Idyllic Elba & the Southern Tuscan Coast

On Offer Big Walking Sale 2026

7 nights accommodation

Availability Sep-Oct 2026

One itinerary available

Half Board

Grades 3 & 5 details

563kg CO2 details

Non-members From

£1,699

pp

Inc flights

Members From

£1,649

pp

Inc flights

For group booking of 10 or more please click here
Combining southern Tuscany and the island gem of Elba, this twin-centre walking holiday is the perfect way to experience two captivating Italian destinations in one trip. Discover diverse landscapes ranging from rocky island slopes and golden Tuscan coastline to the wild green oasis of Maremma Natural Park. Highlights include walking Elba’s Butterfly Path, exploring the ancient fishing port of Castiglione della Pescaia, and soaking up far-reaching views from Maremma's hills.

Accommodation

A range of handpicked hotels...
You’ll receive a warm welcome at the Hotel L’Approdo, located on the picturesque Marina of Castiglione della Pescaia. Start the day with breakfast with panoramic views and enjoy authentic Tuscan meals in La Bitta Restaurant. The sea and the old town are both just a five-minute stroll away.
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What You’ll Love

  • Exploring Elba's historic landmarks
  • Learning about Napoleon's time on Elba
  • Spotting over 50 species of butterfly on Elba’s ‘Butterfly Path’ in the Tuscan Archipelago National Park
  • Enjoying the views from the hills of Maremma Natural Park
  • Spending time in the ancient fishing port of Castiglione della Pescaia
  • Discovering the charm of two lesser-visited Tuscan destinations

What's Included

  • Return flights from London Heathrow, including baggage and transfers
  • A choice of 2 guided walks per day with local leaders (on walking days)
  • HF Holidays Tour Manager
  • 5 nights' accommodation on Elba & 2 nights in Castiglione della Pescaia
  • 7 breakfasts & 7 dinners
  • All in-destination transport & return Elba ferry crossings

Reviews


Itinerary

All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take alternative routes or adapt the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.

Itinerary

Transfer by road and ferry to Elba island. 

Option 1 - Marciana Option 1

Distance: 4.5 miles (7km)

Ascent: 1,100 ft (335m)

Today we explore the Western part of the island. After a short transfer to the town of Marciana we start our hike from the Pisan Fortress in direction to the Madonna del Monte Sanctuary. The Church is in a particularly enchanting position surrounded by nature. According to the tradition Napoleon used this church for a short period during his stay in 1814 at Elba in order to escape from the torrid heat of Portoferraio. After the excursion we will have a short transfer to Marciana Marina for relaxing and then return to Marina di Campo.

Option 2 - Marciana Option 2

Distance: 6.6miles (10.6km)

Ascent: 1,775ft (540m)

Today we explore the Western part of the island. After a short transfer to the town of Marciana we start our hike from the Pisan Fortress in direction to the hermitage of San Cerbone. sits on a flat piece of land at the foot of Monte Capanne at an altitude of 530m. We continue to the Madonna del Monte Sanctuary. The Church is in a particularly enchanting position surrounded by nature. According to the tradition Napoleon used this church for a short period during his stay in 1814 at Elba in order to escape from the torrid heat of Portoferraio. After the excursion we will have a short transfer to Marciana Marina for relaxing and then return to Marina di Campo.

Option 1 - Rio nell'Elba Option 2

Distance: 7.3miles (11.7km)

Ascent: 1,675ft (510m)

Descent: 2,150ft (655m)

Today we explore the Eastern side of the island starting in the outskirts of Rio nell’Elba, one of the oldest towns on the island. Sitting up on a hill 180 metres above sea level, like all the other towns on the eastern side its past lies in the mining tradition now lost in the mists of time. It is famous for its iron mines that go back as far as the Etruscan period, and was the island's mineral centre until the iron ores were finally closed down. Along our crest path we could see the Volterraio Castle the most ancient fortification on all  Island of Elba. We continue to Cima del Monte and then down to Porto Azzurro. Before reaching the town centre, we will arrive at the beach of the famous pirate corsair Barbarossa. From here, a path along the cliff will take us below the Spanish castle called Fort San Giacomo.  Arrive in the village and free time.

