The Elba Exile

Elba Island is perhaps most famous for hosting Napoleon during his brief exile in 1814-1815. I wonder why he left since the place is so great… ah, power.

In any case, being on Elba Island feels nothing like an exile. It is well connected to the mainland (via the port of Piombino) and is a very popular tourist destination. This is why we strongly recommend touring the island well away from the busy summer season. The weather is mild enough to make March or April a perfect time to visit. The locals will be there, and only a few tourists. Enough restaurants and campgrounds will be open to allow for easy logistics. The people here live off tourism and will treat you well.

Elba is a Mediterranean haven for gravel riding and mountain biking. It has hosted several MTB events, and some of the easier trails are part of the route. The route passes through some of the less traveled disrt roads, where you won’t see much foot, bike, or car traffic. The major paved stretch is the highly scenic high road in the western part of the island. There isn’t much traffic since that is the least inhabited portion of the island. You’ll quickly cover your miles on the tarmac and be back on the trails.

Highlights

Leave your toughts and your stuff on the mainland and sail to the Elba
The mountains on the sea
Abandoned mine trails
Singletracks plunging to the sea
Don’t fall on the cacti
Push your bikes to climb out from golden beaches
Amazing cosy restaurants, fish rotisseries, and cafes

Where to camp and when to go

WIld camping is officially prohibited but might be tolerated in the most remote areas. There are several small campgrounds open in early spring to fall thouought the island.

Logistics – How to get there

Park your car in Piombino, or get there by train, and the take the ferry to the Elba. There are large ferries to Portoferraio and Rio Marina (you do not need to reserve if you carry just your bike). There are also small, fast ferries to Cavo (you might need to reserve your ticket in advance).