Introduction – why start from Lacona to discover the north coast
Welcome to our detailed guide for travellers who want to explore Elba Island and, in particular, the white‑pebble Spiaggia delle Ghiaie in Portoferraio. We are the team from Hotel Giardino and every day we help guests discover the island from our base in Lacona, a quiet village on the south side of Elba. This article is not a sponsored advert for other hotels; instead it presents our family‑run hotel, the services we offer and why staying with us makes it easy to reach the north‑coast beaches while enjoying peace and nature. We also provide practical tips, FAQs, tables and itineraries to help you plan your holiday .
Elba is the third‑largest Italian island: it covers 224 km² and lies just 10 km off the Tuscan coast. Around 35 000 people live here in seven municipalities (Portoferraio, Capoliveri, Campo nell’Elba, Porto Azzurro, Marciana, Marciana Marina and Rio). Its landscapes range from fishing villages and Medici forts to sandy beaches and rugged cliffs. The highest peak, Monte Capanne (1 019 m), towers over a territory marked by Etruscan, Roman, Medici, French and Napoleonic influences . Our guide will accompany you through these marvels, whether you’re passionate about crystal‑clear sea, hiking, history or cuisine.
Why choose Hotel Giardino to visit the Spiaggia delle Ghiaie?
A strategic location to explore Elba
Although the Spiaggia delle Ghiaie lies on the north‑eastern coast, our hotel in Lacona is centrally positioned to reach it in roughly 15–20 minutes by car via a panoramic coastal road. The same centrality allows you to easily visit the northern beaches—Ghiaie, Padulella, Capo Bianco and Sansone—as well as southern beaches like Lacona and Laconella. From our hotel you can also drive quickly to Portoferraio, Capoliveri, Porto Azzurro, Marina di Campo, Marciana Marina and Rio Marina .
Green surroundings just steps from the sea
Hotel Giardino sits within a 30 000 m² park of pine trees. This oasis provides natural shade and a relaxing atmosphere away from traffic. A short 100 m walk takes you to Lacona Beach, one of Elba’s longest stretches of sand, famous for its golden sand and protected dune ecosystem; here the rare sea lily (Pancratium maritimum) blooms . Staying in Lacona means you can enjoy the sea without using your car—especially handy for families with children.
Family hospitality and thoughtful services
Our hotel is family‑run, so the welcome is warm and personal. Guests appreciate the availability of the staff and the relaxed atmosphere. Rooms are simple yet functional, equipped with air conditioning, flat‑screen TV, safe and private bathroom; some have direct access to the garden or a balcony/patio . We serve a buffet breakfast with homemade products every morning, and our restaurant offers Tuscan and Elban dishes with special attention to children and those with dietary intolerances . Services include free Wi‑Fi in common areas, covered storage for bikes and diving gear, shaded private parking, partnerships with diving centres, discounted ferry tickets and a pet‑friendly policy . We are also at the heart of a network of trekking and mountain‑bike trails and offer discounts to participants in events such as the Capoliveri Legend Cup and the Elbaman Triathlon .
What guests say
Reviews on Trivago describe the hotel as a tranquil property immersed in a 35 000 m² pine park just five minutes on foot from Lacona Beach. Guests highlight the cleanliness of the rooms, the kindness of the staff, the family atmosphere and the strategic position between Marina di Campo and Portoferraio. They also mention the well‑prepared breakfasts and evening barbecues, the spacious garden with relaxing corners and the option of bringing pets .
Frequently asked questions about the hotel
| Question | Brief answer |
|---|---|
| Does the hotel have a pool? | No, there is no pool; Lacona Beach is just a few minutes’ walk . |
| Are pets allowed? | Yes, pets are welcome (a supplement may apply) . |
| Is there parking? | A shaded private car park is available . |
| What are check‑in and check‑out times? | Check‑in from 14:00, check‑out by 10:00 . |
| Is Wi‑Fi provided? | Free Wi‑Fi is available in common areas . |
| Are family rooms available? | Rooms sleep two to four people; some have direct garden access . |
| Are there facilities for cyclists? | We offer secure bike storage and agreements with the Capoliveri Bike Park . |
| Can I buy ferry tickets through the hotel? | Yes, thanks to agreements with ferry companies we provide discounted tickets . |
The Spiaggia delle Ghiaie – a white jewel in Portoferraio
Geology and scenery
The Spiaggia delle Ghiaie is one of Elba’s most famous beaches. Located a short walk from Portoferraio’s centre, it is characterised by white eurite pebbles smoothed by the sea and crystal‑clear turquoise water. The beach is about 400 m long (75 m are rocky cliffs); its sand consists of pebbles that do not stick to the skin. The Ghiaie forms part of a marine reserve established in 1971, which also includes the Scoglietto cliff . Fishing is prohibited, making the area ideal for snorkeling: the seabed hosts a variety of fish, gorgonians and a Posidonia seagrass meadow .
