Trekking excursion from Nisportino to Mangani

Length: 3 km
How long it takes: approximately 1 hour
Level of difficulty: medium

This truly beautiful route is along the north-eastern side of the Island of Elba, from Nisportino beach to Mangani beach. Although the hike is short, and is along a route that is in good condition with only a medium difference in height above sea level, there are some parts where the road isn't very smooth, while in another part not far away the cliffs are very steep, so you will need to be very careful.

You start off from the far end of Nisportino beach, and on the right,  you follow path number 265 that goes uphill along the Promontory of Punta delle Casette, but bare in mind that although the hike is a short walk uphill it is often in the sun. 

From then on the route is in the shade of the Mediterranean bush, then you go uphill again and follow the coastal road known as "Pietre Rosse", from where you have an unbelievable view of the roadstead in Portoferraio. As well as the importance of the landscape and the geology, that consists of crumbling, blood-red rocks that explain the cliffs above Rivercina beach,

this part of the route seems to be floating on air, with the deep blue sea on one side and the red cliffs on the other, and once you're past it you 'll find yourself in the middle of a thick wood of holm oaks. Further along, before you start heading down towards Mangani beach, you will have to be very careful since, for approximately the next 70 metres, you will be walking along the top of some very steep cliffs so the road is rather gritty and it's easy to slip.

Once you've gone past this part, you'll start walking downhill towards the quietMangani beach, but the beach too is in the sun and the road is a little gritty. This beautiful cove is often deserted even during the summer so it is perfect if you want a relaxing day and go for a swim in the sea! 

Both the beach itself and the road you have just done are set like precious jewels in an area that from an environmental point of view is still rugged and pristine. The sea is turquoise and crystal clear, so perfect for lovers of snorkelling and scuba diving. 

On the opposite side of Mangani beach, if you want you can keep walking and take part in the Grande Traversata Elbana as far as the equipped area known as Ala di Cacio where, if you want, you can go back to Nisportino beach (the entire walk is 8 km long, and should take you about 6 hours).