Welcome to Hotel Giardino
The Hotel Giardino is a family‑run hideaway in Lacona, a village on the southern coast of Elba.
It sits in a private 30 000 m² pine and holm‑oak park only 100 m from the long golden beach of Lacona .
From the hotel you can reach the beach via a wooden walkway through the dunes, and within 10–15 minutes by car you can visit the towns of Capoliveri, Porto Azzurro, Marina di Campo and Portoferraio .
Home away from home
Hotel Giardino is rated two stars but is valued for its cleanliness and warmth.
Rooms feature renewed private bathrooms, air conditioning, flat‑screen TV, direct phone and safe; each has a balcony or patio facing the park .
The common areas offer free Wi‑Fi, a large shaded car park, a bike depot and a children’s playground .
The hotel’s restaurant serves buffet breakfasts, light lunches and dinners using local ingredients, with special menus for children and guests with intolerances .
Staff organise tastings, snorkelling and diving with nearby centres and provide discounted ferry tickets .
April 25 package: celebrate Liberation Day on Elba
April 25 is Liberation Day in Italy. On Elba the day is marked by official ceremonies, wreath‑laying and commemorative concerts followed by aperitifs and village parties .
Spring brings mild weather, blooming Mediterranean flora and quiet beaches .
Hotel Giardino welcomes the season with a special three‑night package:
- 10 % discount on stays of at least three nights .
- Breakfast and dinner featuring local products .
- Late check‑out and free use of bicycles and trail maps .
- Ferry booking with reduced fares .
- A guided sunset hike on Capo Stella with a glass of Elban wine .
Why choose Elba and Lacona for the April 25 holiday?
Myth, nature and history on one island
Elba is Italy’s third‑largest island. Ancient Greeks called it Aethalia for its iron deposits; today the landscape ranges from sandy coves and pebbly bays to granite mountains like Monte Capanne (1 019 m) and the lunar landscapes of the Monte Calamita mines .
The crystal‑clear waters are part of the Pelagos Sanctuary and host dolphins, sea turtles and even whales in spring .
In April you enjoy pleasant temperatures 16–20 °C with few rainy days and blooming rock‑rose, broom and wild orchids .
The centre of the island is quiet, and the hotel’s central position allows you to combine beach days with walks, cultural visits and wine tastings .
History lovers can explore the Medici fortifications of Portoferraio and Napoleon’s residences, while runners and mountain bikers can join events like the Giro Podistico dell’Elba and Legend Cup .
A perfect base for families, couples and adventurers
Lacona offers something for everyone.
The long sandy beach, sheltered by dunes and pine trees, has a gentle slope – perfect for families with children. Nearby Laconella is more secluded, and Margidore beach’s dark pebbles attract those seeking tranquillity .
From the Capo Stella headland starts a 6.6 km loop trail with 200 m elevation gain, offering panoramic views of Lacona and Monte Cristo; it is ideal for families and couples at sunset .
Trekking enthusiasts can follow trails like the Via delle Essenze, hike to Monte Capanne or explore the Monte Calamita mines .
The sea invites you to snorkel among posidonia meadows and shipwrecks, go diving, kayak or SUP.
Cultural travellers can visit the Museum of the Sea in Capoliveri and the archaeological museum at Portoferraio, or trace Napoleon’s footsteps .
