Introduction – the Island of Elba and the Costa del Sole
Elba is not just a summer beach destination; it is a mosaic of landscapes and cultures that tell the story of the Mediterranean. As staff of Hotel Giardino in Lacona, we have prepared this long guide to explain why our family‑run hotel is the ideal base for exploring the famous Spiaggia di Fetovaia and all the jewels of the Costa del Sole . We address families, couples, groups of friends and solo travellers and answer frequently asked questions, suggest itineraries of different lengths and offer comparative tables for beaches, services and activities .
Located about 10 km off the Tuscan coast, Elba is the largest of the seven islands that make up the Tuscan Archipelago. With an area of 224 km² and about 35 000 inhabitants, the island combines Mediterranean landscapes, historic villages and crystal‑clear beaches . Monte Capanne (1 019 m) dominates the western skyline and bears witness to centuries of Etruscan, Roman, Pisan and Medici rule as well as Napoleon’s exile . Today Elba is easily reached by ferry from Piombino and offers accommodations ranging from luxury resorts to family‑run hotels like ours .
The Costa del Sole refers to the southern and western coastline between Marina di Campo and Pomonte: a succession of bays with golden sand, turquoise water and the scent of Mediterranean scrub . Among these gems, Fetovaia Beach often appears on lists of Italy’s most beautiful beaches. Its golden shore nestled between two pine‑covered headlands looks like a Caribbean painting: turquoise waters slope gently to form a natural pool . In high season it is popular, but by choosing the right hours or visiting in spring or autumn you can enjoy it at its best .
Why choose Lacona as a base
Lacona lies on Elba’s south coast in the municipality of Capoliveri. Our Hotel Giardino stands in a 30 000 m² park just a few steps from Lacona Beach . The central position allows you to reach the island’s main towns—Portoferraio, Capoliveri, Porto Azzurro and Marina di Campo—in 10–15 minutes by car . Fetovaia is about 18 km away; a panoramic road takes you there in around 20 minutes . Nearby you will also find ferry departures for day trips to Pianosa, Capraia and the other islands of the archipelago .
Lacona offers one of the island’s longest sandy beaches protected by dunes. It is perfect for sunrise or sunset walks, safe swimming and water sports. Our hotel lies 100 m from the beach, which you can reach on foot through the dunes .
Hotel Giardino – your home in the green
History and philosophy of the hotel
Hotel Giardino is a family‑run establishment conceived to provide simple yet carefully curated accommodation. Surrounded by a large Mediterranean garden with pines, oleanders, palms and fragrant hedges, the hotel offers an informal atmosphere and genuine hospitality . Its small size (two stars) allows staff to pay attention to every detail: daily cleaning, home‑style cooking with local ingredients and personalised assistance in organising excursions, boat trips or sports activities .
Location and surroundings
The hotel stands on the plain of Lacona, at the foot of the hills of Capo Stella, just 100 m from the beach . The area features sandy dunes covered with juniper and a centuries‑old pine forest separating the beach from the main road . Our 30 000 m² park includes a large green area with chairs, hammocks and picnic tables—perfect for reading, playing or relaxing after a day at the sea . Inside the park there is an outdoor bar where we serve breakfasts, snacks and aperitifs, a play area with ping‑pong and table football for children and a barbecue available to guests .
Rooms and services
Our rooms are simple and functional. All have air conditioning, flat‑screen TV, safe and private bathroom with shower . Many rooms have independent entrances and face the garden or balconies overlooking the park . Daily cleaning ensures a fresh and tidy environment . Breakfast is served buffet‑style with local products, homemade cakes, seasonal fruit, yoghurt and cereals . For lunch and dinner we prepare Elban dishes: fresh pasta, locally caught fish, garden vegetables and traditional desserts .
Additional services include:
- Free Wi‑Fi in common areas .
- Free private parking inside the property .
- Covered bike storage, useful for cycle tourists and participants in island sports events .
- Ferry ticket partnerships – we help book discounted crossings between Piombino and Portoferraio or Rio Marina .
- Information and discounts on excursions, diving and snorkelling thanks to collaborations with local centres .
