Where to Go Birdwatching on Elba?

Introduction

The island of Elba is a haven for nature and bird lovers. Its strategic location between Europe and Africa and the variety of habitats—rocky coasts, pine forests, Mediterranean scrub, hills and even old salt pans—make it possible to observe many species in every season . Over 150 different species, including rare and protected birds, have been recorded on the island. From cliffs inhabited by gulls to peaks where migrating birds of prey fly overhead and beaches with coastal dunes and quiet pine woods, Elba offers unique birdwatching opportunities throughout the year .

This question‑and‑answer guide shows where to go birdwatching on Elba, which species you can see and when, and how to prepare with the right equipment and clothing. It also explains why Hotel Giardino—surrounded by greenery in Lacona—is an ideal base for exploring the island and birdwatching . Finally, it highlights attractions near the hotel, such as beaches, panoramic trails and characteristic villages, plus some typical restaurants where you can enjoy Elban specialities .

Why is the Island of Elba ideal for birdwatching?

Question: What makes Elba such an interesting place for birdwatching?
Answer: Elba, the largest island in the Tuscan Archipelago National Park, is a concentrate of biodiversity. Its geographic position in the Tyrrhenian Sea—about 10 km from the Tuscan coast—makes it a natural stopover for many migratory birds that travel between Africa and Europe . During the spring and autumn migrations, flocks use the island as a “bridge” to rest and refuel before continuing their journey . The mild Mediterranean climate also allows various species to nest and live on the island all year, providing birdwatching opportunities at any time .

Another strength is the diversity of natural environments concentrated in just 224 km² of land: rugged cliffs that shelter gulls and raptors, long sandy beaches with dunes and pine forests that are ideal for shorebirds and small passerines, and hilly and mountainous inland areas dominated by Monte Capanne . Elba is one of the few places where you can encounter the Corsican finch (Carduelis corsicana) and Marmora’s warbler (Curruca sarda), which live only on a few Mediterranean islands. Common residents also include red‑legged partridges, Eurasian jays, Sardinian warblers, tits and greenfinches .

Which bird species can be observed on Elba?

Question: Which bird species can you spot on Elba?
Answer: The list is long! Raptors and falcons use the rising air currents over Elba’s hills during migration; among the most frequently seen are the honey buzzard (Pernis apivorus), marsh harrier (Circus aeruginosus), black kite (Milvus migrans) and even the rare Eleonora’s falcon (Falco eleonorae), which passes mainly in autumn . Along the cliffs it is easy to spot the peregrine falcon, which nests here and hunts in fast dives . More common kestrels (Falco tinnunculus) and buzzards (Buteo buteo) are present all year. Daytime visitors also include colourful bee‑eaters and hoopoes in spring, plus various species of swallows and swifts in summer .

The coastal environment hosts several gull species: the Mediterranean gull is widespread, and Elba is one of the few places where you can see the rare Audouin’s gull—the symbol of the National Park . European shags (Phalacrocorax aristotelis) and shearwaters (Calonectris diomedea and Puffinus yelkouan) also find ideal conditions here; at dawn or dusk you can see them skimming the waves . In winter, when boats disappear and the beaches are empty, migratory seabirds such as gannets (Morus bassanus) are sometimes seen offshore .

In the woods and scrublands live many songbirds: the nightingale (Luscinia megarhynchos), robins, finches, blackbirds and various warblers can be heard in spring . Rock thrushes (Monticola solitarius), larks and pipits inhabit rocky terraces and open fields . At night, scops owls, little owls and barn owls animate the countryside, while ravens and magpies are seen almost everywhere . Grey herons and little egrets frequent the island’s rare wetlands . Occasionally even flamingos stop on Elba—recent sightings at the old salt ponds of San Giovanni in Portoferraio have excited enthusiasts .

What are the best places for birdwatching on Elba?

Elba offers many areas of ornithological interest across the island. Below is an overview of the main spots, each with its own unique features. A summary table follows for quick comparison of these locations and their characteristic species.

