Introduction
Capoliveri, one of the picturesque hilltop villages on the Island of Elba, has long been a coveted destination for those seeking sea, nature and authentic Tuscan charm. This medieval village enchants with its cobbled alleyways and pastel‑coloured houses overlooking breathtaking views . If you are planning a holiday in this area and wondering where to sleep in Capoliveri, you are in the right place. We will discover how to find the best accommodation offers on Elba and take a detailed look at Hotel Giardino in Lacona – a welcoming, family‑run hotel that stands out as an ideal starting point for exploring the island . Whether you are travelling with family, as a couple seeking relaxation, as an adventurous hiker or a sea lover, you will find tailor‑made advice. Finally, there is a section dedicated to what to visit around the hotel, so you don’t miss the wonders that Elba offers just steps from your base .
Offers and tips for staying in Capoliveri
Capoliveri is one of the best places to stay on Elba. Here are some frequently asked questions about accommodation offers in this area and helpful tips for saving and organising your trip .
- Is Capoliveri a good base for staying on Elba?
Answer: Yes. Capoliveri and its surroundings are an excellent strategic choice for lodging on the island. Located on Elba’s south‑eastern side, it is centrally positioned relative to many attractions. From Hotel Giardino in Lacona (a hamlet of Capoliveri) it only takes 10–15 minutes by car to reach Marina di Campo, the centre of Capoliveri, Porto Azzurro or Portoferraio . This means you can conveniently explore various parts of the island during the day and return to a quiet place away from the hustle and bustle at night. Capoliveri itself also offers plenty of charm: the hilltop medieval village provides evocative views and lively evening life in summer (artisanal markets, panoramic cafés), while numerous coves and panoramic trails are nearby . In short, choosing Capoliveri as a base allows you to experience Elba 360°: sea, hiking, culture and fun are all within reach. - Is it easy to find deals in Capoliveri during high season (July–August)?
Answer: In high season Elba is very popular and finding last‑minute deals in Capoliveri can be challenging. July and especially August see sold‑out situations at the most sought‑after accommodations, so booking at the last minute may leave you with few options or high prices . If you plan to visit in this period, the tip is to book well in advance (already in winter or spring) to secure the best rates . Alternatively, consider off‑peak periods: June and September offer splendid weather, warm sea and fewer crowds . September in particular is loved by locals because the beaches are less crowded, prices drop and the island regains tranquillity. You can enjoy Capoliveri and Elba with all the advantages (crystal‑clear sea, end‑of‑summer food and wine events, mild temperatures) but without the mid‑August crowds . - Where can you search for hotel and accommodation deals in Capoliveri?
Answer: There are specialised portals that publish promotions and packages for the Island of Elba, including the Capoliveri area. Websites such as LastMinuteHotelElba.it, HotelsElba.com, the official portal Infoelba or ElbaLink regularly compile updated offers for hotels, residences, B&Bs, campsites and other facilities . You often find discounted packages with ferry included or special reductions for those booking at the last minute . These portals are very useful for getting an idea of the available offers: you can filter by area (e.g., Capoliveri/Lacona) and quickly compare discounted rates . It’s worth checking them regularly when you’re on the hunt for the right deal. - How do you stay up to date on available promotions?
Answer: The secret is to sign up and follow the right channels. Many of the specialised sites mentioned above offer newsletters: by subscribing, you will receive the latest last‑minute deals by email, sometimes with exclusive discount codes . Moreover, follow the Facebook and Instagram pages of these portals and of the individual properties in Capoliveri: flash deals are often announced on social media . Another tip is to check travel forums or Facebook groups dedicated to Elba, where other travellers share opportunities they’ve found. Lastly, local word‑of‑mouth helps: if you have contacts on the island (friends, acquaintances or even the tourist office in Capoliveri) ask if they know of any current promotions . With constant monitoring and a bit of perseverance you’ll manage to “snatch up” the best deals before they sell out . - Is it important to pay attention to the ferry when booking a holiday?