- Pet‑friendly hospitality – dogs are welcome without extra charge and receive a kit with bowl and mat .
- Safety for children – the hotel area is fenced, with shaded zones and a playground .
- Services for couples – secluded areas in the garden, romantic dinners and tips for spectacular sunsets .
Hospitality for all: families, couples and solo travellers
Families appreciate the hotel’s tranquillity, proximity to Lacona Beach and dedicated services. Family rooms accommodate up to four people and some have private fenced gardens . Children can play safely in the park while parents relax at the bar or use the bike hire; other family‑friendly beaches like Cavoli, Marina di Campo and Fetovaia are only a few kilometres away .
For couples, the hotel offers intimacy and romance. Rooms nestled in greenery ensure privacy; our traditional cuisine suits candle‑lit dinners and, on request, we organise sunset aperitifs on the beach or nearby coves . The central location allows you to reach romantic towns such as Capoliveri with its illuminated alleyways, Porto Azzurro and secret coves for sunset watching .
Solo travellers find Hotel Giardino an inviting place to socialise with other guests or enjoy nature’s peace. We offer single rooms without supplement, personalised advice for trekking and snorkelling and the opportunity to join group excursions. The family atmosphere helps travellers quickly feel at ease and find adventure companions .
The hotel’s park provides shaded areas, paths and palms where you can relax after a day’s exploration .
Fetovaia Beach – the pearl of the Costa del Sole
Description of the bay
Fetovaia Beach forms a crescent of light sand about 200 m long, protected by a promontory of junipers and maritime pines . The waters, which range from emerald green to deep blue, are among the clearest on the island thanks to the sandy seabed and sheltered position . Facing south‑west, the bay opens onto the Tyrrhenian Sea, but the headland enclosing it makes it feel like a lagoon: the sea is almost always calm, making Fetovaia one of the most family‑friendly beaches . In high season the beach may be crowded, but its beauty repays the effort; visit in April, May, June or September for a quieter experience .
The seabed slopes very gently, meaning you can still stand many metres from shore. This makes the bay ideal for inexperienced swimmers and young children . The fine golden sand consists of quartz grains that glitter in the sun . A path along the promontory leads to a panoramic viewpoint where you can admire the western coast and Corsica on clear days .
Available services
Fetovaia is well equipped: there is a large paid car park very close to the shore, beach clubs renting umbrellas and loungers, bars, restaurants and toilets . You can hire canoes, pedal boats and small boats to explore nearby coves . Lifeguards are present, and kiosks serve sandwiches, salads, ice creams and refreshing drinks . Behind the beach lies a pine grove providing natural shade for picnics, and from here footpaths lead to Le Tombe, a long beach of black pebbles for those seeking tranquillity and diving .
Activities at Fetovaia
- Snorkelling and diving – While the central part of the bay has a sandy bottom, the rocky walls near Punta Fetovaia host red gorgonians, cerianthids and pelagic fish . Guided dives for experienced scuba divers and snorkelling courses for beginners are organised by nearby diving centres .
- Kayaking and stand‑up paddle – The sheltered bay is perfect for exploring the coastline independently. Rent a kayak or SUP directly on the beach and paddle along the coast towards Cavoli or Pomonte, discovering caves, bird‑populated rocks and deserted coves . Bring water, sun cream and a hat .
- Panoramic hike – From the left side of the beach a path climbs to the headland. The ascent takes about 20 minutes and offers views of the Costa del Sole and, on clear days, Corsica . The trail is lined with strawberry trees, mastic and juniper that perfume the air . This easy walk is best avoided at the hottest time of day; bring comfortable shoes and water .
How to reach Fetovaia from Hotel Giardino
From Lacona take the provincial road linking Marina di Campo to Cavoli; in about 18 km (20 minutes) you reach Fetovaia . On the way you can stop at Cavoli, known for its golden sand and crystal‑clear water , or at Seccheto, a small beach with smooth rocks and a particularly mild climate . Alternatively you can use the summer Marebus service, although travel times are longer . Without a car you can join boat tours that include Fetovaia and neighbouring coves .
