Welcome to the heart of Elba
On 2 June Italy celebrates Republic Day. In 2026 it falls on a Tuesday, creating a long weekend – a perfect opportunity for a seaside and nature break .
June marks the start of summer on Elba: days are long, the climate is mild and the beaches are still quiet .
Our family‑run Hotel Giardino is in Lacona, a hamlet of Capoliveri, immersed in a 30 000 m² park of maritime pines. We’re less than 100 m from Lacona beach, accessible via sandy dunes .
Rooms have private bathrooms, satellite TV and safes; many feature balconies or patios and air conditioning . The home‑style kitchen serves simple yet tasty dishes, with special care for children .
For Republic Day 2026 we offer packages including accommodation, full board featuring local dishes, guided excursions, historic tours and boat trips. Reservations open a year ahead – early booking is recommended as May and June see rising visitor numbers due to mild temperatures and favourable prices .
1. Hotel Giardino: your nature retreat
1.1 History and philosophy
Born from a family dream, Hotel Giardino has welcomed travellers for decades with the simplicity of island hospitality . It sits in the centre of the Gulf of Lacona, renowned for its golden sand and Mediterranean scents . Though services have been modernised, the two‑star character with accessible prices and attention to guests remains .
According to booking portals the hotel is described as a family‑run property immersed in a large pine park, with three separate buildings, modern comforts (flat‑screen TV, Wi‑Fi, safe) and simple but tasty cooking . Each room has a numbered parking space; some have balconies or private gardens, and many are air‑conditioned . Pets are welcome under certain conditions .
Main services include:
- Free Wi‑Fi in public areas and guest rooms .
- Shaded parking reserved for guests .
- Restaurant & bar, serving home‑style menus based on local ingredients .
- Children’s play area with small playground, table football and ping‑pong .
- Laundry and daily cleaning services .
- Bike and sports equipment rental, including e‑bikes, paddle boards, snorkelling and diving gear .
- Partnerships with diving & snorkeling centres .
- Discounted ferry tickets .
- An informal atmosphere where staff, mainly family members, share tips on hidden beaches and walks .
1.2 Room types and accommodations
The hotel has three buildings amid greenery. Rooms are classified as Classic, Comfort and Family, all with private bathroom, flat‑screen TV and safe . Comfort rooms include air conditioning and a balcony or patio; Family rooms consist of two connecting rooms with two bathrooms and spacious terraces or private gardens .
Rooms are cleaned daily, bed linen is changed every three days (more on request), and cots and high chairs are available free . Ground‑floor rooms are accessible for guests with reduced mobility .
Summary of room categories
| Category | Size (m²) | Capacity | Included services |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic | 14–16 | 2 adults + 1 child | Shower bathroom, flat‑screen TV, safe, mini‑fridge, Wi‑Fi |
| Comfort | 16–18 | 2 adults + 2 children | All Classic services + air conditioning, balcony or patio, park view |
| Family | 24–28 | Up to 4 people | Two communicating rooms, two bathrooms, two TVs, large terrace or garden |
1.3 Cuisine: home cooking with local products
Breakfast is buffet style with homemade cakes, Elban honey, organic jams, fresh fruit, yogurt and Tuscan cold cuts . Lunch and dinner include homemade pasta, fresh fish, garden vegetables and locally sourced meat . The house dessert is schiaccia briaca, enriched with Aleatico wine, nuts and raisins . The chef accommodates intolerances and allergies if advised .
For the Republic Day weekend there are themed menus: on 2 June lunch might feature a green‑white‑red tricolour lasagne, while dinner offers a buffet with Elban specialities such as stoccafisso alla riese, gurguglione and Aleatico biscuits, accompanied by Italian sparkling wine and the national anthem .
1.4 Relaxation area and children’s activities
The pine park surrounding the hotel allows guests to relax in hammocks, join yoga or meditation sessions and walk along internal paths . A children’s area has slides, swings, ping‑pong and table football, with mini tournaments and creative workshops on rainy days .
