Welcome to Elba Island – Our Natural Paradise
On the official blog of the Hotel Giardino in Lacona, the staff welcome guests to their “home away from home” in the heart of Elba. Set in a 30 000 m² park of pines and Mediterranean scrub just a short walk from Lacona beach, this family‑run hotel offers comfortable rooms with private bathroom, satellite TV and safe, a genuine atmosphere and home‑style cooking with fresh, local products. The aim of this guide is to introduce guests to the naturist beaches of the island and offer itineraries and tips gathered from those who know Elba best.
Overview of Elba: geography, nature and population
Elba lies about 10 km off the Tuscan coast and can be reached by ferry from Piombino in roughly an hour. Around 35 000 inhabitants live on 224 km² in seven municipalities – Portoferraio (the capital), Capoliveri, Campo nell’Elba, Porto Azzurro, Marciana, Marciana Marina and Rio. The island’s 147 km of coastline hide sandy beaches, pebble coves and steep cliffs, while inland Monte Capanne rises to 1 019 m. Layers of Etruscan, Roman, Medici and Napoleonic history blend with crystal‑blue sea and rolling hills.
Brief history of naturism on Elba
Certain coves have long been frequented by naturists. Acquarilli is the only beach where naturism is officially authorised, thanks to a Capoliveri council resolution of 2015. Other locations described here are “tolerated” rather than formally recognised, meaning nudism is practised without a legal framework. Common sense rules apply: when families are present, wear a swimsuit and always respect the environment. Most naturist beaches are remote and lack services; bring water, shade and rubbish bags.
Naturist beaches of Elba – detailed descriptions
Each section below answers common questions and ends with a short table summarising the key features of the beach.
1. Acquarilli Beach
The only legally authorised naturist beach sits on the southern coast between Lacona and Norsi. Its shore is made of dark pebbles which heat up quickly under the sun, and high cliffs provide shade before sunset. There are no bars or services, so you must bring water, an umbrella and everything you need for the day. Access is via a steep path dropping about 100 m from the panoramic road linking Lacona and Norsi. Parking is available along the road.
- Getting there – Drive towards Porto Azzurro/Capoliveri from Lacona. About 100 m before Norsi a panoramic car park appears; leave your car and follow the path down (about 15–20 min). The beach has a sector used by clothed bathers and a more secluded area for naturists.
- Precautions – Wear closed shoes for the path, bring plenty of water and a rubbish bag; the climb back is demanding.
Summary: dark‑pebble cove (~150–200 m) accessible via a steep path, no services, officially naturist, suited to experienced naturists seeking tranquillity.
2. Capo Canata
This small pebble beach (~80 m) lies on the western tip of Capo Stella, next to Lacona beach. Reach it by crossing the Stella Mare camping area and descending a staircase. The shore is made of dark pebbles; the water is clear and rich in fish – excellent for snorkelling. No services are available; naturism is tolerated.
- Access – Walk along the rocks from Lacona beach and climb the stairs towards the campsite; ask staff for directions.
- Nature – Bring a mask to explore the interesting sea‑bed.
Summary: dark‑pebble beach (~80 m) reached via rocks or through the campsite; no services; naturism tolerated, especially when the beach is quiet.
3. Le Piscine rock pools
Between Fetovaia and Seccheto is a stretch of smooth granite cliffs forming natural pools, one of Elba’s most famous naturist spots. Park along the provincial road (two fenced areas) and descend a short path. The rocks heat up in summer, so bring sandals and a parasol. There are no services and the sea is deep from the start – recommended only for confident swimmers.
Summary: extended granite rock platforms with natural pools; access via short path; no services; naturism tolerated; surfaces become very hot.
4. Le Tombe
A long dark‑pebble beach near Marina di Campo, named after Etruscan tombs on the hill above. A wild environment accessible via a 15–20 min path; because of the effort it remains uncrowded even in high season. The naturist area lies mainly on the right side beyond some rocks. Bring water and shade – there are no services.
Summary: long pebbly beach (>300 m) with difficult access; no services; naturism tolerated mostly on the right-hand section.
