
Monte Calamita Elba
Rugged Elba hill with panoramic sea views, known for its magnet mines and extensive hiking/biking trails.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, pleasant temps

Monte Calamita Elba
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, pleasant temps

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Rugged Elba hill with panoramic sea views, known for its magnet mines and extensive hiking/biking trails.
"Stunning trails both on foot and by mountain bike...also a nice visit to the magnet mines."

Wear sturdy shoes
Trails can be rugged; good hiking boots or trail shoes are essential for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
Bring plenty of water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. There are limited facilities on the trails. :droplet:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Vistas
Summit and various viewpoints
Breathtaking views of Elba, the Tyrrhenian Sea, and neighboring islands. Perfect for photography.

Magnet Mines
Various locations on the mountain
Explore the remnants of historical mining operations, a unique aspect of Monte Calamita's landscape.

Diverse Trail Network
Throughout Monte Calamita
Well-marked trails for hiking and mountain biking, catering to various skill levels.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Etiquette & Timing
Embrace the Views & Mines
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear sturdy shoes
Trails can be rugged; good hiking boots or trail shoes are essential for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
Bring plenty of water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. There are limited facilities on the trails. :droplet:
Respect cyclists
Share the trails courteously. Bikers often move quickly, so be aware of your surroundings. :mountain_bicyclist:
Check visibility
For the best panoramic views, choose a day with clear skies. You might even see Corsica! :sunny:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear sturdy shoes
Trails can be rugged; good hiking boots or trail shoes are essential for comfort and safety. :athletic_shoe:
Bring plenty of water
Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months. There are limited facilities on the trails. :droplet:
Respect cyclists
Share the trails courteously. Bikers often move quickly, so be aware of your surroundings. :mountain_bicyclist:
Check visibility
For the best panoramic views, choose a day with clear skies. You might even see Corsica! :sunny:
Explore the mines
The historical magnet mines add a unique dimension to your visit. :pick:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Monte Calamita's stunning panoramic views and well-maintained trails, perfect for both hiking and mountain biking. The historical magnet mines add a unique element to the natural beauty. Some suggest visiting on a clear day for the best vistas.
"Top"
cecilia cesàri
"This trail starts in the village of Capoliveri, a popular destination for mountain bikers. I opted to hike the route, a circular route of about 15 km. The first section is quite steep, then it's a slight incline. The trail is wide and well-marked, making it difficult to go astray, and there are several shaded sections. The true beauty lies in the views and the colors. Not to be missed."
Stefania Bortolotti
"Trekking from Capoliveri along the bike trails. The routes are well-marked, and you often walk in the shade. Beautiful views in both directions. It's worth choosing a day with good visibility. The incredible scents of what grows here are worth it."
Witek W
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Monte Calamita is easily accessible from the village of Capoliveri. You can start your hike or bike ride directly from the town center, often near the former Town Hall or towards the Carabinieri barracks. For those with vehicles, there are parking areas near the base of the mountain. :car:
While direct public transport to the very top is limited, local buses serve Capoliveri. From Capoliveri, it's a short walk or bike ride to the trailheads. :bus:
Yes, several rental shops in Capoliveri offer e-bikes and mountain bikes, perfect for exploring Monte Calamita's extensive trail network. :bicycle:
Most trails start from Capoliveri. Some videos show access points near specific landmarks like Poggio Polveraio or the Galleria del Ginevro. :round_pushpin:
Yes, guided tours for both hiking and mountain biking are available, offering insights into the area's nature and history. :guide_dog:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Monte Calamita is a natural area, and there is no entrance fee to access the trails for hiking or biking. :free:
As a natural park, Monte Calamita is generally accessible from dawn till dusk. However, it's best to plan your visit during daylight hours for safety and enjoyment. :clock:
No, advance booking is not required for general access to Monte Calamita. If you are booking a guided tour or bike rental, then booking ahead is recommended. :ticket:
Visitors are asked to stay on marked trails and respect the natural environment. Some areas might have specific mining-related safety notices. :warning:
While you can see the mine entrances and remnants from the trails, guided tours are often recommended for a deeper understanding and safe exploration of specific mining sites. :mine_cart:
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Monte Calamita is renowned for its stunning hiking and mountain biking trails, offering panoramic sea views and a unique landscape shaped by its historical magnet mines. :mountain:
The trails vary from wide, well-marked paths suitable for leisurely walks to more challenging singletracks favored by mountain bikers. Many routes are partially shaded. :hiking_boot:
Look for viewpoints offering vistas of the Costa dei Gabbiani, Porto Azzurro, Portoferraio, and on clear days, even Corsica and other islands. :camerawithflash:
Yes, certain trails are suitable for families, especially those that are wider and less steep. The unique mining history can also be engaging for children. :familywomanwoman_boy:
You might spot various flora, including wild orchids in spring, and diverse birdlife. The scent of Mediterranean vegetation is also a highlight. :butterfly:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly on the trails of Monte Calamita. It's advisable to pack snacks and water. Some nearby wineries or agriturismos offer dining experiences. :wine_glass:
Capoliveri offers a good selection of restaurants and cafes. For a unique experience, consider places like Tenuta delle Ripalte which offers wine tasting with lunch. :forkandknife:
Yes, picnicking is a great option. Find a scenic spot along the trails to enjoy your packed lunch while taking in the views. :sandwich:
In Capoliveri, look for fresh seafood, local Tuscan specialties, and wines from the Elba region. :pizza:
Many restaurants in Capoliveri offer vegetarian options. Vegan choices might require specific requests, but fresh produce is abundant. :salad:
📸 📸 Photography
Anywhere with a clear view of the sea and coastline offers stunning photo opportunities. The old mine sites also provide unique photographic subjects. :camera:
Golden hour, just after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most dramatic light for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh but still offers great visibility. :sunriseovermountains:
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check current local rules and regulations regarding drone usage in natural parks and near coastal areas before flying. :drone:
Expect sweeping coastal panoramas, rugged terrain shots, details of the old mines, and vibrant Mediterranean flora, especially in spring. :mountain_snow:
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details of the coastline or distant islands. :camera_lens:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider renting e-bikes for a fun and less strenuous way to explore some of the trails, allowing the whole family to enjoy the stunning views together. Choose a clear day for the best visibility, ensuring the kids can appreciate the expansive sea panoramas. :family_park:
🚴 Mountain Bikers
E-bike rentals are readily available in Capoliveri, making it easier to tackle the climbs and explore more of the mountain. Be aware of shared trails and always yield to hikers. The Capoliveri Legend Cup is a testament to the area's biking pedigree. :mountain_bicyclist:
🚶 Hikers & Nature Lovers
Don't miss the historical magnet mines, which add a unique dimension to the natural beauty. On clear days, the vistas extend to distant islands, making it a truly memorable walk. Pack water and sturdy footwear for an enjoyable exploration. :hiking_boot:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Mountain Biking Paradise
E-bike rentals are widely available in Capoliveri, making the mountain accessible to a broader range of cyclists. This allows visitors to explore further and conquer steeper climbs with ease. The trails are generally well-marked, but it's always wise to have a map or GPS device. Remember to be courteous to hikers and other trail users, as shared paths are common.
The Capoliveri Legend Cup is a significant event held here, underscoring Monte Calamita's status as a premier mountain biking venue. The combination of challenging terrain, stunning scenery, and dedicated biking infrastructure makes it a must-visit for any cycling enthusiast.
A Hiker's Delight with a Unique Past
The historical magnet mines are a significant draw, adding a unique layer to the hiking experience. Visitors can explore the remnants of these operations, imagining the past activity that shaped the landscape. The scent of Mediterranean vegetation, including wild orchids in spring, further enhances the sensory experience.
When the sky is clear, the panoramic views extend to Corsica, Pianosa, and Montecristo, making it an unforgettable trek. The trails offer stunning perspectives of the Costa dei Gabbiani, Porto Azzurro, and Portoferraio from above, showcasing the island's dramatic coastline.
Capturing Monte Calamita's Beauty
For the best photographic results, aim for the golden hours – early morning or late afternoon. The soft, warm light enhances the colors and creates dramatic shadows, bringing out the best in the scenery. On clear days, the visibility is exceptional, allowing you to capture distant islands like Corsica.
Don't forget to focus on the details too. The remnants of the magnet mines offer unique textures and historical context for your photos. The vibrant Mediterranean flora, especially the wild orchids in spring, also provides excellent subjects for close-up shots.

Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit