Introduction
Elba Island is a perfect destination for anyone who loves immersing themselves in nature and discovering breathtaking scenery at a gentle pace. With panoramic paths, golden beaches, scented woods and small villages overlooking the sea, Elba offers an incredible variety of routes suitable for everyone, even those looking for simple, relaxing walks .
In this dedicated guide by the staff of Hotel Giardino we take you to the best easy trekking routes on the island, ideal for families, couples or those who want to enjoy the beauty of the landscape without tackling big climbs . Each trail tells a story – of lush nature embracing the sea, ancient mines, views that change at every turn and sunsets that paint cliffs red . Walking along these paths is the most authentic way to discover Elba’s soul .
Which easy trekking itineraries are best for families on Elba?
Elba offers numerous panoramic routes with low difficulty, perfect for families with children and beginner hikers . The staff have selected a series of short but spectacular paths that combine the pleasure of walking with relaxing at the beach .
Passeggiata Carmignani (Porto Azzurro – Barbarossa Beach)
- Distance/time: about 1.6 km, 15 minutes .
- Difficulty: very easy; practically flat and illuminated .
- Description: This equipped path with sea‑view benches connects the town of Porto Azzurro to Barbarossa Beach. Because it is almost level and well lit, it is ideal for pushchairs and children .
Walk to Terranera Lake (Barbarossa Beach – Terranera Lake)
- Distance/time: about 1.7 km, 20 minutes .
- Difficulty: very easy .
- Description: Starting from Barbarossa Beach, a comfortable dirt path climbs gently to the small lake and Terranera Beach. In just twenty minutes you reach this quiet inlet, which is also suitable for children .
Sentiero della Salute (Biodola – Procchio)
- Distance/time: about 2.8 km, 1 hour .
- Difficulty: very easy; elevation gain about 63 m .
- Description: Known as the “Path of Health,” it links the long sandy beach of Biodola with that of Procchio. This pleasant hour‑long walk runs through low Mediterranean scrub and is almost flat . It is perfect for children and those who want a relaxing excursion .
Summary of Easy Routes
| Itinerary | Start | End | Length | Time | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Passeggiata Carmignani | Porto Azzurro | Barbarossa Beach | 1.6 km | 15 min | Very easy |
| Walk to Terranera Lake | Barbarossa Beach | Terranera Lake | 1.7 km | 20 min | Very easy |
| Sentiero della Salute | Biodola | Procchio | 2.8 km | 1 hour | Very easy |
These short yet scenic routes are excellent examples of easy itineraries on Elba .
Tips for Preparing an Easy Hike on Elba
Even on simple trails it’s important to take some precautions. The guide recommends :
- Wear comfortable walking or trekking shoes with a non‑slip sole .
- Carry plenty of water, a hat and sunscreen, especially in summer .
- The Elban paths are well maintained, but always carry a map or use trekking apps .
- In summer, avoid the midday heat by walking early in the morning or late afternoon .
- Spring and autumn (temperatures around 14–17 °C) are ideal: the weather is mild and the sea still draws those seeking refreshment after walking .
- In winter, many trails remain accessible, but tourist services are reduced; plan accordingly .
Why Is Hotel Giardino an Ideal Base for Trekking on Elba?
Hotel Giardino, located in the Lacona area of Capoliveri, is a welcoming family‑run property perfectly embedded in greenery: it sits in a 30,000–35,000 m² pine park . Its strategic location makes it convenient both for proximity to the sea and for exploring the island . It is only 100 m from Lacona’s long golden beach, reachable in a few minutes via a path through the park .
The hotel is also just 10–15 minutes by car from the island’s main towns (Marina di Campo, Capoliveri, Porto Azzurro and Portoferraio) , where many marked trekking routes begin. After a hike, the wide beach of Lacona is ideal for relaxing or playing with children .
Services for Families and Hikers
Hotel Giardino offers useful amenities after a day outdoors :
- Clean and comfortable rooms with TV, air conditioning and safe; many have balconies or private patios .
- A large free numbered car park inside the garden and Wi‑Fi in common areas .
