Introduction: discovering an island and dreaming of a bay
The Island of Elba is the third‑largest island in the Mediterranean Sea and a gem of the Tuscan Archipelago. It is rich in beaches, hidden coves, colourful villages, mining history and fortifications, and it is perfumed by Mediterranean scrub with views reaching as far as Corsica. Tourist guides note that Elba is interesting not only for landscapes, but also for its history, geology and architecture: its beaches and views are enchanting, its mines and museums fascinating, and its Medici fortresses tell centuries of history . The island is famous for beaches such as Cavoli, Fetovaia, Innamorata, Le Ghiaie and Seccheto , but it also preserves Etruscan fortifications, Pisan towers and Roman villas. Portoferraio, the main town, is home to Medici fortifications like Forte Falcone, Forte Stella and the Tower of Linguella ; visitors can climb Monte Capanne to gaze over the whole archipelago or explore medieval villages such as Marciana and Capoliveri or Napoleonic residences like the Palazzina dei Mulini .
Among all the beaches, Fetovaia occupies a special place in travellers’ imagination. Guides describe it as a bay on the Costa del Sole on Elba’s western side, characterised by a sandy beach about 200 m long with light sand and a shallow seabed . The area is equipped with bars, a restaurant and sports fields and offers hotels, B&Bs and apartments . However, those who wish to explore the island more broadly can sleep in Lacona, on the southern side, and use the Fetovaia area for day trips .
Why choose Hotel Giardino as a base for exploring the Costa del Sole
A green oasis a few steps from the beach
Hotel Giardino rises in the heart of the Gulf of Lacona on the southern side of Elba. Our family‑run hotel is immersed in a park of about 30 000 m² . The park’s atmosphere is fresh and airy, with pines, flowers and shaded areas where you can relax after a day at the sea. The proximity to Lacona beach—less than 100 m—allows you to reach the sea in a few minutes on foot by crossing the protected coastal dunes . This beach is one of the largest on the island, with golden sand and crystal‑clear water, perfect for families with children and nature lovers .
The style of Hotel Giardino reflects the authentic hospitality typical of Elba. Our rooms have a private bathroom with shower, satellite TV, telephone and safe . We offer a genuine, informal environment where every guest feels at home . The day begins with a rich buffet breakfast prepared with fresh, homemade products; at lunch and dinner our home‑style cuisine satisfies children and those with food intolerances .
Services designed for comfort and adventure
Our hotel provides many services that make a holiday in Lacona both comfortable and dynamic:
- Free Wi‑Fi: guests can connect for free in the dining room, bar and relaxation area .
- Bike storage: those who love exploring the island on two wheels can use our secure, covered storage .
- Diving and snorkelling: numerous diving centres operate near the hotel so you can discover Elba’s seabed .
- Discounted ferry tickets: we reserve reduced fares for ferry crossings to Elba .
- Pet‑friendly: domestic animals are welcome .
- Private parking: shaded parking spaces covered by a tarpaulin are available .
The hotel’s park offers a private 4 500 m² garden immersed in a pine forest—an oasis of tranquillity . Each room has a free numbered parking space inside the park and the structure provides daily cleaning . The hotel’s central position allows you to visit the entire island easily: it lies between Marina di Campo and Portoferraio and lets you reach Capoliveri, Porto Azzurro and Portoferraio in 10–15 minutes by car . Hiking and mountain‑bike enthusiasts will appreciate the many trails starting from the area and crossing the hills, offering breathtaking views over the Tuscan Archipelago .
Frequently asked questions about Hotel Giardino
Many future guests contact us with specific questions. We answer the most frequent ones here (information verified on portals such as Trivago):
- Does the hotel have a pool? No, Hotel Giardino does not offer a swimming pool, but the long Lacona beach makes swimming in the sea possible whenever you wish .
- Are pets allowed? Yes, pets are welcome; please let us know of any particular needs .
- Is there guest parking? Yes, we provide a large private parking area covered with a shade cloth .
- What time are check‑in and check‑out? Check‑in begins at 14:00 and check‑out is by 10:00 ; we try to accommodate early arrivals or late departures when possible.
- Are the rooms air‑conditioned? Yes, many rooms have air conditioning ; the thick walls and pine forest keep the climate pleasant even on the hottest days.
