Grande Traversata Elbana

The famous Grande Traversata Elbana (GTE), the iconic trail between land and sea

escursioni-isola-elba-7+

The experience

Elba Island is more than just the sea
It’s an island meant to be explored, step by step.

This Elba trekking experience follows the iconic Grande Traversata Elbana (GTE hike), crossing the island from Cavo to Pomonte along its scenic ridge.
The route covers 60 km through panoramic ridgelines, Mediterranean forests, and ever-changing landscapes in the heart of the Tuscan Archipelago National Park, making it one of the most rewarding trekking routes on Elba Island.
For much of the journey, the sea is a constant presence, alongside the islands of the archipelago and, on clear days, views stretching as far as Corsica — the same landscapes that once hosted Napoleon Bonaparte during his exile.

You will be accompanied by Carlotta, a naturalist and Official Park Guide, who will lead you throughout the entire route, sharing insights into nature, history, and the details that make the experience truly complete.

This trekking experience is suitable for people in good physical condition, used to walking for several consecutive days on medium-length routes with elevation gain.

Travel program

1

26th september - Arrival on Elba

Arrival on Elba Island and meeting with Carlotta in Portoferraio in the afternoon.
Transfer to the hotel in Marina di Campo, trip briefing, and accommodation in double rooms with private bathroom.
Dinner and overnight stay.

2

27th september- From Cavo to Porto Azzurro

The Eastern Ridge and Elba’s Ancient Mining Sites

Transfer to Cavo, the starting point of the Grande Traversata Elbana (GTE).
The hike begins immediately along the eastern ridge of Elba Island, surrounded by Mediterranean scrub and the scents of rockrose and rosemary, gradually ascending towards Monte Grosso and the historic signal station (“semaforo”).

The route offers wide panoramic views over the coastline and the islands of the Tuscan Archipelago, alternating open ridgelines, woodlands, and more remote, wild sections.
From Monte Strega, you can overlook the ancient iron mines of Rio, a lasting reminder of Elba Island’s mining history.

The descent crosses red rocks, olive groves, and vineyards, leading down to the sea of Porto Azzurro.
Return to the hotel, dinner, and overnight stay.

Walking time: 8 hours Distance: 18 km Elevation gain: 800 m

3

28th september- From Porto Azzurro to Marina di Campo

The central ridge of Elba Island

From the coast, the route climbs inland through the most rural and hilly part of Elba Island.
The trail winds through Mediterranean scrub, pine forests, and cork oak woodlands, following sections of historic military paths.

The views open up on both sides of the island: to the north, the Gulf of Portoferraio, and to the south, the bays of Lacona and Stella.
The stage continues with gentle ups and downs, never too demanding, gradually easing as it approaches the plains.

Arrival on foot in Marina di Campo.
Dinner and overnight stay.

Walking time 8 h, Distance 21 km, Elevation gain 600 m

4

29th september- Towards Mount Capanne

Villages, Chestnut Forests, and Traditions

Leaving the coast behind, the trail climbs towards the Monte Capanne massif, entering the oldest and most authentic heart of Elba Island.
The route connects historic villages such as Sant’Ilario and Poggio, following ancient paths used for centuries.

The vegetation gradually changes, shifting from Mediterranean scrub to chestnut forests that characterize the northern slopes.
Arrival in Marciana, one of the oldest villages on Elba Island.

For those who wish, there is the option to end the day with a craft beer made with chestnut flour, a local specialty.

Return to the hotel, dinner, and overnight stay.

Walking time 7 h, Distance 15 km, Elevation gain 550 m

5

30th september- From Marciana to Pomonte

Granite Landscapes, Forests, and Sea on Elba

From Marciana, the route winds through narrow alleys and stone stairways up to the Pisan Fortress, before climbing along the Via Crucis to the Sanctuary of Madonna del Monte, nestled within chestnut forests.

The route continues along ancient connecting paths between the island’s slopes, crossing stone bridges and old mule tracks.
From the area known as “La Terra”, the view opens over the Pomonte Valley and its historic terraced landscapes.

The final descent leads down to the sea, reaching one of the wildest stretches of the Elba coastline.

Arrival in Pomonte, where the traverse comes to an end — with the island behind you and the sea ahead.
The name itself tells the story of the journey: Pomonte, from the Latin post montem, meaning “after the mountain.”

Return to the hotel, dinner, and overnight stay.

Walking time 7 h, Distance 11 km, Elevation gain 400 m

6

1th octoberPortoferraio
e partenza

Transfer to Portoferraio and an urban trek to discover Cosmopoli, the fortified city commissioned by Cosimo I de’ Medici in the 16th century.

A route through bastions, stairways, and sea-facing fortifications, blending military architecture with Napoleonic heritage linked to Napoleon Bonaparte.

Departure for Piombino in the late morning.
End of services.

🥾 Technical informations

Difficulty: moderate
Daily duration: 7–8 hours of hiking
Total distance: 60 km
Maximum elevation gain: up to 800 m per day
Terrain: trails, mule tracks, rocky sections, and dirt roads

🎯 Who this trekking experience is for

The trip is suitable for people in good physical condition with prior trekking experience.

The itinerary includes several consecutive days of hiking, with stages lasting up to 7–8 hours and moderate elevation gain.
Good endurance and the ability to handle varied terrain are required.

It is not suitable for those who are not physically prepared or lack experience in mountain hiking.

PRICE

€775 per person – early booking price valid until July 1st, 2026

The price includes:

  • • 5 nights in double rooms with private bathroom;
  • • N.5 breakfasts;
  • • 5 dinners at the hotel (drinks not included);
  • • 4 packed lunches;
  • • Local environmental Guide;
  • • All excursions as per itinerary;
  • • Transfers with private minibus from/to Portoferraio;
  • • Private minibus transfers as previsto in the itinerary;
  • • Trip cancellation insurance (excluding pre-existing and chronic conditions for people over 70) & medical and baggage insurance;

The price does not include

  • • Private transport to Piombino;
  • • Round-trip ferry Piombino–Portoferraio (20% discount)
  • • Drinks during meals;
  • • Optional insurance and personal expenses;

available

• Packed lunches

🧭 Additional useful information

  • Documents and entry requirements: a valid ID card

  • Solo traveler? You’ve found the right group!
    Many of our participants join us not only for the quality of our experiences, but also because they know that in our groups you’re never truly alone. It’s a great opportunity to meet people from all walks of life and make new connections.
    If you’re traveling solo, don’t worry — you’re in good hands!

  • Sistemazione: coloro che viaggiano da soli o i partecipanti in piccoli gruppi in presenza di camere non esclusive o camerate sono abbinati in stanza con altri partecipanti. Tuttavia, è possibile richiedere la sistemazione in camera singola, che verrà assegnata previa disponibilità e al pagamento del supplemento che sarà indicato.

  • Allergies and dietary requirements Please inform us of any dietary requirements at the time of booking. Last-minute requests may not be accommodated.
    Certain specific foods (e.g. gluten-free products) may be difficult to source, so we recommend bringing them with you if needed.

  • Internal transport by minivan during your stay on Elba Island for all necessary transfers.
    The meeting with the guide takes place directly on the island.
    A WhatsApp group will be created to connect all participants and help coordinate arrivals on the island within the same time frame.

Technical organization by

Il Ponticello Agenzia Viaggi Telefono: +39 0721 1722032 Via degli Abeti, 52 Pesaro PI: 02442890410

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