Introduction
Elba Island is one of the favourite destinations for sailors and anyone travelling by boat in the Tyrrhenian Sea. Mooring here means entering a world of crystal‑clear waters, picturesque small ports and breathtaking landscapes. This guide, prepared by the staff of Hotel Giardino, introduces the most convenient and scenic ports, marinas and moorings on the island, with practical advice on choosing the ideal docking point based on your needs. Portoferraio is undoubtedly the main reference point for those arriving by sea: a safe, well‑equipped port rich in history with a fascinating Medicean historic centre and all the services sailors need. Elba also offers quieter and more scenic moorings, such as Porto Azzurro with its sheltered bay and lively seafront full of restaurants and shops, or Marciana Marina, known for its elegance, sea sunsets and relaxed atmosphere. Those who prefer more authentic and quiet places can choose Marina di Campo or Rio Marina, ideal for small harbours and closer contact with local life. Each port has its own personality: some offer high‑level services for large boats, others preserve the simple charm of maritime tradition. This guide provides information, practical tips and suggestions on places to visit once ashore. Whether travelling by sailboat, catamaran or motorboat, Elba will welcome you with its clear sea, hospitable ports and unmistakable Mediterranean beauty.
Ferry ports connecting to Elba
Elba is mainly connected to the mainland by ferry from the port of Piombino. The island has three main ferry ports: Portoferraio, Rio Marina and Cavo. The most convenient port depends on the area you intend to visit. Portoferraio, the capital, offers frequent links to all parts of Elba; Rio Marina mainly serves the eastern side (near Porto Azzurro and the eastern beaches); Cavo – the closest to the Tuscan coast – is chosen by many travellers for its very fast crossings. All three ports are connected to Piombino with daily ferries operated by BluNavy, Toremar and Moby Lines. Hydrofoils also run, reaching Cavo in about 20 minutes and Portoferraio in another 15.
Ferry connections operate frequently all year. On the Piombino–Portoferraio route there are on average 24 crossings per day with a sailing time of 40–60 minutes; Piombino–Rio Marina has around 28 weekly crossings of about 45 minutes; Piombino–Cavo offers about 10 crossings per day, lasting 15–30 minutes. In high season (spring/summer) crossings are more frequent; in winter they are reduced. A summary table of the main ferry routes is provided below:
| Arrival port | Crossing time from Piombino | Approx. frequency | Main features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Portoferraio | 40–60 minutes | ~24 crossings per day | Capital and main port; easily reached and close to towns in the west |
| Rio Marina | ~45 minutes | ~28 crossings per week | Port on the eastern tip; near Porto Azzurro and well‑known eastern beaches |
| Cavo | 15–30 minutes | ~10 crossings per day | North‑eastern port, closest to the Tuscan coast; very fast crossings |
How to reach Piombino and embark
By car
Reaching the port of Piombino is straightforward via Tuscany’s main roads. From the north, take the A12 motorway (Genoa–Livorno) to the Rosignano exit and continue on the SS1 Aurelia southwards to the Venturina/Isola d’Elba junction. Proceeding on the new expressway leads directly to the port. From the south, follow the A12 (Rome–Grosseto) north to the Venturina exit, then the Aurelia to Piombino. Parking for ferries is well signposted near the port; there are free and paid open and covered parking areas, some guarded. A large long‑stay car park is located at Piazzale Premuda at the port entrance. Booking a parking space in advance is advisable, especially during peak periods.
By train and bus
For those travelling by train, the reference station is Piombino Marittima, connected by regional trains with Campiglia Marittima on the Genoa–Rome line. From Piombino Marittima station it takes only a few minutes to walk to the ferry embarkation area. Shuttle buses also connect the station with the port. Intercity buses to Piombino are less frequent, but in summer some direct lines connect cities such as Florence and Milan. Most ferries depart on Friday evening and Saturday, so train–ferry connections may be limited. Many tourists choose to leave their car at Piombino and embark on foot to have more freedom once on the island.
Boarding tips
Upon arrival at Piombino, follow port directions: embarkation lanes are divided between passengers who already have tickets and those who still need to buy them. If travelling with a car, arrive at least 30–60 minutes before departure, especially in high season. Ferry companies (BluNavy, Moby and Toremar) often allow online check‑in or simply showing the ticket on a smartphone. During the crossing, enjoy the panorama from the outer deck to admire Elba’s coasts, Monte Capanne and the other islands of the Tuscan Archipelago.
Which port to choose to reach Capoliveri and Lacona
Hotel Giardino is in Lacona, in the municipality of Capoliveri, on the south‑eastern coast of Elba. Therefore, to reach the hotel from the ferry it is generally advisable to disembark at the island’s ports closest to the south or east.
- Portoferraio – The largest and most connected port; Lacona is about 30 km away (40 minutes by car) via the SP26 and SP33. It offers many crossings but is the furthest port from Lacona.
- Rio Marina – Located on the east side, it has about 28 crossings per week and a journey time of 45 minutes; it is roughly 25–30 km from Lacona (30–35 minutes by car). Convenient for travellers heading for the east coast, but there are fewer sailings than from Portoferraio.
