The 10 most beautiful panoramic views of Elba Island

The Elba panorama ranking

Elba has elongated shape and peaks rising to 1018 m above the sea. That means dozens of 360-degree viewpoints. Here are the 10 worth reaching, ordered east to west.

1. Monte Capanne (1018 m, 42.7616, 10.1604) - The island summit. 360-degree view of the archipelago, from Corsica to the mainland. Access by cable car from Marciana or on foot.
2. Volterraio (394 m, 42.8090, 10.3947) - The Pisan castle, Elba's symbol. View of Portoferraio and Bagnaia gulfs.
3. Forte Stella and Forte Falcone (Portoferraio, 42.8158, 10.3187) - The two Medici forts dominate the historic centre.
4. Madonna del Monte (627 m, 42.7861, 10.1721) - The hermitage above Marciana, visited by Napoleon.
5. Capo Bianco (42.8190, 10.3025) - White cliffs and turquoise sea, view of Capraia.
6. Cima del Monte (516 m, 42.8030, 10.4080) - East side, view of Cavo and Palmaiola island.
7. Monte Calamita (413 m, 42.7416, 10.4258) - Southeast tip, panorama on Piombino Channel.
8. Cala Cottoncello (42.8141, 10.2050) - Viewpoint on the north coast of Marciana Marina.
9. Capo d'Enfola (42.8340, 10.2820) - North promontory, ideal at sunset.
10. Monte Perone (630 m, 42.7773, 10.2340) - Island centre, view of the entire south side.

When to go

Best views early morning (max visibility, min haze) or last hour before sunset (warm light, breathtaking scenes). August haze hides the mainland; winter with northerly wind brings views all the way to Corsica.