Weekend Promotions on Elba Island at Hotel Giardino – Full Guide

Introduction: Discover Elba Island and Hotel Giardino

Elba, the third‑largest island in Italy, covers roughly 224 km² and is made up of seven municipalities . This enchanting land offers an incredible variety of landscapes: long golden beaches, sheer cliffs, pine and oak woods, vineyards on terraced hills and the imposing peak of Monte Capanne at 1,019 m . Elba’s history is equally rich, ranging from Etruscan and Roman settlements to Medici fortifications and the exile of Napoleon .

Lacona, on the island’s southern coast, boasts a long beach of almost a kilometre with fine sand, protected dunes and shallow water ideal for families . Just a few steps from this shore, nestled in a 30 000 m² pine forest, stands Hotel Giardino, a two‑star, family‑run property. It offers simple yet functional rooms with air conditioning, flat‑screen TV, private bathroom with shower and safe; many rooms have independent entrances with garden access or a balcony . Guests appreciate the friendliness of the staff, the genuine Tuscan‑Elban cuisine, the cleanliness and the convenience of the private parking . This guide, prepared by the hotel staff, aims to accompany you on a virtual journey of discovery through Elba, showing why Hotel Giardino is an ideal starting point for a weekend or longer stay and how to take advantage of its weekend promotions .

Why Choose Elba Island

Elba offers a unique mix of nature, history and culture . Visitors can alternate days of relaxation on the beach with hikes through the woods, visits to Napoleonic museums, tastings of local wines and sports such as snorkelling, trekking and mountain biking. Its position in the Tyrrhenian Sea ensures a mild climate for most of the year; summer is hot and sunny, while spring and autumn provide milder temperatures and blooming landscapes . The less crowded seasons are ideal for taking advantage of lower rates and enjoying the island more peacefully .

The Uniqueness of Lacona

Lacona is considered a “jewel” of Elba thanks to its long beach of golden sand, wide shoreline that gently slopes into clear waters and the pine forest that offers shade during the hottest hours . Its central position allows you to reach places like Capoliveri, Porto Azzurro, Marina di Campo and Portoferraio in just 10–15 minutes by car . The tranquillity of Lacona, combined with the services offered by Hotel Giardino, makes it perfect for families, couples and groups of friends who want to experience Elba away from the hustle and bustle of the busiest centres .

Hotel Giardino: Facilities, Services and Family Atmosphere

Structure and Common Areas

Hotel Giardino is located within a 30 000 m² park of maritime pines and Mediterranean vegetation . The property consists of three low buildings with rooms on the ground or first floor, each with its own numbered parking space in the free on‑site car park . Common areas include a large terrace for outdoor breakfast, an indoor bar with TV and a lounge for reading or chatting . The large garden features children’s play equipment, a ping‑pong table and table football, plus comfortable deckchairs under the pines; free Wi‑Fi is available in the common areas .

Rooms

The rooms are designed to be simple, functional and comfortable. They include air conditioning, flat‑screen TV, private bathroom with shower and hair‑dryer and a safe . Many have an independent entrance with direct access to the garden, while others have a balcony or patio . Some rooms have recently renovated bathrooms and furnishings; room types include double, triple and family rooms . Daily cleaning is provided to ensure a pleasant stay .

Restaurant

One of the hotel’s strengths is its cuisine. Every morning a rich buffet breakfast is served with homemade cakes, croissants, fresh bread, artisanal jams, fruit and savoury items such as cheese and cold cuts . Lunch and dinner offer a choice of three first courses and three second courses, with particular attention to local products, fresh fish and traditional Tuscan and Elban recipes . The kitchen can prepare special dishes for children or guests with dietary requirements, and the wine cellar includes local wines such as the famed Aleatico and other Tuscan labels . Guests choosing half board or full board benefit from favourable rates and the possibility of tasting different dishes every day .

Additional Services

Hotel Giardino offers many amenities to enhance guests’ holidays :

Private parking: each room has its own numbered parking space in the internal car park .
Free Wi‑Fi: available in areas such as the bar, dining room and relaxation area .
Bar: open from morning to evening, serving coffee, aperitifs and ice creams .
Park and play area: a 30 000 m² green space with children’s games, ping‑pong and table football .
Bike rental and storage: bikes are available for hire and there is secure storage for guests’ own bicycles .
Diving/snorkelling agreements: thanks to local partnerships, discounted packages for diving and snorkelling are available .
Ferry tickets at reduced prices: special agreements allow guests to purchase ferry tickets at discounted rates .
Pet friendly: pets are welcome with a small supplement .
Bike wash and maintenance area: facilities for bike cleaning after excursions .
Shuttle and transfers: on request, transfers to/from Portoferraio port or Marina di Campo airport can be arranged .

Family Atmosphere

What really distinguishes Hotel Giardino is its atmosphere. The family lives on the island and knows every path, restaurant, winery and hidden beach . They love to share these secrets with guests, suggesting personalised itineraries and answering every question. Many clients return year after year because they feel at home; the authentic hospitality and convivial climate have been praised in numerous reviews .

Summary Table of Services

Service	Brief description
Parking	Numbered parking space free for every room
Wi‑Fi	Free connection in common areas
Rooms	Air conditioning, TV, private bathroom with shower, safe
Restaurant	Three first and three second courses; Tuscan and Elban dishes
Bar	Aperitifs, ice creams and drinks
Play area	Park with ping‑pong table, table football, children’s games
Bike rental	Bicycle hire and secure storage
Diving/snorkelling	Agreements with diving and snorkelling centres
Pet friendly	Animals admitted with a supplement
Discounted ferries	Reduced‑price ferry tickets

Our Weekend Promotions

At the time of writing, the specific weekend packages (Romantic, Adventure and Sport, Happy Families, Wellness and Relaxation and seasonal specials) are to be defined according to the hotel’s seasonal offers . Contact the hotel directly for up‑to‑date details on these packages and to discover the discounts included.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is the hotel close to the beach? Yes. Hotel Giardino is about 100 m from Lacona beach. You can reach the shore in a few minutes along a shaded path. The beach has both beach‑club areas and free sections; the water is shallow and safe for children .
Is parking available? Each room has a numbered parking space within the private car park . Parking is included in the rate and provides a secure place for your car.
Are pets allowed? Animals are welcome with a small supplement. Guests should inform the hotel in advance so the most suitable room can be allocated and to ensure respect for other guests . Nearby there are beaches and trails where you can walk with dogs.
Does the hotel have a swimming pool? No. There is no pool, but the proximity to the sea allows guests to spend their days on the beach. Many guests enjoy relaxing in the shade of the pine forest or the outdoor relaxation areas .
What are the check‑in and check‑out times? Check‑in is from 14:00 onwards and check‑out is by 10:00 . For weekend promotions, late check‑out can be arranged on request, subject to availability . Guests arriving in the morning can leave their luggage and use the parking until the room is ready .
Do you offer group or event discounts? Yes. Special packages are available for sports groups, school groups and hiking clubs. They include reduced rates, dedicated menus and logistical assistance for events like the Capoliveri Legend Cup and Elbaman Triathlon; large groups can book the entire property .
What does the half‑board rate include? Half board covers lodging, breakfast and dinner with a choice of three first courses and three second courses, plus side dish and dessert . Drinks are not included, but a wide selection of local wines is available at accessible prices. On request, vegetarian, vegan, gluten‑free and children’s menus can be prepared .
How do ferries work? Do you provide discounted tickets? Ferries run from Piombino to Portoferraio, Rio Marina or Cavo . The hotel can provide discounted tickets thanks to special agreements; it is advisable to book tickets in advance, especially in high season .
When is the best time to visit Elba? Every season has its charm. Summer (July and August) is ideal for those who love sunshine and the beach, but prices are higher and the island is busier . Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) offer mild temperatures, fewer tourists and lower prices; these periods are perfect for trekking, cultural visits and relaxation . Winter is quiet; the climate remains mild and the hotel stays open .
Do I need to rent a car? Having a car is recommended for exploring the island freely, especially if you want to visit distant beaches and villages . However, the hotel’s central location means you can reach Capoliveri, Porto Azzurro and Portoferraio by public transport or bicycle . Transfers can be arranged for guests arriving without a car .
What can I visit near the hotel? Capoliveri with its scenic alleys and the Monte Calamita mines; Porto Azzurro with its tourist harbour and central square; Portoferraio with its Medici forts and Napoleonic residences; and much more. Detailed recommendations are provided in the next section .
What is the cancellation policy? Cancellation policies vary depending on the season and the chosen offer. In low season, free cancellation is generally possible up to 7 days before arrival. Non‑refundable offers or special promotions may have different conditions, so always check the booking confirmation or contact the hotel .
Do you have facilities for cyclists and mountain bikers? Yes. The hotel has secure bike storage and a bike‑washing area . Guided itineraries are organised and there are agreements with rental centres . Cyclists can enjoy routes of varying difficulty, from the Via dei Lecci to the dirt roads of Monte Calamita .
Is the hotel accessible for people with disabilities? Some ground‑floor rooms are accessible for guests with reduced mobility. It is advisable to contact the hotel before booking to check availability and any specific needs .
Is there evening entertainment? Hotel Giardino offers a quiet and relaxed atmosphere and does not organise evening entertainment. However, wine tastings and themed dinners are often hosted in the restaurant . For music or events, there are village festivals nearby and summer concerts in Porto Azzurro and Capoliveri .
When should I book for the best prices? To get favourable rates, book in advance for spring and autumn months. Weekend promotions in April and October offer discounts up to 15 %. During summer, prices are higher; book several weeks ahead to ensure availability .

Activities and Sports Near Hotel Giardino

Elba is a paradise for nature and sports lovers. Thanks to its varied landscape, there are opportunities for hiking, diving, cycling, sailing and more .

Hiking (Trekking)

Hotel Giardino is an ideal starting point for hikes of varying difficulty :

Capo Stella: a circular path of about 6.6 km starting from Lacona. It follows the Capo Stella promontory and offers spectacular views over the southern coast of Elba and the Margidore bay . The elevation gain is moderate, making the walk suitable even for families.
Monte Capanne: the island’s highest peak at 1 019 m. It can be reached on foot via a 5.5 km trail with an 800 m elevation gain or by taking the cable car from Marciana . From the summit there are sweeping views of the archipelago.
Via dei Lecci: a trail connecting Lacona to Procchio through holm‑oak forests and panoramic viewpoints. It takes around 3–4 hours to walk .
Santuario delle Farfalle: this educational trail on Monte Perone celebrates the area’s biodiversity and hosts many butterfly species . It is perfect for families and nature enthusiasts.

Always bring hiking shoes, water, a hat and sunscreen. The staff can provide maps and detailed information .

Water Sports

The bay of Lacona, with its crystal‑clear waters, is perfect for water sports :

Snorkelling and diving: the seabed around Elba is rich in Posidonia meadows, colourful fish and wrecks. Diving centres nearby organise guided dives and courses for beginners; snorkelling can be practised directly from the beach .
Kayak and SUP: the calm sea of Lacona is ideal for kayaking or stand‑up paddleboarding. Equipment can be rented on the beach or through the hotel’s sports package .
Windsurfing and sailing: the Gulf of Lacona offers conditions suitable for windsurfing, with moderate winds. Sailing schools provide courses and boat rental, also for beginners .
Boat trips: from Marina di Campo, boats depart daily for the islands of Pianosa and Montecristo; there are also dolphin‑watching excursions .

Cycling and Mountain Biking

Elba is popular with cyclists due to its panoramic and challenging routes :

Monte Calamita loop: on the namesake mountain near Capoliveri, there are well‑marked trails along former mining roads and thrilling descents. Specialised MTB and e‑bike rentals are available; the Capoliveri Legend Cup, an international mountain bike race, takes place here each year .
Panoramic southern roads: the road connecting Lacona and Marina di Campo offers ups and downs through vineyards and Mediterranean scrub, perfect for road bikes .
Island circuit: a longer route of about 100 km circumnavigates Elba. For experienced cyclists, this is an alluring challenge with continuously changing landscapes .

The hotel provides bicycle storage and washing facilities; maps and contacts for expert guides are available .

Running, Trail Running and Sporting Events

Elba’s hilly landscapes are ideal for trail running. Events such as the Giro Podistico dell’Elba and the Run Trail Capoliveri attract athletes from across Italy . Trails on Monte Perone, Monte Calamita and Capo Stella offer moderate elevation changes and beautiful views . The hotel’s sports packages include participation in races, post‑race massages and energy‑rich menus .

Other Activities

Beyond hiking and sports :

Horse riding at local stables.
Guided tours of the Monte Calamita mines, exploring the island’s mining history .
Cooking classes with local chefs, learning to prepare dishes such as gurguglione and sburrita .
Birdwatching in the wetlands of Sant’Andrea or in the Tuscan Archipelago National Park .

