Description
Beach of Patresi
It is on the western side of the Island of Elba, below the town of Patresi, and lies at the foot of the lighthouse in Punta Polveraia; the view of the sun setting over Capraia and Corsica s breathtaking.
Since it consists solely of large pebbles that aren’t very comfortable to lie or sit on, it is really a cove rather than an actual beach, but precisely because it is so “rugged” and completely natural it is so unique.
Since the water here is exceptionally clear with ever changing chromatisms, and the sea bed is very rich both in flora and fauna, the beach is very popular among lovers of snorkelling, underwater photography and fishing.
There is a sun bed and sun umbrella rental next to the mooring slipway for small boats on the cement platform at the start of the beach, where children love to play and dive; there is a small bar where you can also have something to eat out on the terrace, and they also provide showers for those who wish.
A walkway along the beach enables you get past the middle part of the beach and get to a small area consisting of small pebbles. Although there are neither bathing establishments nor lifeguards here, thanks to the hard work of the volunteers the beach is very clean.
You can admire the crystal clear water from the top of the winding road that takes you right down to Patresi Mare, and you can also park at the roadside. The local authorities in Marciana provide a “Marebus” service from July to September to and from the beach and the nearby towns of Zanca, Patresi and Colle d’Orano.
You will see the sign for the small beach of Punta Polveraia, consisting of grey and white pebbles, before you turn off for Patresi Mare; make a point of going to see it because, like Patresi, the water here is crystal clear.
Once at La Guardia, in Patresi, follow the signs for Patresi Mare for about 1,2 km along the winding, asphalt road.