5. Rocks between Barabarca and Zuccale
Between the beaches of Barabarca and Zuccale lies a short rocky strip (~80–90 m) with a small sheltered cove reserved for naturists. From the parking area serving both beaches, follow the path to Barabarca until a broken fence; take the path on the right to reach the naturist zone. The rocks are smooth and the water is clear; space is limited, so arrive early.
Summary: rocky area with small cove accessible by short path; no services; naturism tolerated; limited space but good snorkelling.
6. Rocks between Lido di Capoliveri and Felciaio
Between Lido di Capoliveri and Felciaio is a wild rocky stretch frequented by naturists. It is tricky to find: from the Felciaio car park, look for a hidden path through vegetation or cross the military bunker linking the Lido to the rocks. There are no services; naturism is tolerated.
Summary: small rocky area (~50 m); access via hidden path or bunker; no services; naturism tolerated but be discreet when clothed bathers are present.
General considerations
- Respect and prudence: most naturist areas are unofficial; wear a swimsuit when families are present.
- No services: apart from a nearby campsite at Capo Canata, these beaches lack bars and toilets – carry water, sunshade and rubbish bags.
- Legal status: only Acquarilli is legally authorised; other locations are tolerated, so be discreet.
Hotel Giardino – Our home, your base
The Hotel Giardino is a family‑run hotel in the centre of Lacona bay, surrounded by a 30 000–35 000 m² park. Highlights include:
- Proximity to the beach: just 100 m from Lacona beach via a path through the protected dunes.
- Comfortable rooms: simple, functional rooms with air‑conditioning, flat‑screen TV, private bathroom and safe. Many have independent entrance or balcony/patio.
- Family atmosphere: informal and welcoming; buffet breakfasts with homemade goods; home‑style lunches and dinners adapted for children or dietary needs.
- Services: free Wi‑Fi in the dining area and bar, bike storage, numbered parking space for every room, spaces for diving/snorkelling equipment, ferry discounts and pet‑friendly policy.
- Friendly staff: reviews praise the staff’s friendliness, room cleanliness and the cosy pinewood setting.
Thanks to its location, the hotel serves as a strategic base for exploring the island’s main towns (Marina di Campo, Capoliveri, Porto Azzurro and Portoferraio) within 10–15 minutes by car. Each room’s numbered parking space avoids the hassle of finding parking in busy villages. Ferry discounts and special agreements for sporting events are also available.
Capoliveri and surroundings: what to visit from our hotel
Getting to Elba and Capoliveri
The best way to reach Elba is by ferry from Piombino to Portoferraio; crossings take about one hour and run daily. Bringing a car gives you autonomy; from Portoferraio it’s a 15–25 minute drive to Lacona and Capoliveri. Buses connect Portoferraio to Capoliveri and Marina di Campo but are less frequent outside high season. In Capoliveri park in the lower car parks (e.g., Parcheggio La Boa) and use the evening shuttle into the pedestrian centre. Hotel guests have their own parking space.
Climate and best times to visit
Capoliveri enjoys a Mediterranean climate. Summer (June‑August) brings 28–32 °C and busy beaches. Spring and early autumn (April–May and September–early October) have mild temperatures (18–22 °C) ideal for trekking and relaxation. Winter is mild but quieter as many facilities close.
The village of Capoliveri
Capoliveri is a labyrinth of cobbled lanes and panoramic squares. Points of interest include:
- Pieve di San Michele – ruins of a Romanesque church where Pope Gregory XI is said to have celebrated Mass in 1376.
- Chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta – a late‑Renaissance church on Piazza Matteotti.
- Chiesa della Madonna delle Grazie – set in the countryside near its namesake beach.
- Museum of the Sea – houses the treasure of the Polluce steamship (gold and silver coins).
- Alfeo Ricci Mineral Museum – exhibits crystals and stones from local mines.
- Piazza del Cavatore viewpoint – panoramic terrace overlooking Golfo Stella and Montecristo.
