At the Saint's places- Trekking excursions on the Island of Elba

San Cerbone steps, through chestnut woods and rocky cliffs

Departure/Arrival: Marciana
Average time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Distance: 4.8 km
Difficulty: easy-medium
Elevation gain: 155 m
Trails taken: Pedalta forest path, 101
Points of interest: San Cerbone Hermitage and Cave
Nearby: Marciana
Recommended detours: Poggio

This route is quite simple and covers one of the most scenic areas of Monte Capanne. It takes you through places that are both environmentally and historically significant, touching one of the most important places of worship on Elba: the San Cerbone Hermitage, located in the area where the patron saint of the diocese sought refuge to escape barbarian violence.

The itinerary can be completed at any time of the year, even in summer, as the dense vegetation provides coolness for a good part of the walk. The starting point is the Fortress of Marciana, located at the highest point of the town. At the square in front of the fortress, you can park your car and enjoy a beautiful panoramic view of Marciana Marina, Cape Enfola, and Poggio.

From the parking area, take the uphill road, initially paved, which then becomes a dirt path until you reach a junction.

Take the path on the left, along the Pedalta forest path, which continues at a high elevation through pine trees, chestnuts, and oaks, offering occasional glimpses of the valleys below and the northern side of Elba. In spring, the path is characterized by the fragrant blooms of the Mediterranean scrub. Follow the entire path and pass by a chain that blocks vehicular traffic and a fire tank.

Here, the terrain becomes a bit rougher, leading to an intersection where you must follow the descending path. The vegetation becomes denser, and the trail quickly leads to a stream, which you cross using a water containment dam.

After crossing the stream, a small detour on the right leads to the San Cerbone Cave, a small grotto where, according to tradition, the Saint stayed during his time on the island.

Returning to the main path, follow the 101 trail on the right, surrounded by a lush chestnut forest.

After passing under the cable car of Monte Capanne and walking a few more meters, you will reach the San Cerbone Hermitage, nestled in a protective and picturesque embrace of tree branches.

It’s worth stopping for a long while to enjoy the peaceful calm of the place.

The church is simple and austere. It is usually closed, but you can admire the interior through the small windows of the facade. According to tradition, it is one of the first churches built on Elba, immediately after the Saint’s departure, though documents only mention it from the 15th century.

For the return to Marciana, retrace your steps along the 101 trail. At the junction with the outbound trail, continue straight on the 101, still within the lush chestnut forest, which leads to the end of the walk, eventually turning into the narrow alleys and stairs of the historic center of Marciana.

From San Cerbone, you can also descend along the paved road that connects to Provincial Road 25 near Fonte Napoleone in Poggio. This route takes about 30 minutes. From there, a detour on the right of about two hundred meters leads to the charming village of Poggio, where you can wander through its small winding streets. Alternatively, you can turn left and return to Marciana in just under three kilometers along a paved road.