4.7
(334)
2,124
riders
Monte Calamita Loop Trail
03:59
47.3km
1,020m
Mountain biking
Embark on the Monte Calamita Loop Trail for a challenging mountain biking adventure on Isola d'Elba. This difficult route spans 29.4 miles (47.3 km) and climbs a significant 3337 feet (1017 metres), offering diverse terrain from Mediterranean scrub to ancient mining landscapes. As you ride, you'll experience spectacular coastal views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, including the Gulf of Portoferraio and the Gulf of Porto Azzurro, making the nearly 4-hour journey a rewarding one.
Planning your visit requires a good level of physical fitness and advanced riding skills; be prepared for sections where you might need to push your bike. The trail is part of the extensive Capoliveri Bike Park, which has hosted international mountain biking events. You can generally find parking available in towns along the route, such as Lacona, Capoliveri, and Porto Azzurro, making access straightforward.
What sets this route apart is its unique passage through Monte Calamita, an area known for its rugged paths and distinctive red dirt. This landscape is often compared to famous riding spots like Moab or Sedona, offering a truly memorable backdrop to your ride. The historical mining areas add another layer of interest, providing a glimpse into the island's past as you navigate its challenging trails.
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Tips
Includes a segment that may be dangerous
A part of this route comprises technical, difficult, or hazardous terrain. Specialist equipment and prior experience may be required.
After 31.5 km for 30 m
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
8.20 km
Capoliveri Historic Center
Highlight • Settlement
Source: de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Capoliveri
Translated by Google •
Tip by
13.3 km
Cactus Trail to the Calamita Mines
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Translated by Google •
Tip by
19.2 km
Calamita Mine
Highlight • Structure
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Tip by
22.8 km
Tenuta delle Ripalte Vineyards and Coastal Views
Highlight • Viewpoint
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26.4 km
Buzzancone Beach
Highlight • Beach
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Tip by
36.4 km
View of Porto Azzurro from the Coastal Road
Highlight • Viewpoint
Porto Azzurro is one of the most beautiful ports on the island of Elba. This is already revealed by its name: Porto Azzurro means Blue Harbor. However, the place has only had this name since 1947.
Until 1947, today's Porto Azzurro retained its old name Portolongone, which was given to the town when it was founded in 1603 by Philip III of Spain, who wanted to turn the town into a kind of fortress to defend the territory.
Today, Porto Azzurro presents itself as a characteristic fishing village surrounded by golden beaches and a deep blue sea. The main feature of this place, which offers so many charms to its visitors, is the fact that the guest is offered many interesting activities, not only through the rich and beautiful nature, but also through a valuable and diverse artistic and cultural offer.
When you stroll through the narrow streets of the historic town center, you are automatically drawn to some large buildings that bear witness to the town's past. One of the most important buildings in the town is the fortress of San Giacomo, a huge fortress whose construction was ordered by Philip III in 1602. The building was intended to complete the defensive network of the territory according to the studies of Don Garcia di Toledo, based on an already existing model in the city of Anversa, to protect the city and the island from the constant attacks of the Saracen pirates; The fortress had an important screening and protection role until the beginning of the 19th century, and only lost this when it was turned into a prison. Just as the fortress fascinates with its size, the religious buildings fascinate with their grace; Among the most interesting churches in Porto Azzurro are the Church of Madonna del Carmine and the Church of San Giacomo Maggiore, and of course not forgetting the Sanctuary of Madonna di Monserrato, built in 1606 by the Spanish governor Pons Y Leòn in memory of a famous chapel in the was built near Barcelona.
Source: infoelba.net
Translated by Google •
Tip by
46.8 km
Acquarilli Beach
Highlight • Beach
Tip by
47.3 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
23.2 km
9.54 km
7.01 km
6.76 km
885 m
Surfaces
21.5 km
10.2 km
8.04 km
5.41 km
2.11 km
200 m
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Elevation
Highest point (220 m)
Lowest point (0 m)
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Weather
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Saturday 23 May
28°C
18°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 15.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difficulty level of this mountain bike trail?
This loop trail is classified as difficult, requiring a good level of physical fitness and advanced riding skills. Be prepared for challenging sections where you might need to push your bike. It's designed for experienced mountain bikers seeking technical challenges.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the route?
The route features diverse terrain, including paved roads, paths, singletrack sections, and secondary roads. A significant portion winds through Monte Calamita, known for its rugged, old miners' paths and distinctive red dirt from magnetite mines. Some parts can be quite bumpy, offering a unique 'lunar landscape' experience.
What are the main points of interest along the trail?
You'll encounter several notable highlights on this loop. These include the charming Capoliveri Historic Center, the unique Cactus Trail to the Calamita Mines, and the historic Calamita Mine itself. You'll also pass by the scenic Tenuta delle Ripalte Vineyards and Coastal Views, and enjoy stunning vistas like the View of Porto Azzurro from the Coastal Road. The trail also offers access to beautiful beaches such as Buzzancone Beach and Acquarilli Beach.
Where can I park to access this trail?
