Hotel Ilio Isola d'Elba

Beach

The beach and cliffs at Capo Sant'Andrea, just a few steps away from boutique Hotel Ilio on the Island of Elba

THE BEACH. Just 150 metres from boutique Hotel Ilio, lies the beautiful bay of Sant'Andrea, with its beach and rocks, the shallow sandy seabed, ideal for those who want an easy time by the sea. Crystal-clear waters, ahead lies Tuscany; and from the cliffs at Capo Sant'Andrea, the view is of the island of Capraia and to Corsica. Behind, lies the splendid natural embrace of the bay. Magical.
On the right side of the bay, a short footpath cut into the rocks leads to the small beach at Punta del Cotoncello: a tongue of golden sand and shallow water between rocks, a marvellous natural swimming pool.

THE CLIFFS. There is no limit to the surprises; past the headland, on the left, there is a breath-taking view of one of the most beautiful cliffs in the world. White granite, polished by the sea and the wind and stretching as far as the eye can see, appears as whale backs rising and falling into the clear blue depths. As the sun goes down, the granite reflects the colours of the sunset. These cliffs, known as the "cote piane", can be explored easily and offer comfortable spots for bathing in the sun. A magnificently beautiful spectacle.

SPORTS AND WATERSPORTS. The bay of Sant'Andrea is perfect for snorkeling, diving and sea kayaking and the coastline of little bays and coves, reached only by sea, is ideal for boat trips and excursions. Not forgetting that the sea temperature is warm enough for bathing from May right through to October! On the beach at Sant'Andrea there is a windsurf school, diving centre, bazaar, bar and restaurants; motor boats, canoes and windsurfing equipment can also be hired on the beach.

BEACH SERVICES. On the beach at Sant'Andrea there is a small beach club where guests of boutique Hotel Ilio can rent sun umbrellas, loungers, deck-chairs and make use of the showers and changing facilities with a discount of 15% off the normal prices.