Beaches near Capoliveri
From the hotel you can reach some of Elba’s loveliest beaches:
| Beach | Key features | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lacona | Wide golden crescent (~1 200 m) with coastal dunes and a pine forest | Shallow water and Blue Flag; most of it is free; 5 min walk from the hotel |
| Innamorata | Small south‑facing sandy bay (~280 m) | Sheltered and romantic; legend of Lorenzo and Maria commemorated on 14 July |
| Zuccale | Hidden cove (~180 m) with golden sand and crystal water | Great for snorkelling; basic services but intimate atmosphere |
| Morcone | ~270 m of light sand mixed with pebbles | Easily reached; beach clubs, diving centre and windsurf school |
| Barabarca | Small wild cove with light sand and shells | No fixed facilities; peaceful and perfect for snorkelling |
| Lido di Capoliveri | Busy 460 m beach | Many services: bars, restaurants, canoe and motorboat rentals; view of Montecristo |
| Naregno | Sandy beach (~500 m), protected by Forte Focardo | Beach clubs, sailing school and boat link to Porto Azzurro |
| Laconella | Half‑moon of white sand (~200 m) near Lacona | No permanent services; reached via a 10–15 min path; wild feel |
Outdoor activities around Capoliveri and Lacona
Elba is a paradise for outdoor activities:
- Water sports – Clear waters make Capoliveri’s coast ideal for snorkelling and diving; local diving centres guide trips, including to the Elviscot wreck at Pomonte. SUP and kayaking are perfect in the sheltered bays of Lacona and Stella. Lacona’s thermal winds attract windsurfers and there are schools and catamarans on both Lacona and Lido di Capoliveri.
- Trekking & mountain bike – The Monte Calamita trail climbs through old iron mines to spectacular views. Shorter walks include the Madonna delle Grazie path and the Capo Stella loop (6.6 km, 217 m elevation) with views over Lacona and Stella. The Capoliveri Bike Park offers numerous MTB and e‑bike tracks across the promontory.
- Horse riding & other activities – A riding centre in Mola organizes horse treks through the hills and along Naregno beach; tennis courts and adventure parks in nearby campsites entertain children.
History, culture and traditional events
Capoliveri’s people belong to four historical districts (Fosso, Torre, Fortezza and Baluardo) that compete during the Grape Festival in the first week of October. Each district decorates the streets with harvest‑themed scenes and offers Aleatico wine tasting. On 14 July the Legend of the Innamorata is re‑enacted with a torchlit procession and a rowing race. Mid‑May brings the Capoliveri Legend Cup, an international mountain bike race. Summer and autumn feature food festivals celebrating honey, wild boar, mushrooms and fish, along with open‑air concerts.
Food and wine
Capoliveri’s cuisine blends peasant and maritime traditions. Typical dishes include cicerchia soup, crab gnocchi, Elba‑style fish stew (cacciucco) and wild boar stew. Local specialities encompass Aleatico Passito DOCG, Elba Bianco and Elba Rosso wines, extra‑virgin olive oil, goat cheeses seasoned with Mediterranean herbs and fresh fish such as bream, snapper, octopus and squid. Restaurants in Capoliveri like Taverna dei Poeti and Trattoria da Mario serve authentic island cuisine. The hotel itself offers a high‑quality kitchen with buffet breakfasts and simple, tasty lunches and dinners tailored to children and dietary needs.
Excursions and itineraries from Lacona
Lacona sits at the centre of Elba’s southern coast, making the Hotel Giardino ideal for excursions. Suggested outings include:
- Family‑friendly – Enjoy Lacona and Laconella beaches (shallow water for kids); take the Capo Stella loop (6.6 km, 217 m ascent); visit Capoliveri’s Museum of the Sea; and relax on Margidore beach.
- Couples – Watch the sunset from Capo Stella; ride the cable car up Monte Capanne; dine in Porto Azzurro’s romantic harbour; join a sunset mini‑cruise along the coast; and visit local wineries for tastings.
- Experienced hikers – Climb Monte Capanne via trail 101 (9 km, 785 m ascent) or take the cable car; walk segments of the Grande Traversata Elbana such as the “Via dei Rosmarini” and the “Via dei Lecci”; explore iron‑mine paths and via ferrata routes.
- Sea trips – Day trip to Pianosa including snorkelling and village visit; dolphin‑watching cruise along the south coast; guided snorkelling in Lacona’s seagrass meadows; sunset cruises in Lacona and Stella bays.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
General questions about Elba and naturism
- Only Acquarilli is legally authorised for naturism; other locations are tolerated.
- In theory fines are possible outside authorised zones, so be discrete and wear a costume when beaches are crowded.