Frequently asked questions about the April 25 holiday
| Question | Short answer |
|---|---|
| What’s the weather like? | Max temperatures 16–20 °C, minima around 10 °C; about 5–6 rainy days per month . |
| Are the beaches crowded? | Not yet; April is low season, so there’s plenty of space . |
| Can you swim? | Sea temperature 15–17 °C. Only the brave swim, but many sunbathe or do water sports . |
| How do I reach Elba? | Ferries run from Piombino to Portoferraio (60 min), Rio Marina or Cavo . The hotel can book tickets at reduced rates. There’s also a small airport (La Pila) with flights from Florence, Pisa and Milan . |
| Should I book in advance? | Yes, especially if you travel with a car; ferries may fill during holidays . |
| What events occur on April 25? | Official commemorations, the Rallye Elba car race, Elba Walking Festival, Vespa & Lambretta rally and the Sportella festival . |
Standard services included in your stay
| Service | Description | Why it’s useful |
|---|---|---|
| Park access | 30 000 m² of private pine forest with hammocks and shady areas | A quiet place to relax without leaving the property . |
| Free parking | Spacious shaded car park reserved for guests | No stress looking for a spot, even during holiday periods . |
| Wi‑Fi | Internet connection in common areas | Share your moments or work remotely . |
| Bike depot | Secure storage and emergency workshop | Ideal for cyclists, especially participants in competitions . |
| Play area | Outdoor space with slides, swings and table games | Children have fun while parents relax . |
| Restaurant | Buffet breakfast, light lunches and dinners with typical dishes | Taste Elban cuisine without leaving the hotel; options for kids and special diets . |
| Bar & terrace | Drinks and snacks all day; terrace for aperitifs | Perfect for enjoying a cocktail after the beach or a hike . |
| Ferry discount | 20 % off for car + passengers when booking through the hotel | Cuts travel costs and secures your preferred ferry . |
| Pet‑friendly | Small and medium pets welcome; dedicated green area | Bring your four‑legged friends without extra charge . |
| Tourist information | Personalised advice, trail maps and event brochures | Staff help you plan each day . |
Rooms include private bathroom with renovated shower, hairdryer, flat‑screen TV, air conditioning, telephone, safe and balcony or patio .
Exploring from Lacona
Lacona’s central location makes it easy to explore the island.
Below is an overview of nearby towns with approximate driving times and highlights .
| Locality | Distance & time | Key sights |
|---|---|---|
| Capoliveri | 8 km; 15 min | Medieval village with colourful alleys and Piazza Matteotti; Sea Museum (treasure of the Polluce wreck); train to the Monte Calamita mines . |
| Porto Azzurro | 10 km; 15 min | Natural harbour dominated by Forte San Giacomo; Barbarossa and Reale beaches; Terranera lake and the Santa Caterina hermitage . |
| Portoferraio | 15 km; 20 min | Capital with Medici fortresses, Napoleonic villas (Villa dei Mulini, Villa di San Martino), Theatre of the Vigilanti; white pebble beaches (Le Ghiaie, Sansone) . |
| Marina di Campo | 11 km; 15 min | Lively seaside town; longest sandy beach; Elba Aquarium; starting point for hikes to Monte Capanne . |
| Marciana & Marciana Marina | 25 km; 35 min | Medieval villages; cable car to Monte Capanne; chestnut forests and the seaside promenade of Marciana Marina . |
| Rio Marina & Cavo | 30–35 km; 40–45 min | Mining area with the Mineral Museum, train to disused quarries, and the charming coastal village of Cavo . |
| Santuario delle Farfalle & Monte Perone | 20 km; 30 min | Protected sanctuary for endemic butterflies and a botanical trail; possible to continue to Monte Capanne or Pomonte . |
Highlights of nearby towns
- Capoliveri – Wander through pastel‑coloured alleys to Piazza Matteotti, sample local dishes at the restaurants and visit the Sea Museum, which preserves treasure from the Polluce shipwreck. Ride the little train through disused magnetite mines on Monte Calamita .
- Porto Azzurro – Once a Spanish fortress, today it charms with its harbour, elegant waterfront, market square, the emerald Laghetto di Terranera, and the hermitage of Santa Caterina .
- Portoferraio – Explore the Medici fortresses (Falcone, Stella and Linguella), Napoleon’s villas, the Theatre of the Vigilanti and museums. Relax on Le Ghiaie or Sansone beaches with their white pebbles and clear water .
- Marina di Campo – Enjoy the long sandy beach, visit the aquarium hosting over 200 Mediterranean species, and hike to Monte Capanne or Sant’Ilario. Taxi boats take you to Cavoli and Fetovaia .
- Mining villages: Rio Marina & Cavo – Discover the Mineral and Mining Museum, ride the mining train, and admire Cavo’s Liberty‑style houses and promenade .
- Santuario delle Farfalle – On Monte Perone a botanical trail showcases endemic flora and up to 50 butterfly species .
Trekking, sport and nature
Elba is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. From Lacona you can start treks, mountain‑bike rides, snorkelling, diving and water sports .
Trekking and hikes
- Capo Stella loop – 6.6 km circular trail (200 m elevation). It starts at the beach and follows the promontory, offering panoramic views of Monte Capanne, the Lacona coast and the Gemini islands .
- Monte Tambone – A shaded path takes you to the 377 m summit in about 1 h 30 min, with views of the archipelago; suitable for MTB too .
- Monte Orello – Panoramic route connecting Lacona and Capoliveri through strawberry tree woods and watchtower ruins .
