montecristo island visit

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Visit the island of Montecristo

Montecristo Island in the Tuscan Archipelago

Montecristo Island is a place shrouded in mystery, an almost inaccessible island that has everything it takes to whet the imagination. Its fame is linked to the huge success of Alexandre Dumas’ novel “The Count of Monte Cristo” all over the world. In the novel, Montecristo is a treasure island and it is that treasure that allows the protagonist to turn and get revenge on his enemies. Today the treasure of the island of Montecristo is not a treasure chest full of gold but the magnificent uncontaminated habitat that makes the island a real naturalistic paradise in the middle of the sea.

Where is the island of Montecristo

Montecristo is located in the middle of the Tyrrhenian Sea, west of the island of Giglio and south of Elba and the island of Pianosa . It is one of the seven main islands of the Tuscan Archipelago and from an administrative point of view it is part of the municipality of Portoferraio .

Why is it called Montecristo?

The name Monte Christi dates back to the Middle Ages and according to tradition it can be traced back to the figure of San Mamiliano. The saint, imprisoned and made slaves, managed to escape his persecutors by taking refuge on the island. Here San Mamiliano lived in a cave which is called “Grotta del Santo” or “Grotta di San Mamiliano”. Later on the island was also founded the Monastery of San Mamiliano. It is in this religious context that the island acquired its current name.

History of the island

A series of artifacts found on the island shows us how the island has been frequented since the Neolithic period even if to have something more concrete you have to get to the 5th century AD. when the Monastery of San Mamiliano was founded. The history of the monastery was interrupted in 1553 when it was attacked by Dragut, the legendary Ottoman pirate who in the same years had also tried to conquer Portoferraio on the Island of Elba. After this event, the island was abandoned to itself for a long time and the pirates who infested the Mediterranean took advantage of it to make it their base.

Napoleon established a military base on the island of Montecristo in 1814. During the nineteenth century there were various attempts to colonize the island such as that of the entrepreneur Jacques Abrial who started cultivation by also building a couple of buildings that now house the Naturalistic Museum and the infopoint of the Tuscan Archipelago National Park. A few years later, in 1852, George Watson Taylor, Baron of Strichen, bought the island by building what is now called the Royal Villa. The island then passed to the Italian State who bought it in 1869. Five years later, in 1874, the Italian government established a prison there, a branch of that of Pianosa, which remained in business for 10 years.

For many years the island was used improperly, especially as a hunting reserve, but fortunately, in 1971, Montecristo was declared a State Nature Reserve and since then its habitat has been protected as it deserves.

Natural Reserve of Montecristo

The Montecristo Island Nature Reserve extends over the whole island and the sea that surrounds it up to 3 miles from the coast. Within the protected area there is also the Scoglio d’Africa which emerges not far from the island. The presence of a nature reserve explains why it is not possible to swim or dive. It is also forbidden to fish, collect plants or anything else. In its waters you can pass but not drop anchor.

The island of Montecristo measures just over 10 square kilometers and has a shape that resembles a pyramid. Its highest peak, Monte Fortezza, reaches 645 meters above sea level and its rocky coasts emerge prominently from the sea. It almost looks like a volcano but it is not. The protection to which the island is subjected has ensured that numerous species of flora and fauna have been preserved here that once flourished in other areas as well.

Among the main “inhabitants” of the island we note the Montecristo goat, the Sardinian discoglasso, a frog found only here and in Sardinia, snakes such as the southern viper and various species of birds including the kestrel, the golden eagle and the shearwater minor. Its waters are characterized by an extremely varied ecosystem in which there are corals, sea anemones, gorgonians, posidonia and different types of fish including sunfish.

Inhabitants and guardians of Montecristo

The island of Montecristo is now substantially uninhabited. I say basically because on the island there is only a couple of guardians who take care of guarding the island and welcoming visitors during the summer season. Over time, several pairs of guardians have followed one another. Each guardian couple stayed on the island for a few years, before leaving this corner of paradise in the hands of the next couple.

How to get to the island of Montecristo

Montecristo Island can be visited but access to the island is very limited. Each year, dates for visits are established and there is a maximum number of visitors (in 2022 there are 1725 in all). Visits to the Montecristono Island are organized by the Tuscan Archipelago Park Authority. Ferries to Montecristo Island generally depart from Piombino, stop at Porto Azzurro on the Island of Elba and moor at Cala Maestra, which is the only port allowed on Montecristo Island.

All visits include trekking excursions with guides who accompany visitors along one of the paths on the island. Some of these itineraries require some preparation while others are easier; in any case it is advisable to come with suitable clothing (Trekking shoes etc.), food, water, sunglasses and sunscreen.

If you want to book your visit, you have to go to this page .

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Monte Cristo Island – Visit the Tyrrhenian Sea best-kept Gem

Not so far from the Tuscan hinterland, the timeless Monte Cristo Island surprises its travelers with its peculiarity. Considered the gem of the Tyrrhenian Sea, it’s surely a must-see spot for those who are looking for relaxation, naturalistic beauty, or adventure. From sunlit areas and iconic landscapes to suggestive granite boulders, this island offers unforgettable experiences for everyone, but also an impressive historical and cultural background.

Previously called ‘Oglasa’ or ‘ Monte Christi ’ (from Italian ‘ Monte Cristo ’), this biogenetic reserve probably takes these denominations from its monastic vocation. Indeed, it is said that – during the 5th century – there was the so-called San Mamiliano Monastery. Moreover, Montecristo Island owes its fame and success to the literary masterpiece ‘ The Count of Monte Cristo ’, written by Alexandre Dumas. This romance, indeed, is set on the 19th-century island, which hides a coveted and mysterious treasure.

Completely uninhabited, Montecristo Island presents narrow paths and a fascinating variety of flora and fauna, perfectly preserved and supervised by the two guardians. Whether you are interested in sunbathing, visiting unexpected shores, or evocative sceneries, keep on reading to find out the best things to do and see or accommodations to stay thereabout .

How to Get to Montecristo Island

Monte Cristo Island , mostly made of gray-pink granite, has a pyramidal shape which, in ancient times, guaranteed protection in case of attacks from enemies or pirates. Nowadays, however, it looks quite difficult to reach the adjacent Monte Fortezza or Cima of Lecci. The jagged coasts do not allow the landing anyplace but Cala Maestra, on the West side.

You can only reach Montecristo Island during spring (1st march-15th April) or summer/autumn (15th may-31st October) by using a public/private boat subject to authorization from the Forestry Corps, which will bring you to Cala Maestra. It is also allowed just a paid boat access per day with a maximum of 15 people on it. Nevertheless, the spot accepts no more than 2000 people per year. If you are an international tourist, moreover, you can fly from your motherland to Tuscany’s main cities and take a ferry boat to this charm.