Option 2 - Rio nell'Elba Option 1

Distance: 5.8miles (9.3km)

Ascent: 930ft (280m)

Descent: 1,100ft (335m)

Today we explore the Eastern side of the island starting in Campo ai Peri, a group of country houses where the GTE “great trek of the island of Elba” passes by. The first part of the trail is uphill along a gravel road. When we reach the highest point, we will have a spectacular view of the bay of Portoferraio.  This part of the island is famous for its iron mines that go back as far as the Etruscan period, and was the island's mineral centre until the iron ores were finally closed down. The second part of the trek is a long descent that will take us to the village of Porto Azzurro, the island's ancient Spanish port. Stop for an ice cream and relax.

Option 1 - San Piero & views of the Tuscan Islands

Distance: 5 miles (8.5km)   

Total Ascent: 1,230 feet (375m)  

Our walk today is part of the shepherd’s trails across a network of ancient granite routes. We begin at the tiny hamlet of San Piero, at the foot of Monte Capanne. At 227m above sea level it looks across to Campo nell'Elba and the gulf of Marina di Campo. We walk the “Butterflies Path”, a natural Sanctuary in the Tuscan Archipelago National Park, where more than 50 species of butterfly have been recorded. Our destination is the rock formation of Pietra Murata, a sentinel watch post, dating back to the Middle Ages, from where we can admire views across the southern islands. 

Option 2 - The Butterflies Path to Pietra Murata

Distance: 6.5 miles (10.5km)   

Total Ascent: 1,560 feet (475m)  

 

Following a slightly harder trail than our fellow group, we also start in San Piero, and then walk along the “Butterflies Path”. Along our way, we will pass surprising granite quarries and remains of work sculpted from rocks such as columns, altars and tanks, telling us much of the past. We’ll reach the rock formation of Pietra Murata, to admire the view of the southern side of the Island of Elba, the Island of Corsica and the islands of Pianosa, Montecristo and Giglio.  

Today is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Relax in the comfort of your hotel surroundings, enjoy a drink with sea views on the hotel terrace, or walk down to the beach and explore along the coast. Your day on the island can be as active or relaxing as you choose.  

Option 1 - Coastal landscapes to Castiglione della Pescaia

Distance: 5.5 miles (8.8km)   

Total Ascent: 500 feet (150m)   

Today we leave Elba and head back to the mainland to discover the unique territory of Maremma, a timeless region dating back to the Etruscans and Romans. We take a fantastic hike through untouched coastal landscapes along two of the most beautiful bathing bays in this area – Cala Violina and Cala Martina. From the hills above we’ll be rewarded with unique views of the Tuscan coast. After our walk, we move to the tranquil village of Castiglione della Pescaia, where we can watch the hustle and bustle around the fishing port and take a walk through winding streets up to the medieval castle. 

Option 2 - Walking the bays of Cala Violina & Cala Martina

Distance: 8miles (12.9km)   

Total Ascent: 1,200 feet (365m)   

 

Departing Elba today we travel back to the mainland where we will explore the beautiful Maremma region. Following a similar trail to our easier option, today is a more leisurely route for us too, through the untouched coastal landscapes of Cala Violina and Cala Martina, with wonderful views of the Tuscan coast. After our walk, we move to the tranquil village of Castiglione della Pescaia, where we can watch the hustle and bustle around the fishing port and take a walk through winding streets up to the medieval castle. 

