Exploring the Tuscan Archipelago: A Practical Guide

The Tuscan archipelago, situated between the mainland and Corsica, comprises seven islands that form a protected national park. Elba is the largest and most visited, while Montecristo and Gorgona admit only strictly limited guided tours. Giggle, Capraia, Pianosa, Giannutri and the smaller island of Gorgona each offer distinct characters—from bustling beach towns on Elba to the car-free, rugged landscapes of Capraia and Giannutri. Historic sites range from 16th-century Medici fortifications on Elba to Roman remains and a former penal colony on Pianosa.

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Ferries connect the islands with the mainland: Toremar, Moby and Blu Navy run hourly services from Piombino to Portoferraio (? 1 hour); Livorno offers a 1 hour 45-minute ride to Capraia; and Porto Santo Stefano provides hour-long links to Giglio and Giannutri. Private vehicles are heavily restricted on Giglio during August, encouraging a car-free holiday. Limited bus and taxi services operate on most islands, while Capraia and Giannutri remain largely foot-oriented.

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• Elba: White-pebble coves at Sansone and Capo Bianco, golden sands at Fetovaia and Cavoli, and the 58 km Grande Traversata Elbana trail, typically completed in three to four days.

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• Giglio: Medieval lanes of Giglio Castello, beaches such as Campese (reddish-gold sand) and Cannelle (pale sand), and terraced vineyards.

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• Capraia: Red rock formations at Cala Rossa, the Genoese fortress of San Giorgio and 16th-century Torre dello Zenòbito.

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• Pianosa: Restricted swimming at Cala Giovanna, Roman villa tours linked to the Domitii Ahenobarbi family, and a protected marine reserve.

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• Giannutri: Diving and snorkelling in a marine reserve, with the sole restaurant La Vela Giannutri serving seafood.

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Options span budget to mid-range: Elba’s Hotel Montemerlo (£88 B&B) and Hotel Punto Verde (£90 B&B); Giglio’s B&B La Vela (£87 B&B) and Le Poste di Simplicitio (£100 B&B); Pianosa’s Albergo Milena (£95 half-board); Giannutri’s A Casa Diana (£123 B&B). Notable eateries include Ristorante da Gianni in Portoferraio, Ristorante Doria in Giglio Porto, and La Vela Giannutri on Giannutri.

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Spring and autumn provide the most comfortable hiking conditions. Bring water and lunch to car-free islands such as Giannutri, where only one café-restaurant operates. Guided tours are required for Montecristo and Gorgona, and daily visitor numbers on Pianosa are limited to protect its fragile environment. The archipelago’s blend of historic towns, pristine beaches and well-marked trails makes it a versatile destination for walkers, water-sport enthusiasts and cultural travelers alike.

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