9 Places to Visit in Montecristo Island, Tuscany

1. san mamiliano monastery.

The monastery located on the island of Monte Cristo, its conditions tell of its antiquity

The rural San Mamiliano Monastery is an ex-place of worship, based on a massive hill of the Island. There, you can find interesting remains of it, which anciently received many donations and briefly became one of the richest monasteries of the Archipelago, including:

a huge chapel;
a cloister with an adjoining cistern;
numerous rooms for the monks;
a little garden.

This site is strictly connected to San Mamiliano , who came to this island in order to escape from Sicily and pray with his followers. After that, local people became devoted to him and founded the homonym structure.

Official Website : Monastery of Saint Mamilian

Location : 57037 Portoferraio, Province of Livorno

Telephone : /

Reviews : 4.7/5

2. Cala Corfu

Nestled not far from the North-West coast, Cala Corfù is a fascinating sea bay with a rich historical tapestry. Utilized by the Spanish as a strategic naval base, it echoes the tales of maritime dominance that once graced its shores. Upon arrival, the landscape unfolds, revealing the resilient leaves of trenches and the charming settlements of traditional fishermen’s houses, each structure a silent storyteller of the bay’s enduring past. As you explore, the salty breeze carries with it a sense of timelessness, connecting you to the intricate threads of history woven into this coastal haven.

3. Fortress of Montecristo

The fortress of Montecristo: an excellent lookout point to observe the movements of the ships

Perched atop Monte Cristo, the eponymous Fortress stands as a formidable structure dating back to the 16th century. Shaped like a pentagon, this historical complex served as a staunch defensive bastion against potential attacks. Its strategic design not only rendered it nearly impregnable but also provided a breathtaking vantage point overlooking the surrounding coastal panorama. Today, visitors can explore the remaining vestiges of this once-mighty fortress, granted permission by Follonica’s Forestry Corps, offering a glimpse into the enduring legacy of its defensive prowess.

4. Grotta del Santo

The interior of the grotta del santo in Monte Cristo Island

Grotta del Santo , tucked between the dense vegetation of Montecristo, is a significantly important place of interest. Also known as ‘ Grotta di San Mamiliano ’ or ‘ Grotta del Drago ’, this one dates its history back to the century.

During that time, in fact, San Mamiliano was the bishop of Palermo. Escaping from Sicily, he went to Monte Cristo Island to meditate and pray in solitude. There, he found this cozy hollow next to Monte Fortezza. As legend tells, he bravely killed a flying dragon and gave birth to one of the purest sources of water.

Official Website : Grotta del Santo

Reviews : 5/5

5. Cala Maestra

Cala Maestra is an uncontaminated beach on the island of Montecristo, with very fine sand.

Nestled along the North-West side of the island, Cala Maestra unfolds as a captivating cove. Graced with the presence of a picturesque Roman column and a charming pebble beach, it invites visitors to bask in the beauty of its surroundings. From the shoreline, the crystalline waters of the sea paint a mesmerizing scene, adding a touch of magic to this wonderful coastal enclave. Explore the remnants of ancient history and relish the serene ambiance of Cala Maestra, a hidden gem awaiting discovery.

6. Natural Reserve

The crystal clear water of the island of Monte Cristo, a nature reserve

From 1899 to the 70s, Montecristo Island was known to be an exclusive hunting reserve belonging to King Vittorio Emanuele III of Savoy. After his exile, the European Council declared (in 1988) Montecristo as a Biogenetic Natural Reserve . By now, experts in the naturalistic sector (biologists, geologists, and agronomists) carefully take care of the protection of the fauna and flora still alive, which will welcome you once arrive.

7. Botanical Garden

Nestled within the medieval Villa Reale, the Botanical Garden stands as a precious gem on Montecristo Island. An immersive experience awaits visitors, offering a wealth of interactive tools, including films and models, providing insightful glimpses into the area’s rich history. Beyond its educational features, the garden is a haven for observing numerous botanical species crucial for preserving ecosystem integrity and biodiversity. Explore the lush greenery and informative displays, and delve into the intricate tapestry of Montecristo’s natural wonders within this enchanting sanctuary.

8. Lighthouse of Montecristo

A photo shows the north side of the island of Montecristo

The Tuscan Archipelago is globally famous for its lighthouse, named: Faro dello Scoglio d’Africa . The latter, tucked between Montecristo Island and Corsica, takes this name from its southern position.

Active since 1867, this complex enlightens the Island to help mariners to cross the coast more easily. From an architectural point of view, instead, you will be able to admire the circular white tower made of local stone.

9. Roman Ruins

The Roman Ruins, nestled amidst nature, stand as a revered archaeological site, showcasing the remnants of temples, baths, and ancient houses dating back to the 3rd century BC. Surrounded by a tranquil landscape, this site provides a captivating journey through the echoes of an ancient civilization that once thrived on the ‘isolotto.’ For those with a keen interest in unraveling the mysteries of the past, exploring these well-preserved ruins promises a truly immersive and once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Geology and Wildlife of Montecristo Island

Montecristo Island is literally a naturalistic jewel, hosting a wide variety of animal and vegetable species such as tree heather, cistus, and rosemary. You can access its territory through paths that lead to the mountain ranges: Cima dei Lecci and Monte Fortezza .

On the other hand, we recall the presence of migratory birds and spaces where there is an evident abundance of wild goats and reptiles, including the Sardinian disco glass frog, the Corsican gull, the lesser shearwater, or the golden eagle. Furthermore, the seabed stands out for the habitat lived by monk seals.

Montecristo Island Outdoor

Despite its morphological limitations, Montecristo Island is a good place for fitness enthusiasts. Indeed, you can keep training on vacation by taking part in multiple guided tours. The latter start from Piombino or Porto Santo Stefano up to Giglio Island.

With a group made of a maximum of 12 people, you can only outdooring in specific zones. We suggest you bring a pair of trekking shoes , a fundamental requirement to enjoy this activity.

The Best Hotels in Montecristo Island

Whether you’re looking for somewhere relaxing, close to Montecristo Island, and very budget-friendly, the Etruscan Coast offers many options of accommodations, ready to satisfy any visitor’s request. Here’s our top 3 stays.

Overlooking sea view from terrace of the Le sirene

Le Sirene , based in the center of Seccheto (Elba), you can find outstanding views, private rooms with a terrace, and bathrooms fully equipped with bed sheets and towels.