Summary Table of Sports Activities

Activity	Typical duration	Difficulty	Notes
Trekking Capo Stella	2–3 h	Easy	Panoramic circular route
Ascent of Monte Capanne	4–6 h (or 20 min by cable car)	Challenging	Highest peak
Snorkelling at Lacona	1–2 h	Easy	Seabed with Posidonia
Kayak/SUP	1–3 h	Easy	Ideal for exploring coves
MTB Monte Calamita	3–5 h	Medium/difficult	Former mining trails
Dolphin watching	3–4 h	Easy	Departures from Marina di Campo
Trail running	Variable	Medium	Hill trails

What to See Nearby: Towns, Beaches and Places of Interest

Lacona makes a perfect base for exploring Elba. Its central position means that numerous towns and attractions can be reached in minutes .

Capoliveri

About 10 km from Lacona, Capoliveri is a charming hilltop village with narrow streets, lively squares and sea views . It is famous for its iron and magnetite mines, which can be visited on guided tours . Stroll through the cobbled alleys, visit the Museo del Mare dedicated to maritime history and shipwrecks , and take part in the Festa dell’Uva in autumn or the Innamorata historical re‑enactment in July . Nearby beaches include Morcone, Pareti and Innamorata, and there is an adventure park with treetop courses, ideal for families .

Porto Azzurro

Approximately 12 km from the hotel lies Porto Azzurro, a picturesque fishing village with a tourist harbour and a central square filled with restaurants and cafés . Visit the Fortezza di San Giacomo, a Spanish prison still in use, and stroll along the main street lined with craft shops . Don’t miss the Santuario della Madonna del Monserrato immersed in Mediterranean scrub . In the evening the town comes alive with markets, live music and artisanal ice‑cream parlours .

Portoferraio

The island’s capital and main port, Portoferraio, is about 15 km from Lacona. It is renowned for its Medicean fortifications such as Forte Falcone and Forte Stella, which offer spectacular views . Here you can visit the Napoleonic residences Palazzina dei Mulini and Villa San Martino, where Napoleon spent his exile . The historic centre, with its staircases and small squares, invites leisurely walks. Weekly markets sell local produce, clothing and crafts, and the port is lined with yachts and historic vessels .

Marina di Campo

Approximately 12 km from Lacona is Marina di Campo, known for its long sandy beach, lively seafront and the Elba Aquarium which houses local marine species . It is an excellent destination for families, with many restaurants, bars and shops. Boat trips to Pianosa depart from here .

Marciana and Marciana Marina

On the north side of the island are Marciana and Marciana Marina, about 30 km away. Marciana is one of the oldest villages, perched on the slopes of Monte Capanne. The cable car to the summit leaves from the town . Marciana Marina is a pretty port with a romantic promenade and excellent seafood restaurants; sailing regattas take place here . Nearby is the Santuario della Madonna del Monte, a pilgrimage site .

Monte Capanne

With its 1 019 m, Monte Capanne dominates Elba and can be reached on foot or via a basket‑style cable car from Marciana . From the summit the view sweeps across the Tuscan archipelago to Corsica on clear days . The area is populated by mouflons, wild boars and birds of prey, making it a paradise for hikers and photographers .

Monte Calamita

In Capoliveri’s territory, Monte Calamita is known for its abandoned iron mines and panoramic trails along the coast . The former mining tunnels can be visited with guides who recount the history of extraction and miners’ legends . Today the area is popular with cyclists and trekkers .

Pianosa and the Archipelago

The island of Pianosa can be visited by guided excursions departing from Marina di Campo . Once a maximum‑security prison, it is now part of the Tuscan Archipelago National Park and features unspoiled natural environments and transparent seabeds . Visits are limited to protect the ecosystem. Other smaller islands, such as Montecristo, can only be accessed with special permits .

Beaches Not to Miss

Besides Lacona, Elba boasts a variety of beaches :

Laconella: a small cove next to Lacona with fine sand and cliffs; more secluded and quieter .
Margidore: a dark‑pebble beach on the eastern side of Lacona, less crowded .
Cavoli and Fetovaia: on the west coast, known for white sand and turquoise water .
Sansone: near Portoferraio, famous for white pebbles and crystal‑clear waters .
Padulella: a white beach with limestone cliffs, ideal for snorkelling .
Biodola: a wide bay with services and golden sand, ideal for families .

