A Yacht Charter Through Tuscany’s Islands – Exploring Elba & Beyond
Tuscany is known for its stunning artwork that ranges from medieval masterpieces to 21st-century street art, farm-to-fork dishes that make the most of locally grown produce, and history around every corner. But you may not have heard of the Tuscan archipelago, where seven exquisite islands lay scattered just off the coast of the mainland. Ranging in size, landscape, and culture, these islands offer something for everyone and make the perfect itinerary for a yacht charter. Tuscany has also kept most of these spectacular spots as only accessible by boat, making them feel ultra-exclusive. Discover three of our favourites below.
Exquisite islands to visit on a yacht charter in Tuscany
Elba
Elba is without a doubt the most well-known island of the Tuscan archipelago, not to mention the biggest. With a scenic coastline featuring over 150 sandy coves and bays, this is a sailor’s and watersport lover’s paradise. Some of the best beaches here include the stunning Sansone beach, surrounded by rugged cliff faces and found near the capital of Portoferraio, and the trendy Cavoli beach on the south shore, favourite spot of local youngsters. Getting to Elba by yacht is by far the easiest option, but you can also fly there.
This island is where Napoleon lived out his exile from neighbouring Corsica, and today you can still tour Napoleon’s residences, which include the Palazzina dei Mulini (now a National Museum) and the Villa di San Martino. In need of some retail therapy after soaking up all that history? Step off your Elba yacht charter and experience the colourful markets – don’t leave without sampling the signature Acqua dell’Elba fragrances, made with ingredients from the island.
Giglio
The second largest island in the Tuscan archipelago, Giglio is heaven on earth for holidaymakers. Offering golden- and white-sand beaches, pretty colourful houses lining the waterfront, a fortified medieval village to explore, plus bountiful flora and fauna including rare species of plants, tourists on a Tuscany yacht charter enjoy endless options. Giglio is also a foodie’s paradise, with exquisite local dishes such as tonnina fish and the sweet panficato, made with figs, not to mention the speciality Ansonaco wine. Visit in the months of August and September to get the very best of the island’s culture, with numerous festivals held during these months.
Capraia
Welcome to wild Capraia, an unspoilt and rugged landscape where nature abounds amongst a human population of just 300. Part of the Arcipelago Toscano National Park since 1996, this is the perfect place to come and get away from it all. With just one harbour and one town, but plenty of hiking and bird watching trails, visitors will enjoy the chance to become one with nature. You can also enjoy countless activities by the water, including diving, snorkelling and sunbathing in the enchanting coves you’ll find dotted along the coast. Those on a yacht charter in Tuscany shouldn’t miss this idyllic spot.