- Do any rooms have a balcony or private garden? Yes, some rooms have a balcony, others have a patio and some have their own small garden —please specify your preference when booking.
- Is the hotel suitable for families? Absolutely. We offer triple and quadruple rooms, a playground for children, family‑friendly menus and a quiet environment free from traffic .
- Are there health and safety measures? Yes, the structure applies new protocols: online check‑in and check‑out, physical distancing, hand disinfectants and the possibility of contact‑free payment .
Summary table of Hotel Giardino services
| Category | Main services | Sources |
|---|---|---|
| Rooms | Private bathroom with shower, satellite TV, telephone, safe, air conditioning, balcony or patio, private garden for some rooms | Official site, Trivago |
| Hospitality | Family management, genuine and informal atmosphere, welcoming environment | Official site |
| Dining | Buffet breakfast with homemade products, home‑style cuisine for lunch and dinner, availability of variations for children and intolerances | Official site |
| Free services | Free Wi‑Fi in hall and rooms, private numbered parking, daily cleaning | Trivago |
| Activities | Bike storage, ping‑pong table, playground, bike rental, snorkelling, diving, golf | Trivago, Official site |
| Other services | Pets allowed, hotel bar, restaurant, non‑smoking rooms, deckchairs, luggage storage | Trivago |
| Health safety | Disinfectants, masks, distancing, online check‑in, contactless payment | Trivago |
| Discounts & agreements | Discounted ferry tickets, discounts for participants in sporting events such as the Giro Podistico, Capoliveri Legend Cup and Elbaman Triathlon | Official site |
Why sleep in Lacona to visit Fetovaia
The beach of Fetovaia is about 20 km from Lacona . Choosing a hotel in Lacona allows you to combine comfort and flexibility: besides the tranquillity of the pine forest, the central position enables you to reach both the western coast (Fetovaia, Cavoli, Seccheto) and the eastern coast (Capoliveri, Porto Azzurro) quickly . In this section we explain why our location is an ideal starting point for exploring the Costa del Sole and the whole island.
Strategic position of Hotel Giardino
- Proximity to southern beaches: Lacona beach is less than 100 m from the hotel; the wilder Laconella beach can be reached on foot in about 15 minutes via a trail through the pine forest .
- Ease of travel: by car from Lacona you can reach Marina di Campo, Capoliveri, Porto Azzurro and Portoferraio in 10–15 minutes . Fetovaia, located beyond Marina di Campo, is about 30–35 minutes away . This allows you to visit the Costa del Sole without sacrificing the convenience of a central hotel.
- Access to trails: hiking and mountain‑bike trails depart from the hills surrounding the hotel . Cyclists can alternate days at the beach with panoramic excursions.
- Maritime and air links: the hotel helps guests book ferries to Elba at discounted rates . Ferries depart from Piombino Marittima to Portoferraio, and the crossing takes just over an hour . Alternatively, the island is served by the Marina di Campo airport .
Table of distances from Lacona to main locations
| Location | Approximate distance | Average drive time | Key notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fetovaia beach | ≈20 km | ≈35 minutes | Sandy beach with shallow seabed; sheltered microclimate |
| Cavoli beach | 16 km | ≈25 minutes | Sandy beach popular with young people |
| Seccheto beach | 17 km | ≈27 minutes | Sandy beach with granite rocks |
| Marina di Campo | 14 km | ≈20 minutes | Town with promenade, port and wide beach; base for reaching Fetovaia |
| Capoliveri | 9 km | ≈15 minutes | Hilltop village with picturesque lanes and a Medici fortress |
| Porto Azzurro | 15 km | ≈20 minutes | Harbour village; Forte San Giacomo; good restaurants |
| Portoferraio | 12 km | ≈15 minutes | Island capital; Medici fortifications and Napoleonic museums |
How to reach the beach of Fetovaia from Lacona
To get to Fetovaia from Lacona by car, follow the provincial road SP25 towards Marina di Campo and then continue for about 7 km towards the Costa del Sole following signs for Cavoli, Seccheto and Fetovaia . The road becomes scenic, offering views over the sea and cliffs. Once in Fetovaia, you can park in the large paid car park near the beach (around €20 per day in high season) or look for free spots along the road—these are limited in summer, so arrive early . Those who prefer public transport can take the bus that connects Marina di Campo to Fetovaia . During high season the service is more frequent; in low season check the timetable.
