Excursion Marciana marina & wine tasting tour at Portoferraio

From dramatic granite cliffs to dense oak and chestnut forests to tiny coastal enclaves tucked into hilly coves, Elba is an island awash in unspoiled sights to explore – and this half-day outing immerses you in two engaging examples of that diversity.

Traveling by coach with your local guide, a drive northwest brings you to Marciana Marina, a tiny old maritime village some 45-minutes from Portoferraio. Over the next 45 minutes, walk along a scenic harborside promenade to reach Il Cotone, the town’s historic fishermen's quarter. Stroll along romantic lanes amidst pastel colors and houses built close by the sea. Gaze on the fleet of colorful fishing boats still occupying this compact natural bay, with a cliff ledge allowing boats to be hauled ashore directly in front of building doorfronts. Discover a handsome piazza and an ancient Pisan watchtower built to fend off Saracen pirates. And imagine the stream of Ligurian and Neapolitan fishermen and sailors who’ve trodden these same lanes throughout time.

Back on the coach, relax on a half-hour drive to Cecilia Winery, established in 1990 by a Milanese engineer, industrialist, and artist who, after 50 years of visiting, decided to set down roots oElba and focus on his passion for viticulture. His nephews manage the estate’s four vineyards today, marrying deep old-school respect for the grapes with the latest in winemaking equipment – stainless steel tanks, temperature-controlled fermentation, sophisticated filter systems –  to produce some 5,500 cases of fine wines each year. After a relaxed orientation tour, get down to business and savor the fruit of their labors, tasting four different appellations – typically a Vermentino, Elba Ansonica, Elba Rosso, and a Syrah – accompanied by local snacks.

After a leisurely visit here, and with a rosy glow to your demeanor likely from the wines, settle in for a scenic 30-minute return drive to Portoferraio.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Marciana Marina & Cotone, Wine Tasting at Cecilia Winery

Note

Please note: This moderate excursion involves about 0.65 mi / 1 km of walking along city streets in Marciana Marina and uneven gravel at the winery. Guests must be able to board the coach independently; the excursion is not suitable for those who utilize a wheelchair. Guests must be 18 to be served wine. Specific wines selected for tasting vary by season and availability. Free time is made available for shopping at the cellar. Wear comfortable clothes and walking shoes; bring your preferred sun protection. The vineyard is closed on Sundays. Guests are advised to inform of any dietary restrictions ahead of time, as accommodating restrictions may be limited by the nature of the experience. The order of sights and activities may vary.