Welcome – explore Cavoli from Lacona
Welcome to our virtual visit! As members of the Hotel Giardino staff we are delighted to guide you through the island of Elba and its jewels, explaining why our hotel in Lacona is an ideal base for exploring Cavoli Beach and the surrounding treasures.
This guide answers every curiosity: you will find a detailed overview of the island, itinerary suggestions, questions and answers, summary tables and practical advice written by people who live and work in a place they love .
A taste of Elba
Elba is the third‑largest Italian island at 224 km² and has around 35,000 inhabitants . Mountains and hills covered in Mediterranean scrub alternate with fishing villages, fortified towns, sandy beaches and cliffs .
Its highest peak, Monte Capanne (1,019 m), offers spectacular views over the Tuscan Archipelago and even Corsica on clear days . The island’s millennia‑old history is visible in Etruscan and Roman remains, Medici fortresses, Napoleonic writings, mining villages and culinary traditions . In this guide we will help you experience Elba like real islanders .
A picture to inspire
To help you visualise the natural beauty that makes our island unique, imagine a beach with golden sand, turquoise water and mountains in the background. This represents the atmosphere you will find on our coasts .
Why choose Hotel Giardino in Lacona
A hotel in the greenery, steps from the sea
Hotel Giardino is a family‑run property in the Gulf of Lacona, surrounded by a 30,000 m² park and less than 100 m from Lacona Beach, one of the island’s largest and best equipped beaches .
Our rooms offer simple, functional accommodation with private bathroom (shower), satellite TV, telephone, air conditioning and safe . Some rooms have independent garden access or a private balcony .
Our philosophy is to welcome guests as friends. You will find an informal atmosphere, buffet breakfasts with fresh homemade products and a kitchen that adapts dishes to dietary needs (vegetarian, coeliac, etc.) . Services include Wi‑Fi in common areas, covered bicycle storage, discounts on ferry tickets, agreements with diving and snorkeling centres, numbered private parking and the possibility to host pets .
Our strategic location is a key strength: Lacona lies on Elba’s south coast and is a few minutes by car from the main towns. Marina di Campo, Portoferraio, Capoliveri and Porto Azzurro can be reached in 10–15 minutes . This allows you to visit a different area each day and comfortably return to the hotel to enjoy the garden or an evening stroll on the beach .
Frequently asked questions about Hotel Giardino
This section answers the most common questions asked by our guests. If you can’t find what you are looking for, feel free to ask us .
- How far is Cavoli Beach from our hotel?
Cavoli lies on Elba’s south‑west side, about 20 minutes by car from Lacona . Driving along the scenic Costa del Sole, you’ll pass Marina di Campo and Seccheto beach . It’s a pleasant trip that lets you discover other coves along the way. - Does the hotel offer services for families with children?
Yes. We offer connecting or triple rooms, and Lacona’s nearby beach is perfect for young children thanks to its shallow sandy bottom . We provide high chairs, cots and dedicated menus; there is also space to play safely in our park . - What does breakfast include?
Breakfast is a rich buffet with homemade cakes and jams, fresh bread, cereals, fruit, cold cuts and cheeses . On request we prepare gluten‑free or dairy‑free products . - Are there options for sports enthusiasts?
Certainly. Elba is an open‑air gym: you can leave your bikes in our covered storage and head out on mountain‑bike routes . Practice snorkeling and diving at partner centres, rent SUP or kayak on the beach and trek on the nearby hills . We organise guided trips on request . - Are you open all year?
Yes. Although summer is the most popular season, Elba offers much in every period. Autumn and spring are ideal for hikes and traditional festivals; in winter the island hosts cultural events and open museums .
Hotel Giardino services at a glance
| Service | Description | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Location | In the Gulf of Lacona, 100 m from the beach | Ideal base for exploring the island |
| Rooms | Simple furnishings, air conditioning, TV, private bathroom, safe | Some with garden/balcony |
| Breakfast & restaurant | Buffet with fresh products; flexible menu | Vegetarian, vegan and gluten‑free options |
| Wi‑Fi | Free in common areas (bar, relaxation room, veranda) | Partial coverage in rooms |
| Parking | Numbered parking space for each room | Free |
| Activities | Partnerships with diving/snorkeling, bike storage, barbecue area | We organise excursions |
| Pet‑friendly | Pets welcome | Upon reservation |
Cavoli Beach: features, services and atmosphere
Cavoli is perhaps Elba’s most famous beach: an arc of about 350 m of coarse golden sand diving into a clear sea of many shades .