1.5 Additional services
- Bike & MTB hire – Explore Capo Stella and the scrubland; from 2025 e‑bikes are available .
- Guided excursions – Environmental guides organise Capo Stella hikes, snorkelling trips to Punta della Contessa and boat tours to hidden coves .
- Discount ferry tickets – Purchase discounted ferry tickets via reception, especially useful for early bookings .
- Shuttle service – Transfers to/from Portoferraio port or Marina di Campo airport on request .
- Sports activities – Tennis, mini‑golf and yoga classes; sailing and windsurfing lessons with a local instructor .
1.6 Guest reviews
Reviews on booking portals in 2025 gave the hotel an average score of 8.4/10, with high marks for cleanliness (8.8), location (8.8) and service (8.6). Guests appreciate the staff’s friendliness, the peace of the pine park, proximity to Lacona beach and the value for money .
1.7 Republic Day 2026 offers
For the Republic Day bridge we offer 3‑ or 4‑night packages with half or full board:
- Accommodation in a Comfort room with balcony/patio .
- Buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner with drinks included .
- Gala dinner on 1 June with live music .
- Free guided excursion on 2 June: choose between the Zen walk in Lacona or the Capo Stella trek .
- 20 % discount on ferry tickets .
- Free stay for children up to 12 years old sharing with two adults .
For personalised quotes contact the hotel; packages can be tailored to the number of nights, family size and selected activities .
2. Climate and weather in June: when spring meets summer
Early June on Elba offers Mediterranean warmth. The average high temperature is 26.1 °C, low 17 °C, with an average of 21.6 °C . There are about 5 rainy days in the month, and the sea temperature is around 23.2 °C, perfect for the first swims . Predominant winds are the northwest Mistral, which cools the air, and the southeast Scirocco, bringing warmer, humid weather .
June climate summary
| Indicator | Average value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum temperature | 26.1 °C | InfoElba 2024 |
| Minimum temperature | 17 °C | InfoElba 2024 |
| Mean temperature | 21.6 °C | InfoElba 2024 |
| Rainy days per month | 5 | InfoElba 2024 |
| Sea temperature | 23.2 °C | InfoElba 2024 |
| Daily daylight hours | ~15 h | Astronomical calculation near solstice |
| Sunset times | 20:45–21:00 | Local observations |
Recommended clothing
Dress in layers: mornings and evenings can be cool, so bring a sweatshirt or light sweater . During the day a T‑shirt, shorts and swimwear suffice . Do not forget a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen – UV rays are strong even if temperatures aren’t high . A waterproof jacket or k‑way may be handy for occasional showers .
Nature in June
June is a beautiful month to admire the blooming Mediterranean scrub. On Capo Stella the spiny broom paints the slopes yellow, filling the air with fragrance . In the holm‑oak woods you may see butterflies at the Santuario delle Farfalle, while the dunes of Lacona bloom with sea lilies (Pancratium maritimum) – white perfumed flowers protected by the National Park .
3. Getting to Elba
3.1 Ferries and maritime links
Ferries connect the island with the mainland from Piombino. The main route goes to Portoferraio (about 1 h 10 min), while other routes run to Rio Marina (45 min) and Cavo (35 min by ferry, 20 min by hydrofoil) . High‑speed ferries carry passengers only and reach Cavo in 20 min .
Ferry crossings operate year‑round with increased frequency during holidays and high season. Book early if travelling with a car, especially at Easter, April 25, May 1 and the Republic Day weekend . E‑tickets are available and can be shown on your smartphone. Secure parking is available in Piombino .
Ferry route summary
| Route | Duration | Operators | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Piombino → Portoferraio | 1 h 10 min | Moby, Toremar, Blu Navy | Main route with high frequency |
| Piombino → Rio Marina | 45 min | Toremar | Fewer sailings; ideal for the eastern side |
| Piombino → Cavo | 35 min (ferry), 20 min (hydrofoil) | Toremar | Shortest route; hydrofoil continues to Portoferraio |
| Portoferraio → Piombino | 1 h 10 min | All | Return to mainland |
3.2 Arriving by air
Marina di Campo Airport (EBA) is 11 km from the hotel. Seasonal flights (April–October) connect Elba with Pisa, Milan Linate, Bologna and Bern . A shuttle service can be booked .
