Introduction
This guide is designed for travellers who want to explore Portoferraio and the Island of Elba without staying in the crowded town centre. It introduces Hotel Giardino, a small family‑run hotel in the Lacona district on Elba’s south coast, and explains why this two‑star property is an ideal base for a holiday. As well as describing the hotel’s offers and services, the article answers common questions and includes summary tables to make planning easy . In short, the hotel combines a quiet location just 100 m from Lacona’s sandy beach with quick access to Portoferraio, Capoliveri, Porto Azzurro and Marina di Campo .
Hotel Giardino – Your corner of paradise in Lacona
Hotel Giardino is a small, two‑star hotel managed by a family. It stands in the village of Lacona, a few kilometres south of Portoferraio. The property lies in a 30 000 m² pine forest and is only a short walk from Lacona’s 1 km long beach . Guests can wander through the protected dunes to feel the golden sand and crystal‑clear water, then relax in the hotel’s 4 500 m² private garden. Reviews often praise the warm welcome from the owners, who live on site and treat every guest like a friend . Another strength is the central position: by car you can reach Portoferraio, Capoliveri, Porto Azzurro and Marina di Campo in roughly 10–15 minutes . Few hotels near Portoferraio offer such a combination of proximity to attractions and genuine peace amongst the pines .
Key features and services
The main characteristics of Hotel Giardino can be summarised as follows:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category & management | Two‑star hotel with a relaxed family atmosphere . |
| Location | Located in Lacona on the south side of Elba; surrounded by a 30 000 m² pine park and 100 m from Lacona beach ; 10–15 min by car from Portoferraio, Capoliveri, Porto Azzurro and Marina di Campo . |
| Rooms | Three small units scattered in the park with simple but comfortable rooms; all have private bathroom, satellite TV, air‑conditioning, telephone and safe; each room has its own numbered parking space . Some rooms include a balcony, patio or small garden . Cleaning is highly rated . |
| Nearby beach | Lacona beach (approx. 100 m away) is a 1 km sandy bay with shallow water ideal for children, featuring both beach clubs and a free area . |
| Restaurant | Buffet breakfast with homemade sweets, jams, bread, cold cuts, cheese and fruit . The internal restaurant offers Tuscan/Elban home‑style dishes with fresh local fish, homemade pasta and grilled specialities . Special menus are available for children, vegetarians or guests with coeliac disease , and during summer the staff organise outdoor barbecues . |
| Included services | Free Wi‑Fi (in public areas and rooms), an indoor bar, free shaded parking inside the park, a children’s playground with swings, table football and ping‑pong, luggage storage and late check‑out on request . |
| Extra services & offers | Pet‑friendly policy; covered bicycle storage; agreements with nearby diving centres for snorkelling and scuba diving; discounted ferry tickets for guests; special offers for participants in sports events such as the Giro Podistico, Capoliveri Legend Cup and Elbaman triathlon . |
| Check‑in/out | Check‑in from 14:00; check‑out by 10:00 with the possibility of late check‑out on request . Flexible booking policies and discounts in low season . |
Despite being a budget hotel, the Giardino provides many comforts and an excellent quality‑to‑price ratio. Guests appreciate the availability of half‑board or full board, which allows them to savour local cuisine while saving money . The hotel also handles ferry bookings at reduced fares and collaborates with sports events, making it popular among cyclists, runners and triathletes .
Frequently asked questions
Where exactly is Hotel Giardino? – It is located at Viale dei Golfi 936, Lacona (Capoliveri municipality). Lacona lies on Elba’s southern coast about 8 km south of Portoferraio and 10 km from Capoliveri. The beach can be reached on foot in five minutes along a pine‑forest path .
How do I reach the hotel from Portoferraio port? – By car the trip takes about 15–20 minutes following signs for Procchio–Marina di Campo and then Lacona. In summer there is an ATL bus from Portoferraio to Lacona, but public transport on the island is limited. For convenience, it’s best to travel with your own or a rented vehicle; the hotel offers free parking and can organise a transfer or taxi .