Cyclists can tackle the 20 km route from Lacona to Fetovaia: it is a challenging but fascinating ride through holm‑oak woods with panoramic viewpoints . Our hotel offers free bike storage so you can ride with peace of mind.
The beaches and attractions of the Costa del Sole
The Costa del Sole occupies the south‑western part of Elba and stretches from Marina di Campo to Pomonte . It takes its name from the high number of sunny hours and its particularly mild microclimate. Besides the renowned Fetovaia, it hosts some of the island’s most beautiful beaches—Cavoli, Seccheto, Le Tombe, Le Piscine, Colle Palombaia—and many small coves accessible only by sea . Below we describe the main beaches, with practical information, curiosities and services.
Fetovaia beach
Fetovaia is a jewel set into Elba’s south‑western coast . About 200 m long and up to 40 m wide, it offers plenty of space for relaxation . It is protected by Punta Fetovaia, a promontory covered in Mediterranean scrub that stretches about 800 m into the sea . Together with Monte Cenno, this promontory creates a privileged microclimate: the beach is sheltered from north and west winds, keeping the water calm and the temperature pleasant even out of season . The golden sand slopes gently into the sea, which changes colour from blue to green . It is perfect for families with children, less‑experienced swimmers and those who enjoy snorkelling. In summer the beach is equipped with bathing establishments, bars and restaurants, and there is also a free beach sector . One establishment has a wooden walkway, a JOB chair and accessible facilities for people with disabilities . To the left of the beach, granite slabs offer tranquillity to those seeking quieter corners .
What to do in Fetovaia
- Snorkelling and diving: the sandy and rocky seabed hosts many marine species; the nearby Secca di Fetovaia is a recommended dive site .
- Kayak and pedal boats: you can rent pedal boats and kayaks to explore the bay and coast .
- Excursion to Punta Fetovaia: a short trail leads to the promontory covered in Mediterranean scrub; from here you can admire the Costa del Sole and the islands of the archipelago .
- Photographic sunsets: the bay offers breathtaking sunsets that attract photographers and romantics .
Services and tips
The beach has showers, toilets, bars, restaurants, umbrella and sunbed rental, equipment for water sports and paid parking . Arrive early in high season to find a parking place . Bring water, snacks, sunscreen and a hat, especially if you plan to stay all day . If you snorkel, bring your own mask and snorkel . Because this is an area of high environmental value, do not leave litter and respect nature .
Cavoli beach
Cavoli is one of the island’s most famous and popular beaches, especially among young people. Located about 16 km from Lacona and 2 km east of Seccheto, it is a fine sandy beach about 350 m long surrounded by granite cliffs . The shoreline slopes gently and the sea is an intense azure; thanks to its south‑facing position it is one of the first beaches to be frequented in spring and the last in autumn . According to guides, Cavoli is equipped with bathing establishments and is very lively . The free area is small, but the vibrant atmosphere and beach bars make it ideal for those who enjoy parties and socialising. A few metres offshore is the Grottone di Cavoli, a cave accessible by kayak or pedal boat .
Seccheto beach
West of Cavoli lies Seccheto, about 200 m long. Here the sand is light and large granite rocks emerge from the water . Some rocks form natural pools, ideal for children because the water remains shallow and calm . The beach is equipped with bathing establishments, bars and restaurants but maintains a quieter atmosphere compared with Cavoli . Nearby are the Scogliera delle Piscine and the Spiaggia delle Tombe, reachable by short trails .
Spiaggia delle Tombe and Scogliera delle Piscine
Continuing west beyond Seccheto you find the Spiaggia delle Tombe, a sequence of three small coves of dark pebbles also frequented by naturists . The setting is wild and devoid of services; access is via a path of about 1 km from the roadside parking . Here you need to bring everything (water, food, umbrella) and take a short walk. A little further on lies the Scogliera delle Piscine, a series of granite slabs smoothed by the sea, popular with those who prefer to lie on rocks and dive into crystal‑clear water . This area is also service‑free and offers an intimate and relaxed atmosphere .
Colle Palombaia beach
Between Seccheto and Marina di Campo is Colle Palombaia, a quiet beach of pebbles mixed with sand . Vegetation descends to the sea and creates a green, shaded landscape. Access is via a panoramic staircase of about 200 steps . The beach has no services, so bring water and snacks. Thanks to its sheltered position, it is ideal for those seeking peace even in high season .
