Description
The Beach of Naregno
Of all the long beaches on the eastern side of the Island of Elba, Naregno is in an inlet that is very sheltered by a small pine grove on the far left, and by the promontory of Forte Focardo on the right; this fortress was built by the Spaniards in 1678, and stands proud like a sentinel, watching over the whole gulf of Porto Azzurro.
This was one of the first beaches to offer facilities to the tourists who started coming to Elba on holiday, and today there are many hotels to choose from.
The beach is 500 metres long, and consists of fine shingle and sand; since the water is shallow till quite far out, and there are many facilities to choose from, the beach is perfect not only for families with small children, but also lovers of water sports, because there is also a diving centre, and one of the most famous sailing and catamaran schools on the Island. It’s a perfect starting point if you want to sail to the many beautiful, tiny deserted coves along the Costa dei Gabbiani.
Naregno faces north east and is exposed only to the odd, eastern wind. The view of the majestic fortress – San Giacomo – above Porto Azzurro is breathtaking, and on dull days you can even see as far as Punta Ala on the mainland.
On the right there is a path across the pine grove that ends right at the beach, and the rocks here that go as far as Forte Focardo are perfect for snorkeling.
Sad to say, despite the length of the beach, and the numerous facilities available, the car park is far from big enough, and the only one here is in the shade but it is private. Fortunately the Capoliveri Town Council runs a shuttle bus service during the summer months.
The market in Porto Azzurro is every Saturday morning, so if you want to go there, or even just to visit the town, you can also get there by motor boat.
It isn’t difficult to get to the beach; if you start off at Capoliveri, just follow the signs down the tarred road for about 2,3 km, while if you’re coming from Mola, head for Capoliveri, then turn left at the traffic lights and follow the coastal road until you get to the beach. During the summer months a shuttle bus service to and from the Town building in Piazza del Cavatore, Capoliveri, gets you to and from the beach.
