According to a legend, as Venus was coming out of the water to kiss the horizon, seven pearls of her necklace fell into the sea and formed the islands of the Tuscan archipelago: Gorgona, Capraia, Elba, Pianosa, Montecristo, Giglio and Giannutri. The biggest and most beautiful pearl is the island of Elba.

A few other holiday resorts have so much to offer on such a small piece of land: a rich underwater world (a real heaven for divers), mountains covered with century old forests, beaches and little bays surrounded by the Mediterranean Bush (“Macchia”). You will be spoilt for choice on how to spend your free time: you can play your favourite sport, sunbathe or explore the Tuscan archipelago’s traditions, culture and gastronomy.

Napoleon’s exile from 1814 to 1815 left many traces on the island. His two mansions, Villa di San Martino and Villa dei Mulini boast stunning views and Napoleon much appreciated their strategic position. During the short period he lived on Elba his lively mind worked on many projects and reforms which are still nowadays important. Napoleon’s name is still in and even a restaurant gives it a try with the motto “Napoleon has never eaten here”.