Description
Beach of Barbarossa
Part of the beach is free, while there is a bathing establishment on the other. It consists of smooth, fine pebbles and sand, and is sheltered from all the winds except those coming from the south. It is 160 metres long and 30 metres wide, and magnificent rocks and coves at both ends make it perfect for lovers of snorkeling and deep sea diving.
Although it is one of the most popular beaches in Porto Azzurro, it is never really crowded even in summer. Perfect for families with small children but also among teenagers, attracted by the numerous campsites and summer apartments.
If you start off at the town of Porto Azzurro, and follow the walls around the seventeenth century Fortress of San Giacomo, that today is still a prison, beautiful scenery will accompany you right to Barbarossa beach. The breathtaking panorama all round also makes it an ideal place for those who wish to take their dog on a long, relaxing walk.
Legend has it that its name comes from the Ottoman pirate Khayr-al-Din-Barbarossa, who landed at the Island of Elba in 1500 and completely destroyed the town of Grassera ,opposite Rio nell’Elba, never to be rebuilt. Or maybe it is due to a wall of red earth eroded into delicate, sloping ravines that from a distance look like a reddish beard looking down on Caletta di Barbarossa, the tiny, fine pebbles beach on the near right that you can either walk or swim to.
Just take the right turning on the road for Rio Marina, about 1 kilometre from the town of Porto Azzurro.
