Introduction
The Island of Elba is a dream destination for couples who want to share memorable moments together. This guide, prepared by the staff of Hotel Giardino in Lacona, explains why Elba is perfect for a romantic weekend and how to organize your stay. Elba’s landscapes are incredibly varied: in a few kilometres you pass from long sandy beaches to cliffs, from lively fishing ports to quiet hidden coves. This diversity makes the island ideal for a mix of romanticism and adventure .
Key reasons to choose Elba for a couple’s getaway include:
- Dream settings for sunsets and crystal‑clear sea – On the island’s western coast you can enjoy spectacular sunsets: at beaches such as Scaglieri and Procchio the sun dips into the sea, painting the sky orange and red . The Elban sea, clear and turquoise, creates an idyllic backdrop for evenings together.
- Secluded coves for privacy – For complete tranquillity there are hidden coves that remain almost empty even in high summer. Reaching them often requires a short hike or hiring a dinghy, but the reward is having a slice of paradise to yourselves, with dramatic cliffs and Mediterranean scrub all around .
- Romantic villages and an old‑world atmosphere – Elba is not just beaches. Its seven towns provide romantic settings: wander hand in hand through the historic centre of Portoferraio, explore the narrow lanes of Capoliveri overlooking the Gulf of Stella, or stroll along the illuminated seafront of Porto Azzurro .
- Nature and panoramic walks – The island’s interior offers scenic trails for two. Monte Capanne (1,019 m) dominates the landscape and offers breathtaking views over the Tuscan Archipelago. You can climb it together (also by cable car) and enjoy the panorama . Shorter walks, such as the path to the Santuario delle Farfalle on Monte Perone, also provide special moments immersed in nature.
Thanks to these features, Elba combines sea, nature, history and relaxation in a unique way. Whether you’re an adventurous couple or simply want to relax, you’ll find your perfect setting here .
Frequently Asked Questions about Planning a Romantic Weekend
What is the best time of year for a romantic weekend on Elba? Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures and a quieter atmosphere, ideal for relaxing and taking scenic walks. Summer (July–August) is perfect for warm sea and long days but is busier, while winter offers tranquillity and the chance to enjoy spa treatments and indoor activities .
How do we reach Elba? Ferries run frequently from Piombino to Portoferraio and, to a lesser extent, to Rio Marina and Cavo. During high season there are departures almost every hour . Alternatively, flights operate from Pisa, Florence and Milan to the small airport at Marina di Campo; the flight from Pisa takes about 45 minutes . Hotel Giardino offers discounted ferry tickets and advice on the best schedules . A car (owned or rented) makes it easier to explore the island, although trains to Piombino plus a ferry and local buses can work for short stays .
Is Elba suitable for young couples? Yes. The island offers secluded beaches, adventurous activities (snorkelling, kayaking, cycling), lively nightlife in towns such as Marina di Campo, and opportunities for wellness and spa experiences .
Where should we stay? A central base allows you to visit both eastern and western parts of the island without long drives. Lacona in Capoliveri is a strategic and picturesque location: from here you can reach Capoliveri, Porto Azzurro, Marina di Campo and Portoferraio in 10–20 minutes . Hotel Giardino, set in a pine forest near the beach, is recommended as an ideal starting point .
Why Choose Hotel Giardino in Lacona
Location and Setting
Hotel Giardino is located in the heart of the Gulf of Lacona, on Elba’s southern coast. It lies just 100 m from the wide sandy beach, accessible via a path through protected dunes . The hotel is nestled in a 30,000 m² pine forest with Mediterranean vegetation, offering privacy and fresh air even on hot days . Many couples appreciate being able to walk to the beach for a moonlight stroll and return to their room in minutes.
Atmosphere and Hospitality
Guests describe Hotel Giardino as welcoming and genuine. The family management and attentive staff make visitors feel at home . For couples, this means enjoying tranquillity and small touches of care. The large garden has intimate corners where you can read together under the pines or toast under the stars .
Rooms and Services
Although classified as a two‑star hotel, Hotel Giardino offers all essential comforts. Rooms have private bathrooms with showers, air conditioning, satellite TV, Wi‑Fi, telephone, safe and, in some cases, a balcony or private garden . Each room has a reserved shaded parking space .
The hotel serves rich buffet breakfasts with homemade cakes and local products, and home‑cooked lunches and dinners featuring Elban and Tuscan specialties, including fresh fish . Meals can be enjoyed outdoors in the garden where barbecues are available. The kitchen accommodates allergies and provides a children’s menu on request .