Capo d’Enfola: a sanctuary on the northern cliffs

Question: Why is Capo d’Enfola special for birdwatching?
Answer: Capo d’Enfola, a rocky peninsula north of Portoferraio, is considered one of the favourite places for birdwatchers on the island. Its cliff cavities provide perfect shelter for many seabirds and raptors. A large colony of Mediterranean gulls nests here; with careful observation you can see their nests and chicks in spring . The real star is the peregrine falcon, which frequents these rocky walls in search of pigeons and small birds . With a bit of luck you might spot it streaking along the coast. Capo d’Enfola is also a great spot to observe pelagic birds offshore: silhouettes of shearwaters and shags are visible on the horizon . The scenic setting includes steep cliffs and fragrant Mediterranean scrub, attracting songbirds such as Sardinian warblers and Dartford warblers . The promontory can be reached by car via a panoramic road and a simple loop path (about one hour) offers breathtaking views and good observation points . Sunrise or sunset offers ideal light for photography.

Monte Capanne and the western coast: between mountain and sea

Question: What does the Monte Capanne area offer birdwatching enthusiasts?
Answer: The western coast of Elba, dominated by the Monte Capanne massif, is a true hotspot for bird observation, especially during migrations. This mountainous area that descends towards the sea presents very different habitats within a few kilometres: rocky slopes near the summit, forests and pinewoods on the hillsides, scrublands in the lower areas and villages surrounded by orchards along the coast . Such heterogeneity attracts many species. Near the villages of Poggio and Marciana you can spot typical garden birds; moving to more rugged areas you may encounter endemic species such as the Corsican finch and Marmora’s warbler , along with Sardinian warblers and Moltoni’s warbler . From the summit of Monte Capanne (reached by cable car or trails) you have a privileged view of raptor flights: in late summer you may see dozens of honey buzzards gliding on updrafts before heading south , and short‑toed snake eagles (Circaetus gallicus) during spring migration . Small migrants such as pied flycatchers and whinchats stop in the terraced fields between Marciana and Chiessi in spring and autumn . Coastal paths like the Chiessi–Pomonte trail allow you to observe both terrestrial and marine birds .

Monte Serra (Rio nell’Elba): raptor migration observatory

Question: What makes Monte Serra special for birdwatching?
Answer: Monte Serra is a modest 422 m peak in eastern Elba near Rio nell’Elba. Despite its low height, it has become famous among ornithologists because it offers an excellent observation point for the autumn migration of diurnal raptors. Every year the Tuscan Ornithological Centre (COT) organises a monitoring camp on the summit to count hundreds of falcons flying over the island . In some years nearly 2,000 raptors belonging to more than 13 species have been recorded over two weeks . The most numerous are honey buzzards, followed by marsh harriers and sparrowhawks; snake eagles, kites and even rarities appear . Monte Serra is interesting year‑round: peregrine falcons and kestrels nest on nearby cliffs, and buzzards and scops owls frequent the surroundings . A short circular trail (around three hours round‑trip) starts at Aia di Cacio between Rio Elba and Rio Marina and is suitable for families . During the annual “La Natura al Centro” festival in September, guided walks with ornithologists allow participants to observe migrating falcons and learn identification tricks .

Dunes of Lacona and the Gulf of Lacona: nature at your doorstep

Question: Can you go birdwatching without venturing far from Hotel Giardino?
Answer: Absolutely. Hotel Giardino is located in the Gulf of Lacona, an area rich in natural interest that requires no long journeys. Just 100 m from the hotel is the beach of Lacona, one of the largest on Elba (about 1.2 km) . Its unique feature, besides fine golden sand and clear sea, is the protected system of coastal dunes behind it . Walking through these dunes to the beach immerses you in a small coastal ecosystem: among the junipers and sea lilies you can observe insects, lizards and hear finches and linnets . With luck you might even spot a Kentish plover (Charadrius alexandrinus)—a tiny wader that nests on sandy beaches—though its presence on Elba is sporadic . The area around Lacona is also characterised by extensive maritime and umbrella pine forests. Hotel Giardino itself is set in a pinewood of about 30,000 m² that provides refuge and food for many birds . Guests often comment on the pleasant sensation of falling asleep and waking up to bird songs and the call of the scops owl .