- Via delle Essenze – A project linking villages via scented trails through rosemary, lentisk, myrtle and vineyards .
- Monte Capanne – Highest peak; reach it via cable car from Marciana or on foot; the summit offers 360° views .
- Monte Calamita mines – Paths lead to historic iron mines and beaches like Pareti, Innamorata and Remaiolo .
- Santuario delle Farfalle – A botanical trail on Monte Perone with numerous butterfly species .
Sea activities
• Snorkelling & diving – Lacona and Capo Stella are rich in posidonia and marine life; nearby shipwrecks include the Elviscot and Polluce . Diving schools offer courses for all levels.
• Kayak & SUP – Rent kayaks or stand‑up paddleboards to explore the coast from Lacona to Punta Contessa; sunset tours with aperitif are available .
• Boat trips & whale watching – Take mini‑cruises to Pianosa, Monte Cristo (with permit) or Giglio, or join whale‑watching excursions in the Pelagos Sanctuary .
• Sailing & windsurfing – The bay of Lacona suits beginners and experts; sailing schools offer courses, and the steady thermal winds are ideal for windsurfing and kitesurfing .
Two‑wheel activities
• Mountain biking – Trails around Lacona lead to Capoliveri, Porto Azzurro and along the Monte Orello ridge; the Legend Cup attracts bikers worldwide .
• Cycling & e‑bike – Rent e‑bikes to ride the Capo Stella loop, reach Monte Tambone or take the panoramic coastal road .
Spring events
| Event | Period | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Sportella festival | Easter morning | In Rio nell’Elba couples exchange the sportella, a ring‑shaped anise pastry symbolising love and fertility . |
| Rallye Elba | 23–25 April | Historic car race on the island’s scenic roads; some stages pass near Lacona . |
| Elba Walking Festival | All April | Guided hikes organised by the National Park on themes like wild herbs, birdwatching and mining history . |
| Vespa & Lambretta rally | Last weekend of April | Colourful parade of vintage scooters stopping in Capoliveri . |
| April 25 celebrations | 25 April | Official ceremonies with parades, concerts and aperitifs in village squares . |
Family tips
Hotel Giardino caters to families. The sandy beach with shallow water and the shady pinewood make Lacona ideal for children .
Child‑friendly activities
- Lacona & Laconella beaches – Playgrounds, canoe and pedal boat rentals; Laconella is wilder and great for teaching respect for nature .
- Elba Aquarium – In Marina di Campo, houses over 200 Mediterranean species .
- Capoliveri Sea Museum – Offers workshops on sailors’ life and island history .
- Light trek on Capo Stella – Safe circular path with panoramic rest spots .
- Hotel playground – Slides, swings, table tennis and table football .
Family FAQ
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Are family rooms available? | Yes; triples and quads with bunk beds or extra beds . |
| Do you serve children’s menus? | Yes; simple dishes like pasta with tomato, cutlets and roasted potatoes; baby food can be heated . |
| Is there kids’ entertainment? | No structured mini‑club, but small activities like ping‑pong tournaments, treasure hunts and recycling workshops . |
| Are cots and high chairs available? | Yes, provided on request at no extra cost . |
Couples’ tips
Quiet pine forest, uncrowded beaches and sunset over the gulf make Hotel Giardino a romantic destination .
Romantic experiences
- Sunset at Capo Stella – Bring a bottle of local wine and toast as the sun sets behind Monte Cristo .
- Candlelit dinner on the terrace – The restaurant arranges private tables with candles, soft music and traditional dishes like cacciucco, stuffed squid and spaghetti with seafood, paired with Aleatico wine .
- Evening stroll in Capoliveri – Explore the artisan shops and enjoy an aperitif in the square .
- Spa & massages – On request, the hotel organises relaxing massages and wellness days at a partner spa in Portoferraio .
- Sunset boat trip – Hire a boat or join an evening mini‑cruise to swim at sunset in Cavoli or Fetovaia .
Couples’ FAQ
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can I request flowers or special services? | Yes; bouquets, champagne and fruit can be prepared in your room . |
| Can I book a romantic table? | Inform the hotel when reserving; they’ll arrange a table on the terrace or in a secluded garden area . |
| Do you offer honeymoon/anniversary packages? | Yes; packages include romantic stays, private boat tours and spa services . |
Tips for athletes and adventurers
The Elban landscape offers numerous activities for a dynamic April 25 break .