When to visit Fetovaia
In summer, especially July and August, Fetovaia is very busy because warm temperatures and warm water attract swimmers . For a quieter atmosphere go in spring (April or May) when the beach is almost deserted and the climate is mild at 16–18 °C . Autumn (September and October) still offers pleasant temperatures and warm water, with golden light highlighting the colours of sand and vegetation . Even winter has its charm: a walk along the shore in January or February reveals a deserted Fetovaia with clear waters . During low season service facilities may be closed or have reduced hours, so always bring water and food .
Fetovaia for families, couples and sports lovers
Fetovaia’s shallow water and sheltered bay make it perfect for families with children: youngsters can play safely at the shore and learn to swim . The presence of pedal‑boat rental, bars and restaurants simplifies day planning . For older children and adults, the beach offers windsurfing, snorkelling and kayak opportunities .
Couples appreciate Fetovaia for its romantic setting: the pine grove for picnics, the headland for sunset views and the exotic atmosphere create the perfect context for special moments . In low season you might have the beach almost to yourselves, enjoying silence and privacy .
For sports enthusiasts, Fetovaia is an ideal base for walking or cycling along the Costa del Sole. From the headland you can follow trails to Monte Capanne or Monte Perone, or ride the Western Ring by mountain bike through Marina di Campo and Pomonte . Advanced snorkellers can reach the Secca di Fetovaia (Punta Fetovaia), where walls are covered with red gorgonians and groupers .
What to visit near Fetovaia
The central position of Hotel Giardino lets you explore the entire Costa del Sole easily. Here are some must‑see places near Fetovaia:
Cavoli
Located a few kilometres east of Fetovaia, Cavoli is one of Elba’s most famous beaches. It has fine golden sand and clear waters and is sheltered by two headlands. Thanks to a particularly warm microclimate you can swim even in November . Cavoli offers services similar to Fetovaia—beach clubs, bars and pedal‑boat rental—and is popular with young people for its lively atmosphere, though mornings and the low season are quieter . It is ideal for families and couples, with snorkelling possibilities at nearby Punta della Madonna .
Seccheto and Le Tombe
Between Cavoli and Fetovaia lies Seccheto, a small beach of sand and smooth rocks. Its warm microclimate and flat rocks make it a favourite for those seeking relaxation away from the crowds . Short paths from the bay lead to natural rock pools and viewpoints over the Costa del Sole . Further south is Le Tombe, a long beach of black pebbles framed by volcanic cliffs; this wild stretch has no services and is suited to those seeking isolation—bring water and an umbrella .
Pomonte and the Elviscot wreck
Continuing along the coast you reach Pomonte, a small village dominated by Monte Capanne. Pomonte’s beach is home to the famous Elviscot wreck—a merchant ship that sank in 1972 just 150 m from shore at a depth of about 12 m . The wreck is visible with a mask and snorkel; experienced divers can explore its interior with specialised guides . Pomonte has bars, restaurants and canoe rental; wear water shoes on the pebbles and respect the wreck .
Chiessi, Ogliera and Le Tombe
Other Costa del Sole spots include Chiessi, with cliffs ideal for sunbathing and deep waters rich in amberjacks, groupers and lobsters; Ogliera, offering seabeds full of gorgonians and sponges; and Le Tombe, mentioned above for its black pebbles . These coves are accessible by trails or by sea and offer a wild atmosphere .
Anchoring and navigation
For sailors, Fetovaia is a good anchorage when north or north‑easterly winds blow. The sandy bottom at 7–10 m depth provides secure mooring and the bay is sheltered . Avoid anchoring too close to shore to respect bathers and swimming zones. Other recommended anchorages are Cavoli, Seccheto, Pomonte and the Bay of Procchio .
Excursions, sports and activities
Elba offers a network of panoramic paths, cycling routes and many outdoor sports. Hotel Giardino acts as a hub for organising these activities thanks to our contacts with local guides and sports centres .