Option 1 - Maremma Natural Park Option 2

Distance: 8miles (13km)

Ascent: 1,030ft (315m)

The last excursion brings us in the untouched wild landscape of the Maremma Natural Park.  Through the fragrant Mediterranean scrub we reach the remains of the impressive Abbey of San Rabano, which rises from the middle of a beautiful holm oak forest. We continue along the lush vegetation and centuries-old olive groves to the viewpoint of the Collelungo tower, from where we can enjoy a breathtaking view of the entire coast and take a break on the white beach. The return is through the fascinating pine forests.

Option 2 - Maremma Natural Park Option 1

Distance: 5.5miles (8.8km)

Ascent: 285ft (90m)

The last excursion brings us in the untouched wild landscape of the Maremma Natural Park. The walk begins on flat ground, with slight undulations, in the suggestive Grand Ducal pine forest. Once reached the Turtle Bridge and after skirting the caves you begin to go up on the left through a low scrub of rosemary, lentisk, holm oak and cistus, what only a few centuries ago was a cliff overlooking the sea. From Collelungo tower we can enjoy one of the most beautiful and varied panorama of the entire Park. We reach the Collelungo beach where we can take a rest in this untouched environment before to take the way back.

Depart Castiglione della Pescaia 

Daily Walk Options

Grade 3

Medium Walks

Walks follow well-defined paths, though often in hilly or upland areas, or along rugged coastal footpaths. These may be rough or steep in sections and will require reasonable fitness.

Grade 5

Harder Walks

Good fitness and stamina required. Expect rocky terrain with sustained ascents and descents. Walks may include high summits and ridges.

Accommodation

Hotel L’Approdo

You’ll receive a warm welcome at the Hotel L’Approdo, located on the picturesque Marina of Castiglione della Pescaia. Start the day with breakfast with panoramic views and enjoy authentic Tuscan meals in La Bitta Restaurant. The sea and the old town are both just a five-minute stroll away.

Hotel Select, Marina di Campo

The welcoming four-star Hotel Select is opposite Elba’s beautiful Marina di Campo bay, where guests have easy access to enjoy the beach, as well as nearby shops. Relax in the pool or on the terrace and enjoy an Italian meal or refreshing drink at the on-site restaurant and bar.

More Information

Vaccinations & health information EU NEW 2026

Before booking, you should check with your doctor to see whether any health precautions are needed for your trip. Health advice and requirements can change, so we recommend doing this in good time before travel.

As a general rule, travellers should ensure they are up to date with routine UK vaccinations and boosters, including, for example, MMR and diphtheria, tetanus and polio. Some countries may require you to have specific vaccinations such as Malaria, Rabies and Yellow Fever. Please check with your GP if you are unsure.

Please note that the use or possession of some common prescription or over-the-counter medicines is restricted or banned in certain countries. If you will be carrying medication, you should check with the relevant embassy or consulate before travelling. As an extra precaution, we recommend keeping medication in its original packaging, carrying a copy of your prescription, and, where possible, asking your pharmacist to provide the medication name in the language of the country you are visiting.

For further country-specific health advice, visit www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk or www.traveldoctor.co.uk. If you are travelling from outside the UK, please consult your own doctor and check local entry requirements.

 

Passport & Visa information - SHARED FOR ALL EU NEW 2026

This information is for those travelling with a full ‘British Citizen’ passport; for all other nationalities or passport holders, please check with your local consulate for advice.

Passport Requirements

This information applies to travellers holding a full British Citizen passport. Entry requirements vary by destination and can change at short notice. For most EU and worldwide destinations, passports must be valid for the entire duration of your stay. Some countries also require a minimum period of validity remaining on your passport (often up to 6 months beyond your return date), even if you are not staying that long.
We strongly recommend ensuring your passport has at least six months’ validity remaining at the time of travel to avoid any issues.

If you hold a different type of British passport or a passport issued by another country, you must check the requirements with the relevant embassy, consulate, or official government website.