Location : Via della Spiaggia, 57034 Seccheto, Italy

Features : Sea View, Terrace, Free parking

Reviews : 8.2/10

Affordable Apartments next to the Seaside

A room in Appartamenti Montecristo e Pianosa

At Appartamenti Montecristo and Pianosa , you can reach Elba Port or Marina di Campo airport very easily. There, it is possible to find private rooms with an adjacent dining area and free private parking.

Location : Montecristo 28, 57037 Seccheto, Italy

Features : Air conditioning, View, Free parking

Reviews : 7.2/10

Residence Reale

At Residence Reale , you will find two Renaissance buildings with fully equipped single/double rooms and kitchen. Very close to the beach, it also offers a huge swimming pool and a gardening area. Breakfast is included and homemade.

Location : Reale 5, 57036 Porto Azzurro, Italy

Features : Sea View, Garden, Balcony

Reviews : 9/10

What to Eat on Monte Cristo Island

The island of Montecristo photographed from the Tuscan mainland

Montecristo Island is a protected area, inaccessible for bathing or catering. However, it is possible to find typically Italian delicacies nearby. We absolutely advise you to eat at ‘Che bolle in pentola? ’ (based in Follonica), which offers a wide range of fried fish, homemade desserts and their famous tortelli al ragù. Alternatively, you could go to ‘Il Pirata ’ (in the center of Follonica), which proposes specialties like rosemary squid or risotto.

What to See Nearby

Montecristo Island, thanks to its great position, allows you to reach quite significant maritime metropolitan spots like: Giglio Island and Elba Island . Let’s see what not to miss once you arrive there.

Giglio Island

Only 10 miles from the mainland, Giglio Island is one of the most enchanting Tuscan beauties. Full of cultural, maritime and gastronomic spots, we suggest you visit Caletta del Saraceno, Punta di Capel Rosso and the Tower of Campese.

Elba Island

A beautiful pedestrian path for walking along Porto Azzurro, on the island of Elba

Known for being Napoleon Bonaparte’s post-exile refuge, Elba Island is full of treasures to admire. We recommend you visit the Museum of Residenze Napoleoniche, Monte Capanne, or Fetovaia Beach.

Curiosities about Montecristo Island

The island of Montecristo photographed from the Corsica, in France

The Buried Treasure

The Buried treasure is part of a legend, which dates back to 1500 circa. As popular stories tell, there’s a hidden treasure in the Grotta del Santo. San Mamiliano Monastery monks put it there in order to protect it from the Ottoman Corsair Dragut.

The Island in Literature and Cinema

Montecristo Island , with its aesthetic and atmosphere, often became part of the literary and cinematographic field. It was quoted of course by A. Dumas, but also by A. Christie in ‘Two Little Indians’ and by G. Saviane in ‘ Euthanasia of Love’ .

This Italian island is so dreamy you have to apply to visit and there's a waitlist — take a look

In the glittering Mediterranean Sea sits a diamond-shaped island shrouded in secrecy: Montecristo. It opens twice a year to the public...but only for a lucky few.

The beautiful island of Montecristo is the fourth largest island of the Tuscan Archipelago (a chain of islands west of Tuscany, Italy including Elba and Capraia) and is about four square miles in size. It has a colorful history full of monks, pirates and saints. The island also serves as the supposed site of a buried treasure in the classic novel, "The Count of Monte Cristo" by Alexandre Dumas.

But what makes it so amazing is that the 5 million-year-old island is virtually untouched, preserving its rich biodiversity; it's home to flora, fauna (like wild goats) and marine life.

It's also extremely exclusive: Only four people live on the island — two groundskeepers and two rotating members of its military police force, according to Lonely Planet . And the island only began granting access to visitors for the first time in 2008 . Now outsiders are only allowed just five months a year, and even then, space is extremely limited.

Visitors are welcomed on day passes (which reportedly cost around $60) from Aug. 31 to Oct. 31 and from April 1 to July 5. In an effort to protect Montecristo's environment, a maximum of 1,000 visitors are allowed to visit the island a year (roughly 50 visitors are permitted a day) with 600 spots reserved for students and 400 for adults. Preference reportedly goes to scientific teams and educational trips.

This type of adventure isn't for procrastinators or solo travelers, either: You'll need to plan ahead and get a big group together in order to make this a successful getaway.

"The island is not served by scheduled ferries and therefore those who get authorization to visit must independently find a boat suitable to cover the approximately 40 nautical miles from the mainland," Aurora Ciardelli, a spokeswoman for the Tuscan Archipelago's National Park, told The Local .

"Any individual looking to visit may have to find or convince at least 39 other people to go. Individual applicants who are not organized in groups of at least 40 people may encounter difficulties in organizing the trip," she says.

To get to Tuscany, visitors can fly into Pisa or Florence . To visit Montecristo, travelers can apply for authorization from the government for the coming year (it's too late for this year) and will need to fill out this application by Jan. 31. But be warned: the waitlist reportedly takes years.

"Due to the high demand and the quota number of those admitted to the visit, it is probable that they will have to wait a long time before they can be admitted," the national park website states .

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Isola di Montecristo

Montecristo: a natural haven that inspired art.

Situated in the Tuscan Archipelago, Montecristo island has inspired adventurous legends and it still remains a territory rich in mystery, certainly helped by its location, difficult to reach and visit. Its name is powerfully linked to literature, as the island was Alexandre Dumas’ inspiration for one of his masterpieces, Le Comte de Monte-Cristo : Wild and silent, it was the perfect scenery for the intricate plot of this famous novel.

The cover of one of a vintage edition of Dumas’ novel (www.wikimedia.org)

A rare natural location, for a rare fauna and flora

Montecristo’s ground is mountainous and it is almost entirely made up of pink granite; most of its buildings are located in the Cala Maestra and they were used in the past as branches for Pianosa ‘s prison. The island has been long inhabited and it is for this reason an amazing cradle for wildlife. Plants, trees and animals live undisturbed on the island, which hosts two famous local types of fauna: Montecristo’s viper and a rare amphibian, the discoglosso sardo, also known as the Tyrrhenean painted frog.

The Tyrrhenian painted frog (www.wikimedia.org)

Its best known places include Cala Maestra, characterized by its sandy ground and the XIX century Royal Villa, la Villa Reale , that includes a beautiful botanical garden and a small museum of natural history. From Cala Maestra a path leads to the Belvedere , Italian for panoramic viewpoint. As the name suggests, there is a breathtaking view from this place. Other creeks offer the lucky visitors beautiful sea sceneries and the possibility to spot some birds’ communities, along with marine fauna.

The beach at Cala Maestra (www.wikimedia.org)

The access to the island is possible only under special permit and it is usually issued for particular purposes by the Ministry. Researchers, biologists and people working in the field of academia are usually those who are given the chance to explore the island: landing, bathing, and anchoraging around the so-called “area one” are not allowed. Therefore, access is restricted to a limited number of people per annum and under reservation.