Sheltered from north winds by the Monte Capanne range, you can swim here from April to October . A small central rock divides the beach into two areas: the eastern side is equipped with beach clubs renting umbrellas, sunbeds, pedal boats and surfboards, while the western side is free and popular with snorkellers and hikers .
The islands of Pianosa and Montecristo can be seen on the horizon, and behind the beach lies a lush Mediterranean forest . The name “Cavoli” comes from ancient granite quarries (cauoli in Latin) that supplied columns and basins across Tuscany .
In recent decades Cavoli has become trendy: it has received international recognition (in 2015 TripAdvisor ranked it among Europe’s top ten beaches) and hosts beach parties and DJ concerts in summer . Despite its fame, it remains suitable for families thanks to the sandy bottom and services like bars, restaurants and guarded car parks . Its proximity to other Costa del Sole beaches (Fetovaia, Seccheto, Palombaia, Marina di Campo) lets you spend a whole day exploring several bays .
Questions & answers about Cavoli Beach
- Why choose Cavoli if I’m staying in Lacona?
Cavoli offers a different experience from tranquil Lacona: crystal‑clear sea, golden sand, full services and a lively atmosphere . The drive along the Costa del Sole provides panoramic views, and you can enjoy our peaceful park upon returning. - What services are on the beach?
Beach clubs rent sunbeds, umbrellas, pedal boats and snorkeling gear . There are bars, restaurants, showers, toilets and accessible areas for people with disabilities; some sections are free . - Is there parking?
Yes. There are paid car parks along the coastal road . We advise arriving early in summer to find a spot. You can combine a visit to Cavoli with other beaches and use public buses (ATL) . - Which activities do you recommend at Cavoli?
In addition to a day on the beach, rent a pedal boat to visit the Blue Grotto, a sea cave with turquoise reflections, or join boat trips to Seccheto coves and the “Granite Trails” . In summer don’t miss sunset aperitifs with music . - Is it suitable for children?
Yes, although the atmosphere is livelier than Lacona. The gently sloping seabed and beach establishments with games and family services make it appropriate for children . For quieter days opt for the nearby Seccheto beach or the coves on Cavoli’s western side .
Cavoli Beach summary table
| Characteristic | Description | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Length | ~350 m, split into two areas by a small rock | InfoElba |
| Sand | Coarse golden sand with sandy seabed | InfoElba |
| Protection | Sheltered from north winds by Monte Capanne | InfoElba |
| Services | Beach clubs, bars, restaurants, parking, water activities | TraghettiPerTe |
| Recognition | Top ten beach in Europe according to TripAdvisor (2015) | InfoElba |
| Curiosity | Name linked to ancient granite quarries | InfoElba |
Lacona beach and nearby beaches
Lacona: golden sand and protected dunes
Lacona Beach, a few steps from our hotel, is one of the island’s largest: an arc of golden sand lapped by turquoise and crystal waters . The shallow sandy bottom forms a natural lagoon ideal for families with children .
The beach is surrounded by dunes and Mediterranean vegetation where sea lilies (Pancratium maritimum) grow . In 2023 a Caretta caretta turtle nest hatched here, a sign of high environmental quality .
Lacona offers both free areas and beach clubs with sunbeds and umbrellas . Bars, restaurants, kayak and SUP rentals, and sailing and windsurf schools are available . Parking includes paid areas near the beach and free ones further away accessed by short walks .
Access is via the provincial road 25 or by bus from Portoferraio (line 118) . Our hotel provides a reserved parking space for each room so you can leave the car and walk to the beach through the dunes .
Other beaches on the Costa del Sole and nearby
- Laconella – a small bay adjacent to Lacona reached by a panoramic trail; its clear sand and transparent water make it perfect for those seeking tranquillity .
- Margidore – dark‑pebble beach overlooking the Capo Stella promontory; here you can see remains of a Roman villa and snorkel among rocks and Posidonia meadows .
- Marina di Campo – the island’s longest beach (~2 km) with fine sand and shallow seabed; the town offers shops, restaurants and a small harbour .
- Fetovaia – 300 m of fine sand enclosed by granite promontories; transparent water and untouched nature; often considered one of Elba’s most beautiful beaches .
- Seccheto – small beach with coarse sand and flat rocks perfect for sunbathing; quieter than Cavoli .
