The Tuscan coast and its wonderful Islands, as Elba, Capraia, Giglio, Pianosa, Montecristo, Giannutri and Gorgona, is a dream vacation for most people: the world-famous history of the city of Florence combined with a few days soaking in the sun on the gorgeous beaches of the Tyrrhenian sea. Did you know that the two can easily be combined? With the prevalence of Hotels and holiday homes in Tuscany, it’s possible to find affordable accommodation in both the major cities and along the coast, so you can bring your whole family along for the ride. The differences between these two experiences will only serve to make each more spectacular. Below, you’ll find info to help you plan the coastal part of your vacation. The northern Tuscan Riviera is collectively referred to as Versilia. Gorgeous beaches are backed up by jagged mountains, making for a stunning landscape.
Elba Island is the third-largest island in all of Italy, but most people don't realize that. For seaside adventures, they are more likely to turn to the southern coast, where the romantic vision of racing an Italian sports car among the craggy coastline has been depicted in many a film. And there's nothing wrong with this sort of fun. Only for those who are in the mood for something more natural, Elba is a better choice than heading to the often visited spots in Italy. After all, this is somewhere that many people do not even know exists, a majestic island only a short distance from some of the most bustling parts of Tuscany. It is truly surreal to imagine yourself in the heart of Italian wine country, and to think that only a short jaunt over to an island puts you in an entirely different world.
One of the main draws for those visitors who are savvy enough to understand the pull of Elba is the vast amount of opportunities that the natural surroundings provide. In terms of hiking or trekking, nothing currently beats Elba trekking. This is somewhere that has managed to escape the throngs of tourists on holiday, determined to go on a multiple-kilometer hike but completely unequipped for the experience. If the perpetual traffic jam of other coastal areas has left you feeling less than romantic, all that it takes is a couple of days of Elba trekking to feel positively rejuvenated.
And it's not just about the lack of crowds, either. You are dealing with one of the most biologically diverse islands in all of Italy, where the difference between even a few miles can truly be breathtaking. And because of the fact that the Italian government has sworn to protect this rare and majestic ecosystem, you can rest assured that while there are ample hotels to choose from, Elba Island is notabout to turn into the next Ibiza. This is an environment where modest living still reigns supreme, and where it makes more sense for people who actually enjoy trekking to head off on a trail, rather than countless out of shape tourists who think they want to go backpacking, but in reality, have absolutely no chances of succeeding at this endeavor.
So for those who have been looking for a genuine thrill, a completely different experience than the usual nature scene in Italy, there is no better option than Elba. If you happen to find yourself in Tuscany, but are wanting more than endless tours through vineyards, this is the absolute best place to head. A true untouched gem that has not yet been discovered is definitely worth the trip, after all.
Accommodation is easily found in the many Elba Hotels and the areas around the beach are no exception. A brief search will yield plenty of options that can fit groups both large and small. Many locals rent holiday homes in Tuscany, and this can be a great way to meet an Italian family and have a true, authentic Tuscan experience. A trip to the Tuscan Coast is the perfect way to begin or end your Italian adventure. After all that time admiring the fantastic art and culture in Florence, you deserve a break, and these gorgeous beaches deliver. Lounge by day, eat by evening, and revel by night as you enjoy everything the coast of Tuscany has to offer.