3.3 Getting to the hotel from airport or port
- By car: From Portoferraio’s roundabout follow signs to Lacona–Capoliveri (SP24). After about 8 km, turn right for Lacona and follow Viale dei Golfi to number 936 .
- By bus: In summer buses connect Portoferraio to Capoliveri and Lacona; the nearest stop is “Lacona–Vigne Vecchie” (300 m from the hotel) .
- By taxi or shuttle: The hotel can arrange direct transfers at agreed prices .
3.4 Travel tips
- Book the ferry as soon as your room is confirmed to enjoy discounted fares .
- If you bring a car, park it in the hotel’s numbered space .
- Arrive early in Piombino; boarding can take time during high season and holiday weekends .
- Hydrofoils are ideal without a vehicle but can be affected by strong winds .
4. What to see and do near Hotel Giardino
4.1 Lacona beach and dunes
Lacona beach is Elba’s second‑longest (≈1 200 m), a crescent of golden sand with transparent water . Facing south and sheltered by green hills and the Capo Stella promontory, its dunes host the protected sea lily; the dunes are the archipelago’s last dune system .
There are long free stretches and beach clubs renting umbrellas, deck chairs, canoes and pedal boats. A natural pinewood offers shade and coolness . The shallow seabed makes Lacona ideal for families . Bars, restaurants and diving centres line the beach . In November 2023, 89 loggerhead turtle hatchlings were recorded here .
4.2 Capo Stella trail
The Capo Stella promontory separates the gulfs of Lacona and Stella. This scenic route follows a tongue of land projecting into the sea, offering views of the small island of Corbella and the beaches below .
Tips: set off in the morning or late afternoon to avoid heat; there are no refreshments, so carry water, a hat and trekking shoes . In spring and autumn you may see peregrine falcons nesting on the cliffs .
4.3 Capoliveri and Monte Calamita
Capoliveri (167 m a.s.l.) sits on the slopes of Monte Calamita and boasts medieval charm . The name may derive from Caput Liberum, referring to Bacchus because of surrounding vineyards . The Pisani fortified it to ward off pirates like Dragut; the mountain’s magnetite made compasses misbehave, giving rise to its name Calamita (magnet) .
Highlights include:
- Ginevro Mine – Europe’s largest magnetite gallery, reaching 54 m below sea level; visits depart from the “Old Workshop Museum” and must be booked .
- Calamita mine trail – Links the mines of Calamita and Sassi Neri, with panoramic points over Monte Cristo .
- Beaches – The Capoliveri area has many beaches: Barabarca, Calanova, Felciaio, Ferrato, Innamorata, Lacona, Lido, Morcone, Naregno, Norsi, Pareti, Straccoligno, Zuccale and others . Each has its character, from fine sand to pebbles and secluded coves.
- Forte Focardo – Star‑shaped fortress built in 1678 by the Spanish; not open to visitors but visible from the path to Naregno beach .
- Events – Capoliveri hosts the Festa dell’Innamorata on 14 July (re‑enacting a love legend), the Festa dell’Uva in October and the Capoliveri Legend Cup MTB race in May .
4.4 Portoferraio: history, fortifications and museums
Portoferraio, the island capital and main port, was founded by Etruscans and Romans; Cosimo I de’ Medici renamed it Cosmopoli in 1548 and built fortifications (Falcone, Stella and Linguella) connected by imposing walls . From Forte Falcone there are magnificent views .
Key sights:
- Palazzina dei Mulini – Napoleon’s winter residence during his exile (May 1814 – February 1815) .
- Villa San Martino – Napoleon’s summer home, with the Egyptian Hall and the Doves’ Hall; a Doric gallery built by Prince Demidoff hosts Napoleonic relics .