Nearby trails are also recommended. One easy walk leads to Capo Stella—the headland that closes the gulf to the east—offering views over both Lacona and the Gulf of Stella and the chance to see kestrels hunting and gulls soaring . Early morning walks on Lacona beach often reveal shorebirds running along the shore and herons taking off from the wetlands behind . It is a magical spectacle before the bathers arrive.

The ancient salt pans of San Giovanni (Portoferraio): a pink surprise

Question: Where can you see flamingos on Elba?
Answer: A fascinating and unusual place is the basin of the San Giovanni salt pans near Portoferraio. These abandoned salt works have created a coastal wetland where, in recent years, groups of greater flamingos (Phoenicopterus roseus) have begun to stop during their movements in the Tyrrhenian Sea . The sight of pink flamingos against the backdrop of the salt pans and Portoferraio is unique on the island. The salt pans also attract other wetland birds such as grey herons, little egrets, plovers and curlews . The area is visible from points along the coastal road—there is no organised tourist access—and future projects may make it more accessible. For now, bring a telephoto lens and patience: keep your distance and you may capture a flamingo fishing in the pink water at sunset .

Summary of birdwatching sites on Elba

The table below summarises the main birdwatching locations, their key habitats and some characteristic species. For each site, notes are given about accessibility or the best times to visit. Long sentences have been shortened for clarity.

Place	Habitat & characteristics	Typical species (examples)	Notes
Capo d’Enfola (NW)	Rocky promontory with sheer cliffs and Mediterranean scrub	Peregrine falcon, Mediterranean gull, rare Audouin’s gull, shag, shearwaters	Easy access by car to the former tuna factory; simple panoramic loop path; best in early morning or late afternoon
Monte Capanne & West Coast (W)	Mountain (1,019 m) with woods and rocks; slopes descending to the coast with scrub and villages	Short‑toed eagle, honey buzzard, marsh harrier, Marmora’s warbler, Corsican finch, shearwaters, bee‑eater, hoopoe	Summit reached by cable car or hiking; coastal trails such as Chiessi–Pomonte allow observation of migratory and marine birds; best in spring and autumn
Monte Serra (E)	Hill (422 m) with scrub and open woodland; panoramic point over eastern Elba	Honey buzzard, harriers, sparrowhawk (migration); kestrel, peregrine falcon (resident); buzzard	Reachable from Rio Elba (Aia di Cacio trail); raptor monitoring camp in early September; 360° views
Gulf of Lacona (S) – Dunes & Pinewood	Long sandy beach with protected coastal dunes; extensive coastal pinewoods and nearby fields	Kentish plover (sporadic), oystercatcher (migrant), scops owl, kestrel, hoopoe, pinewood passerines such as great tit, greenfinch, Sardinian warbler	Directly accessible from Hotel Giardino (100 m); ideal at dawn and dusk for waders and crepuscular raptors
San Giovanni salt pans (Portoferraio)	Coastal wetland (abandoned salt pan) with shallow saline waters	Greater flamingo (irregular), grey heron, little egret, plover, curlew	Viewable only from outside (protected area); best in winter and early spring when migratory waterbirds are present
Capo Stella (Lacona)	Promontory between Lacona and Stella bays; scrub and small woods	Kestrel, buzzard, Mediterranean gull, Sardinian warbler	Easy trail from Camping Stella Mare; splendid panorama over two bays; best in the morning

Note: the compass points (NW, W, E, S) indicate the area of the island (North‑West, West, East, South).

In which season to visit Elba for birdwatching?

