When in Elba: An Insider’s Advice


As we embark on another summer season, I have had the privilege to return to my all-time favourite summer destination, Elba. Here’s my round-up of I want to the places I love to visit most on this beautiful island.
The island of Elba (or Isola d’Elba to the locals) is a small island located in the Tuscan Archipelago only 10km away from the mainland Italian port of Piombino. The most popular route to the island is to fly to Pisa Airport, where Powder Byrne will arrange a private taxi transfer to Piombino. Here you board a ferry to Portoferraio and take in the stunning surroundings as the island comes into view.

Portoferraio is the town to which Napoleon Bonaparte was exiled in 1814 and is steeped in history. If you need a break from the beach, the museum dedicated to Napoleon’s time on the island is a fascinating way to spend an afternoon.

If history is not your thing then Portoferraio has a multitude of other offerings, from the hidden coves and beaches, to the bustling shops and markets and, my personal favourite, admiring the plethora of boats and yachts moored in the port.

Elba is full of hidden treasures and the small hilltop village of Poggio does not disappoint. The restaurant Publius is renowned on the island for wild boar (one of Elba’s speciality dishes) and the view over Marciana Marina from the restaurant’s terrace is spectacular. In addition, just a 5 minute drive from Publius is the island’s only cable car (more like a bird cage than traditional cable car but worth it for the experience!) This takes you up to the island’s highest point, Monte Capanne, standing at 1018m; from here the views of the island are incredible and if you’re feeling adventurous you can even walk back down.

My final recommendation for you is the town of Capoliveri, where, much like the rest of the island, you can find spectacular views, great food and gorgeous white sandy beaches. Having said that, the best time to come here is in the evenings; during the summer season there is always a night market selling a wide variety of items from fresh olives to hand painted ceramics and handmade jewellery. Being in Italy, food is always a top priority and Capoliveri is no exception. Grab a pizza at Il Vecchio Borgo, one of the oldest restaurants on the island, followed by an ice cream from the best ice cream shop on the island (my personal favourite: Nutella & Mascapone!).

These destinations are all within easy reach from the hotels Hermitage and Biodola by Powder Byrne private shuttle. Of course, if a relaxing week on the beach is what you’re after, you don’t even need to venture out of the hotels. Both have their own private beaches, water sports, tennis, golf course access and incredible food and drinks in the restaurants and bars. In short, Elba has it all!
To find out more about this incredible emerald island, contact our travel consultants on 0203 651 1965 or click here.
