The Island of Elba is the perfect paradise for mountain bike enthusiasts, offering unforgettable adventures for every cyclist.
To ensure a smooth trip, book your ferries to the Island of Elba with Blu Navy in advance.
Among the various excursions on the Island of Elba, those on mountain bikes offer an extraordinary way to explore every corner of this Tuscan jewel.
The unique combination of breathtaking landscapes, ancient history, and pristine nature makes the Island of Elba by MTB a must-see destination. Whether you’re looking for pure adrenaline or peaceful panoramic rides, the MTB trails on the Island of Elba have something to offer in every corner of the island.
The main tourist destinations on Elba offer ideal starting points for your mountain bike adventures. Portoferraio, the island’s capital, with its historic center full of history and Medici fortresses, is a great starting point to explore the northern part of Elba.
Marina di Campo, with its large beach and lively atmosphere, is perfect for those who want to alternate cycling and relaxing by the sea. Capoliveri, perched on a hill with breathtaking views, is the gateway to some of the island’s most exciting trails, including the renowned Capoliveri Bike Park.
Whether you’re an experienced biker looking for technical challenges or a beginner seeking scenic and relaxing trails, the Island of Elba has something for you. Get ready for a two-wheel adventure that will take you to discover every corner of this Mediterranean jewel, from its rugged coastlines to its highest peaks, passing through picturesque villages and evidence of its ancient history.
The Best MTB Routes on the Island of Elba
From the exciting Capoliveri Bike Park to the challenges of Monte Capanne, the easy MTB trails on the Island of Elba offer a variety of experiences for every type of cyclist. Here are some of the best routes you can explore during your stay.
Capoliveri Bike Park Route
The Capoliveri Bike Park is the crown jewel of the MTB offering on the Island of Elba. Located in the southeastern part of the island, this park offers over 100 km of marked trails, divided into various levels of difficulty. The trails wind through Mediterranean scrub, ancient mines, and spectacular sea views.
Among the most popular routes are the “Gravity” trail, ideal for downhill enthusiasts, and the “Cross Country” trail, perfect for those seeking a more varied experience. Along the trails, there are scenic rest points where you can recharge and take unforgettable photos.
Monte Calamita Loop
The Monte Calamita loop is a must for anyone visiting Elba by mountain bike. This trail, approximately 37 km long, offers a perfect combination of technical challenges and natural beauty. Starting from Capoliveri, the trail delves into the heart of the Monte Calamita peninsula, offering breathtaking views of the Golfo Stella and the islands of Montecristo and Pianosa.
Along the way, you can explore the ancient iron mines, remnants of the island’s rich mining history. The more technical single tracks will test your skills, while the challenging climbs will be rewarded with thrilling descents and spectacular views.
Monte Capanne Route
For those who love uphill challenges, the Monte Capanne route is an experience not to be missed. With an altitude of 1,019 meters, Monte Capanne is the highest point on the Island of Elba and offers a 360-degree view of the entire Tuscan Archipelago.
The trail, which starts from Marciana, is challenging but extremely rewarding. The climb, alternating between asphalt and dirt paths, tests the endurance of bikers. However, once at the top, the view is guaranteed: on clear days, you can see Corsica and even the Apuan Alps on the mainland.
Roman Aqueduct Trail
For an experience that combines sport and history, the Roman Aqueduct Trail is the ideal choice. This relatively easy route, suitable for beginners, follows the tracks of the ancient aqueduct that supplied water to the Roman city of Fabricia, now Portoferraio.
Along the approximately 15 km long trail, you can admire the remains of the aqueduct and enjoy lush nature. The route offers a pleasant mix of single tracks and dirt roads, with scenic views of the island’s northern coast.
Rio Marina Mines Loop
For history and mountain bike enthusiasts, the loop of the Rio Marina Mines is a unique experience. This route will take you to discover the island’s mining past, passing through lunar landscapes and fascinating industrial archaeological sites.
The trail, about 25 km long, starts from Rio Marina and winds through ancient iron mines, some of which date back to the Etruscan period. Along the way, you can admire the characteristic red rocks rich in minerals and enjoy breathtaking views of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Marina di Campo Easy Trail
For those new to mountain biking or seeking a more relaxing experience, the Marina di Campo trail is ideal. This approximately 20 km route mainly follows dirt roads and easy trails, offering a great introduction to Elba’s MTB world.
The trail starts from the beautiful Marina di Campo beach and heads inland, passing through picturesque villages like San Piero and Sant’Ilario. Along the way, you can enjoy beautiful views of the southern coast of the island and take a refreshing break in one of the charming villages you pass through.
Whether you choose to challenge the climbs of Monte Capanne, immerse yourself in history by cycling through ancient mines, or enjoy a peaceful coastal excursion, Elba will give you an unforgettable experience.
