Pearl from the necklace of Venus - Elba

Elba is the largest of the Tuscan Islands Archipelago. It is older than Rome, and in the past it was famous not only for its beauty, but also for its little poetic activity - iron ore was mined on its eastern coast.

According to the legend, during the sea bath, Venus's neck fell off a necklace of pearls that scattered over the waters of the Ligurian and Tyrrhenian Seas. In this way, they created one of the most beautiful archipelagos in the region. One of the pearls of the necklace of the goddess of love is Elba, today known as the island of Venus. It is hard to believe that Napoleon was sent to her as a punishment.

Take the ferry to Napoleon

Venus was the goddess of love and beauty. No wonder that the island with which legends connect it, also stands out for its extraordinary beauty. Elba's sandy beaches, romantic bays, charming towns and the eternal greenery of Mediterranean flora delight all who come here. To get here, you need to take the ferry in the port of Piombino , separated from Elba by a 12-kilometer strait.

The ferry leaves every hour and we get off in Portoferraio, the main town of the island. It is situated on a headland with steep slopes, surrounded on three sides by the sea. Its main attractions include numerous forts and the building in which the famous exile lived, i.e. Napoleon's House .

Apart from Portoferraio , ferries also run to Cavo (the journey takes 35 minutes) and Rio Marina (45 minutes). If we did not transport our own vehicle on the ferry, it will be most convenient to rent a bicycle or a car on site. It is true that you can use local buses, but they do not reach all the places worth exploring during your stay.

Attractions of Elba

At Napoleon's order, wonderful, evergreen gardens were established, with the scent of jasmine and mimosa, spicy underlined with a hint of rosemary. He lived in Villa dei Mulini (Palazzina dei Mulini), to which a steep path leads uphill. The villa impresses above all with the views from the terrace and the collection of volumes - Napoleon has gathered over 2,000 of them. Being here, it is also worth visiting the living room with Empire-style furniture and the Baroque bedroom.

The garden surrounding Villa Napoleonica di San Martino is exceptionally beautiful (because it tempts with exotic plant species). Today, a museum is located in a small palace, approx. 5 km from the city.

The old town of Portoferraio has several points of value for lovers of sacred architecture, including the Church of San Rocco and the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament. It catches the eye with wrought iron balconies, decorative arcades and atmospheric squares, to which lead narrow, winding stairs. After a stroll through atmospheric alleys, you can sit down in one of the many pubs and relax.

Camping on the island of Elba

On such a beautiful island, finding accommodation will not be a problem for anyone, regardless of whether they like a hotel with comforts or are looking for a position for their camper. The campsite Ville degli Ulivi (Campsite Village) is 30 meters from the long sandy beach of Marina di Campo, the largest resort on the island. It offers guests accommodation in mobile homes and double and triple rooms in a beautiful villa. It has numerous places for tents and pitches for campers hidden in the shade of pine trees. The campsite has a swimming pool and wellness center. You can play here, among others in beach volleyball and tennis.

We will pay from 7 to 15.50 euro per night for an adult. For a place for a vehicle - from 9 to 19 euros. The great location of the campsite allows easy access to the attractions of the nearby resort. I must admit that partygoers will not get bored here. In addition to the vast beach , Marina di Campo tempts with a view of the picturesque bay and a wide range of entertainment.

While in Elba, try the "stoccafisso alla riese" (spicy cod dish) and the local wine. The ancient Romans already appreciated them. Apart from Elba Rosso and Elba Bianco, Moscato, Rosato and Aleatico are excellent. You can take a bottle of one of them with you as a souvenir.