Answer: Absolutely! Often those looking for a hotel in Capoliveri focus on lodging and forget about the ferry, but remember that Elba is reached by boat from Piombino. Ferries to Portoferraio (or Rio Marina) in summer are frequent, but booking at the last minute can mean paying high fares or not finding your desired time . Many holiday offers on Elba already include the ferry (sometimes free or discounted) to solve this problem . Several establishments, including Hotel Giardino, have agreements with ferry companies: guests can obtain discount codes of about 20% on the ferry ticket . The advice is to lock in your ferry booking as soon as you confirm your accommodation . In high season ferries to Elba fill up quickly (especially at weekends), so it’s better to move early. In low season there is much more availability and often lower prices, but it is still worth booking in advance to be safe . - Is it better to book on your own online or rely on a travel agency to find deals?
Answer: Besides DIY searching on websites, you can consider contacting agencies specialised in Elba. Local agencies manage rentals of apartments, villas and rooms in various municipalities (Capoliveri included) and know last‑minute availability well . You can send a request with your dates (even via portals like PrenotaElba or ElbaWorld), and the agencies will contact you with the remaining available solutions . The advantages? On one hand the agency inspects and photographs the properties, ensuring that the description and reality coincide (e.g., distance from the sea, services, capacity) . On the other, many agencies have a “Last Minute” section on their sites/social media where they publish special offers to fill the last available accommodations . This approach can save you time in your search and provide human support in choosing, recommending the best area based on your needs . Keep in mind that the agency may charge a small commission for the service, so evaluate the total cost and compare it with booking directly . - What types of holiday packages can you find for Elba (including Capoliveri)?
Answer: Deals range from simple accommodation discounts to full experience packages. For example, some hotels or tour operators offer packages that include round‑trip ferry travel plus lodging, and sometimes extra activities. You might come across sport‑themed offers: for example weekend packages with guided trekking on Capoliveri’s trails (Monte Calamita) or mountain‑bike packages with included excursions . Others offer sea experiences, such as boat outings or diving with partner diving centres . Elba isn’t just about summer: it’s ideal year‑round for trekking, biking and food & wine. Off‑season, many establishments emphasise these extras to attract travellers . It’s common that an offer includes a free night plus a boat excursion for those booking last minute in June, or a discount on e‑bike rentals on site . When evaluating a package, read the details carefully: if the ferry is mentioned, it may be fully free or at a reduced rate; if there are excursions, check whether they must be booked in advance or are open vouchers . In any case, all‑inclusive packages often offer great value for money and allow you to quickly organise a complete itinerary without worries . - Do portals like Booking, Trivago or Lastminute.com help in finding good deals?
Answer: Yes. Big general portals and last‑minute apps are also useful tools. Booking.com, for example, has “Smart Offers” sections with discounts for short‑term bookings (often −15% or more, especially outside of mid‑August) . Trivago acts as a comparator: by entering “Isola d’Elba” or directly “Capoliveri” and your dates, it shows you the rates from dozens of booking sites, helping you find the lowest price for the same room . This can highlight hidden last‑minute discounts: for instance, Hotel Giardino appears on Trivago with a score of 8.4/10 (“Excellent”) and is listed just steps from the beach, often with very competitive prices compared with similar establishments . Once you’ve identified the hotel that interests you on Trivago, you can see on which booking site it costs less (Expedia, Hotels.com, etc.) and proceed with that . Apps like HotelTonight or portals like Lastminute.com offer flash deals on unsold rooms – for example TripAdvisor has a “Best Last Minute Hotels in Elba” page with last‑minute discounts . Note: these generalist channels usually don’t include the ferry in the price, so always calculate the total cost of the trip . A good suggestion is to compare the price found on OTAs (Online Travel Agencies) with the direct rate on the hotel’s site: many establishments (including Hotel Giardino) offer extra benefits to those who book directly, such as ferry discount codes or small extra attentions . Sometimes it only takes contacting the hotel via email or phone saying “I saw your room at X euros on Booking, can you offer me the same price directly?” – often you’ll get a discount on the ferry or perhaps an upgrade if available . In short, using big portals for searching is useful, but booking directly can give you that little extra in terms of convenience and treatment . - Does Hotel Giardino offer special deals or discounts to its guests?