Spiaggia del Giardino and other coves
Near Fetovaia is the small Spiaggia del Giardino, consisting of black pebbles . It is preferably reached by sea; for this reason it is little frequented and perfect for those seeking privacy . Other coves such as Le Calle, Le Rosse and Le Cotete can be reached by sea or via short trekking routes, where you can swim in turquoise waters and see fish and starfish .
Marina di Campo
Marina di Campo is one of the island’s main tourist resorts and the nearest town to Fetovaia . In addition to being a starting point for the Costa del Sole, it offers a long sandy beach ideal for families. The town has a tourist port, shops, restaurants and bars . The seafront is perfect for evening walks, while the historic centre houses the Tower of San Giovanni and the Luigi Celleri Mineralogical Museum . Buses and boats depart from Marina di Campo for excursions to Fetovaia and other beaches along the coast .
Pomonte and the shipwreck
Beyond Fetovaia, on the island’s west coast, lies the small village of Pomonte. A few dozen metres offshore rests the Elviscot shipwreck, sunk in 1972 . The wreck lies at a depth of about 12 m and can be reached with a mask and snorkel . Swimming around a submerged ship is a unique experience that attracts snorkellers and divers from all over the world. Nearby are Spiaggia dell’Ogliera, perfect for those who love pebbles and deep water, and the Sanctuary of the Madonna del Monte, reachable on a half‑day hike .
Discovering the Island of Elba: villages, history and nature
The Costa del Sole is only a part of Elba’s tourist offerings. From Hotel Giardino you can easily reach other areas of the island, discover villages rich in history, Medici fortresses, museums, mines, panoramic trails and local products . This section proposes a journey to explore the island with tips to enrich your stay.
Portoferraio: the island’s capital
Portoferraio is Elba’s main city and primary ferry port . Its historic centre develops around a deep natural inlet. According to Toscana.info, the city is famous for its Medici fortifications—Forte Falcone, Forte Stella and the Tower of Linguella . Founded by the Romans as Fabricia and later fortified by the Medici in 1548 , it hosted Napoleon Bonaparte during his exile; he chose the Palazzina dei Mulini as his official residence, now a museum preserving period furnishings and a library . Urban beaches include Le Ghiaie, Capo Bianco and Padulella, with white pebbles and transparent water . Other sites not to be missed are Villa San Martino (another Napoleonic residence), the Romanesque church of Santo Stefano alle Trane and the Etruscan fortress of Castiglione .
Capoliveri
The hilltop village of Capoliveri, about 9 km from Lacona, enchants visitors with its narrow alleys, lively squares and artisan shops . Capoliveri was born as a mining village and in recent decades has transformed into a lively tourist centre. Beneath its surface extends the Ginevro Mine, a magnetite deposit that can be visited on guided tours explaining the island’s mining history . From the main square there is a panoramic view over Golfo Stella and Golfo di Lacona . Nearby beaches include Lacona, Naregno, Straccoligno and Barabarca, each with different characteristics—fine sand, rocks or coves accessible only on foot . In summer the town hosts concerts, food festivals and the famous Capoliveri Legend Cup, one of Europe’s toughest mountain‑bike races .
Porto Azzurro
Porto Azzurro is a picturesque harbour village 15 km from Lacona . Founded by the Spanish in the 17th century as a military outpost, it is dominated by the imposing Fortress of San Giacomo, now a prison, which watches over the harbour . Along the waterfront are restaurants, ice‑cream parlours and artisan shops; the central square hosts evening markets and concerts . Within minutes you can reach the Rossa, Pianotta and Barbarossa beaches; the latter is well‑equipped and ideal for snorkelling thanks to a seabed rich in marine life . Behind the village stands the Sanctuary of the Madonna del Monserrato, built in 1606 by Spanish sailors; from here there is a magnificent view over the gulf and the island’s eastern side .
Marciana and Monte Capanne
Marciana is one of the island’s oldest villages and stands at 375 m above sea level on the north‑western side . It is dominated by the Fortezza Pisana, built in the 12th century, and preserves a maze of medieval alleys . From Marciana departs the cable car to Monte Capanne, Elba’s highest peak (1 019 m) . From the summit you can see all the islands of the Tuscan Archipelago, Corsica and, on clear days, mainland Tuscany . Other places not to miss are the Etruscan and Roman Archaeological Museum, the Sanctuary of the Madonna del Monte—Napoleon’s spiritual refuge during his exile—and the village of Poggio, famous for the therapeutic waters of its springs .
