Terranera beach in Porto Azzurro, on the Island of Elba

The Terranera Beach, which is of great geological interest, is also one of the most suggestive beaches on the Island of Elba.

The uniqueness of this place is due to the beautiful Terranera Lake (from which the beach gets its name): a small body of water with an emerald green color, in stark contrast to the deep blue of the sea. The lake was formed from the filling of a small mining basin, where hematite, magnesite, and pyrite were once extracted, with both sulfuric and marine water.

The beach is actually divided into two parts. The southern part is characterized by a stretch covered with glittering black sand, sparkling with hematite flakes, and particularly heated during the summer heat.

The other part is a narrow shoreline, about 120 meters long, which separates the green freshwater lake from the sea. It features reddish colors and patches of brilliant black sand. To the north, the beach is enclosed by a large protruding rock, known for its shape as "the submarine", which is used for fun dives.

The sea is very beautiful and clear, with gently sloping sandy seabeds, ideal for swimming and bathing.

A combination of vibrant and unusual colors in this small natural oasis makes the place truly unique. This particular coloration is attributed to the presence of hematite and pyrite dust, iron minerals that the Island of Elba is rich in. Remains of iron, both on the surface and underwater, make the landscape even more fascinating.

Along the shoreline, there are still remains of the ancient quarry, which bear witness to the mining and mineral processing activity, and on the right, a path along the cliff traverses the abandoned iron mine, leading to the nearby Reale Beach.

The place is definitely worth a visit.

Quite exposed to the open sea and mainly affected by eastern winds, Terranera Beach is frequented for its natural features and by mineral enthusiasts. No services are offered.

Attention: bathing in the lake is strictly prohibited for safety reasons.

How to reach Terranera Beach

Terranera Beach is located at the exit of the town of Porto Azzurro and is easily accessible by car. Heading towards Rio Marina, take the right turn to Reale Beach, where there is a large free parking lot. Once at Reale Beach, walk along the path that crosses the abandoned iron mine.

Another way to reach the beach and the Terranera Lake is to go to Reale, turn left towards Capo d’Arco after 200 meters, and follow the signs for Laghetto Terranera. From this point, the road is unpaved and should be followed until you reach a barrier (about 350 m), where there is no parking available.