An ancient Greek legend explains the blue spots on the pebbles: they are said to come from the sweat of Jason and the Argonauts, who rested here on their return from Colchis . Today the appeal is enhanced by a playground, nearby bars and restaurants and organised beach establishments. The beach is accessible to people with reduced mobility and offers pedal‑boat hire, rowing boats, sunbeds and umbrellas, showers and night lighting .
Climate and advice
The Ghiaie faces north‑east and the sea is particularly calm and transparent when southern or sirocco winds blow. In these conditions the water changes from emerald green to deep blue and you can see the seabed with the naked eye. In summer the beach can be crowded, especially in July and August; we suggest arriving early and using the pay car park near the harbour because roadside spaces fill up quickly . Many visitors enjoy a last swim at Le Ghiaie before boarding the ferry back to the mainland .
Services
| Service | Description |
|---|---|
| Bars and restaurants | Behind the beach there are establishments where you can sample local dishes and refreshments . |
| Beach clubs | Offer rental of umbrellas, deck chairs and pedal boats; showers and toilets are available . |
| Equipped garden | A green area with children’s playground allows families to spend entire days on the beach . |
| Parking | Paid parking is available; in high season it is better to park near the harbour and walk . |
| Accessibility | The beach is adapted for visitors with reduced mobility . |
| Marine reserve | Part of the protected area established in 1971, ideal for snorkeling and nature lovers . |
Questions and answers about the Spiaggia delle Ghiaie
- How far is Hotel Giardino from the Spiaggia delle Ghiaie? We are in Lacona, about 15–20 km away; drive along the provincial road connecting Capoliveri to Portoferraio. In high season leave early to avoid traffic and secure a parking spot .
- Is the beach suitable for children? Yes. The seabed is made of pebbles so the water becomes deep fairly quickly, but the presence of services, bars, play areas and lifeguards make Le Ghiaie perfect for families. We recommend water shoes for children .
- Can you snorkel? Yes. As part of a marine reserve, the waters are rich in fish and gorgonians; fishing is forbidden .
- Are there legends associated with the beach? A Greek myth says the blue stains on the pebbles are the sweat of the Argonauts .
What to see and do near Hotel Giardino
1. Beautiful beaches within easy reach
Staying in Lacona lets you reach dozens of beaches across the island. Here are some highlights:
- Lacona Beach – The beach outside our door is nearly 1 200 m long and the second‑longest on Elba. It has fine golden sand, gently sloping shallows ideal for children and walkers, a shaded pine forest and a precious dune ecosystem where sea lilies grow. Bathing establishments, bars, restaurants, windsurfing and diving schools, canoe and pedal‑boat rental and large free areas make Lacona perfect for families and sports enthusiasts .
- Laconella and Margidore – To the west is the small cove of Laconella, reached by a footpath. It is wilder, with mixed sand and gravel and rocky cliffs. Further west lies Margidore, a pebble beach where small boats moor and from which there is a splendid view of the Capo Stella promontory. Both are ideal for peace and snorkeling .
- Padulella and Capo Bianco – On the northern coast near Portoferraio. Padulella is about 170 m long with smooth white pebbles, high white cliffs and part of a protected biological area established in 1971; when southern winds blow the water turns emerald and the Posidonia meadows teem with fish. Capo Bianco just to the west has similar features with vertical cliffs. Bars, restaurants and umbrella rentals are available; reach them from our hotel in roughly 25 minutes by car .
- Sansone and other “white” beaches – Continuing along the northern coast you will find Sansone, Sorgente, Acquaviva and Viticcio, all characterised by white pebbles and transparent water. Sansone is often listed among Europe’s most beautiful beaches thanks to the contrast between the white pebbles and turquoise water. Parking is limited; leave the car in Enfola and follow a path .