Marina di Campo and San Piero in Campo
Marina di Campo is the liveliest seaside town on the island. Its seafront is bordered by a sandy beach 1.4 km long, perfect for families . The town hosts many hotels, restaurants and shops; the Luigi Celleri Mineralogical Museum recounts Elba’s geological history with collections of minerals, crystals and fossils . Just above Marina di Campo lies San Piero in Campo, an ancient granite village from which trails lead to Monte Capanne and Monte Perone . In the locality of Pianosa (reachable by boat from Marina di Campo) you can visit the island of the same name, a former penitentiary with guided tours through nature and history .
Cavo, Rio Marina and the mining east
The eastern part of Elba, less visited by mass tourism, offers different landscapes dominated by mines and reddish hills. Cavo is a small port connected to Piombino by fast ferries; from here begins the Parco Minerario route leading to the mines of Rio Marina and Rio Elba, where hematite and pyrite were extracted . In the mining museums you learn how Elba was a major centre of iron production from antiquity . The eastern beaches, such as Topinetti, Ortano and Cala Seregola, have sand mixed with iron minerals that colour the shore red and create striking colour contrasts .
Procchio, Biodola and the northern coast
The northern coast hosts some of the most beautiful beaches: Procchio, Biodola and Forno . At Procchio the fine sandy beach 1 km long is protected by two promontories; thanks to the central position you can easily visit Portoferraio, Marciana Marina and Campo nell’Elba . Biodola, with its light sand and turquoise sea, is often chosen by families because of the bathing establishments and services ; in the Forno area, smaller and more sheltered, you can still breathe the atmosphere of an old fishing village . On windy days you can move to nearby Scaglieri or Viticcio for shelter .
Pomonte, Chiessi and the western valleys
Beyond Pomonte and its famous wreck, the west coast offers the villages of Chiessi and Patresi, known for their terraced vineyards and cliffs perfect for diving . Here the sea is deep and clear; the maestrale wind makes the area ideal for windsurfing and kitesurfing . The hills are crossed by trails connecting the small villages and offering breathtaking views of every inlet .
Cultural itineraries and museums
Besides beaches and villages, Elba is rich in museums and cultural sites. The S.M.AR.T. (Museal System of the Tuscan Archipelago) enhances the archipelago’s museums with a unique itinerary . On the cultural side we highlight:
- Portoferraio Civic Archaeological Museum: displays Etruscan and Roman artefacts, including amphorae, statues and mosaics .
- Napoleonic Residences Museum: includes the Palazzina dei Mulini and Villa San Martino .
- Luigi Celleri Mineralogical Museum: in San Piero, it gathers local minerals and tells the island’s geological history .
- Old Workshop Museum: in Capoliveri, it documents the history of the mines of Monte Calamita .
- Sea Museum of Marciana Marina: dedicated to Elba’s maritime traditions .
Trails and paths of the island
Elba is a paradise for trekking and biking lovers. The Grande Traversata Elbana (GTE) connects Cavo to Pomonte crossing the entire island; it is about 60 km long, to be tackled over several days, and passes through Monte Capanne, the Sanctuary of the Madonna del Monte and the southern ridge . Other well‑known trails include:
- Anello del Monte Calamita: starts in Capoliveri and crosses old mines and holm‑oak forests .
- Sentiero del Volterraio: leads to the ruins of the Pisan fortification of Volterraio and offers 360° views over the island and the Tuscan coast .
- Sentiero della Madonna del Monte: a panoramic ascent from Marciana to the sanctuary, continuing to the antennas on Monte Capanne .
- Percorso della Costa del Sole: a series of trails between Cavoli, Seccheto, Fetovaia, Pomonte and Chiessi, with spectacular sea views and the possibility of bathing in several coves .
- Trekking di Rio Marina: itineraries through open‑air mines with guided tours .
Water and sports activities
Elba is perfect for sporty travellers. In addition to swimming, snorkelling and diving—with diving centres at Fetovaia, Marina di Campo, Porto Azzurro and Capoliveri—the island offers :
- Sailing and windsurfing: schools and rentals for boats, catamarans and boards in Lacona, Procchio and Porto Azzurro .
