From the variety of thriving wildlife in the Mediterranean forest to the hidden secrets if the higher woods, the vegetation on Elba is generous in terms of colour, perfume and shades of light. Mushrooms, bark, flowers and chestnuts are easy to find, and the ideal habitat provided for the animals on the island can easily be explored. Or one can simply enjoy the clean air and the majestic beauty which nature has so generously given to the island, perhaps after a taste of the local cuisine, which blends maritime traditions and typically Tuscan customs.
Free Climbing on Elba allows visitors to test their ability as climbers on the rock faces at Fetovaia and Capo Sant’Andrea.
The island of Elba has many surprises in store for lovers of free climbing. On the large western promontory, where the highest mountains on Elba are to be found, climbing is possible on the itineraries marked by FASI (the Italian Free Climbing Association) instructors. Behind Sant’Andrea, Monte Capanne towers over all the other mountains on Elba, at a height of 1,019 metres. Towards Pomonte, still on the crest of the Capanne group, Monte di Cote (900 m) can be seen. Towards Marciana, Monte Giove (855 m), with its rocks and their bizarre forms, provides one of the most spectacular landscapes on the island.
Even the rock faces at Sant’Andrea can be climbed. However, information should be obtained before planning a climb, as there are some periods of the year when this type of activity is banned to avoid disturbing the birds nesting there.
Mountain Biking around the island of Elba is excellent, and has always been one of the preferred destination for mountain bikers. The complex network of pathways covers the ancient communication roads on the islands and for many years has been a sort of temple for mountain bikers, to the point that professional mountain bikers have competed for the World Cup here.
One does not need to be a great professional mountain biker to ride in the Tuscan Archipelago National Park, surrounded by nature. Many of the pathways suited to bikes are also meant for inexperienced bikers. If you want to improve your mountain biking during your holiday, there are numerous qualified centres on the island providing courses and guided excursions.
If you still prefer the dear old “racing” road bike, you can emulate your heroes by taking part in the Tour of Elba. After departing from Sant’Andrea, the route goes going towards Patresi, Chiessi and Fetovaia, reaching Marina di Campo, then continuing towards the east, passing all the most famous places on the coast (Porto Azzurro, Rio nell’Elba, Volterraio, Portoferraio). The climb up to Marciana is the last one before the descent leading back down to Sant’Andrea.
Sea Kayaking on Elba combines the joy of discovery and exploration with relaxing and healthy physical activity. Sliding along the surface of the water in a kayak: can you imagine a better way of discovering the many hidden surprises off the north-western coast of Elba?
Kayaking relaxes the mind and strengthens the muscles. There are those who take up this sport to meditate in solitude and those who look at it as a proper sport. Whatever your motivation, nothing in the world can provide the close and personal contact with nature that these ancient vessels can. Excursions are available on Elba with the assistance of qualified instructors, who will help you to perfect navigation and rowing techniques hand in hand with nature, in one of the most beautiful stretches of coastlines in the Tuscan Archipelago. If you have not brought your own kayak, there is no problem: you can hire one on the beach at Sant’Andrea for a few Euros.
Ferry Travel to Elba by car, embarking to Piombino Marine, where two companies of navigation (Toremar and Moby Lines) provide ferry services to the ports of Portoferraio, Blue Port and Marine River. A fast connection through hydrofoil exists also, for the single fleeting transport, than in single 20 minutes it catches up Cable, Marine fraction of River, continuing then, for Portoferraio, where it arrives after others 15 minute of navigation.
Boat Trips Around Elba
Unspoilt coves, beaches that are deserted even in the summer months, vegetation growing among the imposing rocks almost down to the water’s edge. Exploring the coast of Elba in boats near Capo Sant’Andrea, or even further away, reaching the island of Capraia, gently lulled by the swell of the water, will enrich your holiday with unforgettable suggestions and views. It will also provide the opportunity for those who want to go snorkelling and diving.
The complete circumnavigation of the island, done in fast boats, lasts for a full day and includes a stop for lunch in a typical island restaurant. The itinerary includes numerous exclusive localities, including Enfola, the beautiful beach at Forno and Calanova, with its beautiful strand of white pebbles. More lively and mundane places are also visited of course, including Porto Azzurro, Portoferraio and Marina di Campo, where one can go shopping or visit places of cultural interest.
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