Other services include:
- Free Wi‑Fi in common areas and some rooms .
- Large garden and veranda for relaxation .
- Pet‑friendly policy so you can bring your four‑legged friend .
- Secure covered bicycle storage with washing facilities; partnerships with diving and snorkeling centres; ping‑pong table and table football .
Summary of Hotel Giardino’s Features
| Feature | Description | Citation |
|---|---|---|
| Location | In the Gulf of Lacona, 100 m from the beach; set in a 30,000 m² pine forest . | |
| Rooms | Comfortable rooms with private bathroom, air conditioning, flat‑screen TV, Wi‑Fi, telephone and safe; some with balcony/patio or small garden . | |
| Parking | Free reserved parking space under shade for each room . | |
| Dining | Buffet breakfasts with homemade produce; lunches and dinners with home‑style local dishes, fresh fish and the possibility to dine outdoors or at the barbecue . | |
| Atmosphere | Family‑run management creates an informal and welcoming environment where guests feel at ease . | |
| Wi‑Fi & Relaxation | Free Wi‑Fi in common areas; large garden and veranda for outdoor relaxation . | |
| Pet‑friendly | Pets are welcome . | |
| Leisure & Outdoor Services | Covered bicycle storage, partnerships with diving/snorkelling centres, ping‑pong and table football . |
Special Offers from Hotel Giardino
Hotel Giardino offers several deals to make your romantic weekend more affordable and enjoyable. The main ones include:
- Discounted ferry tickets – Thanks to an exclusive agreement, guests can book ferry tickets at reduced rates . This is especially useful if you are travelling with a car, as ferry costs can be significant.
- Agreements for sports events – If you are interested in sports or organised excursions, the hotel offers discounts for participants in major events such as the Giro Podistico, Capoliveri Legend Cup (mountain bike race) and the Elbaman triathlon .
- Seasonal packages – Keep an eye on the hotel’s website for romantic weekend packages. Although the hotel does not have its own spa, in low season they may offer half‑board packages at promotional prices or partnerships with local wellness centres . Off‑season travel (June or September) also means more tranquillity and lower rates .
How to Reach Elba
Ferry
Ferries to Elba depart from Piombino Marittima and run year‑round. In summer there is a departure about every hour operated by Toremar, Moby Lines, Blu Navy and Corsica Sardinia Ferries . The crossing to Portoferraio takes about one hour. Some ferries also land at Rio Marina and Cavo, which are convenient if you are staying on the eastern side of the island . Booking a place for your car in advance is recommended .
Plane
Elba’s small airport at Marina di Campo receives flights mainly in spring and summer. There are regular services from Pisa and Florence year‑round, and seasonal flights from Milan Linate, Switzerland and Germany . The flight from Pisa lasts about 45 minutes . From the airport it’s only 8 km to Lacona. Flying is more expensive than the ferry but convenient for a special occasion.
Train + Ferry
For travellers who prefer not to drive, trains run from Florence, Pisa and Rome to Piombino Marittima. The station is opposite the ferry terminal, making it easy to embark as foot passengers and then use buses, taxis or rented scooters on the island .
Car + Ferry
Driving to Piombino and taking your car on the ferry gives freedom to explore. From Florence it is about a 170 km drive (approximately 2 hours) . On Elba you must drive carefully because roads are narrow and twisty, and there are no LPG or methane fuel stations – only petrol/diesel .
The table below summarises travel options:
| Mode of transport | Details and tips | Approximate duration |
|---|---|---|
| Ferry from Piombino | Daily sailings all year; frequent departures in summer; book a place for your car; leave your car in Piombino if you prefer to travel without it. Reach Piombino by car or train . | ~1 hour crossing (plus embarkation time) |
| Plane (Marina di Campo) | Flights from Pisa, Florence (year‑round) and Milan, Switzerland, Germany (seasonal); 8–16‑seat aircraft; limited baggage; taxi or bus to Lacona . | ~45 minutes from Pisa; ~1h20 from Milan |
| Train + Ferry | Train to Piombino Marittima; station is across from ferry terminal; travel as foot passenger and use buses/scooters on Elba . | From Florence to Piombino ~2h30; ferry 1 hour |
| Car + Ferry | Drive via the Aurelia to Piombino; board the ferry with your car; drive carefully on Elba’s winding roads . | Florence–Piombino ~2h; ferry 1 hour; Portoferraio–Lacona ~20 min |
Places to Visit Near Hotel Giardino
Staying at Hotel Giardino puts you in a central position to explore many of Elba’s highlights. Here are some destinations and activities suited to couples:
Lacona and Laconella
Spiaggia di Lacona is one of the island’s longest beaches (about 1.2 km). It features fine golden sand, protected coastal dunes and a clear, gently sloping sea . The beach has both free areas and beach clubs where you can rent umbrellas and sunbeds. Its proximity to the hotel makes it perfect for moonlit strolls or a midnight swim. At the western end of the bay, a short panoramic path leads to Spiaggia di Laconella, a smaller, more secluded beach with views of the Roccia dello Shipwreck .