- Capo Fonza & Capo Stella – vegetated headlands offering panoramic views and hidden bays accessible on foot or by boat .
Comparative table of nearby beaches
| Beach | Type | Distance from Hotel Giardino | Main features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lacona | Golden sand | 100 m | Shallow seabed, protected dunes, services |
| Laconella | White sand | 15 min walk | Intimate bay, clear water |
| Margidore | Dark pebbles | 1 km | Snorkeling, Roman villa |
| Marina di Campo | Fine sand | 10 km (15 min by car) | Long beach, small harbour, town centre |
| Cavoli | Coarse sand | 13 km (20 min by car) | Glamorous beach, services, Blue Grotto |
| Fetovaia | Fine sand | 15 km | Paradise bay, unspoiled nature |
| Seccheto | Sand & rocks | 12 km | Quiet atmosphere, flat rocks |
Trails and nature: trekking, biking and landscapes
Elba is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. From our hotel you can access easy coastal trails or tackle climbs to mountain peaks. Below we present the main excursions, dividing them into routes for families, couples and expert hikers, and providing practical tips about equipment and duration .
Easy routes for families
- Capo Stella loop – Starting from Lacona, this 6.6 km loop crosses the promontory separating the Gulf of Lacona from that of Stella . The path is relatively flat (200 m elevation gain) and suitable even for children. In 1.5 hours you walk through pinewoods and Mediterranean scrub, passing panoramic points with views over nearby islands . Along the route you reach coves such as Margidore, Norsi and Acquarilli .
- Walk to Laconella – From our hotel you can walk to Laconella Bay through a trail among dunes and shrubs . Ideal for a relaxing afternoon with children.
- Sant’Ilario Butterfly Park – Near Marina di Campo, an educational route with panels describing the life of local butterflies .
Romantic itineraries for couples
- Sunset at Capo Stella – Drive or walk to the Capo Stella lookout to watch the sunset over the sea with the island of Montecristo on the horizon . Perfect for a marriage proposal or special evening.
- Monte Capanne cable car – From Marciana you can reach the island’s summit by a two‑seat cable car. In 15 minutes you will be at 1,019 m with unique views of the archipelago . Combine the ascent with a visit to Marciana village and the sanctuary of Madonna del Monte .
- Sunset cruise – Departing from Marina di Campo or Porto Azzurro, many companies organise evening cruises with an aperitif on board, perfect for admiring the coast illuminated by the setting sun .
Hikes for experienced walkers
- Grande Traversata Elbana (GTE) – A 60 km trail crossing the island from Cavo to Pomonte, which can be divided into three or four stages . The stretch between Poggio and Monte Perone offers breathtaking views and passes through chestnut woods . From Monte Perone begins the via ferrata to Monte Capanne .
- Monte Capanne via ferrata – The island’s western side is dominated by the granite mass of Monte Capanne. From the parking area at Monte Perone you climb through pine woods to the crest, following an equipped path requiring harness and helmet . The panorama from the summit is unmatched .
- Calamita mines – An adventure in Capoliveri’s Mining Park. Follow the “Path of Love” among tunnels, old machinery and coastal views; guided tours include 4×4 transfers and the chance to collect minerals .
Summary table of routes
| Itinerary | Difficulty | Length/Time | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capo Stella loop | Easy | 6.6 km / 1.5 h | Views, coves, pinewood |
| Laconella | Easy | 1 km / 20 min | Dunes, white sand, quiet bay |
| Sunset at Capo Stella | Easy | 2 km / 45 min | Sunset view and Montecristo |
| Monte Capanne cable car | Medium | 0.7 km (cable car ride) | 360° view, Marciana village |
| Grande Traversata Elbana | High | 60 km (3–4 stages) | Mountain ridges, forests, panoramas |
| Monte Capanne ferrata | High | 5 km / 4 h | Via ferrata, island summit |
| Calamita mines | Medium | 4 km / 2 h | Tunnels, museum, mineral collecting |
Villages and towns of Elba
Elba is more than sea: its towns retain history, art and traditions. From Lacona you can easily reach the main villages to discover museums, fortresses, markets and local festivals .
Capoliveri
Capoliveri sits at 167 m on Monte Calamita and was linked for centuries to agriculture and iron mining . Today it retains the charm of a medieval village with narrow alleys called chiassi, arches, artisan shops and small restaurants . The origin of its name is debated: some say it comes from Caput Liberum (“head of Bacchus”), recalling wine production; others suggest “free place” because it was never truly conquered .
