Fornacelle beach in Cavo - Island of Elba

Summer 2025: the beach is not fully accessible due to some ongoing works, but it can still be reached by those wishing to visit it, on foot only.

Fornacelle Beach (also known as Cala del Telegrafo) is located in a small unspoilt bay about 1 km from Cavo.

Its name recalls a past linked to the iron mines surrounding the area. On the northern side of the beach, the remains of some furnaces once used for iron processing can still be seen.

The beach is about 150 metres long and is surrounded by the greenery of a lush holm oak wood that reaches as far as the sea, contributing to the charm of this small unspoilt cove. The shore consists of pebbles, gravel and very distinctive black sand mixed with iron-bearing material.

On sunny days, thanks to the traces of hematite present in the sand, it is not only the sea that sparkles, but also the sand, creating incredible and brilliant colour effects! It is no coincidence that this side of the Island of Elba, so rich in minerals, is known as "the Shining Coast".

Characterised by a shallow, sandy seabed that slopes gently, it is particularly suitable for families with children. The clear water allows snorkelling enthusiasts to dive in and discover the underwater world.

Fornacelle offers an incredible view of the islets of Palmaiola and Cerboli and, being one of the beaches on the Island of Elba closest to the Tuscan coast, on the clearest days it is possible to see a wide stretch of the nearby Piombino coastline.

It is the ideal place to relax even during the busiest summer period.

How to get to Fornacelle Beach

Getting there is very easy: starting from Cavo, along the provincial road towards Rio Marina, take the clearly signposted small road leading to the cove, which reaches the beach after about 300 metres on foot. The paved road is slightly steep, so comfortable shoes are recommended and care should be taken. It can also be reached by bicycle.