Question: What is the best period for birdwatching on Elba?
Answer: Every season has its peculiarities and offers different sightings, so Elba merits being visited year‑round from a naturalistic perspective. Here is a brief overview by season:

Spring (March–May): This is perhaps the richest time. Nature awakens and so do the birds: many migrants arrive after crossing the sea from North Africa, stopping to feed and rest . Swallows, swifts, scops owls, bee‑eaters, cuckoos and passerines passing through the fields are easily seen . It is also nesting season; males sing vigorously to mark territory . Raptors transit towards the north and some remain to reproduce. The climate is mild and the vegetation in bloom attracts butterflies and insects .
Summer (June–August): Hot and dry conditions mean birds are most active at dawn and dusk . You can observe breeding adults with their young: peregrine falcons teach fledglings to hunt along the cliffs; on beaches, if present, Kentish plovers guide their chicks among the dunes . This is also the time when juvenile raptors practise flying and the skies are full of swallows, house martins and swifts . Marine birdwatching is excellent; boat trips reveal shearwaters, shags and gulls on inaccessible cliffs . Avoid the hottest hours and choose less crowded areas for peace .
Autumn (September–November): Another outstanding period for migration. In late August and throughout September, many birds head south: the skies over Monte Serra fill with honey buzzards, kites and falcons ; coastal scrub is full of small migrants feeding on berries ; wetlands may host waders and ducks . Autumn offers splendid colours and still mild temperatures . In October the first winter visitors arrive, and the San Giovanni salt pans increase the chance of seeing flamingos . With fewer crowds, wildlife observation becomes easier.
Winter (December–February): The least popular season for tourism but still interesting. The mild climate (rarely below 5–6 °C on the coast) and rainfall keep vegetation green and shrubs full of berries . Many northern species such as robins, thrushes and finches spend the winter on Elba . On calm sunny days raptors soar above the slopes, and the sea may host unusual birds like scoters . With few visitors, nature is more relaxed and you may walk in silence accompanied only by the call of a peregrine falcon .

The following summary table highlights the natural characteristics of each season, notable birds and practical advice. Again, cells have been kept concise.

Season	Natural characteristics	Birds observed	Advice & notes
Spring (Mar–May)	Explosion of life; spring migrations arriving; blooming vegetation	Maximum variety: trans‑Saharan migrants (bee‑eaters, cuckoos, hoopoes), arriving raptors (honey buzzards, harriers), singing passerines (nightingales, warblers)	Ideal for general birdwatching; mild climate; book ferries/accommodation for Easter/holidays
Summer (Jun–Aug)	Hot and dry; bird activity concentrated at dawn/dusk; nesting in progress	Breeders with young (kestrel, peregrine falcon, swallows, scops owls); active seabirds (shearwaters, gulls); summer migrants (swifts, bee‑eaters)	Avoid central hours; boat trips recommended for coast observation; island crowded—prefer quiet areas
Autumn (Sep–Nov)	Autumn migrations south; still mild climate in September; more rain later	Large passage of migrants: raptors (honey buzzards, kites, falcons) in September; passerines (flycatchers, warblers, thrushes) in Sep–Oct; arrival of winter visitors (robins, redwings); possible flamingos and waterfowl	September is excellent (fewer people, warm sea); join events like the raptor camp; October hosts the Grape Festival in Capoliveri
Winter (Dec–Feb)	Mild Mediterranean climate with rain; green vegetation	Resident species (peregrine falcon, kestrel, tits); wintering northern birds (song thrushes, fieldfares, bramblings); winter seabirds (cormorants, gannets, occasional loons)	Ideal for those seeking total quiet; some high trails may be muddy; few tourist services open

What equipment do you need for birdwatching on Elba?