As a loop trail connecting Lacona, Capoliveri, and Porto Azzurro, you have several options for parking. Capoliveri is a popular starting point, offering parking facilities. You could also look for parking in Lacona or Porto Azzurro, depending on which section you prefer to begin your ride from. Always check local signage for specific parking regulations.
Is this mountain bike route dog-friendly?
While the trail itself doesn't explicitly prohibit dogs, it's important to remember that it passes through the Tuscan Archipelago National Park. Dogs are generally allowed on trails but must be kept on a leash at all times to protect local wildlife and ensure the safety of other trail users. Given the difficult terrain and length, consider if it's suitable for your dog's fitness level.
Do I need any permits or have to pay entrance fees for this trail?
This trail is located within the Tuscan Archipelago National Park. Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for mountain biking on established trails within the park. However, always respect park regulations, stay on marked paths, and be aware of any specific rules that might apply to certain areas, especially around protected mining sites or sensitive natural habitats.
What is the best time of year to ride this trail?
The best time to ride this trail is typically during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) months. During these periods, the weather is milder, and the trails are less crowded than in the peak summer season. Summer can be very hot, and some sections might be exposed to the sun, making it more challenging. Winter can bring rain, making some of the dirt paths muddy and more difficult.
What kind of views can I expect along the way?
The trail offers breathtaking and expansive views throughout the journey. You'll be treated to spectacular vistas of the sea, including the Gulf of Portoferraio, the Gulf of Porto Azzurro, and the Tuscan coastline. On clear days, it's often possible to see the islands of Pianosa, Montecristo, and even Corsica in the distance. The route also traverses beautiful Mediterranean scrub and the unique 'lunar landscapes' of the ancient mining areas.
Does this trail intersect with other paths?
Yes, this route incorporates sections of several other paths. You will find yourself on parts of Via Vincenzo Nardelli, and also experience segments of the Enduro 3 trail. Additionally, the route crosses Via Valdana, integrating various local paths into its challenging loop.
Are there any facilities like cafes or water stops along the route?
While the trail itself is quite wild, especially through Monte Calamita, you will pass through towns like Capoliveri and Porto Azzurro. These towns offer opportunities to refuel at cafes, restaurants, and find water. It's advisable to carry sufficient water and snacks for the more remote sections, particularly when riding through Monte Calamita, as facilities are sparse there.
What makes the Monte Calamita section of the trail unique?
The Monte Calamita section is particularly unique due to its history as an ancient mining area. The trails here are repurposed old miners' paths, characterized by distinctive red dirt from magnetite mines. This creates a rugged, almost 'lunar landscape' that is often compared to iconic mountain biking destinations like Moab in Utah or Sedona in Arizona, but with the added allure of the Tyrrhenian Sea views. It's one of the most wild and pristine areas of the Tuscan Archipelago.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
Circular route anti-clockwise. Start/Finish: Porto Azzurro (Camping "Da Mario"). From Porto Azzurro on the provincial road to the turnoff to Capoliveri. Continue on side roads, field paths, S0-S1 paths (very short S2 passages) to the picturesque "Innamorata" beach. Continue to the site of the abandoned mine with its impressive, half-ruined buildings. On this tour you don't have to climb or descend steep, washed-out paths. The gradient is pleasant both on the ascent and on the descent. I took the tour from: Komoot/Sieglinde. Many thanks.
Elba Island 🥰, we decided to do this tour out of curiosity to visit the old abandoned mine. The route takes place within the Tuscan Archipelago National Park, where we found a Bike Park, it wasn't straightforward, very mixed from challenging trails with steep dirt slopes and also some asphalt which gave us a bit of a break, we found a disused trail and by rummaging we ended up on private property by jumping the gate 🫣. A wide view of the Tyrrhenian Sea, including the Gulf of Portoferraio, we crossed Mount Calamita, known for its rugged trails and red earth, as a first day we were very satisfied, the island's environment is Wonderful
What should you write? Behind every second bend you will find new motifs and even hotter bays. -Just fantastic.-🥰 Oh yes, the trails are of course also very spectacular. I want so much.
Unfortunately, the tour starts on the road to Capoliveri: close your eyes 👀 and go through. Of course, you could also drive there by car. Parking spaces are rare, though. Otherwise, the route around the peninsula starts on the road, then on gravel paths and finally on very rewarding trails. If you have protectors with you or have the riding technique up to S3, you can add a few more trails. The tour is scenic: it leads along the sea, past colorful rock formations and through varied vegetation with different types of trees and colorful soil.
Nice MTB ride, also doable with gravel except for the climb to the Calamita mines
Big orientation round. Technically completely simple. But the views are incredible. The detours to the most beautiful beaches on the whole island too. If you want, you can do a climb and choose from many trails at the top.
Nice tour, mostly along the coast with sea views. At Morcone, it's better to stay on the main road and not follow the tour, unless you want to carry the bike up steep stairs to the beach 😉
Slightly modified track, with an extension to Porto Azzurro for a good ice cream and final swim before returning to Capoliveri. I point out that the original track that we followed at the point above the Sassi Neri lake we found a nice gate (placed as a waypoint) closed because at that point there is a private house, luckily we managed to climb over it and pass the bikes by hand, but this stretch obviously is no longer to be done. There is however a small road just above.