Capo Sant'Andrea - natural granite "pools"
On the north-western tip of Elba, you'll find Capo Sant'Andrea - a place that can hardly be described as anything other than a natural swimming pool carved out of granite. Smooth, pale rock slabs create shallow "pools" that bask in the sun during the day. The water here is a beautiful shade of turquoise and, thanks to its sheltered position, is as calm and clear as an aquarium. Ideal for snorkelling, relaxing or taking photos - a true unique feature of the island.
Mountain trails on Monte Capanne
Elba is not just about the sea - in the middle of the island rises the Monte Capanne massif, the highest mountain in the entire Tuscan archipelago (1,019 m). And leading up to it is a network of magnificent trails that show Elba from a completely different perspective. The path leads through chestnut forests, smells of macchia, and offers spectacular views of the coast and neighbouring islands. The most popular climb starts at Marciana, but there are also quieter and less frequented routes - ideal if you want to experience Elba 'just for yourself'.
Monte Capanne can be reached on foot, but there is also a way that has become a bit of an Elba legend - an old-fashioned cable car with open yellow cages.the cable car was launched in the 1960s as a simple and affordable solution to make the summit of Monte Capanne accessible without the need to build a conventional cable car. The design was used in several places in Italy at the time - it was cheap, reliable and allowed operation even in difficult mountain terrain. Today, the cable car is technically obsolete and there are long-standing discussions about its reconstruction or complete replacement with a modern type.
Turquoise coves outside the main tourist stream
Elba is dotted with small beaches and coves, but paradoxically the best ones tend to be the least known. These include:
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Cala della Cotaccia - hidden among large granite blocks, almost devoid of people.
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Fetovaia - but its side "coves" are only accessible on foot, where the sea is clearer than at the main beach.
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Seccheto and its rock terraces - the perfect combination of swimming and sunbathing on the warm rocks.
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The coves around Capo Enfola - wonderful snorkelling spots where most visitors don't visit at all.
These little gems have one thing in common - the beautiful colour of the sea, a minimum of people and the feeling of being far from civilisation, even if it's only a few minutes from the centre. Experience Elba differently!