Question: What must you pack for a satisfying birdwatching trip on Elba?
Answer: Birdwatching does not require complicated equipment, but a few essentials are important :

Binoculars: The fundamental tool for bird observation. Compact models such as 8×30 or 8×40 provide a wide field of view and sufficient brightness while remaining lightweight . More powerful binoculars (10× or 12×) require a steady hand. Choose waterproof models with a sturdy strap. A telescope is optional but useful for observing seabirds on the horizon or raptors at long distances .
Field guide: A pocket guide to European birds or an app helps identify species . Comparing what you see with illustrations or descriptions allows you to distinguish similar species .
Notebook and pen/pencils: Writing down species, location, date and behaviour helps reconstruct your trip and improves identification later . Drawing quick sketches or noting plumage colours can also help . Alternatively, use your smartphone to record notes or photos, but avoid being distracted .
Appropriate clothing: Covered in detail in the next section, but always bring a hat and sun cream (the Mediterranean sun can be strong) and a lightweight waterproof jacket . Wear comfortable shoes, preferably trekking shoes .
Backpack with water and snacks: A light backpack with external pockets for your water bottle and possibly a tripod. Bring enough water—especially in summer—and some energy snacks . Birdwatching requires patience and often more walking than expected.
Camera (optional): Enthusiasts may bring a camera with a telephoto lens; others can use a smartphone for panoramic shots .
Other useful items: A multi‑tool knife, headlamp for pre‑dawn or evening outings, bags for rubbish or protecting electronics from sudden rain, and apps for identifying calls and recording sightings (e.g. eBird) .

In summary, essential equipment comprises binoculars, a field guide, a notebook and suitable clothing . Travel light but not underprepared; above all, birdwatching requires your eyes, patience and curiosity .

How to dress for birdwatching on Elba

Question: What clothing is recommended for birdwatching excursions on Elba?
Answer: The right clothing can make the difference between a pleasant outing and an uncomfortable experience. Here are some practical tips :

Layering (“onion dressing”): Conditions on Elba can change quickly from warm sea breezes to cool hill winds, so dress in layers . Wear a breathable base layer, add a light fleece for cool hours and carry a thin windproof/rain jacket .
Appropriate footwear: Many birdwatching sites require walking on dirt paths, rocks or uneven terrain. Light trekking boots or shoes with good non‑slip soles are recommended . Avoid flip‑flops or open shoes during excursions .
Neutral and muted colours: Wear natural colours such as olive green, brown, beige or grey so you blend into the environment. Avoid bright colours that might alert birds . Even a fluorescent hat can be seen by a falcon hundreds of metres away .
Sun and insect protection: Elba can be very sunny, so a cap or wide‑brimmed hat is essential . Sunglasses reduce eye strain. In pinewoods at dusk or wet areas like the salt pans there may be mosquitoes; light long sleeves and trousers protect better than repellent . In winter, add a warm layer (light down jacket or heavy fleece) and consider a wool hat and thin gloves . A rain jacket helps with sudden showers .
Organised backpack: Keep removed layers in your backpack and keep your jacket handy if you see clouds on the horizon .

In short, comfort and practicality are key. Dress as you would for a trek, adapted to the day’s weather and environment . There is no need to dress like a camouflage photographer; simple neutral clothing and quiet movement are more effective . Avoid strong perfumes and make sure your binoculars and camera do not rattle when you walk .

Organised excursions and birdwatching guides on Elba

Question: Are there guided tours or organised excursions for birdwatching on Elba?
Answer: Yes, there are several opportunities to join expert‑led outings, especially during the peak seasons. The Tuscan Archipelago National Park periodically organises birdwatching or nature events with qualified guides . For example, in September 2024 the Park offered a trek with an ornithologist on Monte Serra to observe migrating raptors . Similar experiences are proposed every year during environmental festivals or EuroBirdwatch days . These excursions are open to the public, require booking through the Park’s information centre and have a symbolic cost, often discounted for children .

Local environmental guides and biologists also offer private or small‑group tours. Some nature‑focused hotels collaborate with experts to accompany guests on trails and show flora and fauna . Certified Park Guides organise excursions on request; you might hire one for a morning at Capo d’Enfola or Monte Capanne to help identify species . The Tuscan Ornithological Centre (COT) coordinates ornithologists across the region and sometimes organises study camps on Elba open to volunteers . During the Raptor Camp volunteers help count migrating falcons .

