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Lying only 10 km.  from the mainland, Elba is the largest island in the Tuscan Archipelago and having a surface area of 224 sq. km., it is the third Italian island in size. Elba has become an internationally famous tourist resort. Her climate is particularly mild. Her coastline, which winds for 147 km., is incredibly varied. The grandeur of the Mount Capanne group (1019 mt.) is magnificent. A "man size" island, Elba has been able to snatch up all the benefits from modern civilisation, its comforts and technology, without however compromising her nature, landscape, sea and coast, mountains and woods. She hasn't allowed her ancient villages to be disfigured nor the remains of her ancient civilisation to be destroyed.
 Elba is like a treasure chest rich in delightful surprises, framed by crystal-clear waters which caress sandy beaches, secret green bays and inlets, or steep cliffs. Inland environments range from shady woods, to sweet cultivated fields, to barren lands where aloe and cactus reign. And then you have Elba's towns: those on the sea, which often maintain the ancient flavour of a fishermen's shelter, and those chiselled out of the rock up high, which still tell us about pirate raids of long ago.
You can hunt for mushrooms, berries, flowers or chestnuts. You can observe the world of wild animals which here find an ideal habitat. Or you can simply enjoy the fresh, clear air and the beauty that nature so generously gave to this island. Perhaps after a taste of the local cuisine which blends sea traditions with those typical of Tuscany.
 Any season is good; it just depends on what you enjoy best. Spring is special for Elba's wildflowers and the nesting season. Summer is obviously a favourite for the warm temperatures of both sun and sea. Autumn is ideal for gathering chestnuts, Porcini mushrooms, and enjoying the grape harvest. The mild water temperature allows pleasant swimming well into October. In fact, any time from Easter to the end of October makes for a perfect holiday stay.
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