Running & trail running
The Giro Podistico dell’Elba runs between Lacona, Capoliveri, Marina di Campo and Porto Azzurro; training starts in April . Hotel staff provide maps for runs of 5–20 km; the Capo Stella loop and the path to Monte Tambone suit trail running .
Cycling & mountain biking
Elba is a cycling paradise. Legend Cup trails start from Capoliveri and wind through woods and along the sea; the hotel has a secure bike depot, workshop and cyclist‑friendly meals . Routes include Monte Orello, Remaiolo and Felciaio, and the scenic Costa dei Gabbiani road .
Water sports
• Surf, windsurf & kitesurf – The bay of Lacona is exposed to thermal winds; certified schools teach all levels .
• Sailing – Rent small sailboats or take lessons; explore hidden coves reachable only by sea .
• Sport fishing – Early‑morning outings with local fishermen; the hotel will cook your catch for dinner .
Climbing & adventure
Climbing is growing on Elba. Cliffs like San Andrea offer routes of varying difficulty; canyoning routes are found in the Civillina ravine, and there is a zip‑line near San Piero in Campo .
Sports FAQ
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is there laundry for sportswear? | Yes; a partner laundry offers same‑day pick‑up and delivery . |
| Can I rent gear? | Yes; the hotel rents bikes, e‑bikes, kayaks, SUPs, masks and fins; for diving equipment they cooperate with local centres . |
| Do you organise guided tours? | On request the hotel contacts environmental guides for trekking, kayak and MTB excursions . |
Food and flavours: where to eat
Beyond the hotel restaurant, Lacona offers a variety of places to discover Elban cuisine .
| Venue | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lo Zenzero | Seafood restaurant | Fresh Mediterranean fish: linguine allo scoglio, mixed fried fish, seafood salads; cosy with garden veranda . |
| Bagni Orano | Beach establishment with restaurant | Perfect for lunch on the beach: salads, sandwiches, simple dishes; sunbed and umbrella rental . |
| Fame Chimica | Street food | Gourmet sandwiches, hamburgers and fried snacks for a quick meal . |
| Mom Food Drink & Soul | Cocktail bar & bistro | Creative cuisine and cocktails (not described in detail but recommended) . |
| Miramar Bistrot | Bistro with creative cuisine | Innovative menu: tartare, cuttlefish ink tagliolini, homemade desserts; terrace overlooking the gulf . |
| Capoliveri farmhouses | Rustic farmhouse dining | Fixed menus with traditional dishes like gurguglione (vegetable stew), sbruciolona (vegetable omelette), grilled meats and the sweet schiaccia briaca . |
Elban specialities to try
- Cacciucco alla livornese – Hearty fish soup with tomato and bread .
- Totani ripieni – Squid stuffed with bread, garlic, parsley, pine nuts and slow‑cooked in white wine .
- Schiaccia briaca – Traditional sweet with raisins, pine nuts and Aleatico wine .
- Aleatico dell’Elba – Sweet passito wine, great with desserts or as an aperitif .
- Schiaccia unta – Thin crisp focaccia seasoned with extra‑virgin olive oil and brine, perfect with cold cuts and cheese .
Gastronomy FAQ
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Are vegetarian/vegan menus available? | Yes; the chef prepares dishes with seasonal vegetables and legumes . |
| Can you walk to farmhouses? | Some are a 30‑minute walk, others require a car; the staff can show you the best route or book a taxi . |
| Where to buy local products? | Capoliveri and Porto Azzurro have shops selling Aleatico wine, strawberry‑tree honey, fig jams and olive oil; Lacona’s weekly market sells cheeses and cold cuts . |
Best time to visit Elba: climate and tips
Elba has a Mediterranean climate; each season has its charms .
| Season | Average temperatures | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (March–May) | 14–20 °C; sea 15–17 °C | Colourful flowers, uncrowded beaches, ideal for trekking & MTB | Sea may still be cool for long swims; some tourist services reopen at end of March . |
| Summer (June–August) | 24–30 °C; sea 22–26 °C | Warm water, lively nightlife, many cultural events and festivals | Crowded beaches, higher prices, hot midday temperatures . |
| Late summer (September) | 20–27 °C; sea 23–25 °C | Pleasant climate, fewer crowds, sea still warm | Shorter days; some services start closing at the end of September . |
| Autumn (October–November) | 15–22 °C; sea 18–21 °C | Harvest festivals and chestnut roasts, colourful foliage, budget‑friendly | Possibility of thunderstorms; some activities close . |
| Winter (December–February) | 10–15 °C; sea 13–15 °C | Peaceful atmosphere, low prices, perfect for relaxation | Many services are closed; some internal roads may be slippery . |
Practical tips for an April stay
- Clothing – Pack layers: it’s warm during the day but cool mornings and evenings; include a light rain jacket and trekking shoes .
