The Island of Elba. Legend has it that Aphrodite, who emerged from the foam of the Tyrrhenian, lost the pearl necklace given to her by Paris to reach her beloved Eros on the shore. Seven of these pearls remained on the surface forming the respective islands of the Tuscan Archipelago.
The largest of the smaller islands with its blue and green heart can be reached just an hour by ferry from Piombino. Just look at it from afar to admire the largest town, Porto Ferraio, with the ramparts of the Medici fortresses, while from the dock with its typical horseshoe shape the Linguella Tower.
The area welcomes lovers of the sea and international regattas with open arms thanks to its breathtaking panorama and the perennial presence of the wind.
The residence of the exiled Napoleon
An island coveted by many, but visited by no more than 1000 tourists a year, not to spoil this natural scenery of incredible beauty. Among the privileged stands out the name of Napoleon Bonaparte. The image of the Island of Elba brings us back to the banks of school and our thoughts inevitably fly to the French emperor. In 1814 he arrived here as Ruler of the Island and he was welcomed by the people as well as by the local authorities who gave him the keys to his home in a silver platter.
The new sovereign, however, had chosen the goal as exile after being forced to abdicate from the throne of France following the defeat suffered in the Battle of Leipzig. During his stay he worked on making numerous improvements including the internal road system, creating an indelible groove in the local history so much so that today we celebrate the Bicentennial of his arrival with a program that includes a series of interesting events open to all.
I definitely recommend that you get on in the footsteps of Napoleon and visit at least some of the places dear to the Emperor, starting with Porto Ferraio where his winter residence is located at Villa dei Mulini, and summer, at Villa di San Martino.
Stretches of water and seabed of the Island of Elba
In addition to places of historical and artistic interest, it is also necessary to mention others that are equally memorable in their original nature.
The Ghiaie Beach perhaps it represents one of the most popular coasts of the ports of Ferrara which winds along a succession of white cobblestones. Legend has it that the characteristic blue color of the magma crystallized on the rocks is due to the sweat of the argonauts who found refreshment there after the search for the golden fleece, the ram with wings stolen by Jason.
The Living Water instead it is found on the north-eastern coast together with the promontory of Enfola and the rocks of Viticcio. The Municipality of Campo nell'Elba it represents one of the municipalities with the largest tourist turnout on the island, which is why it hosts the only existing airport. We are located in Marino di Campo, where the beautiful golden beach that occupies the entire gulf stands out.
We might suggest you take a look atMarina Aquarium 2: but why not wear a pair of fins and dive into the sea letting yourself be caressed by the infinite marine species that populate the local crystalline waters?
The west coast touches small villages and two of the most beautiful beaches inElba island. We're talking about a Cabbages, also popular in high season thanks to its mild climate and Fetovaia, enclosed in a cove and rather protected from the wind.
To top it all off, just add that it comes from this stretch of coast the Aleatico, a fine wine known to accompany desserts.
The Island of Elba: a small jewel that encloses the uniqueness of made in Italy is waiting for you alone to make you savor rare and authentic beauties.
If you want information on how to reach the island and how to get around, take a look here!