Introduction
Fiery sunsets over the sea, secluded coves where you can stroll hand‑in‑hand, hill‑top villages full of history and candle‑lit dinners with waves as your soundtrack – Elba offers all of this and more for couples dreaming of a romantic getaway. This guide, presented by the staff of Hotel Giardino in Lacona, is designed in a question‑and‑answer format to help you plan a perfect weekend for two. You will find practical advice on how to get to the island, what to see nearby, experiences to share as a couple and the special offers that the hotel provides to make your stay truly unforgettable .
Why choose the Island of Elba for a romantic weekend?
Elba surprises at every corner thanks to the extraordinary variety of its landscapes. In a few kilometres you can move from golden beaches to cliffs, from lively little harbours to secluded coves. This diversity makes the island perfect for couples seeking both romance and adventure. Highlights include:
- Dream locations for sunsets and crystal‑clear sea – on the island’s western shore you can admire spectacular sunsets, with the sun dipping into the sea and painting the sky orange and red . Beaches such as Scaglieri and Procchio are perfect for an evening aperitif as the stars come out .
- Secluded coves for privacy – hidden coves like Le Tombe on the Costa del Sole, Remaiolo or Stagnone remain almost deserted even in summer. Reaching them may require a walk or a rented dinghy, but you will be rewarded with slices of paradise all to yourselves .
- Romantic villages and old‑world atmosphere – Elba is not just about the sea. Its seven municipalities offer ideal backdrops for evening strolls: the Medici fortresses of Portoferraio, the narrow alleys of Capoliveri and the illuminated seafront of Porto Azzurro .
- Nature and panoramas for two – the island’s interior offers trails to explore together. Monte Capanne (1019 m) dominates the landscape and offers breathtaking views of the Tuscan Archipelago . Even shorter walks, such as to the Butterfly Sanctuary on Monte Perone, allow you to enjoy special moments surrounded by greenery .
In summary, Elba combines sea, nature, history and relaxation in a unique way. Whether you are an adventurous couple or simply looking for relaxation, you will find your ideal corner here .
Where to stay on Elba for a romantic weekend
Choosing the right base is essential for a romantic escape. You can opt for charming hotels, panoramic B&Bs or seaside resorts, but Lacona, on the island’s southern side, stands out for its location and atmosphere. Hotel Giardino in Lacona is an ideal starting point for exploring Elba as a couple .
Lacona: a strategic and atmospheric location
Lacona lies on a wide bay with one of the largest and most beautiful beaches on the island. It is surrounded by greenery yet centrally located: within 10‑15 minutes you can reach eastern towns like Capoliveri and Porto Azzurro as well as western ones like Marina di Campo and Portoferraio . This makes Lacona perfect for a short stay. The golden sand and turquoise sea of its beach allow you to enjoy romantic moments without even getting in the car .
Hotel Giardino: immersed in greenery just steps from the sea
The hotel is located in the heart of the Gulf of Lacona, less than 100 metres from the beach . You can walk to the sea any time – perhaps for a moonlit stroll or a sunset swim – and be back in your room in minutes. The property is nestled in a private 30,000 m² park of pine trees and Mediterranean vegetation, ensuring privacy, silence and fresh air even on hot summer days . This natural setting creates an intimate and relaxing atmosphere that couples appreciate.
Hospitality is warm and genuine. Guests often say they feel “at home” thanks to the friendly staff and attentive management . For couples this means relaxing completely and enjoying time together without worries .
The hotel offers all the essential comforts despite being a cosy family‑run two‑star property: rooms with air conditioning, satellite TV, Wi‑Fi, telephone, safe and private bathroom; some have balconies or small gardens . Each room has a reserved, shaded parking space .
Summary of Hotel Giardino’s amenities for couples
| Service/feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | In the Gulf of Lacona, 100 m from the beach via a path through the protected dune area; set in a 30,000 m² pine forest . |
| Comfortable rooms | Private bathroom with shower, air conditioning, satellite TV, Wi‑Fi, telephone and safe. Some with balcony/patio or small private garden . |
| Free parking | A reserved, shaded parking space for each room . |
| Dining | Rich buffet breakfasts with fresh homemade products; lunches and dinners with home‑style local cuisine and à la carte dishes; outdoor dining and barbecue available . |
| Hospitality | Family‑run, friendly atmosphere; staff attentive and available . |
| Wi‑Fi and relaxation | Free Wi‑Fi in common areas; large garden and veranda for relaxing outdoors . |
| Pet‑friendly | Pets are welcome . |
| Leisure services | Covered bike storage; agreements with nearby diving and snorkelling centres; table tennis, table football and a small play area . |
What special offers does Hotel Giardino provide?
The hotel offers several benefits to make your romantic weekend more pleasant:
- Discounted ferry tickets – thanks to an exclusive agreement, guests can book ferry tickets to Elba at reduced rates . This helps couples travelling with a car to save on the ferry cost. The hotel will advise on the best schedules and companies.