Answer: Yes, Hotel Giardino reserves various special offers and concessions for its guests, making it even more advantageous . In particular: - Ferry discount: The hotel arranges ferry ticketing at special conditions for guests, allowing them to purchase ferry tickets for Elba through the hotel at discounted rates (or obtain a dedicated discount code to use on the ferry company’s website) . This represents a significant saving on the total cost of the trip.
- Sporting events: Hotel Giardino participates with agreements and discounts in the island’s main sporting events . For example, if you participate (or accompany a participant) in the Giro Podistico dell’Elba (stage marathon), the prestigious Capoliveri Legend Cup MTB race or the Elbaman triathlon, you can enjoy discounted hotel rates . This makes it a preferred base for many athletes and enthusiasts during those events.
- Scooter/bike rental: Among the partnered services is a discount on scooter rentals to explore the island . The staff can direct you to a local rental company with which the hotel has agreements, allowing you to tour Elba on two wheels at a reduced price. Likewise, being bike‑friendly, the hotel has contacts with e‑bike and MTB rental services for those not bringing their own .
- Seasonal promotions: Finally, Hotel Giardino publishes last‑minute offers or special packages on its own site and on local portals (e.g., discounts for longer stays, children free up to a certain age, etc.) . It’s therefore worth checking the news/offers section of their site or asking directly at the time of booking if there are active promotions. Often those who book directly receive extras, such as a bottle of wine in their room or free use of additional services .
Hotel Giardino: the ideal starting point for exploring Elba
Among the various accommodation facilities on Elba, Hotel Giardino stands out as a perfect solution for those who want to enjoy the best of the island in peace and comfort . It is a 2‑star family‑run hotel nestled in the greenery of a large pine forest within a private park of about 30 000 m² rich in pines and Mediterranean vegetation . The location is truly enviable: the hotel is located in Lacona (in the municipality of Capoliveri), in the heart of the gulf of the same name, less than 100 m from the long sandy Lacona Beach . A short path through protected coastal dunes will bring you to the shore in just five minutes . At the same time, the property is in a quiet area away from the summer chaos, surrounded by the greenery of a dream pine forest: guests can relax in the natural shade of the trees, enjoying a cool and serene atmosphere even on the hottest days .
Hotel Giardino consists of three low buildings in a simple rural style, housing the various rooms and services . The atmosphere is informal, genuine and welcoming, designed to make guests feel “at home”. The warm hospitality of the family managing the hotel is often praised: many visitors highlight the exceptional friendliness of the staff, always helpful and smiling, capable of creating a family atmosphere from the very first moment . Unsurprisingly, the hotel boasts excellent reviews: on Trivago, for example, it has an average score of 8.4/10 (“Excellent”) based on hundreds of verified evaluations . Guests particularly appreciate the impeccable cleanliness of the rooms, the good cuisine and the convenience of the location . In short, although officially a 2‑star hotel, Hotel Giardino offers an experience worth much more, especially for those seeking authenticity and contact with nature without sacrificing essential services .