- Linguella Archaeological Museum – Housed in the old salt warehouses, exhibits artefacts from the 8th century BC to the 5th century AD .
- Foresiana Gallery – Displays paintings, books and scores donated by collector Mario Foresi .
- San Giovanni spa – The island’s only thermal spa, known for mud treatments .
- Beaches – Portoferraio offers variety: sandy beaches (Scaglieri, Forno), mixed sand and pebbles (Bagnaia, Ottone, Le Viste, Viticcio, Le Ghiaie) and dazzling white pebble beaches (Capo Bianco, Sansone, Seccione) .
- Volterraio Castle – A 12th‑century Pisan fortress with panoramic views .
- Events – The Elba, Musical Island of Europe festival takes place in September at Teatro dei Vigilanti (commissioned by Napoleon) .
4.5 Porto Azzurro: picturesque fishing village
On the east coast lies Porto Azzurro, once a Spanish fortress (Porto Longone). The main square, Piazza Matteotti, overlooks the harbour .
Highlights include: Forte San Giacomo (still a prison), the Madonna del Monserrato sanctuary (1606) on a nearby hill , the Piccola Miniera mining museum with a train for children , and beaches such as Barbarossa, Terranera, Rossa, Pianotta and the island’s first dog beach . The area is known for diving and for events like the Fisherman’s Festival on 25 July and the Madonna di Monserrato feast on 8 September . The local speciality is the schiaccia briaca .
4.6 Campo nell’Elba and Marina di Campo
The southern municipality of Campo nell’Elba includes Marina di Campo, once a fishing village with a palm‑lined promenade and the island’s longest sandy beach . A 25 m Pisan tower stands at the western end .
Nearby attractions: the hill villages of Sant’Ilario and San Piero with Romanesque churches and coastal views ; beaches such as Fetovaia, Cavoli, Seccheto, Colle Palombaia and Fonza ; Pianosa Island, part of the national park and accessible on day trips ; the San Giovanni Tower and Santuario delle Farfalle on Monte Perone, where the Butterfly Festival is held on 2 June ; and events like the butterfly festival and Marcianella race (8.7 km) .
4.7 Marciana, Marciana Marina and the north‑west coast
The north‑west is dominated by Monte Capanne (1 019 m), reachable by cable car from Marciana . The village holds a Civic Archaeological Museum and a Pisan fortress. Marciana Marina features colourful houses and a Medici tower along the waterfront . Beaches in the west include Chiessi, Pomonte (near the Elviscot wreck), Patresi and Sant’Andrea . Granite cliffs create natural pools ideal for snorkelling . In Pomonte you can swim to the shipwreck just a few metres offshore .
4.8 Rio nell’Elba and Rio Marina
The eastern side is less touristic and retains a mining charm. Rio nell’Elba is perched in the hills; in 2016 the town held a Republic Day parade with wreath laying, mass and mayoral speech . Rio Marina hosts the Elba Mineral Museum and trails through ancient hematite mines; the coast has rugged dark‑sand coves .
4.9 Trails and routes for athletes
Beyond Capo Stella and the mining paths, notable trails include :
- Monte Perone & Butterfly Loop – 4 km trail in the Butterfly Sanctuary where Legambiente and the Park organise the Butterfly & Pollinator Festival on 2 June, with picnic and acoustic concert . Suitable for families.
- Marcianella Loop (Anello di Marciana) – 8.7 km with 280 m elevation through chestnut forests; a non‑competitive run open to walkers .
- Health Trail in Portoferraio – Walk among Medici bastions and the ancient powder magazine with sea views .
- Perfume Trail in Marciana Marina – Aromatic plant path with views toward Capraia and Corsica .
5. Events and traditions during the Republic Day weekend
5.1 Official ceremonies
In Portoferraio the official ceremony takes place in the municipal palace cloister. The 2025 programme (likely similar in 2026) included greetings at 11:00, a speech by the mayor and the national anthem; civil and military authorities, associations and citizens participate . Other municipalities hold similar ceremonies with wreath laying at monuments to the fallen .
