Tag Archive for: Castello del Volterraio

The Bay of Portoferraio

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Panoramic view of Bagnaia and Castel del Volterraio, Elba, Tuscany, Italy

The bay of Portoferraio at Elba merges into fertile plains in the south, where fruit, vegetables and also excellent wine are grown, e.g. at the La Chiusa winery. I follow the road from Portoferraio south-east through the plains to the “Punte delle Grotte” hill, which offers wonderful views, e.g. of Portoferraio’s old town, the plains near San Giovanni. Even the ancient Romans knew how to make use of the location and built a large villa there, the remains of which have been excavated and can be visited today. Read more

Panoramic view from Castello del Volterraio

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Panoramic view from Castello del Volterraio over the Bay of Portoferraio and the west of Elba, Tuscany, Italy

From the ruins of Castello del Volterraio above the Bay of Portoferraio, the view sweeps from the north-east of Elba far into the west to the Monte Capanne massif. The short but steep climb from the winding road between Magazzini and Rio nell’Elba, just before it narrows at the top of the pass and leads through a rock in a single lane, is especially worth it in the early morning or late afternoon when the low sun bathes the island in fascinating colours – or as a romantic spot for a sunset picnic.

You can find more pictures of Elba in the “Elba” gallery

Castello del Volterraio on Elba

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Castello del Volterraio, Elba, Tuscany, ItalyOne of the most beautiful viewpoints on Elba is the ruins of the Castello del Volterraio fortress above the bay of Portoferraio. The fortress dates back to the 11th century and sits impregnably atop a steep 400m-high mountain. The walls are barely distinguishable from the rocks, so the fortress only becomes recognisable as a building as you approach it. From the winding road between Magazzini and Rio nell’Elba, a simple but steep and sweaty path without shade leads up through the macchia in about 30 to 45 minutes. The fortress could previously only be entered via a drawbridge; today, a “secret” passage – a small opening in the wall at the north-western corner – leads inside and onto the battlements. The climb is particularly recommended for the fantastic panorama of the island of Elba from the north-west to Monte Capanne.

You can find more photos of Elba in the “Elba” gallery