Fornacelle beach in Cavo - Island of Elba

Fornacelle beach (also called Cala del Telegrafo) is in a tiny, unpolluted bay about 1 kilometre from Cavo.

The name brings the nearby iron mines of the past to mind. On the northern side of the beach you can still see what is left of the ovens used for melting the iron.

The beach is about 150 metres long and is surrounded by a lush, ilex grove that goes right down to the sea, and this adds to the enchanting beauty of this tiny, unpolluted cove. It consists of pebbles and shingle and unusual blackish sand that is dark because it is mixed with iron dust.

When the sun is shining, thanks to the hematite in the sand, not only does the water sparkle but so does the sand, making the whole environment very colourful and shimmering! This explains why this part of the Island of Elba that is so rich in minerals is called the coast that sparkles.

Thesea bed is sandy and the water is shallow till quite far out, so it is perfect for families with small children, and the crystal clear water is heaven on earth for snorkellers and scuba divers who want to admire the underwater flora and fauna.

The view from the beach of the tiny islands of Palmaiola and Cerboli is beautiful, and since the beach is one of the nearest on the Island of Elba to the mainland, on a clear day you can see most of the nearby coastline of Piombino.

Not only does it have sun umbrellas and sun beds for rent, making it the perfect place if you want to relax even at the peak of summer, there is also a bar/restaurant with a terrace overlooking the sea.

How to get to Fornacelle beach

It's very easy: coming from Cavo, follow the main road for Rio Marina and you will see the road for the beach clearly signposted; about 300 metres farther along you will get to a spacious car park just off the beach.