Overview
The ancient city of Cosimo
A strategic town and important naval hub, the municipality of Portoferraio is the largest on the Island of Elba. A small paradise surrounded by the waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea.
The promenade is home to businesses, bars and restaurants, where tourists and locals can enjoy an aperitif. The city also contains important cultural attractions. Impressive and fascinating are the Medici fortresses, built at the behest of Cosimo I de' Medici for defensive purposes. The Grand Duke of Tuscany was particularly fond of the port, which is why during the Renaissance the city was named Cosmopoli, the city of Cosimo.
There are two residences in which Emperor Napoleon settled: Villa dei Mulini, now a house-museum, and Villa San Martino, a residence dedicated to rest and hunting days.
For a relaxing time by the sea, make your way to Biodola beach, with its fine sand and azure sea, is the perfect destination for families. Also worth mentioning is the Le Ghiaie beach, a small shoreline of white pebbles. Its waters have been protected since 1971, when the marine reserve was established.