- Kayak and SUP: available on many beaches; paddling along the west coast between Fetovaia and Pomonte is particularly scenic .
- Mountain bike: trails set up for events like the Capoliveri Legend Cup, with routes of varying difficulty .
- Rock climbing: the cliffs of Fetovaia offer equipped routes for free climbing; it is recommended to practice with expert guides .
- Triathlon and running: events such as the Elbaman—one of Europe’s toughest triathlons—and the Giro Podistico dell’Elba attract participants from all over the world .
Flavours of Elba
The island’s gastronomic tradition results from the encounter between sea and land. Dishes not to miss include cacciucco (fish soup), stoccafisso alla riese, ghiacciaie (fried fish fillets), stuffed squid, schiaccia briaca (a sweet with aleatico wine and dried fruit) and sportella (an Easter bread) . Wines such as Aleatico Passito, Ansonica and Moscato pair perfectly with local dishes . Capoliveri produces the DOC Elba rosso riserva, while craft beer is made near Rio Marina .
Questions and answers about a holiday in Fetovaia and on Elba
This FAQ section addresses the most common doubts we receive by email or phone.
How do you reach the Island of Elba?
Elba is reached mainly by sea. You must take a ferry from the Port of Piombino Marittima. There are three shipping companies—Toremar, Moby Lines and Blu Navy—that make numerous daily crossings to Portoferraio, Rio Marina and Cavo ; the Piombino–Portoferraio crossing takes just over an hour . Alternatively, there is an airport at Marina di Campo served by charter and scheduled flights .
What is the best season to visit Fetovaia?
Thanks to its microclimate, sheltered from the north and west winds , Fetovaia can be enjoyed from May to October. July and August are very busy, so we recommend arriving early in the morning. Those seeking tranquillity can choose June or September, when the water is warm and the beach more liveable . October also offers mild days and spectacular sunsets .
Are there services for people with disabilities?
Yes. One of Fetovaia’s main establishments has a wooden walkway for easy access to umbrellas, a JOB chair for entering the water and accessible showers and toilets . Hotel Giardino offers ground‑floor rooms and common areas without architectural barriers . Please inform us of any particular needs when booking.
Where can you park at Fetovaia and how much does it cost?
Near the beach there is a paid car park that, in high season, costs about €20 for the entire day or €12 for a half day . The alternative is to look for the few free spots along the road; in this case arrive early . From Lacona you can also reach Fetovaia by bus during the summer .
Can you snorkel at Fetovaia? What can you see?
Yes. Fetovaia’s seabed—mainly sandy with rocky areas—hosts colourful fish, starfish, octopuses and Posidonia seagrass . The Secca di Fetovaia just offshore is one of the best‑known dive sites . In summer, diving centres organise guided excursions; those with their own equipment can easily explore the seabed near the shore .
What other beaches should you visit besides Fetovaia?
Along the Costa del Sole we suggest Cavoli (lively and young), Seccheto (family‑friendly with natural pools), Colle Palombaia (quiet and shaded), Le Tombe and Le Piscine (wild and naturist) and Spiaggia del Giardino (isolated and accessible by sea) . Heading towards the island centre there are the beaches of Lacona, Laconella and Margidore; eastwards the coves of Barbarossa, Terranera and Straccoligno; to the north the beaches of Procchio, Biodola, Forno and Capo Bianco .
Which villages are worth visiting?
In addition to the villages of the Costa del Sole, we recommend visiting Portoferraio with its Medici fortresses and Napoleonic museums , Capoliveri for its alleys and the Ginevro mine, Porto Azzurro for the Spanish fortress and the seafront square, Marciana and Marciana Marina for the medieval atmosphere and the Monte Capanne cable car , and inland villages such as Poggio and San Piero in Campo .
How do you get around Elba without a car?
The island is served by buses connecting the main coastal towns and inland villages, especially in summer . You can rent scooters and bicycles or use taxis. From Portoferraio there are ferries and boats for day trips to other islands of the archipelago (Pianosa, Capraia, Giglio) . At Hotel Giardino we can book cars, scooters or e‑bikes for you and advise on bus timetables .
Can I bring my dog to the beach?
