Introduction
Elba, the largest island of the Tuscan Archipelago, is a perfect setting for lovers. It combines golden beaches, secluded coves, medieval villages and mountain panoramas in a compact area . The west coast offers fiery sunsets over the sea, hidden coves accessible by foot or boat, and romantic villages such as Portoferraio, Capoliveri and Porto Azzurro . Couples can enjoy both adventure (kayak excursions, mountain walks) and moments of pure relaxation. This guide, structured as a series of Q&A, explains why to choose Elba for a romantic getaway, how to reach it and why Hotel Giardino in Lacona is an ideal base.
Why choose Elba for a romantic weekend?
- Sunset and crystal‑clear sea: Beaches on the western coast, such as Scaglieri and Procchio, provide spectacular sunsets where the sun sinks into the sea and colours the sky orange and red . The sea around Elba is turquoise and transparent, creating a postcard‑perfect backdrop .
- Private coves: Couples seeking privacy can explore secluded coves like Le Tombe, Remaiolo or Stagnone. Reaching them often involves a short hike or a rented boat, but the reward is an intimate slice of paradise .
- Romantic villages: Elba’s towns are steeped in history and charm. Portoferraio’s Renaissance fortresses, Capoliveri’s streets overlooking the Gulf of Stella and Porto Azzurro’s waterfront create the perfect setting for strolls and evening drinks .
- Nature and panoramas: Hiking together to Monte Capanne (1,019 m) offers panoramic views of the archipelago and a sense of shared accomplishment . Shorter walks like the trail to the Butterfly Sanctuary on Monte Perone allow for quiet moments in nature .
Where to stay on Elba?
Lacona – a strategic and picturesque location
Lacona sits on a large bay in the island’s south and features one of Elba’s widest sandy beaches surrounded by greenery . Its central position means you can drive to Capoliveri, Porto Azzurro, Marina di Campo or Portoferraio in 10–15 minutes . Staying in Lacona allows couples to explore different parts of the island without long trips, and the local beach is perfect for romantic moments without needing a car .
Hotel Giardino – immersed in nature, steps from the sea
Hotel Giardino is located in the heart of Lacona’s Gulf, less than 100 m from the beach . The hotel is surrounded by a 30,000 m² pine and Mediterranean garden, providing privacy, silence and cool air even in summer . Its relaxed, family‑run atmosphere makes guests feel at home from the moment they arrive .
Main features and services (summary table)
| Service/Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | In the Gulf of Lacona, 100 m from the beach via a short protected dune path . Surrounded by a 30,000 m² pine forest . |
| Comfortable rooms | All rooms have a private bathroom with shower, air conditioning, satellite TV, Wi‑Fi, telephone and safe. Some include a balcony/patio or small private garden . |
| Free private parking | Each room has a reserved, shaded parking spot within the property . |
| Restaurant & breakfast | Buffet breakfasts with home‑made products; lunches and dinners featuring quality home cooking and local specialties . Possibility to dine outdoors and barbecue evenings . |
| Welcoming atmosphere | Family management ensures cordial, attentive service in an informal environment . |
| Wi‑Fi & relaxation | Free Wi‑Fi in common areas, extensive garden with veranda for relaxing outdoors . |
| Pet friendly | Pets are welcome, so you can bring your four‑legged companion . |
| Leisure services | Covered bike storage; partnerships with diving & snorkelling centres; ping‑pong and table football; small playground . |
Special offers and deals
- Discounted ferry tickets: Hotel Giardino has exclusive deals with ferry companies, enabling guests to book crossings at reduced rates . This helps couples travelling with a car manage their budget.
- Sports/event discounts: The hotel provides special rates for participants and spectators of local sports events such as the Giro Podistico, Capoliveri Legend Cup (MTB) and Elbaman triathlon .
- Seasonal packages: Contact the hotel or monitor their website for special romantic packages, such as low‑season offers or collaborations with spas and local tours . Visiting outside peak season (e.g., June or September) often means better rates and a quieter atmosphere .
How to reach Elba
- Ferry from Piombino: The most common route. Frequent sailings operate year‑round from Piombino Marittima to Portoferraio; some ferries also go to Rio Marina and Cavo . Crossing time is about one hour . Advance booking is recommended if bringing a car.
- By air: Elba has a small airport at Marina di Campo with flights from Pisa and Florence year‑round and seasonal routes from Milan and Switzerland . Flight time from Pisa is about 45–50 minutes and the hotel is 10 minutes away by taxi .