Snorkelling and diving
As noted, Fetovaia is suitable for snorkelling. The rocky walls of Punta Fetovaia host red gorgonians, colourful fish and cerianthids . In Lacona operates Sottolonda Diving Center, a PADI 5 Star Eco Centre offering scuba courses, guided dives and snorkelling tours. The centre has hot showers, gear lockers and free parking and rents single accessories or complete kits at affordable prices; our guests often receive discounts .
The centre organises three main snorkelling trips :
- Isola Corbella (Capo Stella) – two hours, ideal for families and beginners; the boat reaches a small islet with Posidonia meadows and rocky seabeds .
- Wreck of Pomonte & Grotta Azzurra – three‑and‑a‑half hours (Tuesday afternoons) including visits to the Elviscot wreck and the Grotta Azzurra .
- Gulf of Stella tour – three hours, by reservation, exploring coves such as Aquarilli, Felciaio, Innamorata and the Gemini Isles .
Private half‑day or full‑day tours with reserved boats are also available, including visits to Fetovaia and Pomonte .
Trekking and mountain biking
Elba boasts over 200 km of marked trails. In a few minutes from our hotel you reach the Capoliveri Bike Park, an area with routes of varying difficulty for mountain biking and trail running . Some recommended itineraries :
- Capo Stella – a short 2.5 km trek along the isthmus between Lacona and Margidore, suitable for all, offering views of both sides of Capo Stella .
- Monte Tambone – a 5 km hike with some elevation gain starting from Lacona; the summit overlooks the Gulf Stella with spectacular views .
- Monte Capanne – Elba’s highest peak (1 019 m) reached by cable car from Marciana or via trails of varying difficulty. From the top you can see the entire Tuscan Archipelago and, on clear days, Corsica .
- Enfola and Capo d’Enfola – a promontory on the north coast with dramatic cliffs and rich history and nature; the path offers views over the Gulf of Portoferraio and nearby islands .
- Grande Traversata Elbana (GTE) – the island’s most famous trek, crossing Elba from east to west in four days. It passes over Monte Capanne, descends to Pomonte and traverses historic villages; recommended for experienced hikers .
For road cyclists, Elba offers scenic roads with climbs and descents. The Western Ring (Procchio–Marina di Campo–Fetovaia) provides constant sea views . MTB enthusiasts can follow the Capoliveri Bike Park trails that wind through disused mines, pine forests and pastures .
Water and surface sports
Besides snorkelling and kayaking, the south coast of Elba is ideal for windsurfing, stand‑up paddle and sailing. The beaches of Lacona and Fetovaia have schools and rentals to learn or improve techniques . In spring and autumn thermal winds provide perfect sailing conditions. Fishing enthusiasts can join sport‑fishing outings or hire a dinghy to explore the cliffs .
Cultural tours and villages
Elba is rich in history, from the Medici fortresses of Portoferraio to the mines of Monte Calamita . Our hotel organises guided visits to the most significant villages :
- Capoliveri – an ancient mining village perched on a hill with colourful alleys, lively squares and the Sea Museum. In summer it hosts cultural events such as the historical re‑enactment of the Legend of the Innamorata on 14 July .
- Porto Azzurro – a small town dominated by the Spanish fortress of Porto Longone (now a prison) with a picturesque seafront and the nearby Barbarossa Beach. Ideal for evening strolls, markets and aperitifs .
- Portoferraio – the island’s capital; its Medici fortifications Forte Falcone and Forte Stella overlook the harbour and Napoleon’s residence Villa dei Mulini, now a museum . In the historic centre you find La Linguella and the Archaeological Museum; outside the town beaches like Capo Bianco and Le Ghiaie offer white and blue waters .
- Marciana – with ancient Pisan walls and the Church of San Cerbone; a cable car from here climbs Monte Capanne .
- Monte Calamita Mines – visitable by guided tours inside disused tunnels to learn about Elba’s mining history and admire spectacular coastal views .
Boat trips and nearby islands
From the port of Marina di Campo, excursions depart to the islands of Pianosa, Montecristo and Giglio . Pianosa is famous for its protected seabeds, accessible only with authorised guides; Montecristo is a strict nature reserve with limited visitor numbers; Giglio offers a medieval village and enchanting beaches . These full‑day excursions provide a unique experience of unspoilt sea and wild nature .