Is the location convenient for visiting towns? – Yes. Lacona’s central position allows you to reach Portoferraio, Capoliveri, Porto Azzurro and Marina di Campo in 10–15 minutes by car. This makes it easy to explore a different area every day while returning quickly to a peaceful base .
Is it suitable for families? – Definitely. The beach has shallow sandy waters and is stroller‑friendly; there is an outdoor playground with slides and swings, plus ping‑pong and table football for older children . The kitchen prepares simple dishes loved by kids and can make baby food on request. High chairs and cots are available, and the large fenced garden lets children play safely while parents relax .
And for couples? – Yes. With only about 30–35 rooms, the atmosphere is intimate and relaxed. Guests can find shaded corners in the pine park to rest and walk to the beach to watch the sunset or stars . On request, the staff can arrange a candle‑lit dinner in the garden or place sparkling wine and flowers in the room . Romantic restaurants in Capoliveri and Portoferraio are just a few minutes’ drive away .
Does the hotel have a pool or spa? – No. There is no pool or wellness centre, but most guests prefer to swim in the nearby sea . Nearby beach clubs and higher‑category hotels offer pools and spas for a fee.
Are pets allowed? – Yes. Small and medium dogs (and cats) are welcome. Guests should mention pets when booking so the hotel can assign a suitable ground‑floor room with a small private garden . Dogs can access the garden and common areas on a leash; they are not allowed in the dining room, though the staff can set up an outdoor table. There are dog‑friendly sections of Lacona beach and nearby beaches such as Fonza .
What are the check‑in and check‑out times? – Check‑in is from 14:00. On departure day, check‑out is by 10:00; the hotel offers luggage storage and, subject to availability, late check‑out for a small fee .
Do you offer half‑board or full board? – Yes. Breakfast is always included. With half‑board you add dinner: a daily menu with starter, main course with side dish, dessert, water and usually house wine . Midweek the hotel often arranges a barbecue or typical Elban dinner . Full board suits families with small children who return for lunch; otherwise many guests prefer lunch freely elsewhere and dinner at the hotel . The kitchen can prepare packed lunches for excursions .
Are there restaurants or bars within walking distance? – Yes. On Lacona beach you will find several establishments such as Bagni Orano (fish, pizza) and the informal Lacona Beach Club . Snack bars operate along the beach during the day, and in high season a pizzeria and pub open on the main road. For a wider selection and livelier evening atmosphere, many guests drive 15 minutes to Capoliveri or Portoferraio .
What makes Hotel Giardino special compared with hotels in Portoferraio? – It’s the natural setting and family management. Staying in Portoferraio means being in the centre of history and services but also dealing with traffic and less greenery. At Hotel Giardino you have absolute peace among pine trees, the large Lacona beach a few steps away and free parking . The family staff offers personalised tips on hidden coves and authentic trattorias .
Things to see near the hotel (Portoferraio and beyond)
Thanks to its central location, Hotel Giardino allows you to visit many of Elba’s highlights in a single holiday. Here are some suggested destinations:
Portoferraio – history, culture and clear sea
Portoferraio, about 15 km from the hotel, is Elba’s capital and main ferry port. The old town is encircled by Medici fortifications; you can walk up to Forte Stella and Forte Falcone to enjoy panoramic views . The Palazzina dei Mulini, Napoleon’s residence during his exile, is now a museum in the historic centre . Nearby beaches include Spiaggia delle Ghiaie and Padulella with white pebbles and turquoise water, and Capo Bianco with dazzling white cliffs . In the evening Portoferraio is lively: dine at Ristorante Mare or Il Pescatore for fresh seafood , stroll along Calata Italia for gelato or live music and admire the illuminated harbour .