Attractions include the Church of San Michele, the only evidence of Saracen and Ottoman incursions; the churches Madonna delle Grazie and Madonna della Neve near Lacona; and the small Museum of the Sea with the treasure of the Polluce . The town is divided into four districts (Fosso, Torre, Fortezza and Baluardo) that each October participate in the Festa dell’Uva, a competition featuring scenes and wine tasting . Other events include the Festa dell’Innamorata (14 July) and the Festa del Cavatore (first weekend in May) . The coast around Capoliveri boasts many beaches – Morcone, Pareti, Innamorata, Naregno, Madonna delle Grazie, Felciaio, Norsi and Lacona . In summer an evening shuttle bus links car parks to the town square .
Porto Azzurro
Once called Portolongone, Porto Azzurro changed its name in 1947 to highlight its tourist appeal . It was founded in 1603 when King Philip III of Spain built Fort San Giacomo to defend the coast from pirates . Today the town centres around Piazza Matteotti overlooking the marina . Strolling through the alleys, you will encounter the sanctuary of Madonna del Carmine and San Giacomo Maggiore church; on the hill rises the Spanish fort, which long served as a prison . Nearby is the Sanctuary of Madonna di Monserrato, built in 1606 in honour of the Black Madonna venerated by Catalans .
Nearby beaches include La Pianotta, Barbarossa, Reale and Terranera; the latter is distinguished by a green lake created by mining . Porto Azzurro organises boat trips to explore sea caves and snorkeling sites and hosts festivals such as San Giacomo (25 July) and Madonna di Monserrato (8 September) .
Portoferraio
Elba’s capital and main harbour, Portoferraio is a fortified city conceived by Cosimo I de’ Medici, who renamed it Cosmopoli and equipped it with three bastions: Forte Falcone, Forte Stella and Torre della Linguella . Forte Falcone, designed by Giovanni Battista Bellucci and completed in 1548, overlooks the town from the highest hill . The complex, with irregular walls, bastions and galleries, now hosts educational trails, museums and a terrace . Inside you will find the exhibition “Cosmopoli – Portoferraio medicea” with maps and paintings of the Renaissance city, a section on Napoleonic uniforms and the ceramic collection of Italo Bolano .
Portoferraio is also home to the Napoleonic residences. Villa dei Mulini, built in 1724 by the Medici and adapted by Napoleon, became his town residence . He demolished some military structures to create an Italian garden and added a ballroom . The ground floor connects the salon, library and bedroom; the garden features statues of Minerva and a copy of Canova’s Galatea . Villa di San Martino, 5 km from Portoferraio, was purchased by Napoleon as a summer residence . He expanded the building, created a hanging garden and planted vineyards to produce wines “Côte de Rio” and “Monte Giove” . Inside stand out the Egyptian Hall, decorated with trompe‑l’oeil, and the Love Knot Room . The Demidoff Gallery, built in 1851 by Count Anatolio Demidoff, houses the original statue of Galatea and a collection of portraits, prints and relics .
A small Museum of Napoleonic relics in Portoferraio displays uniforms, weapons and personal belongings of the emperor .
Mariner and archaeological museums
- Museum of the Sea, Capoliveri – Opened in 2014, it showcases the treasure of the Polluce wreck (French steamship sunk in 1841 off Capo Calvo) . The collection includes crockery, silver, gold coins and jewellery recovered by archaeologists after a dramatic attempt to sell them illegally in 2000 . Interactive panels tell the story of the ship, the suspected deliberate sinking and the recovery operation .
- Linguella Archaeological Museum – Housed in a Medici tower in Portoferraio, it collects Etruscan and Roman artefacts from seaside villas on the island .
- Marciana Civic Archaeological Museum – Preserves Etruscan funerary kits, coins and ceramics, providing insight into the ancient life of Elban miners and farmers .
Mining and industrial museums
- Museum of the Old Workshop (Capoliveri) – Set up in the former mechanical workshop of the Ginevro mine, it recreates the environments where miners repaired equipment and cared for the injured . The visit reveals daily life of the workers and is the starting point for trekking in the Mining Park .
- Elba Island Mining Park (Rio Marina & Rio Albano) – Created in 1991 to reclaim areas degraded by iron extraction, it includes open‑pit mines such as Valle Giove, Bacino and Falcacci . In Rio Marina the landscape appears lunar with deposits of hematite, limonite and pyrite; in Rio Albano the Conca quarry features a red pond and glittering quartz . The park organises train rides, off‑road excursions and mineralogy workshops .
