Just a little heads-up: a few of the links you’ll see are referral (affiliate) links. That means if you click through and treat yourself to something, I might get a tiny thank-you in return, but don’t worry, it won’t cost you a penny more. I only share things I truly love or think you’ll find useful. Thanks for helping keep this blog going!

I’m almost hesitant to write this post because part of me wants to keep Elba a secret. But this little gem of an island is far too magical not to share.

Years ago, I read a book for my book club (The Thousand Lights Hotel by Emylia Hall) and it featured a small guesthouse on Elba. Ever since then I’ve been quietly obsessed, daydreaming about visiting.

One summer, just before we moved to Singapore, we actually tried to make it to Elba but logistics got the better of us and we ended up at Lake Garda instead. Also stunning, so don’t feel too sorry for me! But still, Elba was always there on my list, waiting.

And finally, last summer, we made it happen.

Getting to Elba

We road-tripped our way down through Chamonix, then onwards to Lucca for a week, before catching the ferry over to Elba. The ferry crossing itself feels like part of the adventure, short but sweet, with sparkling water all around and little sailboats drifting by. As you near the island, you can see why Elba is so often described as one of Italy’s best-kept secrets.

Elba isn’t just beautiful; it’s the kind of place that suits a slower, more eco-conscious holiday. You don’t need big resorts or jam-packed itineraries here. The island has a strong focus on sustainability, local produce, and protecting its natural environment, it’s the sort of place where you can just be, while knowing you’re treading a little lighter.

Where We Stayed

We based ourselves in Marciana Marina, about 45 minutes from the harbour. The drive takes you along winding coastal roads and cliff edges, with the sea glittering below. And then suddenly you’re in the most perfect harbour town. For us, it felt like a little slice of heaven.

The harbour was lined with sailboats, restaurants spilling out onto cobbled streets, a tiny jetty perfect for kids (and grown-ups) to leap off into the sea, and crystal-clear waters that make you want to snorkel all day.

We stayed at Marina Garden Hotel, a total gem. The staff couldn’t have been friendlier, breakfasts in the garden were dreamy, and best of all, they welcomed our dogs with open arms. Squishy beds, treats, cuddles from the staff… honestly, I think the dogs thought they were on their own luxury holiday.

What We Did (and Didn’t Do)

Here’s the thing: I’d love to give you a neat little list of 10 things to do on Elba, but that wasn’t really the point of our trip. What made it so special was how little we actually did.

I started most mornings with a jog around the village and harbor, followed by long, lazy breakfasts with my family. We’d wander down to the beach, pick up fresh peaches and nectarines from the green grocer, and spend the day between the sea and our parasol. Lunch was usually a mix of salted bread from the supermarket with nibbly bits. Dinners were simple but delicious: strolls down to the waterfront, choosing another little restaurant to try, and finishing with gelato from a hole-in-the-wall shop eaten on a bench overlooking the sea.

One day we went snorkelling, which was brilliant for spotting colourful fish, but honestly that was the height of our adventure. It was the kind of trip where doing less felt like doing more. We needed a proper switch-off, and Elba delivered that in every possible way.

Even now, when I look back at the photos, I can still hear the cicadas and smell the mix of pine trees and sea salt on the breeze. It’s one of those places that lingers in your memory.

Tip: Get yourself to this whole-in-the-wall bar for a Venetian Spritz.

What We Missed (and Why We’ll Be Back)

We only had four nights on Elba, and it was absolutely not long enough. Next time, we’d love to explore more: the hillside villages tucked into the mountains, the vineyards producing local wines, and the hidden beaches that locals whisper about.

Elba is also famous for its hiking trails and eco-tourism initiatives, so I’d like to come back when we’ve got more time to explore responsibly and see how the island balances tourism with preserving its natural beauty.

But even with just a few days, it was perfect. Elba proved itself to be one of those places where you don’t need to tick boxes or chase around sightseeing. Sometimes the best eco-holidays are the ones where you simply slow down, savour local food, and let the island set the pace.

Would I Recommend Elba?

Absolutely. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly beach escape, a dog-friendly holiday, or a sustainable travel destination in Italy, Elba is all of those things rolled into one. It’s unpretentious, unspoilt, and deeply relaxing. Next time we’ll stay longer, but even in just a few nights, Elba stole my heart just like I knew it would.