Introduction
The Island of Elba is a paradise for mountain‑bike enthusiasts. In just over 220 km² you find sheer coastal cliffs, chestnut woods and panoramic ridges. Cyclists can choose from gentle coastal climbs to demanding mountain ascents: Monte Capanne rises to 1,019 m and offers 360° views of the Tuscan Archipelago and even the coasts of Corsica and Tuscany . With kilometres of single track, forest roads and paths that snake past old mines, every ride on Elba becomes a unique experience. Even when the weather changes, the island’s colours and scents make biking endlessly interesting .
Why choose Hotel Giardino as a base
Hotel Giardino in Lacona (in the municipality of Capoliveri) is an ideal base for these adventures. It is a two‑star, family‑run hotel set in over 30 000 m² of pine parkland just 100 m from the long beach of Lacona . The proximity to the sea and the shady pine forest create a relaxing atmosphere perfect for families and bike tourists. Guests can enjoy approx. 4 500 m² of private gardens, a playground and table‑tennis tables . The simple but spotless rooms feature balconies or small private gardens and include all comforts such as a flat‑screen TV, safe and free Wi‑Fi . Each room has a numbered parking space and there is a secure covered bike store . The hotel is surrounded by Mediterranean vegetation – an ideal retreat after a day on the trails .
Frequently asked questions about staying at Hotel Giardino
- Where is the hotel located? The hotel stands at Viale dei Golfi 936 in Lacona, right in the heart of the Gulf of Lacona. From the private parking you have direct access to the large park .
- Why is it suitable for families? Lacona beach, five minutes’ walk away, has fine sand and shallow water – ideal for children. There is also a playground and the kitchen prepares simple, tasty meals for the youngest guests; reviews praise the family atmosphere and the helpful staff .
- Are pets allowed? Yes, pets are welcome on request .
- What services are offered for cyclists? In addition to the covered bike storage, the hotel works with bike‑rental centres and repair workshops. Guided excursions and bike kits can be organised. Reviews often describe the hotel as “bike friendly” .
- What does the half‑board include? Breakfast is a buffet with homemade products and the restaurant serves Italian dishes à la carte, accommodating allergies and intolerances. Guests praise the home cooking, which includes fresh fish, outdoor barbecues and local specialities .
- When is the best time to visit? Summer (June–August) is hot and busy; spring and autumn offer milder temperatures and quieter trails, making them ideal for cycling .
Recommended MTB itineraries
Elba offers routes for every level of cyclist. The following table summarises typical rides with indicative distances, difficulties and times. Many of these routes are mapped by InfoElba and Komoot – you can download detailed GPX tracks from their websites .
| Route (start / finish) | Distance (km) | Difficulty | Time (hours) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Capoliveri – Fattoria delle Ripalte | 20.5 | Easy | ~2.5 | Leaves from Capoliveri’s Piazza del Cavatore and follows the old mine road on the south side of Monte Calamita . |
| Villa di San Martino – Colle Reciso | 8.6 | Medium | ~1.5 | Starts at Napoleon’s villa in San Martino and runs along the ridge of Colle Reciso . |
| Lacona – Monte Tambone – Marina di Campo | 12.1 | Difficult | ~2.5 | Tackles sandy sections and steep dirt climbs up Monte Tambone before descending to Marina di Campo . |
| Capoliveri Bike Park (Calamita area) | 100+ | All levels | Various | A network of over 100 km of marked trails through rocks and Mediterranean vegetation with sea views . |
| Giro del Monte Calamita | 37.0 | Medium/Hard | 4–5 | A spectacular loop from Capoliveri across ancient mines and ridge lines with views over the Gulf of Stella . |
| Portoferraio – Anello dell’Acquedotto Romano | 15.0 | Easy | ~2 | A historic route following the old Roman aqueduct into Portoferraio . |
| Miniere di Rio Marina | 25.0 | Medium | ~3 | A lunar‑like loop through the mines with moderate ups and downs . |
| Marina di Campo – San Piero – Sant’Ilario | 20.0 | Easy | ~3 | Coastal dirt tracks linking picturesque villages – perfect for beginners . |
More challenging rides
For tough ascents, riders can climb to the summit of Monte Capanne (1 019 m) from Marciana – alternating paved and unpaved sections and rewarded with views over Corsica and the Apuan Alps . The loop of Monte Calamita (37 km) passes ancient mines and gullies along the coast . In the Capoliveri Bike Park you can choose “gravity” tracks for downhill specialists or panoramic gravel trails for touring .