5.2 Excursions and sports
During the holiday various outdoor activities take place :
- Zen walk in Lacona – A meditative walk guided by Zen monk Dao Phuong along the Porticciolo trail, encouraging silent walking and connection with nature . Participants are advised to walk barefoot to feel the earth .
- Marcianella – Non‑competitive 8.7 km run with 280 m elevation in Marciana, plus guided walk and children’s races .
- Butterfly & Pollinator Festival – Organised by Legambiente on Monte Perone, with a 4 km nature walk, picnic and acoustic concert; free but reservation required .
- Cultural events – Film screenings, book presentations and art exhibitions; in 2025 films were shown at Portoferraio’s Cinema De Laugier and Capoliveri’s Flamingo .
5.3 Popular traditions and legends
The legend of the Innamorata tells of Maria and Lorenzo. Lorenzo was captured by pirates at Cala de lo Fero; Maria dived in to save him and disappeared. Her shawl was the only trace. Don Domingo ordered a thousand torches to be lit each 14 July to guide the lovers . Today Capoliveri’s rioni compete to retrieve a shawl thrown into the sea, followed by fireworks and a midnight swim . Sharing the legend during the Republic Day weekend links celebrations with local lore .
5.4 Food and conviviality
Republic Day is a national celebration, and many island restaurants offer tricolour menus or tasting menus. At Hotel Giardino the gala dinner includes pesto pasta, almond‑crusted fish and Aleatico ice cream, accompanied by local products . Village squares host stalls selling wine, honey, olive oil and crafts .
6. Typical dishes and local products
6.1 Schiaccia briaca
This moist sweet has a long history. Originally alcohol‑free and prepared by Barbary pirates for voyages, it was later enriched with Aleatico wine, nuts, raisins, pine nuts and honey . Baked at 180 °C for 30–40 minutes, it keeps well and makes an excellent souvenir .
6.2 Fish and seafood
Elban waters provide prized fish like grouper, gilthead seabream, dentex and umbrine. Signature dishes include :
- Cacciucco alla elbana – A milder fish soup than the Livorno version, made with rock fish, molluscs and crustaceans .
- Boiled octopus with potatoes – Dressed with oil, lemon and parsley .
- Stoccafisso alla riese – Traditional Rio dish of soaked stockfish with potatoes, tomatoes and olives .
- Gurguglione – Vegetable stew of aubergines, peppers, onions and tomatoes, similar to ratatouille .
6.3 Wines
Elba’s DOCG Aleatico Passito is a ruby‑red dessert wine with aromas of red fruit and roses, perfect with schiaccia briaca . Procanico (Trebbiano) and Ansonica are white wines ideal with fish, while red varieties like Sangioveto and Syrah grow on the slopes of Capoliveri and Porto Azzurro . Wineries offer tastings and tours .
6.4 Inland produce
Elba produces millefiori honey, extra‑virgin olive oil from terraced groves, goat and sheep cheeses and jams made from figs and berries . Some farms offer tours with tastings and workshops for children .
7. Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
7.1 Bookings and offers
When do bookings open for the June 2, 2026 weekend? – They are already open. We recommend contacting the reception by December 2025 to secure Comfort and Family rooms; prices vary by room category and stay length. A 20 % ferry discount is always included .
Is a deposit required? – Yes, 30 % at booking. Cancellation is free up to 14 days before arrival; after that, the deposit is retained . During peak periods (holidays and August) cancellation policies may vary .
Are there child discounts? – Children up to 3 stay free (cot included); ages 4–12 receive 30–50 % off when sharing with two adults .
Do you have rooms for disabled guests? – Ground‑floor rooms with adapted bathrooms are available; please state your requirements when booking .
7.2 Arrival and check‑in
Check‑in/check‑out times? – Check‑in from 14:00; check‑out by 10:00. Early arrivals can store luggage and use common areas and the beach. Late check‑out may be available for a small fee .
Is parking included? – Each room has a numbered parking space free of charge .
