Capraia Island

Having been ransacked several times over the years, signs of such attacks can be seen in the island’s fortifications (such as Fort San Giorgio and the tower of Il Bagno), which were built at the time of the Genoese domination.

The Roman road of San Leonardo was used during those times as a secret path to connect the port with the town, thus escaping pirate raids. Today it is perfect for an invigorating walk immersed in the scent of the Mediterranean scrubland while admiring the breathtaking panoramic views.

The church of San Nicola is found in the village’s main square, and still displays a wooden statue dedicated to the Saint, which has been recovered from the sea. Away from the small port of Marina di Capraia, you can immerse yourself in the fields and land, which is cultivated by local farms that produce jams, preserves, grappas, cheese, honey and wine.

There is also a huge variety of trekking itineraries that lead you through breathtaking landscapes, historical relics (such as the former Criminal Farm Colony, which has been out of use since 1986) and secret bays. Cala Rossa, for example, which is on the Zenobito promontory, is known for its clear, clean waters and is also reachable by boat.

Capraia’s environmental characteristics are often similar to those of the other Tuscan Archipelago Park islands. Elba, Pianosa, Giglio, Montecristo, Giannutri and Gorgona are the preferred habitat for birds of prey, such as kestrels, buzzards and peregrine falcons. L’Isola d’Elba, the largest in Tuscany, is perfect not just for birdwatching but for all kinds of holidays. If you’re interested in the island’s mining history, we recommend a jeep visit to the Rio Marina Park, characterized by silvery craters and old quartz and marble factories.

The coastal inlets of Marina di Campo and the offshore seabed near Portoferraio are ideal for watersports: you can try diving into the ocean, exploring the coast by kayak, or even sailing and windsurfing for the more adventurous.

Totano Festival is undoubtedly the most famous event in Capraia, and is held every year in November. The event is divided into two main parts: a squid fishing competition and the festival itself, with many food and wine stalls.

The Tuscan Archipelago Palio marinaro is part of a historical tradition that also involves Capraia. Between August and September, crews from the various Tuscan islands compete in a rowing competition.

In spring and autumn, Capriaia is home to the Walking Festival, in which there are gatherings and excursions led by specialist guides that set out to discover the beauty of the island by foot.

The island of Capraia is well-known for the quality and excellence of its fresh and mature goats cheese. In fact, the Romans called the island Capraia precisely because it was (and still is) inhabited by goats. Another typical local product is the Capraia nectar: a mixed flower honey with an aromatic, slightly floral scent. Stuffed squid and seafood dishes are the locals’ preferred recipes, although there are also delicacies based on sammola, a bulbous plant that plays a similar role in cooking to garlic.