Norsi Beach

Norsi lies in the Golfo Stella, on Elba's south coast, about 6.5 km from Capoliveri towards Lacona. It is a beach of roughly 400 metres with dark sand and black shingle; after storms, posidonia seagrass can pile up on the shore. The seabed stays shallow for a good distance, with a few rocks near the shore. From the beach you look across the gulf to the village of Capoliveri and, out at sea, the island of Montecristo.

Getting there

From the main road, take the lane to Norsi; two dirt paths lead down from it: the left one is wider and easier, the right one narrower, bumpy and steep in places. There is a small free car park that fills up early and a larger paid area a little further on. Alternatively, you can walk down from the car park of nearby Acquarilli beach on a steep ten-minute path.

Which wind to go with

Open to the south, it is at its best with the tramontana (north wind), the grecale (north-east wind) and the mistral. With southerly winds the gulf is more exposed, bringing waves and seagrass ashore.

Facilities and tips

In season there are two bars and a beach club with umbrellas and sunbeds, alongside free stretches; you can rent canoes and pedal boats, and there are canoe and surf schools. It is little known and rarely crowded. Felciaio and Acquarilli beaches are just a few hundred metres away. Wear comfortable shoes for the access paths.