- Cavo – A smaller port but very close to Lacona: the Piombino–Cavo crossings last only 15–30 minutes and Cavo is about 25 km (30 minutes) from Lacona. Often chosen by those who want to save time on the crossing.
- Marina di Campo – Does not have car ferry services. Those not bringing a car might take a hydrofoil from Piombino to Cavo or Portoferraio and then travel overland to Marina di Campo. However, the usual option remains boarding at Piombino and disembarking at one of the three official ports.
In general, all of Elba’s ports depart from Piombino; the difference is the distance to drive once you disembark. A practical tip is to compare schedules: Portoferraio offers sailings almost hourly, whereas Rio and Cavo have fewer. Hotel Giardino provides discounted ferry tickets; it’s best to check timetables and purchase tickets online in advance to choose the port with the most convenient time and avoid sold‑out crossings.
A summary table of routes and distances to Lacona is provided:
| Arrival port | Time from Piombino | Frequency | Distance by car to Lacona (Hotel Giardino) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Portoferraio | 40–60 min | 24 per day | ~30 km (35–40 min) |
| Rio Marina | ~45 min | 28 per week | ~25 km (30–35 min) |
| Cavo | 15–30 min | 10 per day | ~25 km (30 min) |
Hotel Giardino at Lacona: an ideal starting point
Hotel Giardino in Lacona (Capoliveri) is a small family‑run hotel just 100 meters from Lacona beach. Immersed in a large green park of about 30,000 m², the hotel offers an informal, homely atmosphere ideal for a relaxing holiday close to nature. Rooms are simple but comfortable, with private bathrooms, air conditioning, satellite TV and safe. Each room also has a numbered parking space in the shaded garden. Guests appreciate daily room cleaning and the staff’s friendliness.
Breakfast is served buffet‑style in a bright common room with homemade products and tasty local specialties. Lunches and dinners are carefully prepared: the kitchen offers simple yet quality dishes, including fresh fish and traditional à‑la‑carte options. The hotel is very suitable for families, with a small playground and family rooms. The “home‑style” cooking can cater for food intolerances. Pets are welcome, making the hotel convenient for those travelling with their dog.
Among the services offered, Hotel Giardino provides discounted ferry tickets (valid when staying there) and secure bicycle storage. It has agreements with local diving centres for scuba diving and snorkeling along the coast. Guests find free Wi‑Fi in common areas, an outdoor relaxation area and a large veranda for outdoor dining with a barbecue. The hotel combines a tranquil environment in the pine forest with a strategic location: within 10–15 minutes by car you can reach the island’s main towns (Marina di Campo, Capoliveri, Porto Azzurro, Portoferraio). This makes it an excellent base for exploring Elba, whether enjoying the sea or cultural excursions.
What to visit near Lacona and Capoliveri
The area around Lacona offers many natural and cultural attractions. Lacona Bay is famous for its nearly 3‑km‑long golden sandy beach, ideal for families. Immediately north is the smaller Laconella beach, nestled between Punta della Contessa and Capo Fonza. Along the southern coast, it’s worth visiting the Sanctuary of Madonna delle Grazie at Morcone and the Sanctuary of Madonna della Neve at Lacona, two small places of worship immersed in nature. Near the Madonna della Neve sanctuary stands Forte Focardo, an ancient coastal fortification with panoramic views.
Climbing the hills of Capoliveri, follow the famous Calamita Trail, a panoramic road offering spectacular sea and island views. Capoliveri itself is a medieval hilltop village fortified by the Pisans in the 12th century; Piazza Matteotti in the heart of the town provides a beautiful viewpoint over red rooftops and the coast. In the village you’ll find typical restaurants, artisan workshops and wine bars where you can sample Capoliveri’s wines.
The most beautiful beaches near Capoliveri are numerous. At the foot of Monte Calamita are Madonna delle Grazie beach (crystal‑clear water among rocks and pines) and Zuccale (very white sand at the base of the promontory). Further south are the small inlet of Innamorata beach, Barabarca beach and the long Naregno beach (suitable for families). All these coves can be reached by car or short walks. Along the coast towards Marina di Campo you’ll encounter scenic headlands such as Capo Stella and Capo Fonza; from Capo Stella you enjoy one of the island’s best views, especially at sunset.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find the area a paradise: numerous hiking and mountain‑bike trails crisscross hills and forests of the Tuscan Archipelago National Park. Several hiking routes start directly from Hotel Giardino, for example to the summit of Monte Calamita or towards Capoliveri, with breathtaking views of nearby islands. On the cultural side, visit Capoliveri’s archaeological museum or explore ancient iron mining sites that reveal the island’s history.
Just a few minutes by car from Hotel Giardino are Porto Azzurro and Marina di Campo. Porto Azzurro is a picturesque fishing village with a 17th‑century Spanish fortress and lively nightlife. Marina di Campo offers the long sandy Campo beach and the island’s small airport. These towns are 10–15 minutes’ drive away and offer additional services (shops, restaurants) and attractions, from the beautiful beaches of Cavoli and Fetovaia near Marina di Campo to the characteristic alleys of Porto Azzurro.
