Where to watch the sunset on the Island of Elba

Do you love the sea and sunsets? Then the destination for you is the Island of Elba. This enchanting island at the end of each day offers marvellous sunsets that have nothing to envy to the similar spectacle that can be observed in Santorini or Ibiza. Witnessing the fascinating ritual of the sun plunging into the sea is undoubtedly one of the most captivating experiences to be had on the island.

Where can you admire the most beautiful sunsets on the Island of Elba? Here is a selection of places not to be missed!

GULF OF BIODOLA

One of the most fascinating places from which to watch the sunset is the Gulf of Biodola, one of the most spectacular bays on the island of Elba. It is located on the northern side, just over 5 kilometres from Portoferraio. The coast, surrounded by the hills of Serrone delle Cime, Capannone and Colle Pecorara, is almost a natural amphitheatre. Three beautiful beaches overlook the gulf. The most famous is the beautiful Biodola beach, a long stretch of fine, golden sand. The other two, smaller ones are Scaglieri beach and Forno beach. The view from the three beaches is more or less the same, only the perspective changes.

VOLTERRAIO FORTRESS

At the top of a rugged rise between Portoferraio and Rio nell’Elba stands the Volterraio Fortress, one of the most beloved historical sites on Elba and the only unconquered fortification on the island. The complex was built around the year 1000 and, although today it is in the state of ruins, part of its original appearance can still be seen. Set into the rock, it towers an impressive 395 metres above sea level. Thanks to its panoramic position, it is one of the most evocative and magical places on the island from which to watch the sunset. The climb up is a bit strenuous but once you reach the top you will not regret it.

SUN COAST

On the south-western side of the island, between the municipalities of Marciana and Campo nell’Elba, lies the renowned Sun Coast, a stretch of coastline, just over 10 kilometres long, characterised by magnificent beaches, unspoilt coves and picturesque villages. It is so called because the sun shines there practically all day long. The climate is very pleasant both in high and low season. Along the coast, and in particular from the beaches of Chiessi and Pomonte, you can enjoy an unforgettable sunset with Corsica in the background. We advise you to bring a camera to immortalise the splendid spectacle.

CAPE ST. ANDREA

A few kilometres from the Sun Coast, and precisely in the municipality of Marciana, is the fascinating cliff of Cape St. Andrea, also known as the ‘coti piane’ cliff because of its rounded rocks, perfect for sitting on: the name literally means ‘smooth rocks’. Admiring the sunset (but also the sunrise) from here is a truly unique and exciting experience. To reach the cliffs, from the small beach of Sant’Andrea, which by the way is one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, just follow a short and pleasant path.

GHIAIE BEACH

Another great place to enjoy the sunset is the beautiful Ghiaie beach, located a few minutes’ walk from the centre of Portoferraio. It is a thin stretch of white pebbles mottled with black. According to a legend, recounted in the 1st century B.C. by the historian Diodorus Siculus, the characteristic dark spots on the pebbles are none other than the sweat drops of the heroic Argonauts, who founded a small harbour here for their ships, which they called Argon. Famous for the extraordinary beauty of its seabed and transparent waters, it is a must for those who love diving or snorkelling.