The beautiful Montecristo (www.wikimedia.org)

Dumas and his own Montecristo

Even if people don’t have the opportunity to visit, they have always tried to imagine what the island is like through the descriptions given by Dumas in the Le Comte de Montecristo. The story was based on the legendary existence of a big treasure hidden into a cave. Some researchers maintain Dumas’ treasure actually consisted of holy furniture and ancient objects, and that it was stolen by pirates headed by Dragut, a Turkish commander, three centuries before the book was even conceived.

A popular illustration of Dragut: did he steal the real treasure of Montecristo Dumas had immagined?

A secret paradise, away from consummerism and tourism

The island of Montecristo is, at all effects, a desert island. It is inhabited only by the guardiano , the keeper, and his family. They live in a house and they get in touch with the external world through technological devices.

Unfortunately, this wonder of the world cannot be appreciated by the human eye, but it is also for this reason that curiosity around it has increased: the air of mystery surrounding the island can be felt even when nearby, at sea, or this is at least what happened to me: a forbidden land which can only be discovered by few lucky ones: that is what the isola di Montecristo is.

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Montecristo Island

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The island of Montecristo is the most mysterious and inaccessible island in the entire Tuscan Archipelago . Snatched from housing speculation in the 1971 by ministerial decree on March 4, which declared it “ State Integral Nature Reserve,” graduated in 1988 Biogenetic Nature Reserve to the Council of Europe and today, in addition to being included in the Tuscan Archipelago National Park , the island, is Biosphere Reserve “Islands of Tuscany ” and part of the International Cetacean Sanctuary “Pelagos .” The latter was born out of an agreement between Italy, France and the Principality of Monaco, with the aim of protecting marine mammals from the threat of human activities. The Sanctuary defines a space of maritime area that transcends the boundaries of territorial waters and includes high seas territories included by them. The island, part of the municipality of Portoferrario-Island of Elba (LI ), is managed by the Carabinieri Command for the Protection of Biodiversity and Parks, Follonica (GR ) department, and is located 63 km from the mainland, resulting in, the farthest, among the islands of the archipelago, from the peninsular coast. Its remote location and impassable terrain, characterized by sheer granite cliffs overlooking the sea, made it over the centuries a chosen place for those who decided to lead a monastic life. Especially from the 5th century onward, when Mamilianus (later Saint) , bishop of Palermo, chose it as his hermitage. To this century date the cave of St. Mamiliano , the Monastery , built by his followers following his death, and the two legends about him:

The first tells the story of the fight between St. Mamiliano and a huge winged dragon , the sole inhabitant and guardian of the island, upon the death of which, at the site of the fight, a spring of the purest water and a veritable treasure stored in the saint’s cave would spring forth.

The second tells of the Saint’s death and the arrangements he made with the people of Giglio for the management and burial of his body. In fact, the Giglio people claim that Mamiliano wanted to be buried on Giglio Island and at the appropriate time, from Montecristo, he would light a fire to signal his imminent passing. At the smoke signal, the Gigliese would set sail for the island to retrieve the body and bestow a proper burial in their limited lands. But once the opportune time came, even from Elba they spotted smoke coming from the Mount, and a delegation of Elbans set out for Monte Cristo. Finding everyone there, Elbans and Giglians , they began to contend for the body, just physically pulling it, some by one arm and some by another, from one side to the other. So pull you back the body was torn off and the Elbans were left with the body while the Giglio people were left with only an arm, still jealously guarded in the Church of Giglio Castello . Historically, the body was, instead, buried in Sovana in the dedicated church.

The Sovana Church Museum houses the famous “ Treasure of Montecristo ” which Alexandre Dumas refers to in his famous novel. Secretly hidden inside the church until 2012, when it was found. These are 498 gold solids minted under Leo I and , Antemiusbetween 457 and 474, relevant in number of pieces and number of emperors represented. Ancient documents and folk legends indicated being in the Monastery of Monte Cristo, hidden inside the cave.

The island had a monastic vocation until 1534 , when it was inhabited by a company of privateers who, in 1553, led by Dragut , finally conquered the monastery. From then on it remained uninhabited until 1814 when Napoleon sent a military garrison there. During the various attempts to colonize and start agricultural activities, the modern buildings of Montecristo were built, namely the future Nature Museum and the so-called Casotto dei Pescatori (Fishermen’s Hut ) at the beach of Cala Maestra , now the infopoint of the Tuscan Archipelago National Park . In 1889 the island became a hunting reserve of first the Florentine marquis Carlo Ginori Lisci and then King Vittorio Emanuele III of Savoy . During these years the vast mansion, built by Baron George Watson Taylor in 1852 above Cala Maestra, became Villa Reale complete with terraced gardens in which to grow exotic tree species.

While the special conditions of the island have effectively prevented urban settlements, they have also fostered and preserved animal and plant species once widespread throughout the Mediterranean Sea. Giant specimens of Erica Arborea and thousand-year-old holm oaks can be found here, and again, at the Grotta del Santo, a rare species of fern: the Osmunda Regalis . Vegetation life is severely affected by goat grazing , which allows only certain plant species to reproduce, the others being part of their diet. Although the presence of goats in the Tuscan Archipelago is attested by the Latin and Greek toponymy of some of the islands such as: Capraia and Aygilion (Giglio Island), Montecristo retains Italy’s only population of wild goats. A resting place for thousands of migratory birds , it is also home to the viper and the Sardinian discoglosso , a species of toad found only on a couple of Tuscan islands, including Giglio Island and in Sardinia. In the sea surrounding the island, in which diving is strictly prohibited, there are posidonia meadows , sea anemones , sea fans , and corals . The presence of the sunfish an impressive bony fish is common.

Except for flora and fauna the island is completely uninhabited. Over the years, only park rangers accompanied by their wives have taken turns.

Points of Interest in Montecristo

Monastery of San Mamiliano
Cave of San Mamiliano
Fortress of Monte Cristo on the highest peak of the island (645 m)
Royal Villa
Museum of Natural History
Botanical garden
Hydraulic mill (ruins) at the Cave of San Mamiliano
Church of Santa Maria (ruins) at the cove of the same name, relocated on August 6, 2012 by architect Silvestre Ferruzzi.