GPS tracks and maps
Numerous portals and apps provide GPX tracks for Elba’s MTB routes. The Tuscan Archipelago National Park publishes official trail maps at 1:15,000, downloadable from the park’s shop (emporio.parks.it) and readable via apps like 4LAND . Many of the routes listed above can also be found on platforms like Komoot or RidewithGPS – often with free track downloads .
What to see near Hotel Giardino
The hotel sits centrally in Lacona, 10–15 minutes by car from many points of interest :
- Nearby beaches: Apart from the long sandy beach of Lacona, you can quickly reach the bays of Barabarossa and Norsi on the east coast and the beaches of Cavoli and Innamorata on the south side . These spots offer crystal clear seas and family‑friendly services such as beach clubs and water sports.
- Capoliveri old town: The picturesque centre of Capoliveri is a few minutes’ drive away. Visitors can shop in local stores, try restaurants and admire panoramas like Capo Stella .
- Portoferraio: Elba’s capital to the north is easily reached (20–30 min). Highlights include Napoleon’s residences – the Palazzina dei Mulini and Villa di San Martino – and the island’s mineral museum .
- Hermitage of Santa Caterina and the Botanical Garden: Near Portoferraio you find the ancient hermitage of Santa Caterina and the adjoining “Giardino dei Semplici Elbano” botanical garden, both of high historical and natural value .
- Marciana and the Pisan Fortress: To the west lies Marciana, famous for its medieval fortress perched above the sea. From here several MTB and hiking trails start, including the Monte Perone route to the Butterfly Sanctuary .
- Scenic viewpoints: Capo d’Enfola (a small island joined to Elba) and Monte Capanne offer spectacular views. The Monte Capanne ridge trail is worth a detour even by bike for the very fit .
Summary of MTB routes
For quick reference, the table below summarises some key MTB routes on Elba.
| Route | Distance (km) | Difficulty | Key feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capoliveri – Fattoria Ripalte | 20.5 | Easy | Flat crossing of Monte Calamita on asphalt and dirt . |
| San Martino – Colle Reciso | 8.6 | Medium | Climb on dirt tracks towards the ridge and Napoleon’s historic structures . |
| Lacona – Monte Tambone | 12.1 | Hard | Steep climb and sandy sections with panoramas over Marina di Campo . |
| Anello Monte Calamita | 37.0 | Medium/Hard | Loop from Capoliveri crossing ancient mines and ridges above the Gulf of Stella . |
| Acquedotto Romano (Portoferraio) | 15.0 | Easy | Historic route along the old Roman aqueduct . |
| Miniere di Rio Marina | 25.0 | Medium | Lunar landscape of the mines with moderate ups and downs . |
| Marina di Campo – San Piero | 20.0 | Easy | Coastal dirt tracks linking villages, ideal for beginners . |
Services for cycle tourists
Hotel Giardino works with several local bike services. Guests can obtain discounts on ferries to reach the island and, on request, book guided excursions . A covered bike store and tool area are available. Many ferry lines allow you to bring your bike – it is best to book in advance and check space limitations . The National Park’s information point advises using the 4LAND mobile app to consult official maps .
Tips and recommendations
- Physical preparation: Elba is not flat! Consider your training level before tackling demanding routes such as Monte Capanne or the mine circuits .
- Equipment: A helmet is mandatory. Carry a repair kit (inner tube, pump, tools) and plenty of water, especially in summer .
- Weather: Check forecasts – seasonal rain and mist can make paths slippery. In winter temperatures are mild at sea level but can be cold at altitude .
- Timing: Start early to make the most of the natural light, enjoy the views and avoid midday heat .
- Respect the environment: Stay on marked trails to avoid disturbing protected vegetation and dispose of rubbish in designated bins .
If you are not cycling
For travel companions who prefer not to ride, or for a rest day, the area offers numerous alternatives. Relax by the hotel pool or on Lacona’s beach, visit Capoliveri’s ethnographic museum or Napoleon’s monuments in Portoferraio, or take a boat trip along the coast to the Capo Stella coral reef or Portoferraio bay . There are also easy walks, such as the Lacona hillside trail or a visit to nearby Casa Venturina farm where local cheeses are produced .
Conclusion
Elba offers endless opportunities for cycling immersed in nature – from coastal loops to challenging mountain climbs. Hotel Giardino in Lacona provides a strategic, family‑friendly base just steps from the sea, with home‑style cuisine, private parking and secure bike storage . Whether you want to explore the trails around Monte Calamita, ride through ancient mines, or simply relax on the beach, this guide should help you plan your mountain‑bike holiday on the Island of Elba.