- Sport and event deals – the hotel grants special rates for participants in major events such as the Giro Podistico, the Capoliveri Legend Cup mountain bike race and the Elbaman triathlon . These discounts are useful if you are a sporty couple or want to attend the events.
- Seasonal packages – check the official website or contact the hotel to learn about special offers for romantic weekends. In low season there may be promotions with half‑board included or partnerships with local wellness centres . Travelling outside the peak months (June or September) is itself an “offer”: prices are lower and the island is quieter .
How to get to Elba for a romantic weekend
Elba is well connected and easy to reach from the mainland. Here’s how to travel to the island and some tips for couples planning a short stay :
- Ferry from Piombino – the most common option. Ferries depart from Piombino Marittima (Livorno province) to Portoferraio every 30–60 minutes in summer and also to Rio Marina and Cavo . The crossing takes about 60–75 minutes . Book a space for your car in advance during summer weekends; alternatively park in Piombino and travel as foot passengers, then hire a scooter or use public transport .
- By plane – Elba has a small airport at La Pila (Marina di Campo) with scheduled flights from Pisa, Florence and Milan Linate (and seasonal flights from Switzerland and Germany). A flight takes about 45 minutes from Pisa and under an hour from Milan . From the airport it’s a 10‑minute taxi ride to Lacona .
- Train + ferry – take a train to Piombino Marittima (with a change at Campiglia Marittima). The station is next to the ferry terminal . Then board the ferry as a foot passenger and hire a vehicle on the island. From Florence the journey takes ~2½ hours by train plus one hour by ferry .
- Car + ferry – drive to Piombino via the Aurelia highway, board the ferry and then drive on the island. Note: there are no LPG or methane stations on Elba – only petrol/diesel . Distances: Florence–Piombino 170 km (~2 hours) and Milan–Piombino 390 km (~4½ hours). Portoferraio to Lacona takes about 20 minutes by car .
Getting to Lacona
Once you arrive on Elba, Lacona is about a 20‑minute drive from Portoferraio . You can also take a taxi or local bus, but for short stays a car or scooter gives you more flexibility.
Travel options table
| Transport | Details and tips | Approximate duration |
|---|---|---|
| Ferry from Piombino | Frequent departures year‑round to Portoferraio (main port) and some to Rio Marina/Cavo. Reserve car space ahead. Reach Piombino by car, train or bus . | ~60 min crossing + ~30 min boarding |
| Plane (Elba Airport) | Scheduled flights by Silver Air from Pisa and Florence (year‑round) and from Milan Linate (summer), plus charters from Switzerland/Germany . Airport at Marina di Campo; taxi to Lacona takes 10–15 min . | ~45 min flight + transfer |
| Train + Ferry | Train to Piombino Marittima station (near ferry), then ferry to Portoferraio . | Florence–Piombino ~2½ h train + 1 h ferry |
| Car + Ferry | Drive to Piombino via Aurelia, board ferry, drive on Elba . | Florence–Piombino ~2 h + 1 h ferry + 20 min drive to Lacona |
What to visit around Hotel Giardino
Staying in Lacona puts you in a privileged position not only for the local beach but also for exploring many island attractions. Highlights include :
- Lacona Beach – one of Elba’s longest beaches (1.2 km). Fine golden sand, protected coastal dunes and clear shallow water . Ideal for night strolls or moonlit swims, with a smaller cove (Laconella) accessible via a scenic path .
- Capoliveri – 8 km away, a hill village with charming alleys, artisan shops and panoramic squares. Visit the Calamita mine and nearby beaches such as Barabarca, Zuccale, Morcone and Innamorata; the latter hosts a torchlight procession on 14 July to reenact a love legend .
- Porto Azzurro – 10 km away; a picturesque fishing harbour with palm‑lined waterfront perfect for evening strolls. Dine by the harbour and visit the 17th‑century Spanish fortress San Giacomo .
- Portoferraio – 15 km away; the island’s capital rich in history. Walk up to the Medici fortresses Falcone and Stella for sunset views , visit Napoleon’s residences Villa dei Mulini and Villa San Martino and enjoy an aperitif in the old port .
- Marina di Campo – 11 km away; a lively town on the island’s longest sandy beach . Nearby are famous beaches like Cavoli and Fetovaia, ideal for a daytime excursion .
- Monte Capanne – 25 km to Marciana plus a cable car ride; the island’s highest peak (1019 m) offers 360° views and an unforgettable experience for nature‑loving couples .
- Other ideas – hikes to Monte Tambone or Monte Orello, a visit to the Elba Aquarium in Marina di Campo or exploring the western ring road through Marciana, Marciana Marina and the Monte Capanne cable car .
