Things to see and do Ile d'Elbe

To access Porticciolo beach, you have to go south along the coast for about four kilometres, turning left at the exit of Rio Marina. Over a hundred meters long, covered with pebbles, this small beach awaits the summer visitors (be careful, no services or catering). Attended in particular by Italians, it is more crowded on weekends than on weekdays. On the practical side, the car is to be parked at the top of the hill, then descend the 200 meters of altitude difference on foot. The clarity of the water is amazing, and worth the effort!

Built in 1677, the church represents a strong sign of Napoleon's passage on the island of Elba. Since 1852, every May 5 is celebrated a mass in his honour. There is also the body of San Cristino, martyr and patron saint of the city of Portoferraio. The small adjacent museum preserves the flag that Napoleon gave to the Elbe on May 4, 1814, the bronze mask of Napoleon dying, given by Prince Anatolio Demidoff, and the bronze casting of his right hand.

The (small) Museum of Minerals and Mining Art is located in the centre of Rio Marina, within the historic headquarters of the mine management, the Palazzo del Burò. It exposes the different minerals present on the island of Elba, in particular pyrite and magnetite. This collection is one of the most important on the island, with samples of exceptional beauty. The visit continues with the discovery of the geological history of the Elbe and its deposits, exploited from Etruscan times to 1981. In addition to a life-size gallery, the museum also presents original working tools found on the extraction sites, such as picks or carbide lamps - precious objects for miners who take us back in time, telling us about the lives of these men who, from generation to generation, have spent their lives in the dust, noise and humidity of the galleries. An interesting meeting to understand how iron has regulated the economic activity of the island of Elba for centuries.

From April to October, guided hikes to Rio Marina's iron mining sites are also organized by the museum. Ask at the reception desk about the days of departure. Also offered, and in high demand, is the mini-train tour of the open-pit mines. The visit, on reservation, lasts a good hour for an exciting tour through the geo--mineralogical heritage of the island of Elba.

A sign informs us that this house was that of André Pons de l'Hérault (1772-1853), Napoleon's confidant during his exile on the island of Elba. In 1809, to reward him for his military career, he was appointed administrator of the Rio Marina iron mines. Committed to social progress, he introduced bonuses and increased the salaries of miners, and provided the village with a doctor, a relief and retirement fund. Very popular, Pons de l'Hérault is also the scribe of Napoleon's island stay (see Memories and anecdotes of Elba Island for those interested).

Fort Longone, also known as Fort San Giacomo, which dates from the seventeenth century, when the region was under Spanish domination, was intended to strengthen the defense system and control of maritime traffic.

Only a walk along the ramparts can be considered. For years, this ancient Spanish fort has served as a prison. Do not have fun getting inside, even if doors are open. The police watch and take up all those who venture there. It is also possible to access beautiful beaches at the foot of the fort.

Set in a tiny natural cove, this picturesque little village is located to the right of Marciana Marina's "lungomare". It is the old historic centre of the city, where the colourful and salt-eroded houses protect a small port with boats and nets. It looks like a postcard from a bygone era. This old fishing village will be the perfect opportunity for a romantic walk at sunset! Take your jersey, the "Caletta del Cotone" has a small gravel beach.