If you are interested in whales, reptiles or insects, Elba also offers whale‑watching boat trips from Marina di Campo or Marciana Marina and a Butterfly Sanctuary on Monte Perone . Your hotel staff may provide information and contacts for current excursions . For novices, a mixed approach can be ideal: join a guided outing to learn techniques and then explore on your own . Always respect the rules of the Park, avoid prohibited or dangerous areas, and do not disturb wildlife .

Advice for families and beginners

Question: Is birdwatching on Elba suitable for families with children?
Answer: Absolutely! Elba offers nature at child‑scale, with easily accessible environments and variety that intrigues young explorers . To make it enjoyable:

Choose easy and stimulating places: Start with short, flat itineraries so children do not tire quickly. A stroll through the Lacona pinewood behind the beach is perfect: the ground is level and shaded, and kids can look for pine cones and shells while spotting little birds among the branches . The Capo Stella trail leads to a panoramic viewpoint in about 30 minutes . Visits to the Lacona Environmental Education Centre or the Orto dei Semplici at the Hermitage of Santa Caterina are also educational . Some beaches offer close encounters with fauna, such as the small Elba Aquarium in Marina di Campo .
Involve children as explorers: Give your kids an “explorer’s task.” Entrust them with an old binocular or toy monocular so they feel active. Print a simple illustrated checklist of common Elban birds and challenge them to tick off species seen during the holiday . Establish a quiet signal (e.g. raising a hand) to avoid loud calls that might scare away wildlife . Children often notice details adults miss; turn the walk into a treasure hunt of sounds and sights .
Balance observation with breaks: Include breaks for ice cream, a swim or free play . For example, after an hour at Enfola, throw stones in the water or have a snack on the beach . Alternating birdwatching with fun activities keeps attention high .

Question: I have never tried birdwatching: where do I start?
Answer: Elba is an excellent place to start because the fauna is varied yet relatively easy to observe. Begin with common species: learn the call of the great tit or the flight of the kestrel around Lacona and practise following them with binoculars . Do not aim for rarities at first; instead, familiarise yourself with 10–15 common species so you recognise them when you meet them . Consider joining a group or using apps such as Merlin Bird ID for song identification or eBird for recent sightings . Remember that birdwatching is not a competition; it is about learning to look at the natural world differently . Patience and enjoying the landscape are essential .

Hotel Giardino of Lacona: the ideal base to explore Elba

After talking at length about nature and itineraries, it is worth spending a few words on Hotel Giardino, the base chosen for this Elban experience. Located in Lacona in a very strategic position for touring the island, Hotel Giardino combines comfort, tradition and contact with nature, making it perfect for families and enthusiastic birdwatchers.

Question: Where exactly is Hotel Giardino located?
Answer: The hotel stands in the heart of the Gulf of Lacona on Elba’s south coast. It is only about 100 m from the large sandy beach of Lacona, reachable on foot in five minutes via a path through the pinewood . This means you can come and go from the beach at will—a huge advantage for families or for a refreshing swim after a morning excursion. At the same time, the hotel is surrounded by a large pine forest and a private park of about 30,000 m², creating a peaceful and cool atmosphere .

Lacona is centrally located on the island. Within 10–15 minutes by car you can reach Portoferraio to the north, Capoliveri and Porto Azzurro to the east and Marina di Campo to the west . This centrality is precious for those who want to explore different parts of Elba without long drives: you can easily make day trips in various directions and return comfortably for dinner .

Question: What accommodation and services does Hotel Giardino offer?
Answer: This is a family‑run 2‑star hotel with a genuine, informal and welcoming atmosphere—“you immediately feel at home” . The rooms are simple but equipped with essential comforts: air conditioning, flat‑screen TV, safe and a private bathroom with shower . Some have a balcony, others a small private garden or patio . Daily cleaning is meticulous and much appreciated by guests . The staff are extremely friendly and helpful; reviews highlight the “exceptional friendliness of the staff” . The hotel is pet‑friendly and welcomes your four‑legged friends .