Recommended itineraries
To help organise your holiday we have prepared several itineraries based on the length of stay. The proposals are flexible and can be adapted to your interests: sea, culture, sport or gastronomy .
Weekend (2–3 days)
Day 1: Arrival at Hotel Giardino and check‑in. Spend the afternoon on Lacona Beach to get your bearings, walking among the dunes and enjoying a sunset aperitif. Dinner at the hotel or one of the beachfront restaurants .
Day 2: Morning: two‑hour snorkelling trip to Isola Corbella with Sottolonda Diving . Afternoon: visit Felciaio and stop at Norsi for sunset. Dinner in Capoliveri and stroll through the alleys .
Day 3: Half‑day excursion to the Grotta Azzurra with Baiarda . Alternatively, visit Portoferraio with the Napoleonic Museum and the Medici fortresses before departure .
Five‑day itinerary
Day 1: as in the weekend plan.
Day 2: Explore the Capoliveri area: morning at Zuccale for snorkelling and relaxation, picnic lunch; afternoon at Barabarca with canoe hire; dinner at the Innamorata and a sunset walk on the Gemini sea stacks .
Day 3: Trip to Pomonte to visit the Elviscot wreck. Leave at 9 am, snorkel at the wreck and lunch in Pomonte; in the afternoon visit Fetovaia for more snorkelling at the headland .
Day 4: Visit Portoferraio: walk through the historic centre (Forte Falcone and Villa dei Mulini) and have lunch in a trattoria; afternoon at Le Ghiaie for snorkelling in the Marine Protected Area ; return to Lacona.
Day 5: Boat excursion to the Cetacean Sanctuary or a private tour along the Costa dei Gabbiani with swimming stops . Farewell barbecue dinner at Hotel Giardino .
A week or more
For longer stays we can enrich your days with:
- Trips to Pianosa to explore its protected seabeds .
- Guided trek up Monte Capanne .
- Visit to the Capoliveri mines .
- Cycling the Western Ring .
- Relaxing day at Fetovaia with a picnic and sunset on the beach .
- Food and wine tours: tasting Elban wines and traditional cuisine in Porto Azzurro or Capoliveri .
Three‑day itinerary for motorcyclists
Elba is a paradise for two‑wheel enthusiasts. Winding roads, breathtaking views and coastal curves make it ideal for a motorcycle weekend :
- Day 1: Arrive and visit Portoferraio (fortresses, historic centre); afternoon ride along the coast to Capo d’Enfola and return to Lacona via Norsi .
- Day 2: Ride the Western Ring: depart from Lacona, pass through Procchio, stop in Marina di Campo for a coffee; continue to Cavoli, Seccheto and Fetovaia (stop for a swim); proceed to Pomonte, Chiessi, Patresi; return via Marciana Alta and Marciana Marina .
- Day 3: Tour the east coast: from Lacona to Porto Azzurro, go up to Rio nell’Elba and Cavo, with a detour to Monte Calamita to visit the mines. Return via Capoliveri .
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
How far is Fetovaia from Hotel Giardino?
The distance between Hotel Giardino and Fetovaia Beach is around 18 km; it takes 20 minutes by car along the panoramic Costa del Sole . In summer, beach buses and boat tours also reach the bay .
What facilities are available at Fetovaia?
Fetovaia offers paid parking, beach clubs with umbrella and sun‑bed rental, bars, restaurants, toilets and canoe, pedal‑boat and boat hire . In high season arrive early. The comparison table at the end summarises services on various beaches .
Can I snorkel at Fetovaia? Where is best?
Yes. The central part has a sandy bottom and few points of interest, but near Punta Fetovaia the rocky walls are covered in gorgonians and inhabited by many fish . Guided dives can be booked through the hotel .
Which beaches are most suitable for children near Lacona?