Are pets allowed? – Yes; small and medium dogs are welcome. Guests should inform the hotel when booking; a small final cleaning fee applies .
7.3 Services and activities
Is Wi‑Fi available? – Yes; free in all rooms and public areas with stable connection suitable for smart working .
Do you have a pool? – No, but the beach is just steps away; the hotel prefers to remain integrated with the natural landscape .
Can I rent bikes or sports equipment? – Yes; bikes and mountain bikes are available for rent, and partnerships exist with diving and sailing schools for snorkelling, SUP and kayak equipment .
Do you organise guided excursions? – Yes; Capo Stella treks, mine tours, Napoleonic residences and boat trips. Many are free or discounted for June packages .
7.4 Getting around the island
Do I need a car? – Recommended but not essential. Many places are reachable by summer buses or organised excursions. Renting a scooter or e‑bike provides flexibility. For remote beaches and inland villages, a car is convenient .
What are the roads like? – Main roads are paved and safe but often winding with hills and descents offering breathtaking views; drive carefully and avoid late‑night trips after heavy dinners .
Is parking easy in towns? – Easier in June than July/August. Capoliveri provides a free shuttle from the parking area to the historic centre . Portoferraio has paid parking near the fortresses; arrive in the morning .
7.5 Culture and curiosities
Who was Napoleon on Elba? – He governed the island for ten months (4 May 1814 – 26 Feb 1815). Beyond reorganising agriculture and transport, he designed the island’s flag with a red band and golden bees. His residences (Palazzina dei Mulini and Villa San Martino) are museums, and Portoferraio’s Museo della Misericordia displays casts of his hand and face .
What are Elba’s best legends? – Besides the Innamorata legend, stories tell of compasses spinning at Monte Calamita due to magnetite , the indomitable Volterraio castle , and the 2023 nesting of Caretta caretta turtles on Lacona beach .
Which souvenirs to bring home? – Schiaccia briaca, Aleatico and Ansonica wines, local honey, artisan ceramics, and magnetite jewellery from Capoliveri .
8. Summary tables
8.1 Distances and driving times from Hotel Giardino
| Destination | Distance (km) | Average drive | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capoliveri | 8 | 15 min | Medieval village with characteristic alleys, mines and beaches . |
| Portoferraio | 13 | 20 min | Island capital, Medici fortresses, Napoleonic museums . |
| Porto Azzurro | 15 | 25 min | Fishing village, Spanish fortress, sanctuary and beaches . |
| Marina di Campo | 11 | 15 min | Tourist centre with long sandy beach; island airport . |
| Marciana | 22 | 40 min | Historic village at foot of Monte Capanne; cable car . |
| Rio nell’Elba | 25 | 45 min | Mining town with museums and ancient mines . |
| Cavo | 40 | 1 h | Harbour on the north‑east tip, served by hydrofoil . |
8.2 Indicative event calendar for 2 June 2026
| Date | Location | Event | Description | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 June 2026 | Hotel Giardino (Lacona) | Gala dinner | Tricolour dinner with typical dishes & live music | 20:00 | Included in the package . |
| 2 June 2026 | Portoferraio | Official ceremony | Authority greetings, mayor’s speech, national anthem | 11:00 | Free participation. |
| 2 June 2026 | Lacona | Zen walk | Meditative walk with monk Dao Phuong | 9:30–14:00 | Booking required. |
| 2 June 2026 | Monte Perone (Campo nell’Elba) | Butterfly Festival | 4 km trek, picnic and concert | 10:30–15:00 | Free event. |
| 2 June 2026 | Marciana | Marcianella | 8.7 km race and guided walk | From 9:00 | Pre‑register online. |
| 2 June 2026 | Portoferraio & Capoliveri | Projections & exhibitions | Film at Cinema De Laugier, art exhibitions & author talks | Various | Updates on elbaeventi.it. |
8.3 Climate & sea in transition months
