After a slow and peaceful breakfast, the journey begins toward the port of San Vincenzo, just a ten-minute drive away. It is the ideal embarkation point for those staying in Bolgheri and wishing to explore Elba Island by sea. Elba is a compact island, just 27 kilometers from east to west and about 18 kilometers from north to south, yet surprisingly rich in nuances, colors, and atmospheres.
Sailing along the Etruscan Coast is an experience that engages all the senses. The waves gently rock the journey, while the outline of Elba grows clearer on the horizon, revealing its coves and the green peaks of its interior.
At just around 20 nautical miles away, Portoferraio is the most direct and accessible point of arrival. It is the historic heart of the island, founded by Cosimo I de’ Medici in the 16th century as a seaside fortress, and it still preserves the charm of its ancient walls, stone stairways, and fortifications overlooking one of the most picturesque natural harbors in the Mediterranean. Wandering through the old town’s narrow streets, you’ll find artisan shops, art galleries, charming cafés with outdoor seating, and a surprising culinary scene that blends Elban tradition with contemporary cuisine.
From here, you can easily explore other corners of the island, either by boat or car. Marciana Marina, on the northern coast, is another delightful destination: an elegant and intimate seaside village with a lively promenade and opportunities to refuel or enjoy a gastronomic break. Its pastel-colored buildings and tranquil atmosphere make it perfect for a relaxed stop.
For those seeking quieter, more secluded places, the coves between Procchio and Capo Sant’Andrea offer a more intimate side of Elba: small beaches tucked between rocks, accessible only by sea or via footpaths through the Mediterranean scrub. This is the perfect place to drop anchor and enjoy the crystal-clear waters—ideal for snorkeling or simply unwinding in stillness. It’s also a wonderful spot for a peaceful lunch on board, surrounded by nature and accompanied only by the gentle sound of the sea.
Lastly, on the southeastern side of the island, the abandoned iron mines are well worth a visit. The landscape here is striking: the island transforms and takes on an almost lunar appearance. The red cliffs and shimmering ground, rich in hematite and pyrite, tell the long story of Elba’s mining history, which for centuries played a central role in the Mediterranean economy. Today, many of these former mining sites can be explored through hiking trails, open-air museums, and off-road excursions by jeep or mountain bike. It’s a different Elba, rugged, wild, and deeply captivating. An island within the island, where nature has reclaimed spaces still charged with memory.
“Each corner of Elba has its own personality, yet they all share an authentic and relaxed atmosphere.”
A day trip to Elba is an excellent idea for those staying in Bolgheri, which proves to be an ideal starting point for discovering the Tuscan sea as well. Between nature, history, fine cuisine, and memorable moments, this island excursion offers a fresh and enriching perspective on the authentic charm of the coast.