Capoliveri – hilltop village and historic mines
This village, about 15 minutes’ drive east, sits at 167 m and offers sweeping views from Piazza Matteotti . Capoliveri’s streets are dotted with artisan shops, wine bars and trattorias. Behind the town rises Monte Calamita, whose iron ore mines were exploited since Etruscan times . Today visitors can join guided tours of the Ginevro mine, descending underground with helmet and torch to learn about miners’ life . The area is also popular for 4×4 and e‑bike tours ending with tastings of Aleatico and Ansonica wines . In the evening Capoliveri comes alive with open shops and live music; hidden taverne such as Il Chiasso or La Taverna dei Poeti provide romantic dinners . On the first weekend of October the town hosts the Festa dell’Uva, an elaborate grape festival with parades and competitions .
Porto Azzurro – harbour life and Mediterranean evenings
Approximately 20 minutes east of Lacona lies Porto Azzurro, a picturesque village facing a sheltered bay. The palm‑lined promenade hugs the marina and leads to Piazza Matteotti, an ideal spot for an aperitif as the sun sets . You’ll find shops selling local products, including the sweet schiaccia briaca and myrtle liqueurs . For dinner try La Ghinghetta on the quay or Magn’Ètico for creative vegetarian cuisine . The village has a lively nightlife with pubs and lounge bars staying open late . Nearby attractions include the Spanish fort of San Giacomo (guided tours occasionally offered) and the Sanctuary of Madonna di Monserrato overlooking the bay .
Marina di Campo – long beaches and sunset strolls
To the west, about 15 km away, Marina di Campo boasts the island’s longest beach: almost 2 km of golden sand backed by a pine‑shaded promenade . It’s perfect for families thanks to shallow water and numerous beach clubs with pools and inflatable games . The town centre around the small harbour and Via Roma teems with shops, gelaterias and restaurants . Try the pizzerias Kontiki or Da Piero, or the hidden fish trattoria Da Paolo for cacciucco . From Marina di Campo you can visit other famous beaches of the Costa del Sole such as Sant’Andrea, Fetovaia and Cavoli in 20–30 minutes .
Beaches and nature around Lacona
Within walking distance of the hotel there are other natural treasures. East of the main beach lies the small cove of Laconella, a secluded bay of fine sand with crystal‑clear shallow water, ideal for snorkelling . To the west, Capo Stella is a green headland separating the gulfs of Lacona and Stella. A panoramic trail (approx. 1 hour round trip) climbs through rosemary and broom to a viewpoint with spectacular views . Other paths lead from the hotel to Margidore (a small pebble beach with a boat dock) and to Colle Reciso, crossing Mediterranean scrub . The staff provide maps and suggestions for trekking or mountain‑bike routes such as Monte Tambone or the Capoliveri Bike Park .
Distances from Hotel Giardino
| Destination / Attraction | Distance from hotel | Typical travel time |
|---|---|---|
| Lacona beach | 0.1 km | 3–5 min on foot |
| Laconella cove | ~0.5 km | 10–15 min on foot via coastal path |
| Capoliveri | ~10 km | ~15 min by car |
| Portoferraio | ~15 km | 15–20 min by car |
| Porto Azzurro | ~12 km | ~20 min by car |
| Marina di Campo | ~15 km | 15–20 min by car |
| Villa dei Mulini (Napoleonic museum) | ~15 km | ~20 min by car |
| Calamita mine (Capoliveri) | ~13 km | ~25 min via hill road |
| Monte Capanne (Elba’s summit) | ~30 km | 45–50 min |
| Elba Aquarium (Marina di Campo) | ~14 km | ~20 min |
| Capo Stella trail | ~1 km to start | ~1 hr round trip on foot |
| Fetovaia and Cavoli beaches | ~25 km | ~40 min by car |
Local events, festivals and curiosities
Staying at Hotel Giardino also puts you near Elba’s most colourful events. Notable dates include:
- La Leggenda dell’Innamorata (14 July) – Capoliveri re‑enacts a romantic 17th‑century legend on the Innamorata beach. Hundreds of torch‑bearing actors parade along the shore, culminating in the “disfida della ciarpa” (a contest between neighbourhoods) and fireworks over the sea .