- Bookings – April is low season, but holidays like Easter, April 25 and May 1 can sell out; book the room and ferry early .
- Tours – For trips to Pianosa, Monte Cristo or the mines, pre‑booking is required because visitor numbers are limited .
- Children – Bring sun hats and sunscreen; choose easy trails (Capo Stella, Monte Tambone) and carry water .
- Dogs – Lacona’s beaches are pet‑friendly in low season; the hotel provides bowls, waste bags and a map of dog‑friendly trails .
Travel and transport
Getting to Elba
- Ferry – The main route is from Piombino to Portoferraio (≈ 60 min). Alternative ports are Rio Marina (45 min) and Cavo (30 min). Bookings are recommended for holiday weekends; Hotel Giardino offers a 20 % ferry discount .
- Air – The Marina di Campo / La Pila airport has seasonal and charter flights operated by Silver Air from Milan Linate, Pisa and Florence; the hotel is about 15 min from the airport .
- Train – The Piombino Marittima railway station is connected via Pisa and Campiglia Marittima. From the station you can board a ferry immediately .
Getting around
The best way to explore Elba is by car, but alternatives include:
- Bus – CTT buses connect the main towns; schedules are reduced in low season .
- Taxi – Available in Portoferraio, Marina di Campo and Capoliveri; book ahead for evening travel .
- Scooter rental – Popular for navigating narrow streets and easy parking; hotel guests receive discounts .
- Bikes & e‑bikes – Ideal for the Capo Stella and Monte Orello trails; rentals are available .
Suggested 7‑day itinerary
The hotel staff recommend balancing beach time, walks and cultural visits. Here’s a sample week :
- Day 1 – Relax in Lacona: settle into the hotel, explore the park, enjoy the beach and dine on fresh fish .
- Day 2 – Capoliveri & mines: stroll through Capoliveri’s alleys, visit the Sea Museum, ride the train to the Monte Calamita mines and stop at Innamorata beach .
- Day 3 – Portoferraio & Napoleon: walk along the Medici walls, tour Napoleon’s villas, lunch on local dishes and sunbathe on Sansone or Le Ghiaie .
- Day 4 – Monte Tambone hike & wine tasting: hike to the summit and enjoy a farm lunch with Ansonica and Aleatico wines; relax in the park or visit Margidore beach .
- Day 5 – Pianosa or boat trip: take a day trip to Pianosa to see Roman catacombs and the old penal colony, or join a boat trip along the south coast with snorkelling and lunch .
- Day 6 – Western tour: visit Fetovaia’s white sands, explore San Piero and Pomonte, take a boat tour to the Elviscot wreck, and ride the cable car to Monte Capanne .
- Day 7 – Free day & sports: choose your favourite activity – snorkelling, cycling the Capo Stella loop, a cooking class or simply relaxing on the beach; end with a late check‑out .
Curiosities and local stories
Elba has a rich history and folklore :
Napoleon’s exile
In 1814 Napoleon Bonaparte was exiled to Elba. During his ten months on the island he reorganised administration, improved roads and founded the Teatro dei Vigilanti. His personal flag with three golden bees became a symbol of Elba .
The Polluce treasure
The steamship Polluce sank off Capoliveri in 1841 carrying gold, silver and porcelain; part of the treasure was recovered in 2002 and is displayed at the Capoliveri Sea Museum .
Traditional sweets
Schiaccia briaca is a sweet bread with raisins, pine nuts and Aleatico wine; sailors baked it because it kept well on long voyages. The sportella is an Easter pastry exchanged by engaged couples on Easter morning as a token of love .
Mining heritage and emigration
For centuries the island’s economy depended on iron production. Harsh conditions forced many Elbans to emigrate to the mainland or abroad. Today the Rio Marina and Capoliveri mines are open to visitors and tell the story of miners and technological progress .