Capoliveri
Located about 8 km (15 minutes) from Lacona, Capoliveri is one of Elba’s most beautiful hilltop villages. Its historic centre is a maze of alleys, stairways, arches and flowered squares . Strolling here at sunset is particularly charming; you’ll find wine bars, craft shops and restaurants with panoramic terraces . In July the village hosts a reenactment of the Legend of the Innamorata at nearby Innamorata beach .
Porto Azzurro
Just 10 km (15 minutes) from the hotel, Porto Azzurro is a delightful harbour town. Its palm‑lined promenade is perfect for an evening stroll with gelato . Enjoy dinner in one of the many waterfront restaurants. Nearby, you can visit the 17th‑century Santuario di Monserrato, a small chapel in a scenic position .
Portoferraio
About 15 km (20 minutes) away lies Portoferraio, Elba’s capital. Couples can explore the Medici fortifications (Forte Falcone and Forte Stella) for sunset views . History lovers should visit Napoleon’s residences – Villa dei Mulini and Villa San Martino – and then enjoy an aperitif in the old harbour .
Marina di Campo
On the opposite coast (11 km, 15 minutes) is Marina di Campo, a lively tourist centre with a long sandy beach. Its seafront comes alive in the evening with market stalls, artisan gelaterias and open‑air bars . Nearby beaches Cavoli and Fetovaia are among the most stunning on Elba, ideal for a day trip .
Other Nearby Ideas
From Lacona you can also hike up Monte Tambone or Monte Orello for panoramic views . A short drive away is the Elba Aquarium at Marina di Campo–La Pila, which can be a nice diversion if the weather isn’t ideal . In less than 30 minutes you can reach the western part of the island, with the panoramic road leading to Marciana, Marciana Marina and the cableway to Monte Capanne .
Summary of Nearby Destinations
| Destination | Distance from Lacona | Why visit – attractions for couples | Citation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lacona Beach | 100 m (2 min walk) | Wide sandy beach, dunes and pine trees, crystal‑clear water; perfect for beach relaxation, moonlit walks and snorkelling . | |
| Capoliveri | ~8 km (15 min by car) | Romantic historic village: alleys, panoramic squares and craft shops; lively evening atmosphere; visits to Monte Calamita mines and Innamorata beach . | |
| Porto Azzurro | ~10 km (15 min by car) | Harbour town ideal for an evening stroll and seafood dinner; small urban beach; nearby Santuario di Monserrato . | |
| Portoferraio | ~15 km (20 min by car) | Capital with Medici fortresses for sunset views; Napoleon’s villas; picturesque old harbour for aperitif and dinner . | |
| Marina di Campo | ~11 km (15 min by car) | Lively coastal village with long beach; evening life, market stalls; nearby beaches Cavoli and Fetovaia for day trips . | |
| Monte Capanne | ~25 km to Marciana (40 min by car) + cable car | Highest peak on Elba (1,019 m); cable car to summit for 360° views; trek through chestnut forests and mountain villages . |
Romantic Experiences and Activities
To make your romantic weekend truly unforgettable, Elba offers a wealth of shared experiences. Here are some of the most evocative:
- Watching a sunset at the “Lunar Cliff” in Sant’Andrea – On the north‑western coast, the polished granite rocks at Sant’Andrea (Cote Piane) form natural terraces at sea level. Sitting here as the sun disappears into the sea gives the impression of walking on another planet . West‑facing beaches like Pomonte, Chiessi and Fetovaia also offer breathtaking sunsets. Bring a bottle of local Aleatico wine and toast as the sky turns orange and pink .
- Horseback ride and wine tasting at Tenuta delle Ripalte – On Monte Calamita, near Capoliveri, the Tenuta delle Ripalte offers guided horseback rides through vineyards and Mediterranean scrub. After riding, enjoy a wine tasting on the panoramic terrace accompanied by local products such as cheeses, cured meats and the traditional schiaccia briaca . This combines adventure, nature and gastronomy in a single experience.