Places to visit: summary table
| Place | Distance from Lacona | Why visit |
|---|---|---|
| Lacona Beach | 100 m (2 min walk) | Wide sandy beach with dunes and pine forest. Ideal for daytime relaxation, night strolls and snorkelling . |
| Capoliveri | ~8 km (15 min by car) | Romantic hill village with alleys, squares and artisan shops; panoramic views and access to beaches and the Calamita mine . |
| Porto Azzurro | ~10 km (15 min) | Harbour village with palm‑lined promenade, seafood restaurants and a small beach; visit the Monserrato sanctuary . |
| Portoferraio | ~15 km (20 min) | Historical capital with Medici fortresses, Napoleon’s villas and atmospheric old port . |
| Marina di Campo | ~11 km (15 min) | Lively seaside town with long beach; nightlife, markets and access to Cavoli and Fetovaia beaches . |
| Monte Capanne | ~25 km to Marciana (40 min + cable car) | Highest mountain with cable car to 1,019 m summit; 360° views over the archipelago . |
Romantic experiences for couples on Elba
Beyond visiting beautiful places, a romantic weekend can be made extra special by sharing unique experiences. Here are some suggestions :
- Unforgettable sunsets – head to Sant’Andrea’s “Lunar Cliff” on the north‑west coast for smooth granite terraces at water level. Sitting here at sunset feels surreal . Closer options like Pomonte, Chiessi or Fetovaia also offer breathtaking sunsets . Bring a local Aleatico wine for an impromptu toast.
- Horseback ride with tasting – book a ride at the Tenuta delle Ripalte on Monte Calamita. You will trot through vineyards with a guide, then stop for an aperitif with Elban wines and local products at sunset .
- Scooter tour along the Costa del Sole – rent a scooter and explore the western coastal road. Stop at Cavoli or Seccheto for a swim and continue to Sant’Andrea or Marciana Marina. The freedom to stop at hidden coves makes it both fun and romantic .
- Picnic and stargazing on Monte Perone – bring sandwiches and a blanket to the picnic area among the pines . After lunch, walk the Butterfly Trail to admire colourful butterflies . At night, head to the Piazzale dell’Astronomia in San Piero to gaze at the Milky Way; in August you can see shooting stars .
- Boat trip to Pianosa or around the coast – take an excursion from Marina di Campo or Portoferraio to the flat, unspoilt island of Pianosa or join a coastal tour stopping at coves only accessible by sea . Alternatively, hire a small inflatable boat for a private cruise . Snorkel together and keep an eye out for dolphins – the waters off Elba are part of the Cetacean Sanctuary .
- Candlelit dinner with a sea view – choose a restaurant on the beach (Enfola, Norsi, Bagnaia or Marciana Marina) or a hill‑top terrace in Capoliveri or Portoferraio. Enjoy fresh seafood with a glass of Ansonica or Vermentino wine and finish with a slice of schiaccia briaca, Elba’s traditional cake made with Aleatico wine and nuts . Many restaurants will arrange a special table or dessert for anniversaries or proposals .
Romantic experiences summary
| Experience | Description | Recommended location |
|---|---|---|
| Admire the sunset from the “Lunar Cliff” | Sit on smooth white rocks at the water’s edge and watch the sun set in a surreal atmosphere . | Sant’Andrea (Cote Piane cliffs) |
| Horseback ride with tasting | Ride through vineyards and enjoy an aperitif with Elban wines and local products . | Tenuta delle Ripalte (Capoliveri) |
| Scooter tour along the Costa del Sole | Explore the south‑western coast, stopping at coves and viewpoints . | From Marina di Campo to Chiessi |
| Picnic and star‑watching | Picnic in a woodland area, walk the Butterfly Trail and observe stars away from lights . | Monte Perone (San Piero) |
| Boat tour and swimming in coves | Join an organised tour or hire a boat to discover secluded bays, snorkel and perhaps see dolphins . | Around the island / Pianosa |
| Candlelit dinner by the sea | Dine at a restaurant on the beach or with a panoramic view and taste fresh fish with local wine . | Portoferraio (Darsena), Capoliveri, Enfola, Norsi |
Of course, these are just a few ideas: Elba offers many more possibilities, from thermal baths to scuba diving or even a panoramic helicopter flight . Choose experiences that suit your style and let the island’s spontaneity surprise you .
Conclusions: Elba and Hotel Giardino – the perfect combination for your romantic weekend
Planning a romantic weekend on Elba means giving yourselves a small dream. The island amazes with its natural beauty and intimate atmosphere. Hotel Giardino in Lacona fits perfectly into this picture as a welcoming nest: immersed in greenery, steps from a beautiful beach, strategically located for exploring the island and run with heart. Couples appreciate its genuine simplicity and attention to guests . The guide has provided practical information on travel, ideas on what to see and do together and details about the hotel’s offers . Now all you need to do is choose a date, check availability (perhaps taking advantage of a special package), pack swimsuits and comfortable shoes and set off for Elba . Above all, live your weekend with flexibility and spontaneity – unexpected moments often become the sweetest memories . Elba awaits you with open arms to frame your love story.