THE EASTERN COAST

The western zone of the island, since the nineteen hundreds, has played an essential role in Elba’s economic growth and stability. Iron ore was both mined and processed in this area then transported to Portoferraio for the production of cast iron. Portoferraio’s impressive steel plant was to be bombed and consequently destroyed in the First World War, never to be rebuilt.

Rio Albano, Vigneria and Terranera are three renowned open-air deposits, which since the age of the Etruscan’s have been exploited for their precious mineral content. Over 150 different types have been extracted from the deposits including Quartz, Magnetite, Pyrite and Ilvaite, the mineral of peculiar characteristics named after Ilva, the ancient name for Elba.
Now days, the area in which these old mines lay abandoned appears to be almost surreal, somewhat magical. Unfortunately the mines are inaccessible to the public however there has been speculation of a possible Mineral Park opening in the future.

The Terranera lake is ideal for taking a bracing sulphur dip. The lake is an expanse of bright green sulphurous water that sharply contrasts with the brilliant blue of the sea, from which it is separated by just a few metres of beach. Because of the particular conformation of the terrain, the sand on most of the beaches on this side of the island is mixed with mineral dust, giving it its classic glitter and making these shores appear even more like true gems of nature.

up

Cavo, a peaceful little seaside resort, with a well-equipped tourist harbour, is entirely surrounded by green vegetation, amidst which the old Tonietti Mausoleum stands out, recalling the village’s important mining past.