Summary Table of Destinations

Destination	Distance from Lacona	What to see	Notes
Capoliveri	≈10 km	Historic centre, Sea Museum, mines	Scenic alleys
Porto Azzurro	≈12 km	Tourist harbour, Forte San Giacomo	Evening markets
Portoferraio	≈15 km	Medici forts, Napoleonic villas	Weekly market
Marina di Campo	≈12 km	Long beach, aquarium	Ideal for families
Marciana/Marina	≈30 km	Cable car, promenade	Monte Capanne summit
Monte Calamita	≈15 km	Mines, MTB trails	Guided tours
Pianosa	boat excursion	Natural reserve	Limited access
Beaches	0–40 km	Laconella, Cavoli, Sansone, Biodola	Scenic variety

Suggested Itineraries for a Weekend and Beyond

The variety of Elba allows you to plan stays of different lengths. Below are suggested itineraries for a weekend, a three‑day holiday and a week. Each itinerary is an example that you can adapt to your interests .

Weekend Itinerary (2–3 days)

Day 1 – Arrival and relaxation in Lacona

Arrival in the morning and check‑in at Hotel Giardino .
Take an exploratory walk along the beach and through our garden; enjoy lunch at the hotel with local specialities .
Spend the afternoon on Lacona beach or hike to the nearby Capo Stella promontory for a first taste of the views .
Romantic dinner at the hotel or a waterfront restaurant with fresh produce .

Day 2 – Explore Capoliveri and Porto Azzurro

Breakfast at the hotel; depart for Capoliveri .
Visit the Sea Museum and stroll through the village streets .
Lunch in a typical trattoria serving dishes such as gurguglione .
Afternoon visit to the Monte Calamita mines or a wine tasting at a local cellar .
In the evening, drive to Porto Azzurro for a seaside stroll and dinner .

Day 3 – Snorkelling or trekking

Morning snorkelling in Lacona bay, exploring the seabed , or trekking along the Via dei Lecci .
Light lunch with schiaccia briaca (a local sweet bread) and artisanal gelato .
Afternoon relaxation on the beach or visit to Napoleon’s Villa in Portoferraio .
Departure and return .

Three‑and‑a‑half Day Itinerary (long weekend)

Day 1 – Welcome and tasting

Arrival in the morning, settle into the hotel .
Walk along Lacona beach .
Participate in a cooking class organised by our chef, learning to prepare cacciucco and biscotti topini .
Tasting dinner in the hotel with wine pairings .

Day 2 – Monte Capanne

Breakfast and departure for Marciana; ride the cable car to the top of Monte Capanne .
Picnic with a panoramic view; descent on foot for experienced hikers .
Visit the Santuario della Madonna del Monte or stroll around Marciana Marina .
Return to Lacona; dinner at leisure or at the hotel .

Day 3 – Historic Portoferraio

Morning visit to the Medici fortresses and Napoleonic residences .
Lunch in a local wine bar with cheese and wine tastings .
Afternoon at Sansone or Biodola beach .
Return and dinner at the hotel .

Day 4 – Relaxation and departure

Free morning: yoga in the pine forest, walk in the Lacona Dune Reserve or shopping for local products .
Departure .

Seven‑Day Itinerary (1 week)

If you have a week, you can explore the entire island . The hotel suggests a programme based on its published 7‑day itinerary, adapted as follows:

Day 1 – Arrival and settling in: Check‑in and walk on Lacona beach. Relax in the hotel garden with a welcome cocktail and dinner featuring fish and garden vegetables .

Day 2 – West coast (Cavoli, Fetovaia): Visit these beaches famous for their crystal‑clear water . Enjoy a packed lunch prepared by the hotel and in the afternoon explore the Butterfly Sanctuary or go hiking . End the day with a tasting of local craft beers .

Day 3 – Portoferraio and Napoleonic history: Guided tour of Forte Falcone, Forte Stella and the Palazzina dei Mulini . Lunch in a historic trattoria, afternoon relaxation at the Ghiaie beach or shopping , evening dinner with live music at the hotel .

Day 4 – Sports and nature: Snorkelling or kayaking in Lacona bay . Light lunch at the hotel. Afternoon visit to the Capoliveri Mining Park and the mine . Dinner at a partner farm restaurant tasting dishes like gurguglione and cacciucco .

Day 5 – Pianosa island: Boat trip to Pianosa; visit the former prison and nature trails . Picnic lunch provided by the hotel, return in the afternoon and relax at Marina di Campo beach . Dinner at the hotel .