Services and comfort of Hotel Giardino
Although it is a two‑star establishment, Hotel Giardino offers all the essential services for a comfortable stay – some of which are not guaranteed in small structures – combined with many special touches . The following table summarises the main services available at the hotel :
| Service | Availability at the hotel | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Free Wi‑Fi | Yes – available in the common areas (dining room, bar, relaxation area) | Stay connected during your stay . |
| Private parking | Yes – covered and shaded, with numbered parking spaces (one per room) | Convenient and reserved spot for each guest. |
| Bicycle storage | Yes – secure covered space in a dedicated shed, ideal for MTB and equipment | Perfect for cyclists. |
| On‑site restaurant | Yes – Tuscan home‑style cuisine (à la carte menu); specialities of fresh local fish | Enjoy traditional Elban dishes. |
| Buffet breakfast | Yes – rich buffet every morning with fresh homemade products | Start the day with homemade cakes and local products. |
| Garden barbecue | Yes – equipped barbecue area for outdoor dinners on beautiful evenings | Social evenings under the stars. |
| Room cleaning | Yes – daily housekeeping service; rooms always “perfectly impeccable” | High standard of cleanliness. |
| Leisure and play area | Yes – small room with ping‑pong and table football; playground for children in the large garden | Fun for all ages. |
| Pets | Yes – pet‑friendly, pets allowed (with prior notice), with green spaces for them to run | Perfect for holidaying with pets. |
The hotel combines classic services (Wi‑Fi, restaurant, private parking) with truly appreciated extras. For example, it offers a covered storage space for bicycles, which is very useful for those bringing mountain bikes or road bikes to explore the island on two wheels, and even offers discounts on scooter rental for those who want to move freely around the area . Children also find their own play space: the garden has a playground where they can run and play safely, and inside there is a room with table tennis and table football; this means parents can relax knowing that the little ones are having fun outdoors in a fenced and protected environment . The cuisine is one of the highlights: the hotel’s restaurant offers simple and genuine dishes inspired by Tuscan tradition and local flavours, with special attention to fresh fish (the Gulf of Lacona is renowned for sea bream, bass and squid) . Breakfast each morning is a feast: homemade cakes, artisanal jams, warm croissants, Tuscan cold cuts and cheeses, yoghurt, fresh fruit and more – ideal for starting the day with energy . In summer evenings, thanks to the outdoor barbecue, fish or meat grills are organised to be enjoyed outdoors under the stars in a convivial atmosphere . In short, Hotel Giardino offers a mix of comfort and thoughtful touches that make the stay pleasant for every type of traveller .
Frequently asked questions about Hotel Giardino
- Why choose Hotel Giardino in Lacona?
Answer: For its unique location and warm management. The property is only 100 m from the sea, in a green and quiet area, away from traffic . This means you can walk to the beach whenever you want, avoiding the stress of finding parking. At the same time, the hotel is immersed in nature: the large garden with maritime pines guarantees coolness and relaxation after hours in the sun . The environment is informal and family‑like, managed with passion by the owners for generations . Essential services (Wi‑Fi, internal parking, restaurant, bar) are not lacking, and above all the hospitality is exceptional: guests praise the friendliness of the staff and the quality of the home‑style cuisine . In summary, Hotel Giardino offers an excellent balance of location, services and price, as confirmed by the enthusiastic reviews of those who have stayed there . It is the ideal choice if you want to experience Lacona and southern Elba without worries, with the convenience of having everything at hand in a peaceful oasis . - Is the hotel suitable for families with children?
Answer: Absolutely. Hotel Giardino seems made for families. The rooms can be set up in triple or family configurations (up to four people), so parents can comfortably stay with their children in the same room . At the table, the home‑style cuisine is flexible and attentive to kids – the staff is very willing to prepare simple dishes on request (plain pasta, cutlet, etc.) or to heat baby food and bottles for the little ones . Each morning at breakfast there are options loved by children (pancakes, cereals, Nutella, fruit juices). In the hotel’s large park there is an equipped playground where children can have fun outdoors in safety . They can run on the grass, swing or play table tennis and table football under the watchful eye of parents who meanwhile relax at outdoor tables. In addition, the proximity to the sea is priceless for a family: no car or long walks with strollers loaded with bags – Lacona Beach is really two steps away . It is therefore easy to return to the room for the children’s afternoon nap or to quickly pick up forgotten toys . This makes Hotel Giardino a super convenient and safe base for those travelling with young children , eliminating many small logistical difficulties and giving parents much more relaxation . - Is the hotel recommended for couples seeking relaxation?