Recommended Equipment

Solid ankle-high hiking shoes
Water at least 1.5 lt
Wind Jacket
Container for transporting garbage

Visit Montecristo

Access to Montecristo is strictly regulated both on land and at sea. A maximum of 2,000 visitors per year are allowed, accompanied by one or more official guides from the Tuscan Archipelago National Park . Tours, organized by the Park, can only be booked at the Park itself by contacting its offices by phone or email. The calendar for 2021 includes 25 dates spread over the periods from March 1 to April 15 and May 15 to October 31 , with the exclusion of the intermediate period that coincides with avian migration. Of these, 23 plan to depart from the port of Piombino (Livorno) with a stopover in Porto Azzurro (island of Elba)and 2 from Porto Santo Stefano (Grosseto) with a stopover in Giglio Porto . Each day has about 75 places for a total of 1,875 places , 100 of which are reserved for residents of the Tuscan Archipelago .

Given the Island’s uniqueness and value, visits are aimed at exploring environmental features and historical sites , excluding any beach-type activities. Trekking tours led by Park guides, take place along three routes:

-Cala Maestra – Belvedere – Villa Reale : Length: m 2,031 Height difference: 230 mt. Difficulty: medium Time: 2 hours

– Cala Maestra – Monastery – Grotta del Santo – Villa Reale : Length: m 3,610 Height difference: 460 mt. Difficulty: high Time: 3 hours and 30 min.

-Cala Maestra – Royal Villa – Eco Museum : Length: m 2,000 Height difference: 50 mt. Difficulty: easy Time: 2 hours

And in smaller groups of 12 people each with their own guide. For those who wish to stay in Cala Maestra, it is prohibited to place umbrellas or beach towels on the beach.

Ankle-high hiking shoes are required for the hike due to the danger of vipers, provide enough water to last the day, packed lunch. A hat for warmer periods, a windbreaker in spring and fall periods. It will be at the guide’s discretion to decide if you have the appropriate equipment for the hike. It is strictly forbidden to deposit any kind of garbage on the whole island, participants must equip themselves with special containers to transport them.

Costs and Departure Times.

€ 120.00 per person for tourist fruition from Elba – Piombino and from Porto S. Stefano – Giglio; € 60.00 per person for enjoyment intended for adult residents in the islands of the Tuscan Archipelago . Reserved for residents in the islands of the Tuscan Archipelago. Seats available at this rate nr. 100 .

Piombino – Porto Azzurro (Elba Island) – Montecristo round trip

Departure from Piombino Marittima 8:30 a.m. Arrival in Porto Azzurro 09:20 am Departure from Porto Azzurro 9:30 a.m. Arrival in Montecristo 11:15 a.m.

Departure from Montecristo 4:15 pm Arrival in Porto Azzurro 6 p.m. Departure from Porto Azzurro 6:10 pm Arrival in Piombino Marittima 7 p.m.

Porto S. Stefano – Giglio Island – Montecristo

Departure from Porto S. Stefano 8:30 a.m. Arrival Giglio Island 09:20 am Departure Giglio Island 9:30 a.m. Arrival in Montecristo 11:30 a.m.

Departure from Montecristo 4:15 p.m. Arrival Giglio Island 6 p.m. Departure Giglio Island 6:10 pm Arrival at Porto S. Stefano 7 p.m.

Reservations, cancellation policies and a detailed schedule of visits can be found on the dedicated page of InfoPark.

Access by private watercraft

In addition to guided tours, organized by the Tuscan Archipelago National Park in agreement with the Carabinieri Biodiversity Department , access to the island of Montecristo is possible with watercraft or pleasure boats under 16 meters . In this case, the request for access must be made directly to the

Carabinieri Biodiversity Department of Follonica (GR)

Tel no. 0566 40611 – fax no. 0566 44616 office e-mail : [email protected] P.E.C .: [email protected].

The access authorization allows the descent ashore and the visit of only the appurtenances of Cala Maestra and the museum (please note that bathing is prohibited on the Island of Montecristo) conducted by personnel of the Carabinieri Forestali.

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Montecristo Island

The tuscan archipelago, difficult to reach, but his photos show us one of the few remaining territories where natural cycles still occur undisturbed by humans.

Montecristo is the fourth largest island in the Tuscan Archipelago, with an area of 10.4 sq. km. The island is currently uninhabited and the subject of an integral reserve. The history of Montecristo has its roots in the Neolithic age, between the sixth and fifth millennia B.C., a time to which fragments of pottery and a flint artifact found near Cala Maestra seem datable. There are few elements that help to define the history of Montecristo in Etruscan and Roman times. We are aware of onerous shipwrecks near its waters (3rd seol B.C.) and we have some written evidence with respect to artifacts found in the 1800s at Cala Maestra such as a fragment of glass glass, iron slag and a fragment of marble flooring that could be pertinent to a maritime villa on the model of those found on other islands in the Tuscan Archipelago. More information comes from the fifth century AD, when a monastery and chapel were built in the cave where St. Mamiliano lived while fleeing from the Vandals and which legend has it was also home to his mysterious treasure. Written sources describe how the monastery was erected on the remains of a Roman temple dedicated to Jupiter, without archaeology bringing concrete evidence to corroborate this information. The island was inhabited until 1553, although subject to numerous pirate raids. During the last of these by Dragut, the monastery of Montecristo was permanently abandoned, and the island became a den of pirates for many years. Subsequent attempts at repopulation, which lasted until well into the 1800s, were never really successful.

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Mines of rio marina.

Location: Rio Marina

Paolina beach.

The beach is named after the islet a few meters from the shore, itself named after Napoleon Bonaparte’s sister who, according to a legend (probably created by a tourism entrepreneur in the 1960s) loved to sunbathe on these rocks.

Location: Marciana

San martino villa.

Designated as a summer residence, Napoleon purchased the property from the Manganaro family in 1814, with the intention of transforming it into a comfortable and refined abode that would have nothing to envy from Parisian residences.

Location: Località San Martino (Portoferraio)

Mulini villa.

Built in 1724 by Grand Duke Gaston de’ Medici, it was Napoleon’s city residence during his first stay on Elba Island.

Location: Portoferraio

Sanctuary of monserrato.

It was built as a sign of gratitude in 1606 by José Pons y León of the Dukes of Arcos, Spanish governor of Naples and first governor of the square of Longone (part of the state of principals). In September 1814 Napoleon, accompanied by Pons and Bertrand wanted to visit the sanctuary.

Location: Località Monserrato (Portoazzurro)

Mum mineralogical museum.

While the Elban economy today is based on tourism, the fact remains that the people of San Piero and the west coast (Pomonte) have also lived and continue to live off their granite and marble

Location: San Piero in Campo

Port and tower of marciana marina.