Contemporary art and exhibitions
Elba hosts numerous temporary exhibitions, especially in summer. Forte Falcone in Portoferraio displays works by local and international artists, while the Italo Bolano Collection exhibits modern ceramics and sculptures . Every year the island organises music, cinema and theatre festivals that enliven squares and parks .
Activities and sea excursions
The island is surrounded by clear waters and seabeds rich in marine life – perfect for snorkeling, diving and boat trips . From beach establishments at Lacona, Cavoli, Marina di Campo and Porto Azzurro, daily excursions depart to discover caves, cliffs and nearby islands .
Boat trips
- Pianosa & the Marine Protected Area – Depart from Marina di Campo or Porto Azzurro and reach Pianosa in about an hour. You can visit the former penal colony, snorkel in crystal‑clear waters rich with fish and explore sea caves; ideal for nature and history lovers .
- Blue Grotto of Cavoli – From Cavoli you can rent a pedal boat or join a guided trip to the Grotta Azzurra. Reflected light gives the water a deep turquoise colour, creating a dream‑like atmosphere .
- Costa del Sole cruise – Many companies offer cruises along the Costa del Sole from Marina di Campo to Fetovaia, with stops for swimming and snorkeling in the coves of Cavoli, Seccheto and Fetovaia . Some boats include an aperitif or lunch .
- Whale watching – The waters of the Cetacean Sanctuary are home to dolphins and sometimes fin whales. Departing from Porto Azzurro or Marciana Marina, you can join excursions dedicated to observing these splendid animals .
Diving and snorkeling
The waters around Elba are rich with Posidonia, rock walls and wrecks. Several diving centres partnered with the hotel organise PADI courses and dives for beginners and experts . Well‑known sites include the Elviscott wreck at Pomonte, Punta Calamita, the Capo Fonza reef and the Triglia rock . For snorkelling we recommend the coast of Seccheto and the transparent waters of Fetovaia .
Water sports
Beyond sailing and windsurfing, SUP (Stand Up Paddle) and kayaking have become popular. Lacona Bay, sheltered from the winds, is perfect for learning; local schools offer individual and group lessons . Speed enthusiasts can find kitesurf schools in Marina di Campo .
Food & wine: typical flavours and wines
Elban cuisine reflects the island’s history, with simple dishes prepared using fresh fish, vegetables, herbs and bread . Some recipes born as “poor” are now celebrated in quality restaurants.
Traditional dishes not to miss
- Stoccafisso alla riese – Dried cod cooked with potatoes, tomatoes, onions and spices .
- Gurguglione – Vegetable stew similar to ratatouille, made with aubergines, courgettes, peppers, tomatoes, potatoes and herbs .
- Cacciucco all’elbana – Fish soup with various local species, crustaceans, octopus and tomato .
- Sburrita – Salt cod soup with garlic, sage and toasted bread .
- Polpo lesso & totani ripieni – Boiled octopus and stuffed squid prepared simply and served with seasonal vegetables .
- Schiacciunta & schiaccia briaca – Cakes made with flour, eggs, lard, nuts and Aleatico wine . The schiaccia briaca is enriched with raisins, pine nuts and the aroma of Aleatico DOCG .
Elban wines
Elba’s wine tradition is ancient. Terraced vineyards produce wines with character . The main denominations include:
- Elba Bianco, Rosso & Rosato DOC – Base wines made from Ansonica and Sangiovese grapes .
- Ansonica Costa dell’Elba DOC – Savoury white wine perfect with fish dishes and gurguglione .
- Moscato dell’Elba DOC – Sweet passito wine ideal for dessert .
- Aleatico Passito DOCG – Intense sweet red wine excellent with the typical cakes .
Gastronomy Q&A
- Which dishes are recommended for fish lovers?
Stoccafisso alla riese, cacciucco, polpo lesso and totani ripieni are must‑try dishes . Try also fried zerri and stuffed sardines . - Are there vegetarian options?
Yes: gurguglione, imbollite (fig fritters) and schiacciunta are vegetable‑based dishes . Restaurants also serve legume soups and salads with seasonal vegetables . - When is the best time to taste the specialities?
Spring and summer offer fresh fruits and vegetables; in autumn you can enjoy chestnuts and mushrooms; in winter there is new olive oil and young wine . - Where can I attend tastings?