Hotel Giardino offers all the essentials: a large free private car park with shaded spaces, free Wi‑Fi in common areas, and a covered bicycle storage area . It lacks a pool or spa—after all, the sea is a stone’s throw away—but has a large garden equipped with tables, chairs and shaded areas where you can relax, plus a small playground for children .

Question: What about the restaurant and cuisine?
Answer: The hotel has an in‑house restaurant reserved for guests, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. The cuisine is one of its highlights: homemade dishes prepared with fresh local ingredients, ranging from freshly caught fish to traditional Tuscan recipes . Breakfast is a buffet rich in island specialities and homemade cakes, with both sweet and savoury options . Lunch and dinner feature simple but tasty dishes, also suitable for children. There is flexibility for allergies or special dietary needs . From time to time, outdoor barbecues are organised under the stars . Guests often praise the excellent food and variety, especially the seafood dishes and desserts .

Question: Why is Hotel Giardino recommended for nature lovers?
Answer: Several factors make it ideal for nature lovers. First, its position in nature: the hotel is immersed in greenery at the edge of a protected dune area and very close to trails and outdoor routes . You can literally start a birdwatching walk from the hotel without taking the car . Many outdoor activities are within reach: snorkelling in the nearby sea, kayaking in the bay, trekking from Capoliveri’s Monte Calamita, or diving at nearby schools . The hotel supports hikers and cyclists with bike storage and local knowledge . It also offers ferry ticket discounts for guests and promotions for participants of sports events such as the Legend Cup MTB . The warm atmosphere allows you to relax after adventures and enjoy a glass of Aleatico passito, sharing birdwatching experiences with other guests .

What to visit near Hotel Giardino (Lacona and Capoliveri)

Besides birdwatching, Elba offers beaches, history, characteristic villages and gastronomy. The Lacona area, being halfway between various points of interest, easily allows half‑ or full‑day excursions to enrich your holiday . Here are some suggestions:

Capoliveri (15 min by car): The reference medieval village, perched on a hill at 167 m a.s.l., with a maze of narrow paved alleys, stone houses and breathtaking sea views . See Matteotti Square, the Pieve di San Michele outside the centre and the small Mineral Museum. The town comes alive in the evening with restaurants and shops, and hosts traditional events like the Grape Festival in October and the Festa dell’Innamorata in July .
Beaches of Capoliveri: Within 15–20 minutes you can reach some of Elba’s most beautiful beaches. The Spiaggia dell’Innamorata is a golden sandy bay tied to a love legend with crystal water and beautiful sunsets . Spiaggia di Zuccale is small and sheltered, ideal for snorkelling thanks to its rocky seabed . Morcone offers equipped beaches, while Barabarca is more wild and immersed in scrub . A table in another chapter compares these beaches. Staying in Lacona, you have many shorelines within easy reach .
Portoferraio (20 min): The capital of Elba is rich in history, known for its Napoleonic sites (Villa dei Mulini and Villa San Martino) and the Medici fortifications . You can stroll along the waterfront, admire yachts and the San Giovanni salt pans opposite, and visit the Archaeological Museum . Nearby beaches like Le Ghiaie offer great snorkelling . In the evening the centre comes alive with bars and restaurants .
Porto Azzurro (15 min): A picturesque fishing village on the east coast with a charming square overlooking the harbour . The skyline features the Spanish San Giacomo Fortress; nearby is the Terranera lake—an unusual cove with green water next to a small mining lake . The panoramic road to the village offers beautiful views over the Gulf of Mola; keep an eye out for herons or flamingos in the marshes behind .
Monte Calamita and the Vallone mines (20 min): Explore the mining area of Capoliveri. On Monte Calamita (413 m) there were important iron mines, now disused and visitable with guided tours . The landscape is lunar, with reddish rocks and artificial lakes, and trails that follow old sites . Birdwatchers might encounter buzzards and the rare black wheatear (Oenanthe leucura) . The Capoliveri Bike Park uses these trails for the Legend Cup mountain bike race, but they can also be walked for a unique trek .
Marciana and Monte Perone (30–40 min): Further west, visit Marciana, a medieval village on the slopes of Monte Capanne with a Pisan fortress and panoramic alleys . From Marciana a cable car leads to the summit. Monte Perone hosts the Butterfly Sanctuary mentioned earlier, with a circular trail and panels about endemic butterflies . The panoramic terrace of Monte Perone (about 630 m) provides views over the south‑western coast and is good for spotting falcons and ravens .