Besides Lacona itself, we recommend Marina di Campo, Cavoli and Fetovaia . Marina di Campo has a 2 km sandy beach with full services; Cavoli and Fetovaia have shallow water, golden sand and nearby pine groves . For very young children, the Bagni Orano establishment at Lacona has high chairs and a play area .
Are there jelly‑fish‑free beaches on Elba?
Jellyfish can occasionally appear in summer, but beaches exposed to light currents such as Fetovaia, Cavoli and Seccheto are almost always free of jellyfish thanks to continuous water exchange . Beaches like Procchio, Biodola and Lacona are also considered safe . If jellyfish are present, choose beaches open to winds that push them offshore or those protected by nets .
What are the best seasons to visit Fetovaia?
Summer (June–September) draws the biggest crowds, with warm sea and fully active services . Spring, especially April and May, suits those seeking peace: the days are mild, nature is in bloom and the beach is almost deserted . Autumn still offers pleasant temperatures and warm water . Winter brings solitary landscapes ideal for walks and photography .
Is Hotel Giardino suitable for travellers with animals?
Absolutely. Pets are welcome at no extra charge. We provide a kit with bowl and mat and have a large park where they can walk in peace . Lacona beach has dog‑friendly areas at off‑peak times and nearby beaches like Fonza and Remaiolo also welcome dogs .
Where can I eat near Fetovaia?
On Fetovaia beach there are bars and restaurants serving salads, sandwiches and seafood dishes. Along the coastal road you will find farmhouses and trattorias with home cooking; in Marina di Campo and Pomonte there are pizzerias and seafood restaurants . Our staff will be delighted to suggest places to suit your tastes .
Where do boats anchor near Fetovaia?
Anchoring in Fetovaia is recommended with north or north‑east winds on a sandy bottom at 7–10 m depth . Other safe anchorages include Cavoli, Seccheto and the Bay of Procchio . Avoid anchoring too close to shore to respect swimmers .
Can I visit Pomonte and the Elviscot wreck in a day?
Yes. Pomonte is only a few kilometres from Fetovaia and offers the chance to snorkel over the wreck. Dedicate half a day: morning to explore the wreck and afternoon to relax on the beach or visit nearby Le Tombe. Wear water shoes and bring water .
Summary tables
Table 1 – Comparison of Elban beaches
| Beach | Distance from Hotel Giardino | Type of seafloor | Services | Snorkelling | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lacona | 0.1 km (1 min walk) | Fine golden sand | Bathing establishments, bars, canoe hire, parking, protected dunes | Moderate (towards Capo Stella) | Ideal for families; wide and uncrowded in spring |
| Cavoli | 10 km (15 min) | Golden sand | Beach clubs, bars, rentals | Moderate (Punta della Madonna) | Warm microclimate; lively beach; suitable for families and young people |
| Fetovaia | 18 km (20 min) | Fine golden sand | Paid parking, beach clubs, bars, restaurants, boat rental | Good (Punta Fetovaia) | Sheltered bay; ideal for families and couples; crowded in high season |
| Seccheto | 12 km (18 min) | Sand and rocks | Bar, small beach, natural rock pools | Moderate | Quiet; warm microclimate; flat rocks for sunbathing |
| Le Tombe | 13 km (20 min) | Black pebbles | None | Good | Wild and isolated; bring water and umbrella |
| Pomonte | 20 km (30 min) | Pebbles | Bar, mini‑market, canoe rental | Excellent (Elviscot wreck) | Ideal for snorkelling over the wreck |
| Procchio | 25 km (35 min) | Golden sand | Beach clubs, bars, rentals | Low | 1 km long beach; ideal for families; often jelly‑fish free |
| Sansone | 30 km (40 min) | White pebbles | None (walk‑in) | Excellent | Transparent water and white cliffs; best in spring |
Table 2 – Recommended snorkeling tours (2025 prices)
| Operator | Tour | Duration | Price (adults) | Price (children) | Equipment included | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sottolonda Diving | Isola Corbella | 2 h | €25 | €15 | Mask, fins, snorkel | Family‑friendly tour; morning or afternoon |
| Wreck & Grotta Azzurra | 3.5 h | €50 | €25 | Snorkelling kit | Tuesdays; minimum 8 people | |
