According to legend, when Venus, the goddess of love and beauty, rose from the Tyrrenhian sea seven pearls fell off of her necklace creating the Tuscan Archipelago.
Elba: sun, sea, and sports
Elba, the 3rd largest island in Italy after Sicily and Sardinia, offers beautiful beaches ranging from fine sand, to pebbles, and hidden coves for all types of sea lovers looking to spend their vacation by the coast on an island with a rich history dating back to the Etruscan period.
The capital city of the Island, Portoferraio, was fortified by Cosimo I, the first Grand Duke of Tuscany, during the 16th century to protect the harbour from ferocious pirate attacks. It has largely retained its Renaissance era fortifications which can be admired by walking the periphery of the town.
After visiting the many spectacular beaches the island has to offer, those curious about its industrial past can visit the ancient mines, the oldest being Vigneria and Bacino – both of which were active beginning during the Etruscan period and functioning until the mid 19th century.
A suggestive sight in the municipality of Rio Marina, the old mining quarter, is il laghetto delle Conche Biosphere Reserve. Formed on top of a defunct mining site, the lake has a distinctive red color due to the iron rich minerals found in the area. Officially recognized by the designation of UNESCO heritage in 2003.
Additionally, there is a mining museum which houses an important collection of minerals and life scale reconstruction of a miner’s shelter making the perfect afternoon with kids.
Finish the day with a glass of the regional wine, Aleatico di Portoferraio. Reportedly Napoleon’s favourite drink during his exile on the island.
Giglio: charm and relaxation
Rising roughly 500 meters above sea level, Giglio Island offers spectacular views of the Mediterranean and was once a beloved holiday destination of Audrey Hepburn for its simplistic charm.
Inhabited since the stone age, Giglio Island has been the backdrop to millennia of interesting history. Used as an Etruscan military stronghold, cited by Julius Caesar in his Commentaries on the Civil War, pillaged by pirates, and repopulated by the Medici, it continues to be a popular destination all year round.
Made almost entirely out of granite, some of which was quarried during the ancient Roman period, the steep cliffs are characteristic of the island’s geography.
The crystalline waters make the island a favorite destination for scuba divers, snorkelers, or simply those who love to swim.
Capraia: an adventurer’s dream
Dubbed ‘Wild Island’ in part thanks to a staggering 77% of the Island and its ecology being protected, and approximately 650 different types of plant species being identified in the lush landscape, Capraia is perfect for a hiking heavy vacation full of adventure.
It is the island of the Tuscan Archipelago formed by volcanic eruption.
Explore the Island by foot or by boat to take advantage of the beautiful landscapes. Boat tours with 6-12 people can be organized and are a great way to experience the pristine water around the island. Otherwise it is possible to rent a small boat and self navigate without a nautical license.
Giannutri, Gorgona, Montecristo, and Pianosa
The smaller islands in the Archipelago can also be visited although more challenging to do so. Gorgona, Pianosa and Montecristo will only allow a maximum number of visitors per year. The smallest of the islands, Giannutri, boasts a population of 15 although this increases during the summer time and it is possible to book an overnight stay. All are renowned for the wild beauty and lush nature which contributed to the decision to protect the islands.