Visit the harbor where Maria Walewska landed and the armed watchtower visited by Napoleon himself in 1814

Location: Marciana Marina

Isola di Montecristo

The wild island, home of saints and legends

Wild, forbidden, legendary. The Isola di Montecristo is the most protected and unspoilt of the entire Tuscan Archipelago – with restricted visitor numbers and all forms of bathing, fishing and sailing prohibited near the coast. This is because several animal species choose the waters surrounding the island as their natural habitat, including the extremely rare Cuvier’s beaked whale. If you are lucky, you may even spot whales and dolphins.

On a visit to the island’s hinterland, make sure you wear comfortable clothing and shoes: the trails are quite challenging and there are no services of any kind. The entire island is dominated by silence and unspoilt nature. The only traces of humanity are the remains of the Monastery of San Mamiliano and the votive offerings found in the Grotta del Santo .

Visiting the Isola di Montecristo is like stepping outside of the passage of time, in a place that inspired myths and legends. These include Saint Mamilian ’s who was taken prisoner and sold as a slave in the 5th century, and is said to have escaped on a pirate ship. After converting them to Christianity, he arrived on Oglasa , the former name of Montecristo, where he defeated the dragon that was terrorising the local inhabitants. The saint spent the rest of his existence in a cave where, later, some monks hid a treasure in an attempt to protect it from Dragut the Corsair. The treasure features in Alexandre Dumas ’ novel The Count of Monte Cristo , which made the island famous throughout the world.

Isola di Montecristo, Italia

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Gourmet trip to Tuscany to discover its biodiversity

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Monte Cristo Island

The island of Monte Cristo

A natural paradise in the tuscan archipelago that inspired literature and art.

Located in the Tuscan Archipelago , the Island of Montecristo has inspired legends, adventures and still remains a territory full of mystery, certainly helped by its location, difficult to reach and also to visit.

Its name is strongly related to literature , as this stunning island was Alexandre Dumas ' inspiration for one of his masterpieces, The Count of Monte Cristo : wild and silent , it is practically perfect as the setting for the intricate plot of this famous novel.

The flora and fauna of the Island of Monte Cristo

The island is still not allowed to stay overnight, and to visit it you need a written permit strictly controlled by the Carabinieri Department for Biodiversity of Follonica: since 1971 it is a biogenetic reserve of the Tuscan Archipelago National Park; it is one of the most important points of passage and refuge for migratory birds.

The true locals of this island are the goats , introduced in the early periods of colonization, along with wild rabbits and the endemic viper of the island. This nature reserve is protected by strict rules to keep this beautiful biodiversity intact.

Plants, trees and animals live undisturbed on the island of Montecristo, which is home to two famous species of local fauna: the Montecristo viper, already mentioned before, and a rare amphibian, sardinian discoglosso , also known as the painted frog of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Its best known places are Cala Maestra , characterized by its sandy bottom and its beautiful beach , which should be counted among the most beautiful in our region , and Villa Reale , which includes a beautiful botanical garden and a small natural history museum.

From Cala Maestra a path leads to the Belvedere , an incredible panoramic point that, as the name suggests, gives a breathtaking view to those lucky enough to get there.

The caves of Monte Cristo were once home to several hermits; it was the latter who christn the island as "Mons Christi", hence the modern name.

Around the middle of the sixteenth century, the infamous Turkish pirate Barbarossa and his successor Dragut, seized the monastery of Monte Cristo and established their base there giving rise to the legend of the treasure hidden on the island.

The pirate Dragut is thought to have accumulated vast wealth that he then hid in a cave somewhere on the island. Over the centuries many have tried to find the spoils of his raids, but no one has ever been successful; it was this legend of the hidden treasure that inspired Alexandre Dumas to write The Count of Monte Cristo.

Dumas and his Monte Cristo

Dumas arrived on the island in 1842, in the company of Napoleon Bonaparte's nephew. He immediately fell in love with it and thought she was " fantastic and lonely, scented with thyme and broom ".

Easy to think how he could have come to mind the plot of his book, on this island with 645 meters high, the furthest from the mainland... it is precisely here that the protagonist, Edmond Dantes, is unjustly sent to prison. Here he befriends his cellmate who reveals to him the existence of a treasure in Monte Cristo: he manages to escape from prison, find the treasure and buy himself the title of Count of Montecristo.

From then on, his revenge can start.

The novel was serialized in August 1844 in the Journal des Débats and was an immediate and worldwide success.

A paradise away from consumerism and tourism

The island of Monte Cristo is, to all respects, a deserted island, inhabited by a couple of guardians. This wonder of the world cannot be appreciated by the human eye continuously, but it is also for this reason that curiosity around her has increased: the air of mystery that surrounds her is palpable even from afar.

A land detached from the frenzy, where time seems crystallized in perpetual beauty: behold, this is the Island of Monte Cristo.

Images sources: tuscany people, maregiglio, visit tuscany, l’identità di clio, natura mediterraneo, enea rotella

How to get there Getting to the Island of Elba
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Hire Car, motorbike and boat hire/rental
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Elba not to be missed The unmissable experiences to do on holiday
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Special events and exhibitions What shall we do this evening?
How many beaches are there in Elba? 126 beaches of 1000 colours
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History of Elba Historical notes concerning Elba and its origins
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How to visit Montecristo

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Visiting Montecristo

Organised excursions to Montecristo from the Island of Elba

Since Montecristo is both an Integral State Natural Reserve and a Biogenetic Nature Reserve, strict rules and regulations apply before you can visit the island, so if you do get the chance it will be a unique eperience .A maximum of up to 2000 visitors per year are granted permission to go there, and preference is given to researchers, nature groups and students.

The main aim is to protect the birdlife on the island, so only from April 16th to May 14th access is authorized but is strictly regulated and very limited.

Thanks to the connections set up by the Park, daily excursions to the Island of Montecristo leave from Porto Azzurro . but there is a calendar with the dates requested and if they have been authorized.

Please view the calendar of when visits to Montecristo from the Island of Elba are authorized >>

You can take part in an excursion only if accompanied by authorized guides .Only up to 75 visitors can take part in a single, authorized excursion, and you can book on line on the prenotazioni.islepark.it website . Excursions cost 100 euros per person.

Residents from any of the Tuscan Archipelago islands are allowed to visit on two separate days at the cost of 60 euros per person, with departure from Elba : Sunday 6th October and Saturday 12th October. Residents don't need to book on line but they must apply for permission by dowloading and filling in the form or, if they prefer, they can apply directly at the Infopark; they will need their identity card, and they will have to pay for their ticket directly at the Info Park in Portoferraio, via a money transfer paid to the IBAN number IT50F0503470740000000002312.

The price of the excursion includes the return cost of the ferry ticket, the cost of the entrance fee ticket to the protected area and the service of the Park Guide. Visitors must be at least 12 years of age or over. In the event of bad weather the excursion will be postponed to another date.

