Exploring Elba Island by Bike

Do you dream of an adventure on two wheels that leads you through spectacular landscapes, immersed in the pristine nature and cradled by the sea breeze? Then a Elba Island tour by bike That's what he does for you! Walking along panoramic paths and skirting dream beaches, you will find yourself surrounded by scents of Mediterranean scrub, cradled by the noise of the waves that break on the shore. You can discover hidden coves, admire fabulous views and immerse yourself in the millenary history of the island, visiting ancient villages and fascinating archaeological sites. Thanks to the many ferries to Elba Island departing from Piombino, which allow to transport the bike to the following, is a destination easily reachable in every season

In addition to the pleasure of cycling, a bike tour of Elba is a unique opportunity for regenerate body and mind. The pure air of the sea, the scents of the Mediterranean maquis and the suggestive views will be a quaint for your spirit. And they won't miss gastronomic delights to be enjoyed along the route, with local products and specialties based on fresh fish.

Here is an itinerary of the island of Elba by bicycle that can be traveled in 3-4 days, but it is possible to adapt it to your needs and to your own pace. The important thing is to enjoy the journey and beauty of this wonderful island.

Day 1: Portoferraio – Marciana Marina (30 km)

The first stage starts from Portoferraio, not before having visited the picturesque old town, which preserves a rich historical and cultural heritage all to discover. Let's start with the imposing Medici fortifications such as the Fort Stella that dominates the city from above with its starry plan, offering a breathtaking panoramic view. Important military center, inside it were the most important buildings of the stronghold, including the palace of the Grand Duke or the barracks, seat of the court and the governor.

A short distance away is the Forte Falcone, perched on a promontory overlooking the rada of the port, boasts a suggestive position overlooking the sea, from which you can enjoy a wonderful view of the nearby islands. The picturesque Medici walls that surround the old town, from which you can admire the towers and bastions that once defended the city.

And so we arrive at the Palazzina dei Mulini, one of the two residences of Napoleon Bonaparte during his exile on Elba, destined mainly to public life. As such, today it houses the Napoleonic Museum, with relics, furnishings and objects related to the Emperor’s stay on the island.

We leave the island’s capital and head west along the coast. In the direction of Capo Enfola, where we can admire a breathtaking view of the Tuscan archipelago.

Continuing west, the road climbs slightly and continues to offer stunning views of the coast. Along the sea you will reach Procchio, a famous seaside resort with a beautiful sandy beach, and finally to Marciana Marina, a marine village rich in history, culture and natural beauty, destination of this first stage of our tour of Elba Island by bike. Before sunset there is all the time to relax on the beach of Marciana Marina and take a walk on the seafront, enjoying the view of the Gulf and the mountains of Elba.

Day 2: Marciana Marina – Marina di Campo (25 km)

Before we get back in the saddle, we visit Marciana Marina, losing us in the picturesque alleys of Borgo del Cotone, the ancient heart of the country, with its stone houses and typical shops, a bet at the 16th century Tower of Appiani, from which to enjoy the view on the gulf, and a visit to the Church of Chiara, dating back to 1776, which preserves a precious wooden crucifix.

From Marciana Marina we head west, pedaling along the "Costa del Sole". We pass from Sant’Andrea, a quaint fishing village, and reach the beach of Cotoncello, one of the most beautiful on the island.

So immersing ourselves in the Mediterranean vegetation of the island, we continue to Marina di Campo, the second largest resort in Elba, a lively seaside resort that welcomes us with the longest beach on the island where to make a well-deserved dip in the sea, and excellent restaurants on the seafront where to enjoy a good dish of fresh fish.

We do not miss the opportunity to take a walk to the village, where we visit the Church of San Gaetano, dating back to the 18th century, with a valuable altar major, and we admire the Marina di Campo Tower, of the 12th century with a beautiful view of the gulf.

Day 3: Marina di Campo – Portoferraio (35 km)

The last stop takes us back to Portoferraio, but along the road deserves a stop Villa San Martino, which was Napoleon's private residence during his exile on the island and is today a refined museum surrounded by greenery. You can admire the original furnishings of the time and the rooms preferred by the emperor: the Egyptian Hall, decorated with hieroglyphics and trompes-the oeil that evoke the campaign of Egypt, and the Hall of the Node of Love, dedicated to its union with Mary Luisa of Habsburg.

We conclude our tour with a last climb towards Portoferraio, where we can enjoy a well-deserved ice cream in Piazza della Maggiona, the main square of the city.

When to go to Elba Island

The best period for a tour of Elba by bike depends on individual preferences in terms of climate and crowding.

In general, the middle seasons are considered the best periods for a bike tour on Elba. Spring with mild temperatures and sunny days, with some sporadic rain, is ideal for nature lovers who want to enjoy the island in bloom. Few tourist turnout, lower prices and quiet atmosphere: the perfect conditions for a relaxing bike ride, without summer heat and high season crowd.

If you love the heat and night life, theSummer It can be a great choice, but taking into account the increased crowding and higher prices. The climate is warm, sunny and with little rain, the perfect sea for diving. Ideal for those who love hot and nightlife and want to combine cycling with the sea and beach activities.

In autumn the temperatures still pleasant, the long and sunny days, but without the summer afa. Not to be underestimated the least influx compared to summer and affordable prices.

Thewinter winter, with average temperatures of 10°C, shorter days and frequent rains, but also very few tourists, low prices and quiet atmosphere, can be an interesting option for lovers of cycling tourism who do not fear the fresh and want to enjoy the island in solitude.

How to Get to Elba Island

From the port of Piombino, in the province of Livorno, there are numerous daily departures ferries to Elba Island, that allow to reach the island bringing the car (and possibly even the bikes) to the following. The service is offered by Toremar ferry companies (lines for Portoferraio, Cavo and Rio Marina), Corsica Sardinia Ferries and Blu Navy with numerous daily departures all year round for Portoferraio, Moby Lines (lines for Portoferraio and Cavo)