- Fetovaia and the Costa del Sole – Fetovaia on the south‑western side is one of the island’s most picturesque beaches (about 200 m long and up to 40 m wide). Its fine granite sand, sheltered bay and microclimate make it pleasant even in winter. It offers bars, beach clubs (including accessible facilities), showers and pedal‑boat hire; in 2023 two loggerhead turtle nests hatched there . Nearby beaches of the Costa del Sole include Cavoli (350 m, coarse sand and mild microclimate; natural rock dividing areas; boat visits to the Grotta Azzurra) and Seccheto (130 m, mixed sand and gravel with natural rock pools known as Le Conche and Le Piscine) .
- Marina di Campo – Home to Elba’s longest beach at about 1 400 m. The fine golden sand, gently sloping seabed and proximity to the town make it ideal for families and inexperienced swimmers. There is a pine forest with a playground on the east side and rocky coves to the west .
2. Nature and scenic trails
- Monte Capanne – Elba’s highest peak (1 019 m). From here you can see the entire Tuscan Archipelago, including Pianosa, Capraia, Montecristo, Gorgona and, on clear days, Corsica. The mountain is covered in Mediterranean scrub with many endemic plants and over 200 species of mushrooms. Reach the summit by walking from Marciana or taking the two‑seat basket cable car; go early or late in summer to avoid the heat .
- Lacona dune area – Behind our beach lies a unique dune system that protects the coast and groundwater. The vegetation includes pioneer plants such as sea spurge, sea lily, couch grass and juniper, and colourful species like santolina, scabious and wild hyacinths. Conservation projects (e.g., RESTO CON LIFE) install wooden barriers and raise awareness among visitors. Walking here reveals a delicate habitat and the work of environmental associations .
3. Art, history and culture
- Portoferraio – Visit the Medici fortresses (Forte Falcone, Forte Stella and the Linguella Tower) built from 1548 to defend the town from pirates; they repelled the Ottoman corsair Dragut in 1553. A path of about 500 m connects the bastions and offers sea views, passing by the archaeological museum. Nearby stands the Palazzina dei Mulini, Napoleon’s main residence during his exile (1814–1815), now a national museum displaying original furniture, library and personal objects .
- Capoliveri and Monte Calamita – This hilltop village (167 m above sea level) is a labyrinth of narrow alleys (chiassi) filled with restaurants, artisan shops and bars. Nearby are the church of San Michele, the sanctuary of Madonna delle Grazie and Monte Calamita, famous for magnetite mines and views over the Stella Gulf. Today its slopes host hiking and mountain‑bike trails forming the Capoliveri Bike Park. Every 14 July, Capoliveri recreates the Legend of the Innamorata, a torch‑lit procession honouring a tragic love story .
- Porto Azzurro – A picturesque harbour town dominated by the San Giacomo fortress. The centre clusters around Piazza Matteotti with restaurants and shops. Nearby are mines (the Small Mine Museum) and the Monserrato sanctuary; beaches such as Barbarossa, Reale, Terranera and Pianotta offer clear water ideal for snorkeling and diving .
- Marciana and Marciana Marina – On the western side are these colourful villages with arcades and harbours. A cable car from Marciana leads to Monte Capanne, while the Costa del Sole offers dramatic scenery and beaches such as Patresi, Chiessi and Pomonte (famous for the wreck of a merchant ship) .
4. Sporting events and festivals
Elba is not only for relaxation; it hosts important sporting and cultural events. Staying at Hotel Giardino allows you to participate or watch them easily.
- Capoliveri Legend Cup – An international mountain‑bike race held in October on the trails of the Capoliveri Bike Park. Part of the UCI World Marathon Series since 2016, the main route is about 80 km with 3 000 m of elevation gain along Monte Calamita. There is also a 50 km Granfondo. On the eve of the race, the Chiassi Cup runs through the alleys of Capoliveri. Our hotel offers discounts to participants and secure bike storage .
- Elbaman Triathlon – One of Italy’s most captivating Ironman‑style races, held in September in Marina di Campo. The long course includes 3.8 km swimming, 180 km cycling and 42.2 km running; the shorter Elbaman73 covers 1.9 km swim, 94 km cycle and 21.1 km run. Events include a relay race and a mini‑triathlon for children .