Visa Requirements

Visa rules depend on your nationality, destination, length of stay, and purpose of travel, and they can change frequently. It is your responsibility to check whether you require a visa before travelling.
British passport holders should check the latest entry, passport validity and visa requirements for their destination on the UK government’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) website:
https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice

 

 

Packing list - Overseas Guided Walking

It's best to be prepared for all weather conditions. To make it easier, here is a list of items you should consider packing.   

Essentials  

  • Walking boots 
  • Waterproof jacket 
  • Waterproof trousers 
  • Insulated jacket/top 
  • Walking clothing  
  • Walking socks (plus spares)  
  • Sunhat 
  • Gloves/mitts and warm hat
  • Water bottle (minimum 2 litre capacity)  
  • Headtorch 
  • High-factor sunscreen (minimum SPF 30)  
  • Sunglasses with a dark lens 
  • Rucksack (15-30 litres)  
  • Mobile phone 
  • Personal first aid kit (containing your medication, blister plasters, etc.) 
  • Passport 
  • Visa (if applicable) 
  • Copy of your travel insurance policy 
  • UK Global Health Insurance Card (formerly known as EHIC

Recommended

  • Collapsible walking poles 
  • Swimwear and travel towel
  • Snacks
  • Dry bags
  • Rubbish bags
  • Insect repellent

Optional extras

  • Camera 
  • Sit mat
  • Flask for hot drinks 
  • Durable lunch box
  • Gaiters 
  • GPS device (excluding Bhutan, Georgia and India)

With flights EU & WW

Book your holiday ‘with flights’ and you can choose to depart from a range of UK airports* to your destination. For latest flight times and prices please call us on 0203-974-8865 or email reservations@hfholidays.co.uk  

If you choose to book your flights with us, we automatically include return transfers between the destination airport and hotel.  

Without flights EU

Alternatively, tailor your journey to suit you by booking your holiday ‘without flights’ and you’ll have the freedom to book your own flights from your local airport.   

*Subject to availability 

Local currency (Europe)

The local currency is the Euro (€)

Carbon Footprint - 563kg CO2

We see it as our responsibility to minimise our emissions, not just for this year but every year to come. Our work with sustainability experts, ecollective, has enabled us to measure our carbon footprint and create a strategy to reduce the carbon intensity of our product by 5% each year. Our ambition is to be net zero by 2040 – earlier if we can.

Learn more

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Dates & availability

Idyllic Elba & the Southern Tuscan Coast

Members save an additional £50 on this booking and get a range of other exclusive benefits. You can join during booking process. Read more about membership

2026

Save £100 Per Person

15 Sep - 22 Sep 2026

7 nights. Trip notes

Save £100 Per Person

6 Oct - 13 Oct 2026

7 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£1,799 £1,699

£1,699 £1,599

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Members

£1,749 £1,649

£1,649 £1,549

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Single rooms
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Trusted British co-operative

We are proud to be Britain’s only walking holiday co-operative. Led by almost 40,000 members, offering hundreds of holidays across the UK and overseas, with all surplus being reinvested back into our Society.

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Flexible choice of guided walks

Experienced volunteer HF Leaders guide every walk at our UK country houses, offering up to three daily options. Making it easy to find a holiday to suit your ability, and with the flexibility to switch grades each walking day.

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Book early with confidence

Become an HF Member to benefit from our Price Pledge. Secure your first choice of holiday early, and if the cost drops after you book, we will automatically refund the difference (exc. travel agent & group bookings).

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Book with confidence

If the flights we have organised are cancelled or changed, we’ll do everything we can to find alternative transport, with minimal disruption to your holiday

If we cancel your holiday, we honour all refund requests 

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Travel with confidence

We know that peace of mind is priceless, so we’ll always go above and beyond to meet – and exceed – expectations

If the flights we have organised are cancelled or changed, we’ll do everything we can to find alternative transport, with minimal disruption to your holiday

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HF Holidays

A British heritage brand with 111 years of experience

Offering a choice of over 260 itineraries in nearly 40 countries

Run as a co-operative with 40,000-plus members

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