Day 6 – Capoliveri and wine tasting: In‑depth visit of Capoliveri: Sea Museum, mines and shopping . Afternoon guided tasting at a local winery, sampling Aleatico and other DOC wines . Gourmet dinner at the hotel .

Day 7 – Mountains and departure: Morning trip to Monte Capanne via the cable car . Lunch on the descent or back at the hotel. Spend your final afternoon relaxing on Lacona beach and depart .

Tips to Personalise Your Itineraries

Flexibility: These itineraries are examples; modify them according to your interests and pace .
Season: In high season some places may be crowded; consider visiting early in the morning or late afternoon .
Gastronomy: Alternate hotel meals with dinners out to discover other trattorias and farm restaurants; recommended eateries serve dishes such as sburrita and cacio al vino .
Bookings: Certain excursions, such as visits to Pianosa or the mining park, require advance booking; ask the staff for assistance .

Elban Cuisine and Tastings

The cuisine of Elba reflects a territory of sea and land, combining simple ingredients with intense flavours. Hotel Giardino pays great attention to gastronomy and wants to guide guests in discovering typical dishes .

Typical Dishes

Sburrita: a fish soup (mainly cod) with tomato, garlic and toasted bread; once prepared by fishermen’s families .
Gurguglione: vegetable stew with peppers, aubergines, courgettes and tomato, often served as a side dish or vegetarian main course .
Stoccafisso alla riese: stockfish cooked with potatoes, olives, tomatoes and herbs .
Cacciucco all’elbana: a variant of the famous Livornese cacciucco, with crustaceans, molluscs and rock fish .
Marinated blue fish: anchovies and sardines marinated in oil and lemon .
Cinghiale in umido: stewed wild boar, a reminder of inland dishes .
Schiaccia briaca: a dry cake with raisins, walnuts and almonds, flavoured with Aleatico wine .
Corollo: a soft ring‑shaped cake scented with anise or lemon .

Typical Products and Wines

Aleatico wine: a DOCG dessert wine made from Aleatico grapes, sweet and aromatic .
Ansonica: an autochthonous grape that yields a dry white wine, perfect with fish .
Caci al vino: cheeses matured in local wine, acquiring unique flavours .
Extra‑virgin olive oil: produced in small quantities, with fruity notes .
Strawberry tree and rosemary honey: aromatic honeys collected on Elba’s hills .

Recommended Restaurants and Farmhouses

While the hotel offers excellent cuisine, several establishments are recommended for tasting local dishes :

Ristorante La Contessa (Capoliveri): elegant, fish‑based dishes with panoramic view .
Osteria dei Quattro Venti (Porto Azzurro): family‑style atmosphere serving dishes such as stoccafisso alla riese .
Agriturismo Montefabbrello (between Lacona and Portoferraio): produces its own wine and oil with a menu linked to the vegetable garden .
Pizzeria Ciro (Marina di Campo): famous for thin pizza and schiaccia briaca as dessert .

Remember to book during high season. Alternatively, enjoy our typical dishes at the hotel accompanied by local wine tastings .

Events, Festivals and Traditions of Elba

Participating in local events allows visitors to experience Elban culture firsthand . Major events include:

Giro Podistico dell’Elba (May): a multi‑stage running race around the island; Hotel Giardino offers discounts to participants and energy‑rich menus .
Capoliveri Legend Cup (May): an international mountain bike race on the Monte Calamita trails; the hotel has agreements with the organisers .
Elbaman Triathlon (September): a triathlon attracting athletes worldwide; special rates are available .
Festa dell’Uva (October, Capoliveri): parades, tastings and shows celebrating the grape harvest .
Rievocazione dell’Innamorata (14 July, Capoliveri): historical commemoration of the Innamorata legend with a procession to the sea and bonfires .
Sagra del Cacciucco (August, Portoferraio): gastronomic festival dedicated to cacciucco, with music and entertainment .
Festa del pesce azzurro (August, Marina di Campo): tastings of dishes based on anchovies and sardines .
Festa di San Cristino (July, Lacona): patronal festival with a procession and fireworks on the beach .

Practical Travel Tips

How to Reach Elba

You reach Elba by ferry from the port of Piombino . Companies such as Toremar and Moby Lines connect Piombino with Portoferraio, Rio Marina and Cavo; crossings take 40–60 minutes . Thanks to the hotel’s agreements you can obtain discounted tickets; contact the hotel when booking to use this offer . If you arrive without a car, taxis, buses or car rentals are available at the port .