Answer: Definitely. The intimate and quiet atmosphere of Hotel Giardino lends itself perfectly to a romantic holiday for couples . The double rooms, although simple, offer privacy and comfort (air conditioning, private bathroom, some with a private balcony or outdoor patio) . The large garden, softly lit in the evening, allows you to spend pleasant moments perhaps sipping a local wine under the stars . Thanks to the barbecue and outdoor tables, you can dine in the greenery in total tranquillity, enjoying the evening breeze among the scents of the Mediterranean scrub . The location in the greenery of the Gulf of Lacona offers absolute silence and peace, yet the hotel is only a few minutes’ drive from charming villages ideal for an after‑dinner stroll . Capoliveri, for example, with its lit alleys and panoramic venues, can be reached quickly for a romantic evening with ice cream in the square and sea views . Many couples also appreciate the possibility of hiking together: panoramic trails start directly from the hotel for short hikes for two, or you can rent scooters and tour the island freely . In short, if you are a couple looking for relaxation immersed in nature, Hotel Giardino will offer you simplicity, quiet and small genuine pleasures away from the crowd . - Are pets allowed?
Answer: Yes, Hotel Giardino is 100% pet‑friendly. Your small and medium‑sized four‑legged friends are welcome (it’s advisable to mention it when booking so that you are given the most suitable room) . The hotel offers a green area where you can let dogs stretch their legs, and on request it provides bowls for water and food to make them feel at home . Since many rooms are on the ground floor with direct access to the garden, it’s easy to take your pet out without crossing reception or stairs . In the surroundings there are also beaches that accept dogs (for example the nearby Fonza beach, a few kilometres away), so bringing your dog or cat on holiday to Elba won’t be a problem . On arrival you may be asked to keep your dog on a leash in common areas and not to leave it unattended in the room, but these are normal rules of coexistence . Many guests with pets are enthusiastic about the welcome they receive . - What are the rooms like?
Answer: The rooms at Hotel Giardino are simple but functional and very clean . Each room has independently controlled air conditioning, a flat‑screen TV, safe and private bathroom with shower and hairdryer . Many rooms have an independent entrance on the ground floor directly onto the garden – these are very convenient for those with children or pets, or simply for sitting outside reading a book at sunset on your own patch of grass . Other rooms upstairs have a small balcony or covered patio with a table , ideal for having breakfast outdoors in privacy . The furnishings are essential, in Mediterranean style: light wood furniture, bright colours, no ostentatious luxury but everything is very neat and tidy . The real strength is the extreme cleanliness: the rooms are tidied daily and guests report finding the room impeccable every day, with fresh towels and a scent of cleanliness . In summary, do not expect five‑star resort suites, but cosy rooms where everything works as it should, the bed is comfortable and order reigns . For those spending days at the beach or out exploring and seeking a good night’s rest, it’s perfect . - Is the food good at the hotel?