Many Elban beaches accept dogs in the free areas, but you must respect local rules (lead, waste bags). At Fetovaia, on the free zone to the left towards Punta Fetovaia, dogs are generally allowed during the less crowded hours . Hotel Giardino is pet‑friendly and can suggest other dog‑friendly beaches (for example Prunini, Acquarilli and Magazzini) .
Are there events or festivals not to miss?
Yes. Between May and October Elba hosts numerous events: the Capoliveri Legend Cup (international mountain‑bike race) and the Giro Podistico dell’Elba, Elbaman (long‑distance triathlon), the Sagra della Schiaccia Briaca in Rio nell’Elba, the Festa dell’Uva in Capoliveri and summer concerts in the towns of the Costa del Sole . Contact us for an updated calendar .
Is it possible to visit Fetovaia outside high season?
Yes, and many locals prefer it this way. In spring and autumn the beach is almost deserted, the climate is mild and the sunlight creates incredible colours . Services may be reduced (bars and establishments may open only on weekends), but the tranquillity and unspoilt nature more than compensate. In winter, when westerly winds are stronger, it is better to choose beaches exposed to the east or north, such as Portoferraio or Capoliveri .
Practical tips for a perfect holiday
Planning the trip
- Book early: especially in July and August hotels and ferries fill up quickly. Thanks to our agreements with the ferry companies, we can help you book at discounted rates .
- Choose the right accommodation: Hotel Giardino offers various room types (double, triple, quadruple) with balcony or garden . For large families we recommend connecting rooms or apartments near our structure .
- Prepare your equipment: in addition to swimwear and sun cream, bring trekking shoes for the trails, a mask and snorkel for snorkelling, a light jacket for evenings and insect repellent . Remember that on some beaches (Tombe, Piscine) there are no services; bring water, snacks and a rubbish bag .
- Moving around the island: if you arrive with your own car you will have freedom to explore; otherwise consider renting a scooter or bicycle . The car parks at the most popular beaches are paid; bring coins or a card .
- Respect nature: Elba forms part of the Tuscan Archipelago National Park. Do not leave waste, do not collect sand or shells and do not disturb marine animals .
Recommended itineraries for excursions from Lacona
- Day 1 – Costa del Sole: morning in Fetovaia, lunch at a seaside restaurant, afternoon at Cavoli or Seccheto, sunset at Le Piscine; return to Lacona for dinner .
- Day 2 – Portoferraio and Capo Bianco: visit the Medici fortresses, the Palazzina dei Mulini and the beaches Le Ghiaie and Capo Bianco; evening walk in the historic centre .
- Day 3 – Capoliveri and mines: morning at Barabarca or Naregno beaches, afternoon guided tour of the Ginevro Mine and wine tasting in Capoliveri .
- Day 4 – Trekking on Monte Capanne: cable‑car ascent from Marciana, walk on the summit, picnic lunch; afternoon descent with a visit to the Sanctuary of the Madonna del Monte .
- Day 5 – Mining east: tour of Rio Marina and Rio Elba, visits to mining museums, swim stop at Topinetti or Cala Seregola; evening visit to the village of Cavo .
- Day 6 – Porto Azzurro and Pianosa: visit the Spanish fortress, lunch in the square, afternoon boat trip to the island of Pianosa (only with authorised excursions); return for an aperitif on the waterfront .
- Day 7 – Relax in Lacona: day of sea and relaxation on the beach of Lacona or Laconella, lunch with fresh fish at a restaurant, evening stroll among the stalls of the local market .
Conclusion: your home away from home
Organising a holiday on Elba means choosing among dozens of beaches, villages and activities. Fetovaia is one of the jewels of the Costa del Sole, but staying right beside it can limit trips to other parts of the island. Hotel Giardino in Lacona is the ideal solution: an oasis of peace a few steps from the beach, with a large park, comfortable rooms, home‑style cuisine and a strategic position that allows easy access to Fetovaia and all the other attractions . Guest reviews emphasise the cleanliness of the rooms, the exceptional friendliness of the staff and the quality of the cuisine . The hotel offers services such as Wi‑Fi, parking, bar, restaurant and accepts animals . Our staff, with the experience of those who live on Elba all year round, is ready to recommend trails, restaurants, events and secrets to experience the island like a local . We hope this guide is useful in planning an unforgettable holiday. We look forward to welcoming you to Hotel Giardino, your home away from home, to discover the magic of Fetovaia and the whole Island of Elba.