- Train + ferry: Trains from Florence, Pisa or Rome reach Piombino Marittima station, which is a few steps from the ferry embarkation . Once on the island, you can get around by bus, taxi or rental scooter.
- Car + ferry: Driving to Piombino and taking your car across gives full flexibility to explore. Note that Elba has no LPG/NG gas stations .
What to visit near Hotel Giardino (Lacona and surroundings)
Staying in Lacona places you close to many romantic sights . Highlights include:
- Lacona Beach: A 1.2 km sandy beach with protected dunes and crystal‑clear water. There are both free sections and beach clubs. It’s ideal for moonlight walks, stargazing or snorkelling . A short path also leads to Laconella, a small cove that is quieter and very romantic .
- Capoliveri (8 km): Hilltop village with medieval alleys, artisans’ shops, panoramic terraces and a lively evening scene. Nearby attractions include the Monte Calamita iron mines and the Innamorata beach, famous for its legend and torch‑lit procession on 14 July .
- Porto Azzurro (10 km): Charming harbour with palm‑lined promenade, fish restaurants and a small town beach. The nearby Monserrato sanctuary offers a short hike with panoramic views .
- Portoferraio (15 km): Elba’s capital, featuring Medici fortifications (Fort Falcone and Forte Stella) and Napoleon’s residences. Visiting at sunset and dining in the old harbour makes for a memorable evening .
- Marina di Campo (11 km): Lively town with a long sandy beach, evening markets and gelaterias. Nearby beaches Cavoli and Fetovaia are renowned for their turquoise waters .
- Monte Capanne (25 km to Marciana + cable car): The island’s highest peak. Ride the cable car or hike to the summit for 360° views .
A table summarises these distances and attractions for couples .
Romantic experiences to share on Elba
Elba offers countless memorable activities; here are some of the most original:
- Watch the sunset from the “lunar cliff” at Sant’Andrea: Sit on smooth granite rocks at water level and watch the sun disappear into the sea in a surreal setting . Closer options with sunset views include Pomonte, Chiessi or Fetovaia .
- Horseback ride with wine tasting: At the Tenuta delle Ripalte near Monte Calamita you can ride horses through vineyards and finish with a sunset aperitif and tasting of Elban wines accompanied by local delicacies .
- Scooter trip along the Costa del Sole: Rent a scooter and follow the panoramic road from Marina di Campo towards Chiessi and Marciana. Stop at coves, take photos and enjoy the freedom of exploring together .
- Picnic and stargazing in the mountains: Drive to Monte Perone for a picnic among the pines; afterwards walk the Butterfly Trail, then head to the Piazzale dell’Astronomia in San Piero to observe stars far from city lights . This site is perfect for watching meteor showers in August .
- Boat tour or private dinghy excursion: Join a group tour around Elba or to nearby Pianosa (with swimming in turquoise waters) or rent a small boat to explore coves at your own pace. Elba is part of the Cetacean Sanctuary, so you might even spot dolphins . Some tours include a seafood lunch on board .
- Candle‑light dinner with a view: Choose a restaurant on the beach (Enfola, Norsi, Bagnaia, Marciana Marina) or on a hilltop (Capoliveri, Portoferraio) for a romantic seafood meal with local wine and a slice of Schiaccia briaca, the island’s traditional cake with Aleatico wine and dried fruit . Notify the restaurant if you are celebrating a special occasion; they can arrange a secluded table or personalised dessert .
These experiences and others (spa days, diving, helicopter tours) can be mixed to suit your couple style .
Conclusion: Elba and Hotel Giardino – the perfect combination for romance
A romantic weekend on Elba means giving yourselves a dream: an island that surprises with its natural beauty and intimate atmosphere. Elba offers postcard landscapes—turquoise seas, sunsets and lush nature—combined with practical services that make even a short stay easy . Hotel Giardino in Lacona fits perfectly into this picture as a welcoming nest: immersed in greenery, a short walk from a beautiful beach and strategically located to explore the island, yet run with heart and authenticity . Couples appreciate the hotel’s genuine simplicity, attentive service, and the tranquil sound of cicadas rather than crowds . By following the practical tips, choosing favourite experiences and travelling outside peak season, you can craft a personalised, unforgettable weekend together. Pack your swimsuits, comfortable shoes and desire to be together—Elba awaits with open arms .