The Via dell'Essenza is an invitation to walk into the heart of the Mediterranean, to let yourself be guided by its scents, its colors, and the breath of the sea. It is a unique route in Italy, a coastal trail that circles the entire western side of Elba Island, encircling Mount Capanne-its highest peak-along eight paths inspired by the plants that grow naturally here: mastic, heather, lavender, rockrose, juniper, rosemary, holm oak, and myrtle.

Each stage reveals a different fragment of this Mediterranean landscape, with secret bays, fragrant hills, and horizons that fade into the blue. The Via dell'Essenza is a project created by the Acqua dell'Elba Foundation and the Tuscan Archipelago National Park, designed to enhance the island's natural beauty and environmental heritage, making it more accessible to residents and visitors while fully respecting nature. The Acqua dell'Elba Foundation and the Tuscan Archipelago National Park have collaborated to equip the eight paths with new signage: panels at the start and end of each stage, plus five posts with QR codes along every route.

By scanning the QR codes, hikers can access a dedicated page containing details about what can be observed at that specific point along the trail. Walking The Via dell'Essenza means coming into harmony with the island and with yourself. It is a path for nature lovers, for those seeking silence or companionship, for anyone wishing to rediscover a slower, more human rhythm. Step by step, the sea stays beside you. Its light, shape, and intensity may change, but it never leaves. You feel the breeze rising from the cliffs, hear the whisper of the pines, the song of the cicadas, the scent of the Mediterranean scrub blending with the salt of the sea.

Have a wonderful journey…