- The Legend of the Innamorata – On 14 July Capoliveri reenacts the tragic story of Maria and Lorenzo. A costumed procession descends to the beach, where teams row to retrieve Maria’s shawl (the Ciarpa). The evening ends with fireworks and folk songs .
5. Recommended itineraries
To help you make the most of your time on Elba, we propose sample itineraries inspired by the suggestions on our official site. Each combines sea, culture, nature and cuisine.
3‑day itinerary
Day 1 – Portoferraio and the north coast 1. Morning: visit the Medici fortresses and Napoleon’s Palazzina dei Mulini; imagine the corsair sieges while enjoying panoramic views . 2. Lunch: try fish dishes in Portoferraio’s historic centre. 3. Afternoon: relax at the Spiaggia delle Ghiaie or Padulella; those seeking quieter spots can continue to Sansone . 4. Evening: return to Hotel Giardino for a dinner of Elban specialities or dine in Portoferraio’s harbour.
Day 2 – Western coast and Monte Capanne 1. Morning: climb Monte Capanne via cable car or hiking; enjoy vistas over the archipelago . 2. Lunch: picnic at the summit or lunch in Marciana Marina. 3. Afternoon: relax on one of the Costa del Sole beaches such as Fetovaia, Cavoli or Seccheto . 4. Evening: stroll around Marina di Campo for seaside dining and gelato; nightlife awaits those who wish .
Day 3 – South‑east and Capoliveri 1. Morning: wander through the alleyways of Capoliveri and browse artisan shops . 2. Lunch: enjoy views from the village belvedere or dine in the hamlet of Innamorata. 3. Afternoon: explore the magnetite mines of Monte Calamita or swim at Innamorata or Barabarca; snorkellers can visit the Pomonte wreck . 4. Evening: dine in Porto Azzurro and wander around Piazza Matteotti .
Longer itineraries (5–7 days)
If you have more time, add these activities:
- Boat excursions – Trips to the marine park of Pianosa, to the islet of Formiche della Zanca or full tours around Elba. Many operators depart from Marina di Campo, Portoferraio and Porto Azzurro .
- Mining heritage – At Rio Marina you can visit the Parco Minerario dell’Elba and its hematite and pyrite mines; in Capoliveri the Old Workshop Museum invites you into the mine galleries .
- Wine and food – Tour wineries producing Ansonica, Aleatico and Elban Sangiovese wines and taste goat cheese, honey and schiaccia briaca, a traditional cake made with Aleatico wine and dried fruit .
- Sport and nature – Kayaking along the south coast (Lacona–Capo Stella), diving at Scoglietto, e‑bike rides through the Capoliveri Bike Park and hikes on Monte Perego and Monte Capannello .
- Shopping and markets – In addition to the shops in Portoferraio and Capoliveri, visit the Marina di Campo market (Wednesday mornings) for local products, clothing and crafts .
6. Tips for different types of travellers
- Families with children – Choose beaches with gentle slopes like Lacona, Marina di Campo and Cavoli . Bring buckets, spades and water shoes for the pebbles at Le Ghiaie. Activities include playgrounds in the pine forest, visits to the Tuscan Archipelago Wildlife Park near Marciana, glass‑bottom boat trips and the Elbaman Kids mini‑triathlon . Our hotel offers children’s menus, facilities to heat baby food, spacious rooms, a playground in the garden and the possibility to rent strollers and bikes .
- Couples seeking romance – Enjoy secluded coves such as Laconella, Barabarca, Sansone and Seccheto . Arrange a sunset dinner on a boat, wine tasting of Aleatico and Moscato and participate in the nighttime procession of the Legend of the Innamorata . At the hotel you can book rooms with garden patios, candle‑lit dinners and massage treatments .
- Sport and adventure lovers – Ride the trails of the Capoliveri Bike Park with technical descents and scenic climbs . Train for triathlon swimming in Marina di Campo’s bay, cycle the western loop and run on the beach; join the Elbaman in September . Hike to Monte Capanne, Monte Perone, Monte Tambone or around Lacona’s dune loop; snorkel or dive at Le Ghiaie’s reserve, the Pomonte wreck, Capo Stella cliffs or Punta Nera shallows .