- Festa dell’Uva (first weekend of October) – Capoliveri transforms into an open‑air theatre with period costumes, grape pressing contests, food stalls and rivers of wine . The four neighbourhoods compete to win the coveted “Bacchus” prize .
- Capoliveri Legend Cup (May) – An international mountain bike race on Monte Calamita that attracts champions and amateurs. The hotel partners with the event and offers services tailored to cyclists .
- Rallye Elba – A famous road‑racing rally that takes place each spring and late summer; special stages often pass near Lacona and Capoliveri .
- Elbaman Triathlon (September) – An Ironman‑distance triathlon with swimming, cycling and running routes around Marina di Campo and Capoliveri. Hotel Giardino provides special rates for participants .
- Summer concerts and village festivals – Every village has its own festivities. Capoliveri’s Notte Blu on 1 August features concerts and shops open late . Lacona hosts the Lacona Beach Festival, which in 2024 featured DJ Prezioso . Marina di Campo’s Sagra del Totano in late October celebrates squid with fried delicacies . The hotel staff keep guests updated and can arrange transport when needed .
Culinary recommendations nearby
When you wish to dine outside the hotel, the surrounding villages offer many options:
- Lacona – Bagni Orano serves grilled fish, fried seafood and pizzas right on the sand ; Mom Food & Drink offers modern seafood and fresh pasta; Lo Zenzero is a rustic trattoria serving fish and meat dishes .
- Capoliveri – Try Trattoria da Ferruccio for hearty Tuscan cuisine, La Taverna dei Poeti for a romantic dinner on a panoramic terrace, and Pizzeria Il Chiasso for a characteristic alleyway pizza . Afterwards enjoy gelato at Zero Gradi or a granita at a street kiosk .
- Portoferraio – As mentioned, Ristorante Mare and Il Pescatore specialise in fish. Other choices include Pizzeria Tre Archi near the Medici bastions and Osteria Libertaria for rustic dishes and vegetarian options . Don’t miss the local sweet schiaccia briaca, a raisin cake flavoured with Aleatico wine .
- Porto Azzurro – In the square, Da Floriano and La Caravella serve seafood, while Tamata offers more creative fish cuisine . For dessert indulge in a Nutella crêpe at Marconi .
Typical Elban cuisine balances sea and land. Dishes to try include cacciucco alla livornese (spicy fish stew), gurguglione (vegetable stew), sportella (anise‑flavoured Easter bread), and wines like Aleatico Passito and Ansonica . You can taste many of these specialities during themed dinners at Hotel Giardino or while exploring local trattorias.
Conclusion – Why choose Hotel Giardino for your Elba holiday
At the end of this guide you should be well‑equipped to decide where to stay and what to do on Elba. Hotel Giardino stands out for several reasons:
- Perfect location – Central on the island yet immersed in greenery; within minutes you can reach towns, beaches and historic sites while returning to a peaceful base 100 m from the sea .
- Hospitality and atmosphere – Genuine family management and an informal environment make you feel at home; staff provide “insider” advice on secret beaches, scenic trails and events .
- Services and comfort – Comfortable, spotless rooms with air‑conditioning, Wi‑Fi and free parking; playground for children; internal bar and restaurant with flexible meal plans; excellent value for money .
- Exclusive offers – Discounted ferry tickets and special rates for sports events; frequent off‑season promotions when you book directly .
- Authentic Elba experience – Wake up to the scent of pines and homemade cakes, spend days between sea and trails, join village festivals and enjoy barbecues in the garden .
In short, Hotel Giardino encapsulates the authentic soul of Elba: modest in size yet rich in hospitality, immersed in nature yet close to everything . We hope this translation helps you plan your perfect stay. For bookings or questions, contact the hotel directly. Enjoy your trip to the Island of Elba!