Once there, bear in mind that due to the difference in the height above sea level, the heat of the sun, the fact that there are hardly any trees so there is practically no shade, the entire walk up to the top may prove to be rather tiring , so remember to bring a packed lunch with you and plenty of water, and above all, make sure you wear adequate clothes and footwear: shoes or boots suitable for trekking and loose, comfortable clothes.

Cala Maestra - Belvedere - Villa Reale Length of hike 2031 metres - Level of Difficulty: Medium-easy - How long it takes: 2 hours

Cala Maestra - Grotta del Santo - Monastery - Villa Reale Length of hike 3558 metres - Level of difficulty: challenging - How long it takes: 4 hours

Cala Maestra- Monastery - Villa Reale Length of hike 3110 metres - Level of difficulty: challenging - How long it takes: 3 hours

On request, you may be granted authorization to sail to Montecristo with your own boat but in this case it will be the forestry and environmental police who will be your guides but you will only be allowed to land on the island, and once there, you will only be allowed to visit Cala Maestra and the museum.

In order to avoid too many boats at the same time, access must be paid for, only one boat on each authorized day will be granted permission to sail and land there, with a maximum 3 people on board, and only 3 boats per week will be allowed.

Further requests for access by boat, in the case of the owner being the same, will take 2 years, and the request must be made directly to the Reparto Carabinieri Biodiversità in Follonica.

Information if you wish to book

Infopark: 0565 908231 Reparto Carabinieri Biodiversità di Follonica 0566 40611- [email protected]

The Island of Montecristo Only Allows 1,000 Visitors a Year

By Lale Arikoglu

Image may contain Promontory Outdoors Nature Land Shoreline Water Ocean Sea Coast Cliff Tree and Plant

Alexandre Dumas’ 1844 novel, The Count of Monte Cristo , is the sort of weighty, swashbuckling page-turner that makes you want to pack up your things and discover a deserted island of your very own. That dream may be harder to come by these days, but you can experience the setting that inspired Dumas’s very book, as the Italian island of Montecristo (yes, the very same one where Edmond Dantès discovers his treasure chest) is open to a limited number of visitors from this Friday, August 31 through October 31 and April 1-15, 2019, reports The Local.

Roughly 30 miles from Porto Santo Stefano in Tuscany , six-square-mile Montecristo is off-limits to all but 1,000 tourists a year, thanks to its status as a biologically protected area, which it has held since 1988 . Six-hundred of those spots are set aside for school groups, and the remaining 400 visitors must travel in large groups of around 40 to secure a place on the waitlist—so your best bet is to join a tour group or rally some fellow literature buffs before you apply for access to the island

Reaching Montecristo isn’t easy, either. There’s no ferry service, and you’ll need to get the official okay from the local authorities, which can take up to three months if you just want to visit Villa Reale, the island's small museum at the port of Cala Maestra, and three years if you want a tour of the hiking trails. "The island is not served by scheduled ferries and therefore those who get authorization to visit must independently find a boat suitable to cover the approximately 40 nautical miles from the mainland," Aurora Ciardelli, a spokeswoman for the Tuscan Archipelago National Park , told The Local.

Of course, it’s all those bureaucratic hoops that protect the island , and keep it so special. Its sole human residents are a few groundskeepers, and the island’s landscape and rare breeds of wildlife remain virtually undisturbed by humans. Notably, there are zero amenities on the island and swimming, hiking off on your own, or staying on the island overnight is strictly prohibited, meaning your only activity will pretty much be to admire all that spectacular nature before catching the boat back. Well, and to look for the buried treasure, of course.

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Off The Coast of Tuscany: A Guide to Island of Elba

February 17, 2023

Surprise! There’s more to Tuscany than the rolling hillsides and beautiful towns. Head to the coast to get in touch with the Tuscan islands – choose one of the seven beautiful islands that make up the Tuscan Archipelago: Giglio, Capraia, Montecristo, Pianosa, Giannutri, Gorgona and the island of Elba.

The islands off Tuscany have some of the most natural, well-preserved flora and fauna in the entire country, with water so crystal clear you can view schools of fish clear to the bottom. They’re so beautiful in fact, that it is said they are gifts from the gods. Legend has it that when the beautiful Venus emerged from the sea, her necklace broke and seven pearls fell, forming the seven Tuscan islands.

The islands off Tuscany and their surrounding waters are under the protection of the Parco Nazionale Arcipelago Toscano, the first great marine park in Italy and the largest protected marine area in Europe, for their environmental value.

While international tourists might overlook these islands, the Italians have known for some time and flock to the beaches in July and August. You can plan to visit just one, or connect ferry rides from one to another, island hoping with the coastline or with the island of Elba as your base. Each island has something unique to offer – just take your pick!

Table of Contents

If you’re up to the task you can even find the secret black rock beach! But don’t worry, there are plenty of sandy beaches to choose from with easier access. Photo by Gina Mussio

The biggest of the Tuscan islands, Elba is easy to get to and a good base if you want to explore some of the nearby islands. Perhaps most famous as the island of Napoleon’s exile after the Treaty of Fontainebleau, today it’s known among Italians for it’s great panorama, beaches and weather. It’s therefore best to book ahead for July or August as the beaches fill with visitors. The fish-shaped island has more than 70 beaches, excellent hiking trails and numerous bays and coves to explore. It’s not such a stretch to call the island of Elba a paradise-on-earth, making it the most popular of the seven.

How to get there:

The island is connected to the mainland by a daily ferry service (the distance between Elba and Tuscany is about six miles), it takes about 40 minutes. There are a couple of different ferry options to Elba, but the fastest is to catch a Ferry from Piombino. You can use the Toremar ferry, Tel. 199.11.77.33 from Italy and +39 02.39595013 from abroad; Moby , Tel. +49(0)611-14020; or Blu Navy , Tel. +39 0565.070327 or +39 0565.1835043. Be sure to arrive at least 30 minutes before and up to 90 minutes before if you have a car. Or, you can fly directly to the island to the airport at Marina di Campo.

The Tuscan island of Giglio’s name is a testament to its long history. Though “Giglio” means lily in Italian, it’s name comes from Aegilium, a Latin translation from the Greek word for “little goat” Photo by Patrik Tschudin

The second largest of the islands, think of the Tuscan island of Giglio as Elba’s younger sister, often overlooked for Elba but with just as large an offering. Though now it’s perhaps most known as the place where the Costa Concordia cruise liner sank in 2012, Giglio still has a lot to offer. The ferry will take you to the Giglio Port on the east side of the island, a perfect starting point. From here you can hire boats, tours and rent snorkeling or scuba diving equipment, or simply explore the restaurants and bars that line the seaside!