Many wineries near Capoliveri and Porto Azzurro organise tours with wine tasting . We can book visits for you . - Which wines pair with desserts?
Aleatico Passito DOCG pairs well with schiaccia briaca and schiacciunta .
Table of dishes and wines
| Dish | Main ingredients | Recommended wines |
|---|---|---|
| Stoccafisso alla riese | Dried cod, potatoes, tomatoes, spices | Ansonica, Elba Bianco |
| Gurguglione | Aubergines, courgettes, peppers, potatoes | Elba Rosso, Rosato |
| Cacciucco | Mixed fish, tomato, chilli | Elba Rosso |
| Sburrita | Salt cod, garlic, sage, bread | Ansonica |
| Schiacciunta | Flour, eggs, lard, lemon | Moscato |
| Schiaccia briaca | Flour, nuts, raisins, Aleatico | Aleatico DOCG |
Events, festivals and traditions
Elba is lively all year thanks to a rich calendar of folk, sporting and cultural events . Here are some unmissable appointments:
Traditional festivals
- Festa dell’Uva (Capoliveri, first weekend of October) – The four districts of Capoliveri (Fosso, Torre, Fortezza and Baluardo) compete with costumes, scenes and games based on the grape harvest. There are barrel races, grape pressing, wine tastings and the awarding of the “Bacco” trophy .
- Festa dell’Innamorata (Capoliveri, 14 July) – Re‑enacts the legend of Maria and Lorenzo, two lovers separated by pirates. A costumed procession parades along Innamorata beach lit by torches, followed by fireworks and wine tasting .
- Festa del Cavatore (Capoliveri, early May) – Celebrates miners with historical parades, folk music and tastings of traditional dishes .
- Religious festivals in Porto Azzurro – The feast of San Giacomo on 25 July and Madonna di Monserrato on 8 September include processions, markets and concerts .
- Holy Week in Rio nell’Elba – A re‑enactment of the Passion of Christ through the village streets with ancient Gregorian chants .
Sporting and cultural events
- Capoliveri Legend Cup – Mountain bike race across the trails of Monte Calamita drawing cyclists from all over Europe (May) .
- Elbaman – Triathlon (swim, bike, run) held between Marina di Campo and surrounding hills; one of the island’s most important autumn events .
- Rallye Elba Storico – Historic car race that runs along the most scenic roads of the island (September) .
- Elba Film Festival – International film festival held in various locations with open‑air screenings and meetings with directors .
- Concerts and exhibitions – In summer, theatres like Teatro dei Vigilanti in Portoferraio host classical, jazz and theatre performances; Forte Falcone hosts contemporary art exhibitions .
Events summary table
| Event | Location | Time | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Festa dell’Uva | Capoliveri | First weekend of October | Competition among districts, games, wine tastings |
| Festa dell’Innamorata | Capoliveri (Innamorata Beach) | 14 July | Costumed procession, fireworks |
| Festa del Cavatore | Capoliveri | Early May | Miners’ festival with parades and music |
| San Giacomo | Porto Azzurro | 25 July | Procession, market, fireworks |
| Madonna di Monserrato | Porto Azzurro | 8 September | Religious fair and concerts |
| Capoliveri Legend Cup | Capoliveri | May | Mountain‑bike race |
| Elbaman | Marina di Campo | Late September | Long‑distance triathlon |
| Rallye Elba Storico | Various locations | September | Historic car rally |
| Film Festival | Various locations | Summer | Cinema screenings |
Practical information: how to get there and get around
Getting to Elba
Most travellers reach the island by ferry. From Piombino Marittima there are numerous daily sailings to Portoferraio, Rio Marina and Cavo; the crossing lasts about an hour . Reduced tickets are available for our guests thanks to agreements with ferry companies . Alternatively you can fly: Marina di Campo airport (Teseo Tesei) offers seasonal flights to Pisa, Florence, Milan and Rome .
Getting around the island
- Car: The car is the most comfortable way to explore Elba. Our hotel provides free numbered parking . Panoramic roads, although winding, offer spectacular views. In high season we recommend heading out early to avoid traffic and find parking .
- Bus: The ATL company runs lines connecting Portoferraio to Lacona, Marina di Campo, Capoliveri, Porto Azzurro and other centres . In summer services are increased and evening buses operate to reach village festivals .
- Bicycle & e‑bike: The network of roads and trails suits road bikes and mountain bikes; many routes have e‑bike charging points .
