On land and sea Eco-vacation at the Tuscan Archipelago National Park

Nothing is more precious than being aware of your own fortune. Understanding the wealth, in environmental terms, that each of us possesses is the first step toward serenity. Perhaps for this reason, vacations in close contact with nature in all its marvellous forms are becoming more and more popular. It is as if the mere fact of being able to gaze at and take in an uncontaminated space were the magic formula for living better.
What’s more, Italy is a treasure chest of invaluable natural wonders, which are there for tourists to marvel at, asking only in return their attention and respect.
The Tuscan Archipelago National Park is one of these inestimable gems. It’s made even more precious by the fact that extends over both land and sea.
Created in 1996 and expanded in 1997, the park makes up part of the international sanctuary for marine mammals and covers an area of 17,694 hectares on land and 61,474 on sea, making it the largest marine reserve in Europe.
Combining the splendour of the water with marvel of the land, the purity of the air with all the life forms that exist in nature, the Tuscan Archipelago National Park takes pride in its piece of the Tyrrhenian seabed on which the seven major islands (Elba, Giglio, Capraia, Montecristo, Pianosa, Giannutri and Gorgona) shine like the stars of a constellations celebrating nature and all its glory.
You will never forget the rainbow of blue, red and yellow coral – including the rare red coral “Corallium rubrum” that can still be found in the Park. Also, with a bit of patience, you’ll have the chance to admire, in their own natural environment, red snappers, black sea bass and other sea bream. The waters of the Tuscan Archipelago is inhabited by: swordfish, tuna, Atlantic bonito, sunfish, not to mention the various species of dolphins, including bottle-nosed, striped, Atlantic spotted and spinner, that often accompany sailboats into the cleanest waters. And, there are always surprises waiting for you: baleen and sperm whales roam the waters of the marine park all year round, however it’s easiest to spot them in the off-seasons. That’s one good reason to visit the Archipelago in spring and autumn.
There is no place in Europe more ideal for enjoying a vacation at the centre of the essence of life: the variety of coasts and seabeds - from the beaches of Elba to the sheer rock formations of Capraia – offer plants and animals the perfect setting to thrive and human beings, fascinated by the natural beauty, an opportunity to enjoy a unique holiday in close contact with the origins of life.