The Blue Harbour - Porto Azzurro - looks like the perfect film set between the azure blue water to which it owes its name, the Spanish fortress and the Italian piazza. The harbour town on Elba's east coast is one of the most popular stops in the Tuscan archipelago - and still manages the feat of remaining relaxed.
Porto Azzurro is one of those places that sailors would actually prefer to keep to themselves. The charming harbour town lies deep in the Gulf of Mola on Elba's east coast, protected from all wind directions and surrounded by green hills. The Spaniards already made strategic use of the natural harbour, which later developed into one of Elba's most important fishing villages. Italy's third largest island delights visitors with its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear water and Mediterranean flair.
- Name: Porto Azzurro, Elba, Italy
- Location: East coast of Elba, Gulf of Mola
- Position: 42°45' N, 10°24' E
- Distance Punta Ala (Italian mainland): around 15 nautical miles
For guest travellers
The Marina Porto Azzuro with around 110 berths is somewhat more simply equipped than the one in the island's capital Portoferraio, but offers all the basic facilities and is quieter - especially since the ferry service to Piombino was discontinued in 2008. Moorings should be booked online in advance, especially in the high season. Please note: a minimum stay of three days applies from 15 June to 31 August! Telephone: +39 0565 1935269 - UKW 10
Shore leave and activities
The Forte San Giacomo, a massive Spanish fortress from the early 17th century, towers above the town. It was built to control the strategically important passage between Elba and the Italian mainland. For a long time, Porto Azzurro was therefore more of a garrison than a holiday resort - the former place name "Porto Longone" was closely linked to the prison in the fortress, which was established here in the 19th century. It was not until 1947 that the town was given its current, much friendlier-sounding name.
One of the favourite beaches in the vicinity is Barbarossa beach, which is ideal for swimming and sunbathing thanks to its crystal-clear water and fine sand. Thanks to the Tuscan Archipelago National Park, the waters off Porto Azzurro are protected, which is why there are many diving spots rich in species. There are several diving centres and diving schools in Porto Azzurro. The town is particularly charming in the evening: children play in the recently renovated Piazza Matteotti, Italian music can be heard in the bars and half of Elba strolls along the promenade between ice cream parlours and small wine bars.
Cuisine and events
There are exclusive and romantic pile-dwelling restaurants on the Lungomare promenade. Elban cuisine consists of simple, seasonal ingredients. What was once considered "poor man's cooking" is now a refined tradition that combines fresh fish and seafood, garden vegetables, Mediterranean herbs and virgin olive oil. The excellent Elban wine is served with stockfish, vegetable stews and stuffed squid.
On 25 July, the patron saint of Porto Azzurro, San Giacomo, is celebrated with numerous events throughout the town. A procession in honour of the Madonna di Monserrato also takes place every year on 8 September.
Jill Grigoleit
Editor Travel