- A small playground, ping‑pong table and table football for children .
- Shaded pine forest for relaxing, and an equipped barbecue area .
- A rich buffet breakfast with local specialities , and a restaurant serving varied home‑style dishes suitable for children .
- Friendly staff always available to provide information on trails and the surrounding area .
What to Visit Near Hotel Giardino
In addition to Lacona beach, many attractions lie nearby :
- Capoliveri: an ancient mining village perched on a hill, with a Sea Museum and picturesque streets with shops and trattorias . The coastline around Capoliveri is rich in beautiful bays; within a short distance are the coves of Morcone, Pareti and Innamorata, and the quiet beaches of Naregno, Madonna delle Grazie, Felciaio and Norsi . The Calamita Mines on the promontory are also worth visiting for those interested in mining history .
- Porto Azzurro and Marina di Campo: characteristic seaside towns with fortifications, small harbours and tourist services .
- Gulf of Lacona area: includes a small Christian cave (the “Third Beach” of Lacona) and numerous naturalistic trails; the nearby promontory of Margidore is ideal for a seaside stroll .
Hotel Giardino is therefore in the heart of a protected natural environment yet only 10–15 minutes from the main urban and cultural centres .
How to Reach Elba and Logistical Tips
Elba is easily reachable by ferry from the port of Piombino Marittima (approx. 1 hour crossing) . The main companies (Toremar, Moby Lines, BluNavy) run numerous daily crossings to Portoferraio, and there are links to the smaller ports of Rio Marina and Cavo . Thanks to agreements with the hotel, guests can book ferry tickets at discounted rates .
Upon arrival, visitors will find a wide range of rentals (car, scooter, bike and e‑bike) in Lacona and Capoliveri . These rentals make it easy to explore the island and reach trailheads . In summer there are public bus lines and shuttle services to the beaches, but for trekking a car remains the best solution . Hotel Giardino has a shaded private car park and secure spaces for bicycles .
When Is the Best Season for Trekking on Elba?
Elba’s mild climate (annual average ~15–16 °C) allows hiking in almost every season . However, the mid‑seasons (April–May and September–October) are most suitable: spring and autumn temperatures (14–17 °C) make excursions comfortable, vegetation is lush and summer crowds are reduced . June–September is also acceptable for trekking, but it’s advisable to start early in the morning to avoid afternoon heat . In winter many low‑altitude trails remain accessible, especially along the coast and the Colli di Lacona area; however, check the opening of facilities as some hotels and restaurants close in the low season .
Useful Contacts and Emergency Numbers
For emergencies on Elba, use the following numbers and contacts :
| Service / Office | Contact |
|---|---|
| Hotel Giardino (Lacona, Capoliveri) | Tel. +39 0565 964059 – Mob. +39 335 7925420 – Email info@elbahotelgiardino.it |
| General emergency (NUE) | 112 (free; dispatches police, carabinieri and fire brigade) |
| Ambulance | 118 |
| Fire brigade | 115 |
| Police (Portoferraio) | Tel. 0565 919511 |
| Carabinieri (Capoliveri) | Tel. 0565 968401 |
| Emergency room (Portoferraio) | Tel. 0565 926111 |
| INFO Point Lacona (summer) | Pro Loco Lacona, Tel. +39 0565 967650 |
| Pro Loco Campo nell’Elba | Tel. +39 0565 976792 |
| Pro Loco Capoliveri | Tel. +39 0565 967650 / +39 339 3307145 |
| Car/scooter hire | Numerous offices in Lacona and Capoliveri |
Conclusion
Hotel Giardino in Lacona is the ideal place to start easy excursions on Elba . The proximity to the beach and nature, combined with welcoming services for families (playground, abundant breakfast, parking), make it the perfect base after a day of walking . From the hotel you can easily access short, scenic routes, while nearby you can alternate relaxing days on the beach (Lacona, Margidore, Lido), visits to historic villages (Capoliveri, Porto Azzurro) and woodland walks . All together, this guarantees an active holiday suitable for families. Happy trekking!