| Gulf of Stella Tour | 3 h | €50 | €25 | Snorkelling kit | Reservation required; visits multiple coves | |
| Baiarda | Grotta Azzurra | 4 h | €45 | Discounts under 9 yrs | Snorkelling kit, snack, drinks | Departure at 9:00; arrive 15 min early |
| Private tour (half day) | — | 4 h | €500 (boat) | — | Snorkelling kit, snack | Custom itinerary; up to 10 people |
| Private tour (full day) | — | 8 h | €800 (boat) | — | Snorkelling kit, snack, drinks | Includes Pomonte, Laconella and Fetovaia |
| Freedome | Grotta Azzurra | 4 h | ~€45 | Varies | Snorkelling kit, snack, fruit | Online booking; alternative route |
Table 3 – Best coves for families
| Cove | Features | Why choose it |
|---|---|---|
| Fetovaia | Sheltered bay with shallow water, golden sand, pine grove | Ideal for children and families thanks to pool‑calm water; full services and pedal‑boat hire |
| Cavoli | Golden beach, warm microclimate, lively atmosphere | Suitable for families with older children; windsurfing and snorkelling |
| Lacona | Long sandy stretch with dunes, shallow water | Perfect for walks and games; beach clubs and playground; spacious even in high season |
| Sansone | White pebbles, turquoise waters, postcard scenery | Best for families with children used to rocky beaches; exceptional snorkelling |
| Procchio | 1 km of golden sand | Complete services; jelly‑fish free; ideal for long walks |
Practical tips
How to reach the island and the hotel
Elba is connected to the mainland by ferries from Piombino to Portoferraio, Rio Marina and Cavo; the crossing takes about an hour . In high season we recommend booking in advance. As a guest of Hotel Giardino you can benefit from discounted fares by contacting our reception . Once on the island you can rent a car or scooter for independent travel; public transport links the main towns but a car offers greater flexibility .
The hotel is located at Viale dei Golfi, 936 – Lacona. Set your GPS to 42.7707° N, 10.3128° E to easily reach the entrance . For those arriving by train, Piombino Marittima station is linked to the ferries; we can arrange taxi transfers on request .
What to pack
- Summer: swimsuits, beach towels, high‑protection sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, water shoes for rocky coves, mask and snorkel, reusable water bottle .
- Spring and autumn: light jacket, sweatshirt for cooler evenings, hiking shoes, backpack, rain jacket and layered clothing to adapt to temperature changes .
- Winter: warmer clothing, waterproof shoes, windbreaker; the climate remains mild but evenings can be cold .
Respecting the environment
Elba is a natural treasure to be preserved. Respect access bans in protected areas; do not take sand or shells; leave no waste. Use eco‑friendly sunscreens to avoid harming marine life. During dives do not touch corals or feed fish .
Safety and health
On hikes always carry plenty of water, a hat and sunscreen . If you plan to visit the Elviscot wreck independently, ensure you have snorkelling experience and do not venture out in rough sea . In case of jellyfish, rinse the sting with seawater and see a doctor if necessary . Medical assistance on the island is provided by clinics in the main towns and a hospital in Portoferraio .
Conclusion
Choosing Hotel Giardino in Lacona as your base for visiting Fetovaia Beach and the Costa del Sole means combining relaxation, convenience and authenticity. Our hotel, set in a park of pines and oleanders, is a short walk from Lacona Beach and less than half an hour from the island’s most famous beaches . Thanks to our strategic position you can easily explore Elba’s wonders—from the Caribbean‑like beaches of Fetovaia and Cavoli to the mining villages of Capoliveri and the fortifications of Portoferraio .
This guide has collected all the information you need to plan your holiday: detailed descriptions, advice on where and when to go, personalised itineraries and answers to the most common questions . We hope our love for this island and the family welcome we offer at our hotel shines through these pages. Now it’s time to pack and experience it yourself: Elba will surprise you with its beauty, and Hotel Giardino looks forward to welcoming you.