Pelagos sanctuary
Elba’s waters belong to the Pelagos Sanctuary, a marine protected area established in 1999 by Italy, France and Monaco. Between spring and summer you can spot dolphins, striped dolphins and sometimes even sperm whales .
FAQ about staying at Hotel Giardino
Booking and payment
- How can I book? – Via the hotel’s website, phone or email. A 30 % deposit is required; the balance is paid on arrival .
- Cancellation penalty? – Free cancellation up to 14 days before arrival. After that, the deposit is retained; if bad weather prevents travel, you can postpone the stay or use the credit later .
- Do you accept the holiday bonus? – The hotel does not accept the government holiday bonus but offers promotions like 7 = 6 and discounts for children .
Rooms
- Room types – Double, triple and quadruple rooms; some on the ground floor with private patio, others on the first floor with balcony .
- Daily cleaning – Yes, with linen change on request .
- Accessible rooms – Two ground‑floor rooms are accessible for guests with reduced mobility .
Services
- Pets – Dogs are welcome; let the hotel know when booking. There are green areas and outdoor showers to rinse them after the beach .
- Check‑in/out times – Check‑in from 14:00; check‑out by 10:00. The April 25 package includes late check‑out until 14:00 .
- Wi‑Fi in rooms? – Wi‑Fi covers common areas; coverage in rooms is weak but being improved .
- Swimming pool? – No; the hotel prefers to enhance the nearby protected beach .
- Barbecue? – Organised barbecue evenings are held; guests cannot light individual fires .
Offers and packages
- How do ferry discounts work? – The hotel books tickets with a 20 % discount and sends a code for online purchase or at ticket offices .
- Are packages combinable? – Some offers (e.g., 7 = 6 and the April 25 package) cannot be combined; sports packages can be combined with long‑stay discounts .
- Group offers? – Yes; groups of over ten receive 15 % off and customised menus, boat trips and guided tours .
Activities and services
- Cooking classes? – On request; learn to prepare schiaccia briaca, cacciucco and anchovy sauce; participants receive a recipe booklet .
- Massages and beauty treatments? – Professional masseurs can come to the hotel, or appointments can be arranged at external spas .
- Weddings or ceremonies? – The hotel hosts intimate ceremonies in the garden and banquet hall (approx. 60 people) and assists with menu and decoration choices .
Additional cultural insights
Etruscan and Roman origins
Etruscans were the first to exploit Elba’s resources; traces of settlements and necropolises remain near Portoferraio and Capoliveri. Romans later integrated the island into their empire, calling it Ilva and building seaside villas. Iron and Vinum Iulium wine production made Elba famous .
Napoleon and the bee flag
Napoleon’s 1814 arrival modernised Elba: he built roads, reformed the administration and hoisted his white flag with red diagonal bands and golden bees . The 1815 ordinance introduced tax reforms and benefits for fishermen and farmers .
Language and traditions
The Elban dialect derives from southern Tuscan with Ligurian and Corsican influences. Each area has unique accents; traditions like the Sportella on Easter Monday, the fishermen’s blessing of boats on the Feast of San Giuseppe and village celebrations remain strong . Stories of smugglers, pirates and ghosts are passed down through generations .
Love of the sea
Elbans have a symbiotic relationship with the sea; tuna fisheries at Cavo and Portoferraio and wooden boat construction at Marciana Marina bear witness to this heritage. Dishes like cacciucco evolved from humble fishermen’s soups . Fishing boats often display sacred images such as the Madonna del Mare, and historic regattas like the Palio dell’Assunta are still held .
Mining heritage
The limonite mines of Rio Marina and the magnetite quarries of Monte Calamita were exploited for centuries. Guided tours reveal underground galleries and tell stories of miners’ lives and labour disputes .
Flora and fauna
Elba hosts diverse habitats: coastal dunes with sea lilies and junipers, Mediterranean scrub with strawberry tree, myrtle, lentisk and rock‑rose, chestnut forests and mountain meadows with wild orchids . Rare species like Rhamnus pirifolia are endemic to the Tuscan archipelago .
Wildlife includes wild boar, deer, foxes and weasels; migratory birds such as peregrine falcons and herons; and over fifty butterfly species at the Santuario delle Farfalle . In the sea you might encounter sea bream, groupers, barracuda, dolphins and, in spring, even sperm whales .
Guide to Elba’s main beaches
- South coast – Lacona (long sandy beach with dunes), Laconella (white sand cove), Margidore (dark shingle beach), Norsi (pebble beach and tranquillity) .