- Summer brings warm water (24–26 °C) but more people; May–June and September offer mild weather and quieter beaches.
- Bring water, umbrella, sunscreen, snacks, suitable shoes and a rubbish bag.
- Public buses connect Portoferraio with Lacona and Capoliveri but service is limited; a car or scooter makes visiting remote beaches easier.
Questions about Hotel Giardino
- The hotel offers half‑board with buffet breakfast and dinners made from fresh products.
- Contact the hotel for discounted ferry tickets via partner companies.
- Free Wi‑Fi is available in common areas.
- Children can enjoy the playground, table tennis and table football in the garden; the shallow Lacona beach offers pedal boats and beginner windsurfing.
- The hotel welcomes pets; let staff know when booking.
Questions about excursions
- To climb Monte Capanne from the hotel, drive to Marciana (≈1 h 10 min) and hike or take the cable car.
- Boat rentals and dolphin‑spotting trips depart from Lacona and Marina di Campo.
- For a romantic walk, the Capo Stella trail at sunset or the cable‑car ride up Monte Capanne at dusk are recommended.
Conclusion: your naturist journey starts at Hotel Giardino
This guide provides a complete overview of Elba’s naturist beaches, the treasures of Capoliveri and the many excursions departing from Hotel Giardino. From the smooth granite rocks of the Piscine to the black pebbles of Acquarilli, from the romantic sunsets of Innamorata to ancient mining trails, Elba blends unspoilt nature and history. The Hotel Giardino team is ready to share local stories and make your holiday unforgettable. The key to enjoying Elba is respecting nature and local traditions: take only what you need, leave no trace and share a smile with residents.
The charm of Elba: nature, history and traditions
Elba is celebrated not only for its sea but also for its mountain views, vineyards and chestnut forests. With around 150 bays and coves along 147 km of coastline, there’s great variety: golden sand beaches like Lacona and Cavoli, white‑pebble coves like Sansone and granite cliffs. Monte Capanne dominates the skyline and offers 360° views of the Tuscan Archipelago. The island’s Napoleonic heritage includes the Palazzina dei Mulini and Villa di San Martino, while centuries of iron mining are preserved in parks at Rio Marina and Capoliveri. Elban cuisine merges sea and land – octopus stew, cured tuna and the sweet “schiaccia briaca” with Aleatico wine. A table in the article summarises why the island is famous: its varied beaches, unspoilt nature, historical sites and gastronomy.
Must‑see towns and villages
Every Elban town has its charm. Capoliveri offers romantic hilltop views and lively evening markets. Portoferraio combines Medici fortresses with Napoleonic residences and beaches like Ghiaie. Marina di Campo boasts the island’s longest sandy beach and a cable car to Monte Capanne. Marciana sits 375 m above sea level and is a starting point for hiking, while Marciana Marina has an elegant seafront. Porto Azzurro is a picturesque fishing village with seafood restaurants and a gateway to boat trips. A table summarises the highlights of each town.
Following Napoleon’s footsteps
Napoleon was exiled to Elba from May 1814 to February 1815. He modernised roads and mines and left several sites to visit: the Palazzina dei Mulini in Portoferraio, his official residence; Villa di San Martino, his summer home; the Teatro dei Vigilanti, a church he turned into a theatre; Medici forts such as Forte Stella and Forte Falcone; and the mines at Rio and Capoliveri. Guided tours and self‑guided itineraries allow visitors to explore these places.
Suggested three‑day itinerary
The article proposes a three‑day itinerary combining history, beaches and naturism:
- Day 1 – Portoferraio and the northern coast: Visit the Medici forts and Napoleon’s Palazzina dei Mulini, relax on beaches like Ghiaie, Padulella and Capo Bianco, then drive to Acquarilli for naturism. Dinner on the harbour at Portoferraio or back at the hotel.
- Day 2 – Monte Capanne and the western coast: Take the cable car to Monte Capanne or hike through the forest, then explore the Costa del Sole (Sant’Andrea, Fetovaia, Seccheto, Cavoli). For naturists, visit the Piscine or Le Tombe. Finish the day in lively Marina di Campo.
- Day 3 – Capoliveri, Lacona and the south‑east: Stroll through Capoliveri’s historic centre and enjoy views from Via Giovanni XXIII, then swim and snorkel at Innamorata and other nearby beaches. Naturists can head to Capo Canata or the rocks between Barabarca and Zuccale. End with dinner in Porto Azzurro and watch the sunset from Monte Calamita.
