The Acqua dell’Elba Foundation is expanding its tourism offering by launching the Via dell’Essenza.
Eight stages and new signage
Focusing on slow tourism and encouraging visits to the island outside the summer season: this is the aim of the Via dell’Essenza, the coastal trail created by the foundation and the Tuscan Archipelago National Park, which stretches for approximately 67 km in eight stages, around Mount Capanne along the western side of the island. The project, launched in 2011, has reached a new milestone with the completion of stages 6, 7 and 8 and the western loop. The entire route has also been fitted with new signage with panels and QR codes dedicated to the flora, fauna and key points of historical and natural interest.
Six free guided walks from February to October
For 2026 the Via dell’Essenza has been included in the “Vivere il Parco” Live the Park programme, featuring six free guided walks from February to October designed to encourage exploration of the area during the months outside the peak summer season. “Our collaboration with the Fondazione Acqua dell’Elba and with partners committed to sustainability allows us to promote responsible use of the area, combining environmental protection, education and a high-quality experience, even outside the peak tourist seasons,” says Matteo Arcenni, special Cìcommissioner Tuscan Archipelago National Park.
A free shuttle service
Another key aspect is transport: for three of the six excursions, a free Autolinee Toscane shuttle service has been arranged to take participants back to the starting point, so as to reduce the impact of traffic on the island. The eight stages are each associated with a different species of the Mediterranean scrub - including heather, mastic, lavender, rockrose, juniper, rosemary, holm oak and myrtle - and the route has been designed to integrate nature, landscape and cultural heritage. The project also includes resources to enhance the visitor experience, such as the Via dell’Essenza Passport and a network of partner accommodation providers and tour operators.
Exploring in the shoulder season
The next stage therefore aims at establishing the trail to complement the traditional seaside holiday with an outdoor experience that can be enjoyed in the shoulder seasons and is more focused on exploring the local area.
