Trekking
Hiking Trails and Routes
Renowned for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, the Island of Elba offers much more than coastal beauty. Its inland areas are a paradise for trekking enthusiasts, with trails winding through Mediterranean scrubland that lead to spectacular viewpoints, historic villages, ancient mines, and archaeological sites.
Thanks to the presence of Mount Capanne—rising over 1,000 meters above sea level—Elba allows for a truly unique experience: in just a few kilometers, you can go from sea to summit, crossing an incredible variety of ecosystems and landscapes.
The trails cater to all levels: from easy paths ideal for families and beginners to challenging routes like the “Grande Traversata Elbana,” which crosses the entire island and offers unforgettable views and total immersion in nature.
In addition to its natural beauty, hiking on Elba also reveals a wealth of historical and cultural heritage. Medicean and Spanish fortresses, Roman villas, Pisan towers, and Etruscan kilns line the trails, creating the perfect mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation.
Thanks to its mild climate, Elba is an ideal trekking destination all year round, even in the winter months, offering ever-changing but equally captivating scenery.
Sentiero della Salute
- Difficulty: Easy
- Route: Length: approx. 3 km – Duration: approx. 1 hour
The Sentiero della Salute is a pleasant and scenic route that, in just over an hour, combines a relaxing seaside walk with the discovery of two quiet and secluded coves: Lamaia and Porticciolo.
The trail begins at Biodola Beach, with access on the left-hand side, where a small gate (possibly closed in winter) marks the entrance. A short flat stretch along the cliffs opens up to breathtaking sea views.
Along the route, you’ll pass through a tunnel carved into the rock during World War II. Continuing on, you reach the two small coves of Lamaia and Porticciolo, offering crystal-clear waters and unique tranquility—perfect for a refreshing break.
After the beaches, the path winds through a few houses and leads to Guardiola Beach, eventually reaching Procchio Beach.
A perfect itinerary for those seeking a walk that blends nature and sea, enriched by rare beauty and touches of history.
Enfola Ring Trail
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Route: Length: approx. 3 km – Duration: approx. 2.5 hours
Capo Enfola is a site of great historical and scenic interest, located on the northern coast of Portoferraio. The headland separates the stony beaches of Viticcio Gulf from the long sandy stretches of Biodola and Procchio.
The trail begins at Enfola Beach, where there is a small parking area. From there, you’re immediately surrounded by the sea, with two dark-pebble beaches framing the landscape.
The path starts as a drivable road climbing the slope of Monte Enfola, immersed in lush Mediterranean scrub. Scents of rosemary, myrtle, broom, and strawberry trees fill the air. As you ascend, panoramic views become more stunning—southwest toward Viticcio Gulf, Marciana Marina, and Monte Capanne; northeast toward Portoferraio’s cliffs, the Piombino Channel, and the mainland.
On the way, you’ll encounter remains of a WWII defensive system. Past a scenic viewpoint, the paved road ends, giving way to a trail that loops around the top of Monte Enfola.
At the fork to Capo d’Enfola, you can either complete the loop or take the trail down to the very tip of the promontory. This final stretch is steeper and can be slippery, especially off-season.
The route ends at the point, offering an extraordinary view of the sea and the dramatic offshore rock called “La Nave.”
Madonna del Monte Sanctuary
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Route: Length: approx. 4 km – Duration: approx. 1 hour
This route begins in the village of Marciana, a small hilltop town set on a scenic promontory.
You can park near the fortress, from where you already enjoy a breathtaking view. Walk about 50 meters down the road until a signposted side path appears on the left—this leads to the sanctuary trail.
The path begins among majestic century-old chestnut trees. After an initial stretch, it opens onto a small clearing with the first of 14 votive chapels marking the Way of the Cross. Continuing along the right ridge, you can spot oddly shaped rocks known as the “Stone Monsters.”
After about an hour, you’ll reach the Sanctuary of the Madonna del Monte—solemn, serene, and equipped with benches, tables, and a water fountain.
To the side is a hermitage where Napoleon is said to have stayed during his exile, accompanied by his Polish lover Maria Walewska.
From here, you can continue along other trails winding through the Mediterranean vegetation.
Volterraio Castle
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Route: Length: 800 m – Duration: 30 minutes
Volterraio Castle is the oldest fortification on Elba and a symbol of strength and history. Its imposing structure, visible even from the ferry arriving in Portoferraio, dominates the landscape and seems to guard the island.
Owned by the Tuscan Archipelago National Park, it offers different visiting options:
• Guided trek with a Park guide;
• Self-guided trek with Park guide assistance (available in summer only);
From Portoferraio, follow the provincial road toward Porto Azzurro for 6 km, then turn left toward Bagnaia-Magazzini. After 1.5 km, turn right toward Rio nell’Elba. The final stretch is steep and winding, so drive with caution. A small parking area on the left lets you stop, and the trailhead is 50 meters ahead.
The climb, made easier by restoration work, follows a scenic path that passes the small Church of San Leonardo. Once at the fortress, your effort is rewarded with a 360° view over the entire island—truly unforgettable.
An experience that combines nature, history, and adventure—ideal for discovering the island’s most authentic side.