- Slow travellers and culture enthusiasts – Visit the Archaeological Museum of the Linguella in Portoferraio, the Roman Villa delle Grotte and the Mineral Museum in Rio Marina . Immerse yourself in Napoleonic history at the Palazzina dei Mulini and Villa San Martino . Wander through the alleyways of Capoliveri, stroll along the promenade of Marciana Marina and relax in Porto Azzurro’s squares . Attend cultural events such as summer concerts, film festivals and food fairs celebrating dishes like cacciucco (fish stew) and polpo all’elbana .
Useful questions and answers
- How do I reach Elba? Ferries run from Piombino Marittima to Portoferraio, Rio Marina and Cavo, taking about an hour. Thanks to our agreements, Hotel Giardino offers discounted tickets .
- When is the best time to visit? Each season has its charm. Spring brings blossoms and is perfect for hiking and cycling; summer offers warm seas and lively nightlife but larger crowds; September and October provide mild weather, fewer tourists and events like the Capoliveri Legend Cup and the Elbaman; winter suits lovers of wild nature and photography .
- Do I need a car? A car is recommended but not essential. Buses connect the main towns, but having your own vehicle allows you to reach secluded beaches and move freely. Several companies rent cars, scooters and bicycles; our hotel provides free parking .
- Can I bring or rent a bike? Yes. We have secure bike storage and there are rentals in Capoliveri and Lacona. Mountain‑bike enthusiasts will find marked trails in the Capoliveri Bike Park .
- Are there easy trails for beginners? Yes. Besides the cable car to Monte Capanne, there are coastal paths like the Sentiero dell’Amore (Capoliveri to the Innamorata) and the Lacona loop through dunes and pine forests. The walk from Portoferraio to Le Ghiaie and Padulella is also accessible with splendid cliff views .
- Which local products should I try? Don’t miss Aleatico passito wine, local honey, schiaccia briaca (sweet bread with dried fruit and wine) and gurguglione (vegetable stew). Markets also sell fresh fish, olive oil, goat cheese and jams .
- Where can I find pharmacies and medical assistance? Portoferraio has the main hospital; every town has pharmacies and tourist medical services in high season. For emergencies, call the EU number 112. Our hotel provides updated information .
Summary table of main attractions and distances from Hotel Giardino
| Destination | Distance (km/min) | Main attractions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lacona Beach | 0 km, 5 min walk | Golden sand, protected dunes, pine forest, water sports | Direct access from the hotel |
| Spiaggia delle Ghiaie (Portoferraio) | 15–20 km, ~20 min by car | White pebbles, marine reserve, snorkeling, playground | Paid parking |
| Padulella/Capo Bianco | 16–21 km, 25 min | White‑pebble beaches, cliffs, snorkeling | Protected area; limited parking |
| Monte Capanne (Marciana) | 35 km, 45 min | Cable car, trekking, panoramic view | Best early in the day; bring water |
| Medici fortresses & Palazzina dei Mulini (Portoferraio) | 15 km, 20 min | Fortified walls, Napoleonic museum | Historic tour with views |
| Capoliveri & Monte Calamita | 6 km, 10 min | Medieval village, mines, Legend of the Innamorata | Events in July and October |
| Porto Azzurro | 11 km, 15 min | Spanish fortress, Piazza Matteotti, beaches | Perfect for a romantic dinner |
| Marina di Campo | 20 km, 25 min | Longest beach, lively town | Host of the Elbaman Triathlon |
| Fetovaia/Cavoli/Seccheto (Costa del Sole) | 35 km, 45 min | Fine‑sand beaches and granite slabs | Ideal for swimming and fun |
| Rio Marina | 24 km, 30 min | Mining park, mineral museum | Guided mine tours |
| Innamorata | 12 km, 20 min | Romantic beach, Innamorata legend | Especially evocative in July |
Conclusion
Choosing Hotel Giardino as your base on Elba means staying in a tranquil green oasis a stone’s throw from Lacona’s golden sands, while being close enough to drive to the Spiaggia delle Ghiaie and all the island’s attractions. This guide has answered common questions and provided details about beaches, landscapes, events, itineraries and services, using only official and reliable sources . We hope these pages help you plan an unforgettable stay. The staff of Hotel Giardino looks forward to welcoming you with genuine hospitality, contact with nature and continuous discovery .