Answer: Yes, the hotel’s cuisine is one of the strong points, much appreciated by guests. The day begins with a superb buffet breakfast: tables laden with homemade cakes, fragrant croissants, fresh bread, artisanal jams, as well as cold cuts, cheeses, yoghurt, cereals, fresh fruit and local specialties such as schiaccia briaca or sportella (typical Elban sweets that sometimes appear at breakfast) . It is practically impossible to leave the breakfast room hungry. At lunch and dinner, the on‑site restaurant offers simple yet tasty dishes of Tuscan and Mediterranean tradition . The à la carte menu varies daily and often includes fresh homemade pasta, meat dishes and especially very fresh fish – catch of the day cooked on the grill or “all’elbana” (stewed with cherry tomatoes, capers and olives, according to the local recipe) . Guests can choose to dine in the bright indoor dining room or, weather permitting, outdoors in the garden under the pergola – a very popular option on summer evenings . Particularly appreciated are the weekly fish or meat barbecues organised thanks to the outdoor grill . The family management is also felt in the kitchen: many dishes are grandma’s recipes passed down through generations, from Tuscan minestrone to the revised cacciucco alla livornese, and desserts like Elban pudding . Those with special requirements – intolerances, celiac disease, vegetarian diet – can communicate them: they will do their best to accommodate everyone with ad hoc variations . In general, guests’ comments speak for themselves: some describe the food as “excellent and plentiful” and breakfast as “fabulous with homemade cakes” . This shows that also gastronomically Hotel Giardino does not disappoint, often exceeding expectations for a 2‑star hotel . - What makes the hotel suitable for hikers and sports enthusiasts?
Answer: Hotel Giardino offers various services dedicated to outdoor lovers . First of all, as mentioned, it has a secure storage for bicycles and sports equipment – a great advantage for those coming to Elba with an MTB or road bike . The staff also provides advice and maps on trekking routes: just ask at reception and they will point out the trails that start nearby or the guided excursions available, depending on your level of experience . The Lacona area is great for walking: from the hills right behind the hotel start panoramic trails leading, for example, to Capo di Stella or to the summit of Monte Tambone, offering magnificent views of the sea . The hotel is involved in major island sports events: as mentioned, it reserves special discounts and agreements for participants in events like the Giro Podistico dell’Elba, the Capoliveri Legend Cup MTB race or the Elbaman triathlon . Often groups of cyclists or runners stay here during competitions, creating a nice atmosphere of sharing . Finally, the central position on the island – practically halfway between Portoferraio and Marina di Campo – makes it convenient as a base for those who want to explore a different side of the island each day . From Lacona it’s equally easy to head east (Capoliveri, Porto Azzurro, Costa dei Gabbiani) or west (Marina di Campo, Marciana, Monte Capanne). In short, if you love trekking, cycling or practising snorkelling and diving (there are several diving centres nearby), you will find in Hotel Giardino a perfect base: well‑equipped, strategic and frequented by other outdoor enthusiasts with whom you might organise outings together .
What to visit in the surrounding area
Located in Lacona, in a central position on the south coast of Elba, Hotel Giardino is an excellent starting point for exploring many places on the island . In a few minutes by car you reach historic villages, spectacular beaches and breathtaking views. Here are some ideas on what to see nearby and in areas easily accessible from the hotel :
- Capoliveri – A characteristic hilltop village of medieval origin, just a few kilometres from Lacona. It is a small town made of cobbled alleys and pastel‑coloured houses, with a lively central square surrounded by ancient arcades . In summer don’t miss the evening artisan markets and the panoramic view enjoyed by climbing Monte Calamita (on clear days your gaze spans the sea to the other islands of the archipelago) . From the town of Capoliveri you can also visit the old Monte Calamita mines: guided jeep tours take you inside the disused mining tunnels – a fascinating experience to discover Elba’s mining history . Nearby we also recommend the quiet Spiaggia del Monumento (a small isolated bay with a WWII memorial) and the ruins of Castellaccio, an ancient Pisan fortress immersed in the scrub, for a dip into local history . Distance from the hotel: ~5 km .
- Marina di Campo – One of the island’s most renowned tourist centres, known for the longest beach on Elba (almost 2 km of golden sand) . The town offers a pleasant seafront promenade lined with palm trees, with numerous shops, boutiques, ice‑cream parlours and restaurants – ideal for afternoon shopping or an evening stroll in the small harbour, where you can admire fishing boats and yachts . Also worth seeing is the Elba Aquarium (just outside the town, in the Segagnana district): a small but interesting aquarium that children will especially enjoy, with local and tropical marine species . Marina di Campo is also a good point for boat excursions to the nearby island of Pianosa (organised trips depart from the harbour) . Distance: ~10 km .