A table summarises the itinerary.
Elba in winter – an island all to yourself
Even in winter Elba is active. December temperatures on the coast range from about 12–15 °C during the day to 6–8 °C at night; snow can fall on high peaks like Monte Capanne. Winter is perfect for hiking, museum visits, quiet village explorations, local food tasting and Christmas markets. Dress in layers, bring waterproof jackets and trekking shoes. Naturist beaches remain accessible, but the sea is colder and there are no services. A table offers tips for visiting in December.
The 10 most beautiful beaches of Elba (for naturists and others)
The article summarises ten standout beaches and notes whether naturism is allowed. Some highlights:
- Cavoli – 300 m of light sand, popular with young people; naturism only in off‑season at the edges.
- Fetovaia – small bay of white sand; not naturist.
- Sansone – white pebbles and turquoise water; great for snorkelling but not naturist.
- Biodola – wide fine‑sand bay; not naturist.
- Lacona – 1 200 m of golden sand with dunes; naturism only in hidden coves near Capo Canata.
- Innamorata – romantic 280 m bay; naturism not practised on the main beach.
- Zuccale and Barabarca – two adjacent coves where naturism is tolerated on the rocks between them.
- Seccheto, Cavoli and Le Piscine – golden‑sand beaches and the smooth rocks of Le Piscine, a naturist favourite.
- Le Tombe – long black‑pebble beach; naturism tolerated throughout.
- Acquarilli – small black‑pebble bay; the island’s only officially authorised naturist beach.
A comparative table lists beach types, naturist status, services and notes.
Sustainability and environmental respect
Protecting Elba’s beauty requires care. The article recommends carrying out your rubbish, respecting flora and fauna (especially dune habitats), using eco‑friendly sunscreen, wearing a swimsuit when non‑naturists are present, limiting car use, and supporting the local economy by buying local products and eating in local restaurants.
Additional FAQs
- You don’t necessarily need a car to explore the island, but it makes reaching remote naturist beaches easier.
- Most naturist beaches are hard to access for people with disabilities, though Capo Canata near a campsite offers somewhat easier access.
- Naturism in Italy is regulated locally; on Elba only Acquarilli is officially authorised.
- Local products can be purchased in wine shops in Capoliveri, Portoferraio and Rio Marina.
- Snorkelling is excellent at Acquarilli, Le Tombe, Le Piscine and the rocks between Zuccale and Barabarca.
- The best time for a naturist holiday is May–June or September, when beaches are quieter and the weather is mild.
- There are no naturist‑only guided tours, but the hotel can suggest routes combining trekking and naturism.
Practical tips and curiosities
- Transport – Ferries operate year‑round; the hotel can secure discounted tickets. An automobile is the most convenient way to explore, though scooters, bikes and e‑bikes also work well. Taxi boats run in high season to unreachable coves. Each hotel room includes a numbered parking space.
- Local customs – Learn local dialect words: “forasteri” for visitors, “chiassi” for narrow alleys and “pizzoriti” for typical small cakes. Craft markets sell lava‑stone jewellery, marine‑patterned ceramics and handmade knives; don’t forget Aleatico wine or Elban honey.
- Nightlife – Towns like Portoferraio and Marina di Campo stay open past midnight, whereas music in Capoliveri’s squares ends around 23:30. Ask the staff about evening events and festivals.
- Food curiosities – Try the sportella (spiced Easter cake with anise and pepper), cerimito (carnival sweet bread) and sun‑dried tomatoes used for pasta. Many naturists enjoy simple beach picnics with bread, fresh ricotta, olives, seasonal fruit and a bottle of wine; avoid plastic containers.
- Final suggestions – Book early, especially for May, June and September; rely on the hotel staff for personalised itineraries and hidden naturist spots; and arrive with an open mind to savour Elba’s blend of wild nature, millennia of history and modern comforts.
Contacts
Hotel Giardino – Viale dei Golfi 936, Lacona, Capoliveri, Elba Island.
Tel.: +39 0565 964059; Mobile: +39 335 7925420; Email: info@elbahotelgiardino.it.