La Paolina Beach, where the sky merges with the sea
Few places in the world can evoke intense and sudden emotions even in the most accustomed tourist. La Paolina beach, one of the most famous on the island of Elba, is one of these enchanting and sublime places, those from which, once you arrive, it will be truly difficult to leave. Located in the north-western part of the island of Elba, falling within the municipality of Marciana Marina, famous for the annual "La Tore Isola d'Elba Literary Prize", the Paolina Beach derives its name from the nearby islet located a few metres from the shore and which seems to have been, according to some historical sources, the favourite place of Pauline Bonaparte, who loved to swim close to the rock so she could bathe naked, away from prying eyes. Approximately 100 metres long, just over six metres wide, located a short distance from the sunny shores of Redinoce, Procchio and Spartaia, La Paolina beach is characterised by a sandy beach mixed with gravel and pebbles of different shapes and sizes, surrounded by the balsamic effluvia of the Mediterranean scrub. From the undisputed charm, wild and still untouched, La Paolina becomes the ideal beach when the winds from the south blow imperiously, guaranteeing privacy and relaxation for those who want to enjoy the sun even in complete solitude.
Called Castiglione or Castiglioncello in more ancient times, the Paolina rock is among the true peculiarities of the beach. Completely covered in Mediterranean scrub, as evidenced by the thick forest of sweet holm oaks, the islet, in reality little more than a rock surrounded by the sea, still preserves the remains of a primitive neighborhood presumably built as early as Roman times. Once you reach the rock, just a few strokes from the shore covered in beached Posidonia oceanica, you will be able to admire one of the most evocative views of the entire island of Elba, the one that extends from Capo Enfola to Guardiola, towards the eastern tip of Procchio. Belonging to the "Tuscan Archipelago National Park", La Paolina beach is part of the "EU Monte Capanne-Enfola Promontories Special Protection Area". Exposed to the sun only during the morning and very early afternoon, the "Paolina" is equipped with both a small establishment equipped with deckchairs, sun loungers and umbrellas, and a stretch of free beach. Distinguished by shallow waters, sloping down to the sea and particularly transparent, La Paolina beach is the ideal destination for those traveling with children in tow, ensuring safe and risk-free swimming. Given its small size, La Paolina does not lend itself to classic beach games. But that certainly doesn't mean there's a lack of fun. The beach resort, also equipped with a bar and refreshment service, rents pedal boats to tourists, allowing for an unmissable excursion to discover one of the most picturesque corners of this stretch of coast. Of course, the fatigue will be felt but the clear crystalline seabed, the sea with green hues, the clearly visible fish and the rich vegetation, will certainly be worth the effort.
The characteristics of the beach
A kilometer and a half from Procchio, it is certainly not difficult to reach the Paolina. Traveling along the provincial road, you must follow the direction of Marciana Marina. The area is marked with a sign that shows directions to the path leading to the beach. In the absence of suitable parking, cars must be left along the road, but for those wishing to use public transport, Marebus offers a bus service during the summer. The path leading to the beach, which is difficult and bumpy, does not allow disabled access.