- Porto Azzurro – A picturesque village on the east coast overlooking a sheltered bay. Its waterfront is lined with little restaurants and bars, with anchored boats and yachts creating a perfect picture . The town is dominated by the Spanish fortress of San Giacomo (also known as the Porto Azzurro prison, still a correctional facility) and, on the hills behind, the evocative Sanctuary of the Madonna di Monserrato, reachable by a short uphill walk . It is worth climbing (with permission) to the Spanish fortress for the bay panorama, and taking a stroll in the little square by the harbour, perhaps enjoying a mulberry granita (a Sicilian specialty successfully imported to Elba) . In summer Porto Azzurro hosts evening events, markets and open‑air concerts, making it very lively . Distance: ~15 km .
- Portoferraio – The capital of Elba and main ferry port. Rich in history and charm, Portoferraio was transformed by the Medici in the 16th century into a real fortified city: today you can still visit the imposing Medici walls and fortifications such as Forte Falcone and Forte Stella . Don’t miss the traces of Napoleon Bonaparte, who spent his famous exile here in 1814–15: you can visit Villa dei Mulini (official residence in the city, overlooking the port) and the country residence Villa San Martino just outside town, both now museums . Also see the Palazzina dei Mulini (Napoleonic museum in the centre), the archaeological museum and the Torre del Martello at the harbour . After a dive into history, you can take a real dive: Portoferraio boasts beautiful nearby beaches, such as Le Ghiaie and Capo Bianco, with white pebbles and transparent waters, ideal for a refreshing swim after your visit . Distance: ~20 km .
- Monte Capanne and Marciana – If you want to explore the western part of the island and enjoy truly spectacular views, head towards Marciana, one of the oldest villages (~25 km from Lacona). From the town a panoramic cable car (an open two‑seater lift) takes you in 15–20 minutes to the summit of Monte Capanne (1 019 m), the highest point on Elba . From the top, on clear days, the view encompasses the entire Tuscan Archipelago and reaches as far as Corsica on the horizon – a unique spectacle . On the slopes of the mountain, immersed in chestnut groves, is also the Santuario della Madonna del Monte, a mystical place reachable with a short trek from Marciana Alta: Napoleon stayed there briefly in 1814, and today it is a pilgrimage and picnic destination . On the way back towards Marciana Marina (on the north coast) stop at Poggio to taste water from the Fontana Napoleone (a local mineral spring) and perhaps a slice of schiaccia briaca in one of the bars . This trip will take a whole day but is well worth it to see Elba “from above” and discover less touristic villages . Distance: ~25 km to Marciana, then cable car .
- Tour of Lacona Gulf (Capo Stella) – For a nature excursion near the hotel, the Capo Stella Loop Trail is highly recommended . On the eastern side of Lacona, a ring route explores the narrow peninsula of Capo Stella, the strip of land that divides the two splendid gulfs of Lacona and Stella. It is an easy itinerary (also suitable for kids) that offers magnificent views of the Islet of Montecristo and the entire southern coast of Elba . Along the way you can observe typical Mediterranean scrub plants and, if lucky, spot gulls or peregrine falcons in flight . Other trails in the area lead through holm‑oak and cork‑oak forests towards Capoliveri (e.g., the Tiglio Trail) or connect Lacona to neighbouring beaches Laconella and Margidore . Ask the hotel for detailed trail maps: they have them and the staff will suggest the best routes based on your interests (birdwatching, photography, sporty trekking) .