- Taxi boat & local ferries: Private boats link the most isolated beaches of the Costa del Sole and allow you to reach Pianosa and Capraia .
Best times to visit
- Spring (April–June): Mild climate, long days and nature bursting with colour . Ideal for trekking, bike trips and cultural visits; villages host spring festivals and tastings . Hotel Giardino offers special packages with guided excursions .
- Summer (July–August): High temperatures and warm sea invite days on the beach . Evenings are animated by concerts and fairs; Cavoli and Marina di Campo become nightlife centres . Book early to ensure availability .
- Autumn (September–October): The island turns warm colours; it’s the harvest and chestnut season . The pleasant climate still allows swimming and attending the Grape Festival in Capoliveri . Excursions like the GTE are easier without summer heat and hotel rates are more convenient .
- Winter (November–March): Elba has a more intimate feel . Take advantage of special offers to visit museums, Napoleonic villas and events like live nativity scenes. Temperatures are milder than on the mainland, but some attractions reduce opening hours .
What to pack
- In summer: Swimsuits, hat, sun cream, water shoes, light clothing and a jacket for the evening .
- In spring/autumn: Trekking shoes, windbreaker, backpack, water bottle and camera .
- In winter: Sweater, comfortable shoes, umbrella (rain is rare but can be intense) .
- Always: Identity document, driving licence, health card and ferry booking confirmation .
Itinerary suggestions from Hotel Giardino
To help you organise your stay, here are itineraries of different lengths starting and ending at our hotel. Feel free to adapt them to your interests and available time .
One day: Cavoli and the Costa del Sole
- Morning: After breakfast head towards Marina di Campo. Make a short stop at the fish market, then continue along the Costa del Sole to Cavoli . Choose a beach club or the free zone and spend a few hours swimming, snorkelling and relaxing. Take a pedal boat trip to the Blue Grotto .
- Lunch: Enjoy a picnic on the beach or dine at one of the beachfront restaurants with fish specialities .
- Afternoon: Move to Fetovaia, another splendid beach, or visit Seccheto . In the late afternoon return to Lacona via Capo Stella to admire the sunset .
- Evening: Dinner at Hotel Giardino with gurguglione and Aleatico wine. Take an evening stroll along Lacona Beach .
Weekend: between sea, villages and nature
- Friday: Arrive at the hotel in the afternoon. After welcome and check‑in, take a walk on Lacona Beach. Dinner featuring stoccafisso alla riese .
- Saturday: Day trip to Capoliveri. Visit the Museum of the Sea with the treasure of the Polluce and stroll among the chiassi . After lunch, head to the beaches of Innamorata or Morcone for a swim . In the afternoon walk the Sentiero dell’Amore in the Calamita Mining Park . Return to Lacona for dinner .
- Sunday: Excursion to Portoferraio. Visit Forte Falcone and Villa dei Mulini, then lunch in the historic centre . In the afternoon go to Villa di San Martino; before returning, stop at Enfola or the white beaches of Le Ghiaie . Farewell dinner at the hotel .
Week: complete exploration
- Day 1: Arrive and relax in Lacona .
- Day 2: Tour the Costa del Sole (Marina di Campo, Cavoli, Fetovaia) .
- Day 3: Visit Capoliveri and the Calamita mines with a 4×4 tour .
- Day 4: Explore Portoferraio, its Napoleonic villas and Forte Falcone .
- Day 5: Boat trip to Pianosa .
- Day 6: Trekking on Monte Capanne by cable car .
- Day 7: Visit Porto Azzurro and Rio Marina; enjoy a relaxing afternoon in Lacona .
Conclusion – your Elban retreat
We hope this guide has conveyed the passion we feel for our island and provided all the information you need to plan an unforgettable stay. Hotel Giardino awaits you with the sincere hospitality of an Elban family, a green park to regenerate and the convenience of being a short walk from the sea . Whether you dream of a holiday devoted to relaxation on Cavoli Beach or an adventure among trails, museums and villages, we will be happy to advise and assist you at every moment .
For any further questions don’t hesitate to contact us . Have a good trip and see you soon at Hotel Giardino!
Hotel Giardino – Viale dei Golfi, 936 – Lacona, Capoliveri – Elba Island
VAT: 01095550495 – CIN: IT049004A1LGL7OIO9
Tel: +39 0565 964059
Mobile: +39 335 7925420
Email: info@elbahotelgiardino.it