bustling ‘piazza’. It’s no surprise the town takes its name from the wonderful crystal-clear waters. Porto Azzuro is a centre for artisans who work with the local minerals; you’ll be able to see a private collection during your visit.

Named after the underground rooms of a huge Roman Villa, Punta Delle Grotte offers splendid views of the delightful coastal scenery.

Your return across the island will be through the picturesque countryside, dotted with farms and vineyards.

Old Gate (Medici) is the entrance to the second fortified town in the Mediterranean after Malta. Making your way through the narrow, picturesque streets of Portoferraio you reach Napoleon’s residence.

The place where Napoleon spent most of his time is the Palazzina dei Mulini. Wonderfully situated on the upper part of the fortifications of Portoferraio, Palazzina dei Mulini has a superb view over the bay. Although many things disappeared after Napoleon’s departure, the Palace still has beautiful furniture, paintings, statues, books and, of course, the first famous portrait of Napoleon by J. L. David.

The Star Fort dominates the whole of Portoferraio and offers exceptional views of the bay, the mountains and even the mainland. From here, you’ll walk through one of the oldest parts of the town, Via dell’ Amore and end your tour at the Sea Gate in the town centre.

Whilst at the Star Fort, you’ll be offered a refreshing mineral water to quench your thirst.

Leaving Portoferraio, you’ll head for Colle Reciso and then cross the island to Porto Azzurro. During the journey, you’ll have a chance to see the wide variety of plant life on the island: chestnut and oak woods; alpine flora in the mountains; eucalyptus and cork oaks. Among the beautiful flowers are some species of wild orchids and lilies.

You’ll find a maze of alleys with a bustling ‘piazza’ on the waterfront of Porto Azzurro. The island’s second port takes its name from the colour of the sea, and is dominated by a 17th century fortification.

Named after the underground rooms of a huge Roman Villa, Punta Delle Grotte offers splendid views of the fabulous coastline.

Relax and enjoy local cakes and a non-alcoholic cocktail at a nearby hotel as you admire the scenery.

Visit the enchanting ancient town of Capoliveri, which has retained much of its medieval atmosphere and architecture, typically graceful and elegant. Capoliveri offers superb panoramic views over the gulfs of Lacona and Campo. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the twisting streets or browse the town’s tiny shops during your free time.

In La Chiusa you’ll take a walk along an avenue bordered by olive trees, before arriving at a farmhouse. Discover superb views over the ocean and the Medicean fortresses of Portoferraio on the other side of the bay. You’ll be invited to a tasting of La Chiusa products including wines, savouries and olive oils and have the option to purchase some of these wonderful items.

Before returning to the port, you’ll stop at the Roman ruins at Punta delle Grotte for another wonderful photo opportunity.