Sottobomba beach in Portoferraio, on the Island of Elba

Sottobomba beach is along the characteristic part of the white coast of Portoferraio. Since it has a truly rugged and pristine aspect it is very similar to the better known beaches of Capo Bianco, Sorgente and Sansone.

The beach is just under 200 metres long and between 12 and 14 metres wide, but in some parts on the right hand side the width is as little as 3 metres.

In some parts it consists of white shingle of various sizes that the sea has made smooth, and in others whitish, coarse grain sand; on the left hand side facing the sea there are some large stones so it isn't very suitable tolie on if you want to do some sunbathing

There are white cliffs behind the beach, between 20 and 40 metres high, where a lot of low, Mediterranean scrub grows, and they shelter the beach from the southern winds and give it an almost film-like appearance.

On a day when the sirocco wind is blowing the crystal clear, turquoise water is even more beautiful.

This magnificent part of the coast is perfect if you are a snorkelling lover.

Half way along the beach there is a small rock sticking out of the water so children of all ages will have fun diving and jumping in and out of the water.

Getting to Sottobomba

If you are coming from Portoferraio take the coast road and go past the beaches of Le Ghiaie and Capo Bianco, then go down a short road and you will see the sign for the entrance to the beach on the right hand side. 109 steps separate this wonderful beach from the main road.

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