The characteristic beach of Sottobomba
Among the lesser-known wonders of the island of Elba, the delightful beach of Sottobomba offers bathers its wild charm and promise of tranquility: the excessive crowding of other more famous (but no longer beautiful!) beaches he hasn't taken up any ground here yet. Overlooking a stunning crystalline sea where it is easy to spot fish and octopuses, Sottobomba beach is located in the north of the island of Elba, in the municipality of Portoferraio, not far from the more famous beaches of Capo Bianco and Padulella. Crowning and protecting it is a picturesque, steep 40-meter-high white cliff, on which Mediterranean scrub competes for territory against the rock. The sub-bomb has a narrow, elongated shape, measuring almost 200 meters in total length and a width varying from a minimum of 3 to a maximum of 14 meters. It is a white pebble beach, with in some places an interlude of coarse-grained, whitish sand. The seabed descends quite quickly, but in the initial stretch it is also accessible to children. In addition there is a small rock ideal for small diving apprentices. It is often visited by cool breezes, including, very pleasant, those coming from the south: Scirocco, Ostro and Libeccio (only in the very early morning, when it is not yet exposed to the sun due to the cliff behind it, they may be too cool). Given its somewhat secluded location, Sottobomba beach still offers the opportunity for true relaxation amidst the lush charm of the Mediterranean, and is therefore perfect for anyone who prefers peace at the expense of some comfort.
Infrastructure and activities
You shouldn't expect restaurants, bars, umbrellas for rent, and showers: Sottobomba Beach maintains its identity as a relatively pristine site thanks in part to their absence, which discourages those who prefer better-equipped places. So it's best to arrive there carefully, bringing drinks and sandwiches, but also beach shoes, due to the pebbles, and a mat to insert under the towel. This way, staying on the beach will have no negative implications. The most recommended activity is snorkeling: the very clean water and aquatic fauna form an enchanting combination, capable of providing a truly unforgettable spectacle.
How to get to Sottobomba Beach
Located very close to the city center of Portoferraio, it is actually possible to reach Sottobomba beach on foot, taking the steps, marked with the "Beach" sign, on Via Einaudi, before reaching the Albereto district. By car, however, still starting from Portoferraio, follow the road along the coast, passing the beaches of Capo Bianco and Le Ghiaie, until you reach the sign indicating it, positioned on a downhill curve on the right. Parking is available both for a fee, closer, and free (about 200 meters from the start of the steps). The first can accommodate up to 100 machines and is not guarded. Summer hours are: 8.30-19.30. Whether you arrive on foot or by car, you'll then have to tackle a staircase of just over 100 steps; there aren't many, but you obviously have to take them into account, especially if you have small children and strollers. But, making up for the effort, there is a breathtaking view right on the beach in and around Sottobomba. Trying is believing.