- West coast – Cavoli (fine sand and emerald water), Fetovaia (turquoise bay), Seccheto (sand and polished granite) .
- North coast – Le Ghiaie (white pebbles, marine protected area), Sansone (tiny white‑pebble bay), Capo Bianco (long white shingle) .
- East coast – Barbarossa (dark sand and green water), Ortano (sand and shingle with an islet), Cala Seregola (black mining beach with turquoise water) .
- North‑west coast – Marciana Marina (pebbly bay with promenade and artisan shops) and Procchio (long sandy beach, family‑friendly) .
Preparing for your trip
Packing and equipment
Bring swimwear, beach towels, trekking shoes, breathable T‑shirts, a sweatshirt or jacket for cooler April evenings, a light backpack and a reusable water bottle. Insect repellent, high‑SPF sunscreen and a hat are essential .
Documents and safety
Carry a valid identity document; digital copies of passport or ID are useful. Check car insurance and safety equipment. Elba has a hospital in Portoferraio and tourist medical services in summer; consider travel insurance .
Connectivity
Mobile coverage is generally good, though mountainous areas may have dead spots. Bring a power bank. Wi‑Fi is available in common areas of the hotel; ask for a quiet garden spot with power outlets for remote working .
Environmental respect
Elba is fragile. Stick to trails, do not pick protected plants, avoid littering and use refillable bottles. Do not light unauthorised fires; support local products to sustain the economy and reduce impact .
Travel diaries and testimonials
Hotel Giardino shares anonymous guest stories to inspire your trip .
The sporty family
A family with two children spent the April 25 weekend hiking Capo Stella, attending commemorations in Portoferraio and using electric bikes to explore Monte Orello. The kids made friends playing ping‑pong, and the parents appreciated the energy‑rich breakfast and staff advice .
The romantic couple
For their anniversary, a couple enjoyed a sunset boat tour with Aleatico wine, a candlelit dinner on the terrace featuring fresh fish and a trip to Capoliveri and Laconella beach .
The solo traveller
A photographer found inspiration in Lacona’s dawn light, documented the April 25 ceremony in Porto Azzurro and photographed rare butterflies at the Santuario delle Farfalle. Evenings were spent editing photos in the hotel using Wi‑Fi and sharing experiences with other guests .
The group of adventurer friends
Four friends chose the hotel for its proximity to Legend Cup routes. They cycled Capo Stella, Monte Tambone and the mines, watched a stage of the Rallye Elba and enjoyed hearty meals and secure bike storage .
Additional questions & answers
• Are there nudist beaches? – Yes, Acquarilli between Lacona and Norsi; access is by boat or a steep path; no dogs in high season .
• Accessible trails? – Parts of Portoferraio’s scenic walkway and Marina di Campo’s promenade are wheelchair‑friendly; Lacona and Fetovaia beaches have ramps and job chairs .
• Recommended museums? – In addition to Napoleon’s villas and the Sea Museum, visit the Rio Marina mining museum, Portoferraio’s archaeological museum (Linguella) and the Foresiana Museum; contemporary art lovers can see the Italo Bolano gallery .
• Spring festivals? – Besides the Sportella festival and April 25 events, there’s the Feast of Santa Chiara in Marciana Marina, the Festa dell’Innamorata in Capoliveri in May, and the Madonna del Monserrato celebration in Porto Azzurro in June .
• Winter visits? – Winter offers quiet landscapes and mild temperatures; the hotel opens on request with special rates. Over Christmas the island lights up with nativity scenes and markets .
• Bringing your own bike? – Yes; the hotel’s bike depot is secure. If you travel by train or plane the hotel can organise transport for your bike .
• Best photo viewpoints? – Forte Falcone, Monte Capanne, Capo Stella, Monte Orello, the San Giovanni tower and the panoramic road from Procchio to Marina di Campo .
• Are 2026 events confirmed? – As of publication, events follow tradition; dates and formats may change, so check official websites before departure .
Contact information
- Hotel Giardino – Viale dei Golfi 936, Lacona (Capoliveri) – Isola d’Elba .
- Phone: +39 0565 964059 .
- Mobile: +39 335 7925420 .
- Email: info@elbahotelgiardino.it .
For reservations and further details, visit the hotel’s website or contact them directly.
Enjoy your Liberation Day getaway at Hotel Giardino and experience the colours, scents and stories of Elba!