Practical tips for Italian tourists
- Bookings: In summer and during public holidays, book both ferry and accommodation in advance. Hotel Giardino offers promotional ferry ticket rates, so consider booking your stay through the hotel to take advantage of the discount and get advice on available ferries.
- Luggage and car: If arriving by car, check ferry regulations for bikes, scooters or special items (e.g., LPG cylinders must be switched off and declared). Those without a car can still move by taxi or rental, but having your own vehicle is very useful for exploring freely due to limited public transport in mountainous areas.
- Parking in Lacona: Lacona is a tourist resort with paid parking near the beach. The hotel includes shaded parking, and there are free or paid parking areas in the village. Near the public beach there are municipal pay car parks.
- Climate and clothing: Elba enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate. It can be hot in summer, so bring swimsuits, light clothing and sun protection; evenings may be cool, especially in the hills, so a sweatshirt can be useful. For excursions or boat activities, non‑slip footwear and insect repellent are helpful.
- Sustainable tourism: The area around Lacona is a natural oasis with protected coastal dunes. Please respect the environment: don’t walk on the dunes, don’t remove vegetation and don’t disturb the local fauna. Elba is a destination for cyclists and hikers; many trails are well signposted and accessible on foot or by bike. The hotel offers secure bicycle storage if you plan to explore on two wheels.
- Food and wine: Don’t miss Elban specialities such as dishes based on fresh fish (like “stoccafisso alla riese” or Elban cacciucco) and local wines (Rosso, Bianco, Aleatico). The hotel serves typical dishes, but it’s worth trying local restaurants in Capoliveri, Marina di Campo and Porto Azzurro. A classic evening pastime is an aperitif along the harbour, especially in Portoferraio and Porto Azzurro, perhaps with a glass of Aleatico (sweet red) or Ansonica (dry white).
In conclusion, choose the best arrival port based on your itinerary: Portoferraio for frequent connections and access to the whole island, Rio Marina and Cavo to save time on the crossing if heading to the eastern or southern side. Hotel Giardino in Lacona – surrounded by pine forest and just steps from the sea – is an excellent base for exploring Elba: from here spectacular beaches, characteristic villages (Capoliveri, Porto Azzurro) and nature trails are only minutes away by car. With its services (home‑style cooking, shaded parking, ferry discounts), staying here makes it easier and more enjoyable to organize excursions on this beautiful Tuscan island.
Why choose Hotel Giardino when staying on Elba Island
Situated in Lacona (Capoliveri), Hotel Giardino is a perfect choice for those wishing to visit Elba while combining relaxation and convenience.
Structure and atmosphere
Despite being a two‑star hotel, Hotel Giardino offers numerous services and a well‑kept environment. Set in a 30,000 m² park among pines and Mediterranean vegetation, it has rooms distributed in three separate buildings, many with a balcony or patio overlooking the garden. All rooms have newly renovated private bathrooms, air conditioning, safe, satellite TV, free Wi‑Fi and reserved parking. One of the hotel’s strengths is its location: just 100 meters from Lacona beach, reached via a protected path through the dunes – ideal for sea lovers who prefer not to use the car.
Family welcome and dining
The family management is a distinguishing element of Hotel Giardino. The atmosphere is informal and welcoming, with sincere attention to guests that makes for a pleasant and relaxed stay. The breakfast buffet is much appreciated and includes homemade cakes, fresh fruit and local products. At lunch and dinner, the restaurant serves typical Elban and Tuscan dishes, with alternatives for children, vegetarians and people with special dietary needs. Theme evenings, outdoor barbecues and dinners based on fresh fish are also offered.
Services and comfort
- Covered parking: Each room has a numbered parking space in a shaded area covered by photovoltaic panels.
- Free Wi‑Fi: Available in rooms and common areas such as the dining room, bar and relaxation area.
- Bicycle storage: Free and secure, ideal for those who want to explore the island by bike.
- Services for divers and snorkelling enthusiasts: The hotel collaborates with local diving centres, offering contacts, discounts for courses and dives, as well as discounted ferry tickets and support for booking excursions.
- Play area for children: Swings, table tennis and table football in the garden.
- Pet friendly: Pets are welcome – a real plus for a seaside property.
Position and transport links
Hotel Giardino is in Lacona, a hamlet of Capoliveri, on the island’s southern coast. Its strategic location means you can easily reach Marina di Campo, Porto Azzurro, Capoliveri and Portoferraio in 10–15 minutes by car. The hotel enjoys great tranquillity thanks to its location in a large park away from the main road. Buses connect Portoferraio with major tourist resorts; in summer, the Marebus service allows easy access to nearby beaches and towns. However, to explore more isolated coves it is advisable to have a car or scooter.
Booking and contacts
To book a stay at Hotel Giardino, the following details are provided:
Hotel Giardino
Viale dei Golfi 936 – Lacona, Capoliveri, Elba Island
P. IVA 01095550495
CIN: IT049004A1LGL7OIO9
Contact
Tel: +39 0565 964059
Mobile: +39 335 7925420
Email: info@elbahotelgiardino.it