Elba – Pearl of the Mediterranean

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival – Crossing to Elba

Direct bus journey to Tuscany. After arriving in Piombino, we take the ferry to Portoferraio (journey time approx. 1 hour). Even as we approach, we can already appreciate the beauty of the “Pearl of the Mediterranean”: the steep coastal slopes, the sparkling bays, the lush green of the macchia. In the evening, we check into our hotel on Elba and relax as the first day draws to a close.

Day 2: Around Monte Capanne – nature & harbor towns

Culture group
Today we will circle the mighty Monte Capanne, at 1,019 meters the highest mountain on Elba. On our journey, we encounter Mediterranean-scented forests, quaint fishing villages, and breathtaking coastal views. In Marciana Marina, we stroll through the ancient fishing district with its romantic alleys. In the afternoon, we visit Marina di Campo, where a lively promenade along a long sandy beach invites us to stroll.

Hiking group
We start the day with a varied coastal hike from Marciana Marina to Sant'Andrea (approx. 12 km, 4 hours, +/-200 m). The trail leads through holm oak forests and offers fascinating views of deep valleys and rugged bays. A highlight is the hidden rocky bay of Cotoncello with its round white stones and mysterious caves. After a refreshing dip in the sea, we reach Sant'Andrea and treat ourselves to an espresso before heading back.​​​​​​​

Day 3: Porto Azzurro, Seagull Coast & Monte Calamita

Culture group
In the morning, we enjoy a boat trip along the unspoilt Seagull Coast – the “Costa dei Gabbiani” with pine groves, vineyards and wild scrubland shows us Elba at its most beautiful. Afterwards, we stroll through Porto Azzurro, a picturesque harbour town guarded by two fortresses. In the afternoon, we visit Capoliveri on Monte Calamita, whose narrow streets take us back to the Middle Ages. At the end of the day, a convivial wine tasting awaits us.

Hiking group
Today's hike takes us around the “magnetic mountain” Monte Calamita (approx. 9 km, 3 hours, +/-220 m). We climb through coniferous forests and scrubland to magnificent viewpoints from which we can see far across the bay of Porto Azzurro to the mainland. Afterwards, we explore Capoliveri, a medieval mountain village with winding alleys. We also end the day with a wine tasting accompanied by local specialities.​​​​​​​

Day 4: Napoleon & the capital Portoferraio

Culture group
In the morning, we visit Napoleon's summer residence, Villa San Martino, whose classicist architecture is as impressive as the history of its famous occupant. We then drive to the island's capital, Portoferraio. Situated on a headland and surrounded by the sea, it delights visitors with its lively markets, small shops, and imposing fortresses towering over the town. The afternoon is free for you to spend as you wish.

Hiking group
We will take a circular hike via Monte Barbatoia to Monte San Martino (approx. 7 km, 2.5 hours, +/-300 m). The trail leads us through forests and Mediterranean scrub back to Villa San Martino, which we will visit. Afterwards, we explore Portoferraio with its castles, fortresses, and lively harbor promenade. Those who wish can also visit Napoleon's winter residence, the Villa dei Mulini. The rest of the afternoon is free.​​​​​​​

Day 5: In the land of iron – Rio nell'Elba

Culture group
Today we immerse ourselves in the ancient history of iron mining. We drive to the east of the island and visit Rio nell'Elba, the oldest village on the island. In the mineral park near Rio Marina, we experience the colorful world of the former mining areas on a ride on the tourist train. Afterwards, we visit the mineral museum of Rio Marina and learn exciting facts about the treasures that have been hidden here for centuries.

Hiking group
Our hike takes us through the abandoned ore mines near Rio Albano (approx. 7 km, 3 hours, +130/-330 m). The landscape glows in intense colors – rust red, ochre, gray – and is reminiscent of another world. We hike past the Laghetto delle Conche, a small lake whose water shimmers deep red due to iron oxides. Between ancient mining areas, bizarre rock formations and wild vegetation, we enjoy a special nature experience that combines Elba's industrial past with its present-day beauty. Afterwards, you also have the opportunity to visit the mineral museum in Rio Marina​​​​​​​

Day 6: Return journey

In the morning, we take the ferry from Portoferraio to Piombino (journey time approx. 1 hour). As the green and blue coastline of Elba slowly disappears behind us in the morning light, we take unforgettable impressions with us: the scents of the macchia, the colors of the rocks, the hospitality of the villages, and many beautiful moments. We begin our journey home across the Alps.