Where to eat typical local food near Hotel Giardino

Elba boasts a rich and genuine gastronomic tradition. If you are staying at Hotel Giardino you can enjoy the home cooking, but it is worth trying some typical eateries nearby :

Bagni Orano (Lacona): A beach establishment with an attached restaurant managed by a local family . You can eat practically with your feet in the sand: fresh grilled fish, crispy fritto misto and cacciucco (fish stew) are on the menu, as well as pizzas . It’s ideal for lunch after a morning of birdwatching; kids love being able to play on the sand between courses. In high season, book to ensure a table, especially for dinner . Guests of Hotel Giardino can walk there in five to ten minutes through the pinewood .
Lo Zenzero (Lacona): Listed as one of the best restaurants in Lacona according to users . This modern trattoria offers Elban cuisine with a twist: dishes include Elba‑style octopus (boiled then grilled and served with potatoes and local vegetables) and linguine allo scoglio with generous seafood . There are also creative vegetarian options. The ambience is refined but unpretentious and suited to couples and groups alike. It is on Viale dei Golfi, the same road as the hotel, and is a short drive or a 15‑minute walk away .
Fame Chimica (Lacona): A popular street‑food/trattoria offering gourmet sandwiches, boards of local cheeses and cured meats, and both seafood and land‑based snacks . Try the octopus sandwich or a board of goat cheeses with honey and jams. Perfect for a quick and substantial lunch before afternoon exploration . The informal atmosphere suits families—children will appreciate the artisanal burgers .
Trattoria da Mario (Capoliveri): This historic restaurant in Capoliveri is known for its homemade local cuisine: zimino di ceci (chickpea soup), gurguglione (Elban vegetable stew), fresh homemade pasta and grilled meats . The rustic atmosphere, with chequered tablecloths and vintage photos, makes you feel at home . It is tucked away in a lane, perfect for a post‑dinner stroll.
La Taverna dei Poeti (Capoliveri): Mentioned by the hotel itself, this restaurant has an evocative setting with outdoor tables in a little square or alley . It specialises in very fresh fish and traditional dishes revisited creatively—tagliolini with lobster, tuna tartare or grouper fillet alla isolana . There is a good selection of local wines such as dry Ansonica .
Regali Rurali farmhouse (Lacona): A small dairy farm in the Lacona hills that organises tastings and snacks based on goat and sheep cheeses, honey and homemade jams . It is not a classic restaurant but a rural experience where you can meet goats and taste the island’s rural flavours .

Hotel Giardino concentrates its meals for guests in‑house, but if you feel like dining out, these suggestions will satisfy every palate. Remember to try Aleatico Passito, Elba’s renowned sweet wine, perhaps accompanied by Schiaccia Briaca—a traditional cake with raisins and nuts .

Conclusion

Elba has proven to be a true treasure for birdwatching and outdoor activities. From the cliffs of Capo d’Enfola to the quiet Gulf of Lacona, every corner of the island offers special encounters with wildlife and unforgettable views . At the same time, thanks to the hospitality of Hotel Giardino in Lacona, visitors feel pampered and “part of the family” with the convenience of accommodation immersed in nature yet well connected to all of Elba’s wonders . Whether you are an experienced birder searching for rarities, a family eager for nature adventures, or a traveller curious about Elba’s green soul, we hope this Q&A guide helps you plan your experience. Pack your backpack, binoculars and desire to explore: Elba awaits with birdsong at dawn, the flight of falcons at sunset and a starry sky over the pinewoods . Happy birdwatching!