Holiday apartment in Capraia Isola: volcanic island, nature and history

Capraia Isola combines an exceptional volcanic landscape with habitats, traces of history and vibrant island traditions. Isola di Capraia is the only volcanic island in the Tuscan Archipelago. Its character is defined by mountains: the west coast is very steep and precipitous, while the slopes in the east descend more gently. At 445 metres, Monte Castello is Capraia’s highest peak.

Nature

A distinctive landscape feature is the Stagnone. It is the only lake in the Tuscan Archipelago and formed in a natural depression through rainwater and groundwater. At the same time, it constitutes an important wetland, particularly popular for observing migratory birds in spring. Capraia Isola is also remarkable for its flora: more than 650 plant species have been recorded on the island, a significant proportion of which are endemic. Since 1996, Isola di Capraia has been part of the Tuscan Archipelago National Park.

Nature continues beneath the surface of the water. The waters around Capraia include Posidonia seagrass meadows and submerged rock walls that attract snorkellers and divers. At Cala dello Zurletto, visitors can also observe folds, intrusions and forms of marine erosion characteristic of Capraia. The Sentiero del Reganico leads through habitats where visitors can discover Capraia’s natural diversity and recognise plant species they have observed previously.

Trails

Several trails connect the landscape with the island’s history. A hiking trail leads from the Stagnone via Monte Le Penne to the harbour. Along the way, it passes through the grounds of the former agricultural penal colony; ruins and the former buildings Caseificio, Stalle and Lavanderia can be seen along the route. The Strada di San Leonardo, dating from Roman times, is suitable as a walking route between the harbour and the village and passes through the Mediterranean maquis.

Another connection to the village is provided by the old mule track. A short walk there leads to the village’s typical fortified houses. They have very thick walls and were formerly inhabited only on the upper floors to protect against attacks. In spring and autumn, the Walking Festival on Capraia includes guided hikes and excursions during which the island’s distinctive landscapes are explored on foot.

Culture

The historic architecture includes Forte San Giorgio and Torretta del Bagno. Both are among the fortifications built during Genoese rule. The Chiesa di San Nicola houses a wooden statue dedicated to the saint that was recovered from the sea. Of a church destroyed by the Saracens in the 9th century and rebuilt in the 11th century, only the side walls and part of the apse remain today.

Traditions

Capraia also takes part in the Palio marinaro dell’Arcipelago Toscano, a long-standing tradition. In August and September, the crews of the Tuscan islands compete against one another in rowing boats. The Sagra del Totano takes place every year in November. It combines a squid-fishing competition with an actual sagra and stalls offering food and wine.

Getting there

Isola di Capraia can be reached by scheduled ferry from Porto Mediceo in Livorno. For further navigation, Bandita, Cecina, Sant'Ilario, Mortaiolo, Livorno, Collesalvetti, La Cinquantina and La Sdriscia are also available.

To the higher-level travel overview: Livorno.