The nearest airport is Marina di Campo, which connects Elba to Pisa, Florence and Milan with seasonal flights. From the airport, a taxi transfer will get you to Lacona in about 15 minutes .

When to Go and What to Pack

Clothing: In summer bring swimsuits, sandals, hats and sunscreen. In spring and autumn, pack light jumpers, trekking shoes and a rain jacket . Documents: Carry a valid ID for boarding; a driving licence is necessary if you rent a vehicle . Health: Bring basic medicines, insect repellent and after‑sun creams. There are pharmacies in every town and a hospital in Portoferraio . Money: Most restaurants and shops accept credit cards, but cash is useful for small purchases at markets .

Sustainable Holiday Tips

Reduce plastic use: take reusable water bottles and cloth shopping bags .
Respect nature: do not pick plants or shells; do not leave rubbish on trails or beaches .
Use alternative transport: choose bicycles, public transport or car‑pooling to get around .
Support local businesses: buy handmade products and food in local shops; visit wineries and farms .

Additional Q&A: Curiosities and Useful Information

Is sport fishing possible in Lacona? Yes, sport fishing is allowed in compliance with local regulations. You can fish from the beach or rent boats with a skipper; spear fishing requires a permit, and some areas are protected .
How can I organise a surprise for my partner during a romantic weekend? The staff can arrange surprises such as bouquets of flowers in the room, sunset picnics on the beach or couple massages. Inform the hotel of your requests when booking .
On which days are markets held on Elba? The weekly market takes place in Portoferraio on Fridays, Capoliveri on Thursdays and Porto Azzurro on Wednesdays .
Can I take part in olive or grape harvests? In autumn some farmhouses organise grape harvest and olive picking experiences, offering the chance to learn about rural traditions and taste fresh oil and wine .
Are there accessible routes for pushchairs? Many paths around Lacona, such as the beach promenade and part of the Capo Stella trail, are passable with trekking pushchairs. The internal streets of historic villages can be steep and paved, so use lightweight strollers or baby carriers .
Did Napoleon really live on Elba? Yes. Napoleon Bonaparte spent his exile on Elba between 1814 and 1815. His residences, the Palazzina dei Mulini and Villa San Martino in Portoferraio, are now museums open to the public . During this period the emperor improved the local economy and reorganised the island’s administration.
Where can I taste Aleatico directly from the producers? Many winemakers offer tastings and guided tours of their wineries. Well‑known estates include Acquabona near Portoferraio, Tenuta delle Ripalte on Monte Calamita and La Chiusa near Lacona. Booking in advance is recommended .
Can I organise a private event at the hotel? Yes. Hotel Giardino has spaces suitable for small events such as birthdays, graduation parties or company dinners. The family atmosphere and ability to personalise the menu make it ideal for special occasions .
What measures do you take for health safety? Following health guidelines, the hotel sanitises rooms and common areas, provides sanitiser gel, frequently cleans touch points and ventilates premises. Staff are trained in hygiene procedures .

Conclusion: Why Choose Hotel Giardino for Your Weekend on Elba

At the end of this guide, here are the main reasons to choose Hotel Giardino for your weekend or longer stay on Elba :

Strategic location: a few metres from Lacona beach and immersed in a large pine forest, offering tranquillity and coolness. Its central position allows rapid access to the island’s main villages and attractions .
Family atmosphere: family management, friendly staff and a welcoming environment make guests feel at home; many clients return for the authentic hospitality .
Genuine cuisine: menus enhance local products and traditional recipes, with variations for all tastes .
Complete services: comfortable rooms, free parking, Wi‑Fi, play area, bike rental, diving agreements and discounted ferry tickets .
Advantageous promotions: weekend packages for couples, families, sports lovers and wellness seekers, with discounts on ferries, activities and treatments .
Flexibility: open all year, offering short or long stays with personalised conditions .
Planning support: the owners know every corner of Elba and are happy to suggest tailored itineraries, restaurants, events and experiences .

Visiting Elba means discovering a territory rich in stories, flavours, scents and panoramas. By choosing Hotel Giardino as your base, you can experience all this at its best, with the certainty of having a welcoming refuge to return to each evening . We hope this guide helps you plan your getaway and we look forward to welcoming you.