- Scooter excursion along the “Costa del Sole” – Rent a scooter and explore the western ring road from Marina di Campo towards Chiessi and Marciana. The coastal road snakes between mountains and sea, with countless viewpoints and small coves where you can stop for a swim and a picnic . Scooter rentals are available in Lacona and Marina di Campo .
- Mountain picnic and stargazing on Monte Perone – Drive to Monte Perone (about 600 m altitude) where picnic tables are set among the pines. After lunch, take the Sentiero delle Farfalle, a short trail where you can see many butterflies in summer . In the evening, go to the Piazzale dell’Astronomia in San Piero, a panoramic terrace for star‑gazing, where thousands of stars are visible due to low light pollution .
- Boat trip to Pianosa or along the coast – Take a full‑day excursion from Marina di Campo or Portoferraio to Pianosa, the flat, unspoiled island nearby, or join a half‑day boat tour along Elba’s coastline . Alternatively, rent a dinghy without a licence and explore secluded bays such as those around the Gulf of Stella on your own . You might spot dolphins and enjoy lunch on board .
- Candlelit dinner overlooking the sea – There are many romantic restaurants on Elba. Choose a beachfront venue on Enfola or Norsi where tables are just a few steps from the water; or dine at a hilltop restaurant in Capoliveri overlooking the Gulf of Stella, or at a harbour restaurant in Portoferraio with the Medici fortress illuminated at night . Dishes to try include seafood spaghetti, octopus stew, risotto alla pescatora and fried fish, paired with wines such as Ansonica or Vermentino . For dessert, share a slice of schiaccia briaca, a traditional cake made with Aleatico wine and dried fruit . Inform the restaurant in advance if you are celebrating a special occasion so they can prepare a secluded table or special dessert .
Summary of Romantic Experiences
| Experience | Description | Recommended Location | Citation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sunset at the “Lunar Cliff” | Sit on smooth white rocks at sea level and watch the sunset for a surreal atmosphere . | Sant’Andrea (Cote Piane); other west‑facing beaches like Pomonte, Chiessi, Fetovaia . | |
| Horseback ride & wine tasting | Guided ride through vineyards followed by wine tasting with local products and panoramic views . | Tenuta delle Ripalte, Capoliveri. | |
| Scooter tour on Costa del Sole | Rent a scooter to explore the western coastal road, stop at coves and viewpoints . | From Marina di Campo towards Chiessi, Marciana . | |
| Picnic & stargazing | Picnic among pines on Monte Perone; visit the Butterfly Trail; star‑gaze at the Astronomical Platform in San Piero . | Monte Perone & San Piero. | |
| Boat trip or dinghy rental | Full‑day or half‑day boat excursions to Pianosa or along the coast; snorkel, spot dolphins and have lunch on board . | Departures from Marina di Campo or Portoferraio; dinghy rental near Gulf of Stella . | |
| Candlelit dinner by the sea | Dine at beachfront or hillside restaurants; enjoy local seafood and wine; plan a special celebration . | Enfola, Norsi, Capoliveri, Portoferraio, Marina di Campo . |
Conclusion: Elba and Hotel Giardino – The Perfect Combination for Your Romantic Weekend
Organising a romantic weekend on Elba means giving yourself and your partner a small dream: a journey to an island that surprises with its natural beauty and intimate atmosphere. Elba offers postcard scenery – turquoise sea, sunsets, lush nature – combined with services that make even a short stay easy . Hotel Giardino in Lacona is the perfect base, set in greenery just steps from the beach and centrally located for exploring the island . Couples who have stayed there appreciate its genuine simplicity and attention to guests .
This guide has provided practical information on how to reach the island, what to see and do together, and the special deals offered by Hotel Giardino. Now it’s time to plan your journey! Choose your dates, contact the hotel to check availability and rates (perhaps taking advantage of a special package), pack your swimsuits and comfortable shoes, and set off for Elba . Live your weekend with flexibility: the island can surprise you with unexpected moments – seeing a turtle while swimming, stumbling on a village festival, or watching shooting stars from the beach . These unscripted moments often become the most cherished memories.
Ultimately, where should you organise your romantic weekend on Elba? In a place that combines the island’s beauty with authentic hospitality. Hotel Giardino in Lacona embodies this combination and can become the cosy nest for your romantic escape.