Napoleon once said, “Able was I ere I saw Elba”, and is a historical quote that reads the same backwards as it does when you read it normally. Elba is an island that is part of the Tuscany archipelago situated off the western shores of Italy. It is most notably remembered as the island where Napoleon was exiled after his defeat and capture at the hands of the British Army. It is also Italy’s third largest island and has become an extremely popular tourist destination in recent years.
When visiting Elba Island, you will be afforded a wide array of attractions that is sure to tantalize your taste buds, and not just by virtue of the Italian cuisine that there is an abundance of on the island. Elba’s archaeological treasures, beaches, chestnut woods, emerald green landscape, and the Mediterranean seem to exist almost endlessly as you are out exploring this historical island gem. So much appears to be nestled into so little space that you will be absolutely amazed while visiting the island whether you are here alone or traveling with your family.
There are numerous bicycle, bus, and walking tours available on the island and the list that follows are recommendations for sources for the better tours available:
1. ElbaTuttaNatura
A website strictly dedicated to the enjoyment of Elba’s natural beauty and scenery. The itineraries include biking, horseback, and trekking tours as well as a wide assortment of information on the island itself, maps, photographic opportunities, and sightseeing attractions along with all types of tours.
2. Island Drive and Villa San Martino
This particular tour takes in a number of nice attractions including the summer estate of the Emperor, Porto Azzuro, and Punta delle Grotte. Porto Azzuro is located on the opposite side of Elba and is one of the more colorful fishing ports on the island, while Punta delle Grotte are the ruins of one of the more ancient and historical Roman villas.
3. Elba Island Tourism Board
This is a must-use website regarding tourism for the entire Tuscan archipelago. Aside from being loaded with information on the multitude of tours available, it also contains details on accommodations, the beach areas, cultures, historical sites, and recreational opportunities.
4. Moby Lines
Ferry service from Livorno and Piombino to Elba as well as coastal tours. The site contains useful information for planning tours, rates, routes, and ships that are available. Book your tour tickets directly online – it will save you time before boarding.
5. Toremar
Toremar provides a ferry service to Elba and tours of the entire Tuscan archipelago, as well as information on the ports, rates, services offered, and tour time schedules. Though the site is not in English, according to travel experts it is easily understood. (NOTE: Internet Explorer is required to use the site.
Photo of house in Portoferraio, Elba, Tuscany by giacomofe
Topic: Top five Monday |
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Tags: Italy, Tuscany
About the author
Anita Choudhary is a freelance writer and travel blogger based in New Delhi, India. She loves to travel and has traveled extensively in India. Exploring new places, reading and writing are her hobbies.
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