| Month | Avg. max (°C) | Avg. min (°C) | Rainy days | Sea temp (°C) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| April | 17.9 | 11.4 | 7 | 16.4 |
| May | 21.5 | 14.8 | 6 | 19.5 |
| June | 26.1 | 17.0 | 5 | 23.2 |
| July | 29.0 | 20.1 | 2 | 25.9 |
| August | 29.6 | 20.9 | 3 | 26.8 |
8.4 Hotel Giardino services summary
| Service | Availability | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Wi‑Fi | Yes | Free in rooms and public areas |
| Parking | Yes | One free numbered space per room |
| Air conditioning | In Comfort & Family rooms | Available on request in other rooms |
| Restaurant | Yes | Half or full board options |
| Children’s play area | Yes | Playground, ping‑pong, table football |
| Pets | Yes | Extra cleaning fee |
| Bike rental | Yes | Standard and e‑bikes |
| Guided excursions | Yes | Trekking, snorkeling, boat trips |
| Transfers | Yes | Shuttle from port/airport on request |
| Pool | No | The beach is 100 m away |
9. Practical tips & suggested itineraries
9.1 Three‑day itinerary for the Republic Day weekend
Day 1 (31 May – arrival) – Arrive at Portoferraio and transfer to Hotel Giardino. After check‑in spend the afternoon on Lacona beach exploring dunes and pine forest. Enjoy an evening stroll along the shore, an aperitif at the hotel bar and a seafood dinner .
Day 2 (1 June) – Breakfast and depart for Portoferraio. Visit Palazzina dei Mulini and Villa San Martino to discover Napoleon’s exile, then climb the Falcone and Stella fortresses for panoramic views . Lunch in the historic centre and a relaxing afternoon on Le Ghiaie or Sansone beach . Return to the hotel for the gala dinner.
Day 3 (2 June – Republic Day) – After breakfast, participate in the official ceremony in Portoferraio or choose one of the excursions (Zen walk or Butterfly Festival). In the afternoon visit Capoliveri: explore the village, shop in artisans’ workshops and walk to the Ginevro mines . End the day on the Innamorata beach at sunset and enjoy a wine tasting in a local winery .
9.2 Five‑day itinerary for longer stays
For those extending their trip, two extra days of exploration are suggested :
Day 4 – Porto Azzurro: visit Forte San Giacomo, stroll along Piazza Matteotti and have lunch with fish specialities. In the afternoon visit Piccola Miniera or the Madonna del Monserrato Sanctuary, then swim at Barbarossa beach .
Day 5 – West coast tour: morning in Marina di Campo exploring the market and long beach, then head to Fetovaia, one of Italy’s most beautiful beaches . In the afternoon visit Pomonte and kayak to the Elviscot shipwreck . Dinner at a trattoria in Sant’Ilario overlooking the gulf .
9.3 Travel advice and sustainability
• Respect nature – Do not pick sea lilies or tread on dunes; these plants are protected by the National Park .
• Safe hiking – Wear appropriate footwear, carry water and snacks, and take your litter with you .
• Support the local economy – Buy from markets and craft shops, visit wineries and olive oil producers .
• Book guided visits – Mining sites and Napoleonic residences require reservations; ask reception for help .
10. Conclusion: why choose Hotel Giardino for the Republic Day weekend
Choosing Hotel Giardino for the June 2 holiday offers an authentic experience. The family atmosphere, direct contact with nature and central location make the hotel an ideal base for exploring Elba . Guests enjoy a balanced mix of relaxation, culture, sport and gastronomy, with attention to detail and sustainability . The mild June weather, uncrowded beaches, special excursions and patriotic ceremonies will make you fall in love with the island . Tailor‑made offers ensure a rich and affordable stay .
Contact information
- Hotel Giardino – Viale dei Golfi 936, Lacona, Capoliveri, Isola d’Elba .
- Tel: +39 0565 964059 .
- Mobile: +39 335 7925420 .
- Email: info@elbahotelgiardino.it .
Visit the hotel’s website or contact them directly for reservations and personalised quotes. Let yourself be inspired by Elba’s beauty and celebrate Republic Day in this enchanting island setting.