- Nearby beaches – In addition to the well‑known Lacona Beach itself (a crescent of fine sand about 1.2 km long, with protected dunes and shallow waters ideal for children) , there are other gems reachable in a few minutes. Laconella, for example, is a delightful white sandy cove nestled between Punta Contessa and Capo Fonza: smaller and wilder than Lacona, it offers turquoise sea and an unspoilt setting; it is reached via a short path and is only 0.9 km from the hotel . Margidore is on the opposite side of the Gulf of Lacona and is a long beach of fine gravel mixed with sand, very quiet and less frequented (1.1 km from the hotel) . Both of these small beaches are great for snorkelling and relaxing away from the crowds . A few kilometres by car there are also the semi‑hidden coves Acquarilli and Norsi, two gems for those seeking total peace: Acquarilli is also known as a nudist beach, with dark pebbles and deep water, while Norsi offers dark gravel and fish‑rich seabeds – bring your mask! . In short, staying in Lacona gives you a variety of beaches at your fingertips: from fully equipped ones with beach clubs, bars and rentals (Lacona) to free and wild ones where you often find yourself almost alone even in August .
- What trekking itineraries are recommended nearby?
Answer: As mentioned, there are numerous panoramic trails that start around Lacona. In addition to the Capo di Stella loop mentioned above, a section of the Grande Traversata Elbana (GTE) passes near here: the GTE is a trekking route over 100 km long that crosses the entire island from east to west, and some segments can be tackled as single hikes . For example, you could take the stage from Colle Reciso (above Lacona) to Monte Orello, which offers beautiful views of the Gulf of Portoferraio and the north coast . From the hotel you can also climb to Il Monumento (Monterotondo), the hill with the cross visible near Capoliveri, or explore the old miners’ paths on Monte Calamita starting from the mining area . In essence, there is plenty of choice: Elba boasts more than 200 km of marked trails – a true paradise for trekking lovers . At the hotel you will find detailed hiking maps and the staff will be happy to suggest routes suited to your abilities and desires (from one‑hour walks to full‑day hikes) . - Where to eat or drink something typical nearby?
Answer: If one evening you don’t want to dine at the hotel, you still have several interesting options nearby . In Lacona itself there are some restaurants and beach kiosks. For example, Ristorante Capricciolo (on the sea) is known for its fish cuisine and panoramic location over the gulf. In the pine forest behind the beach you’ll also find informal bars like the Laconella Beach Bar, great for aperitifs at sunset with sea views . Heading to Capoliveri (10 minutes by car) you will find many characteristic spots in the alleys: La Taverna del Porto is recommended for fish lovers (despite its name, it is in town and specialises in sea dishes in a rustic setting), or La Trattoria di Mandibola to taste authentic Elban and home‑style Tuscan dishes . Porto Azzurro also offers romantic restaurants along the harbour: try La Bodega Andalusa if you fancy fish tapas in Spanish style, or the artisanal ice‑cream parlours in the square for a dessert after dinner . Generally, Elban cuisine features specialities such as stoccafisso alla riese (stockfish stew), gurguglione (vegetable ratatouille) and, as already mentioned, cacciucco (fish soup) – typical of Portoferraio . Near Capoliveri there are also some wineries (e.g., Tenuta delle Ripalte on Monte Calamita) where you can taste Aleatico dell’Elba, a typical sweet dessert wine, and other local wines . For a more lively après‑dinner drink, in Marina di Campo some beach clubs transform into lounge bars with music in the evening . In short, whether you want a quick lunch by the sea or a typical Elban dinner, you have plenty of choices near Lacona without having to go far .
Thanks to its strategic location and the services offered, Hotel Giardino truly confirms itself as the ideal starting point for every type of holiday on the Island of Elba . Whether you want to spend long days on the golden sand of Lacona, venture on mountain hikes or discover the fascinating Elban towns rich in history, from here you can do everything with ease . The property is comfortable for couples, suitable for families with children and greatly appreciated by hikers, offering a perfect balance between relaxation in nature and access to many activities and places to visit . All that remains is to take advantage of Hotel Giardino’s offers, pack your bags and set out to discover Elba – an island with a thousand facets that will give you unforgettable memories at any time of the year.