Direttore beach in Rio - Island of Elba

Hidden by a small holm oak forest, this small beach is named after the villa overlooking the gulf, bordered to the south by Capo Pero, which was once the residence of the director of Elba's mines (below the villa, access is prohibited due to the risk of ground subsidence).

Very small (it is about 80 meters long), wild, and without any services, it features the spectacular characteristic of all mining beaches: it is made up of fine sand rich in hematite and pyrite, which gives the beach a shiny black color.

The surrounding environment is beautiful and lush, with the holm oak forest behind the cove providing pleasant shade in the afternoon, and a coastline alternating between low and high cliffs.

From the beach, you can enjoy a view that stretches from the Isolotto dei Topi to the islets of Palmaiola (directly opposite the beach) and Cerboli, all the way to the Gulf of Piombino.

The gulf where it is located offers partial shelter but remains exposed to winds coming from the north, northeast, east, and southeast.

A little further ahead, a small beach made of large irregular stones is called Spiaggia del Fiammingo, frequented more by birdwatching enthusiasts (especially for sightings of European shags) than by beachgoers.

These two small coves are perfect for those who love tranquility and nature and are primarily visited by boaters seeking privacy and relaxation.

The Spiaggia del Direttore is only accessible by sea, as the trail that used to lead to the beach is closed. 

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