The best beaches on the island of Giglio are in Campese, on the west side of the island, and you can view an 18 th century tower built by Cosimo de Medici, the head of Florence’s famous ruling family. When you’re not on the beach or soaking in views of Tuscany during an inland hike, check out the Giglio Castle or explore the coves near Punta Capel Rosso by boat.

How to get there: About 9 miles from the coast of Tuscany, t here are two ferry companies that drive you from Porto Santo Stefano to Giglio Porto , Toremar ( Porto St. Stefano’s office tel.: +39 0564 810803) and Maregiglio ( tel.: +39 0564 812920). You can also take a ferry from Elba

The island’s population of about 400 people have kept Capraia’s original characteristics nearly completely unaltered. Photo by Roberto Venturini

This tiny island of just 390 people has at one time or another been ruled by Greece, Genoa, Sardinia, Saracen pirates from North Africa and even Napoleon!

While all of the islands off Tuscany are still relatively wild compared to the cultivated and settled islands like Corsica and Sardinia, Capraia’s coastline and landscape is perhaps the most dramatic with high cliffs, isolated beaches and untouched inland terrain that is perfect for hiking or biking. In the south you can even find traces of an ancient, now-extinct volcano.

The crystal clear water that surrounds Capraia makes it very popular for snorkelers or scuba divers who want to view the abundant marine life or explore underwater archeological sites.

Toremar offers ferries from Livorno to the island of Capraia once or twice daily year-round. The ferry takes about 2.5 hours and most schedules allow a return trip in the same day but check twice before booking if that’s your plan. You can also take the ferry from Gorgona for a day trip.

Montecristo

Though it’s nearly impossible to visit Montecristo Island, travelers can get a glimpse of the large rock from nearby Pianosa or Giglio. Photo by Pietro Addamo

Montecristo is perhaps most famous from Alexander Dumas’ book, The Count of Monte Cristo, written in 1844, supposedly after Dumas fell in love with the small island after a visit in 1842. It’s not hard to do, but actually the book’s descriptions aren’t so accurate to the real island.

Montecristo is the most pristine and remote of the Tuscan islands. The island was home to a community of monks until the sixteenth century where they thrived on the beautiful land, living in nearly complete seclusion for decades. In 1971 Montecristo became a nature reserve and is now closed to boats and tourists without a special, very reserved permit to protect the island’s fragile ecosystem.

Very determined visitors can be put on a waiting list through the Corpo Forestale di Follonica to get a permit, but be warned that sometimes it takes up to two years to get permission, only 50 people are allowed to disembark on Montecristo per day and it is prohibited to swim, camp or fish on the island. The price of the admission is about €50 per person.

To apply for a one-day Montecristo visa you can call or email the Park authority:

Corpo Forestale di Follonica Tel. 0566 400 19 | Email: [email protected]

The only way to see more than the beach of Pianosa is through a guided bike or walking tour – but it’s well worth it! Photo by Gina Mussio

Just 14 km from Elba, Pianosa is the lowest island of the Tuscan archipelago, rising just 29 meters above sea level. In fact, it’s the extreme flatness of the island that gives it its name, piano meaning flat in Italian.

Apart from Montecristo, Pianosa is the most secluded island. It’s been closed to the public since 1858 when it was used as an agricultural penal colony. In 1970 the penal prison upgraded to a maximum-security prison until it closed in 1998.

Don’t let the rough history deter you, the isolation of the island protected its particular micro-ecosystem, allowing the flora and fauna to truly take control. Only 250 visitors are allowed daily to sunbath on the Cala Giovanna beach, snorkel in the crystal-blue water or take guided biking or walking tours throughout the island, but the permission is received rather easily and is well worth it!

How to Get There: Because of the protection placed on this Tuscan island, visits are only available through a travel agency. The Toremar ferry is available on Tuesdays year round from Rio Marina in Livorno (tel. 0565-960131) or the Aquavision ferry (tel. 0565-976022) is available from Marina di Campo on Elba Island.

On clear days you can even see the island of Gorgona from the coast. Photo by Guillaume Baviere

Tiny Gorgona is the northernmost island and just a dot on the map in the Ligurian Sea. Largely uninhabited, the penal establishment on the island means it can only be visited with a guide and with a series of controls at least fifteen days before the trip. Though a jewel, this is a largely prohibited island.

So why visit a prison island? Because with a population of just 300 the island is a natural paradise. Go to see the rugged coastline and spectacular coves. Swim in the pure, uncontaminated water and enjoy the all-but private beaches. During your guided tour you’ll walk the island, have a picnic, swim in the crystal clear waters and cruise around the island on a small boat.

How to get there: Farther from the Tuscan coasts, you can take an early-morning ferry from Livorno to Gorgona on Mondays or Saturdays for a one day trip, weather permitting. Since it is a prison, travelers can only go to the island in small groups accompanied by a tour guide.

Giannutri island’s half-moon shape is said to have inspired the ancient civilizations that ruled there but inspiration can be found easily in the island’s incredible landscape. Photo by Simonetta Viterbi

Just slightly larger than Gorgona, Giannutri is the southernmost Tuscan island. Giannutri is a mainly rocky island with just short stretches of sandy beach in the north. Go instead to scuba dive or explore the wild coastline by sea kayak. After, head inland to explore the Roman ruins from the first century A.D. You can explore the ruins of the villa Agrippa where Emperor Nero’s family once lived, those of a Roman temple and the original Roman port.

Scuba divers can spend hours exploring the wrecks of Roman ships in the crystal clear water but be sure to visit the blue water grottos, it’s said Cala dei Grottone is the most beautiful.

How to Get There:

Like Giglio, Giannutri can be reached from Porto Santo Stefano. In summer time it can also be reached by ferry from Giglio Island using Maregiglio ferry company.

by Gina Mussio

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Unusual Places

Visit a remote island of montecristo in italy.

In the novel “ The Count of Monte Cristo ” by Alexandre Dumas, a young man named Edmond Dantes is falsely arrested and imprisoned. Dantes overhears a fellow prisoner discuss a vast cache of hidden treasure buried on a mysterious island. Dantes ultimately escapes from prison, travels to the mysterious island to retrieve the hidden treasure, and reinvents himself. A trip to the scenic, otherworldly island of Montecristo, which is surrounded by the Tyrrhenian Sea in Italy , inspired Dumas to write his exciting tale of buried treasure, intrigue, and retribution.

Isle of Montecristo, view from Chiessi, Isle of Elba. Photo by depositphotos.com

The small, remote island of Montecristo has a vibrant history. Greeks, Romans, Vandals, Christians, and Turks have all taken turns laying claim to Montecristo. In the 16th century, the fierce Turkish pirate Redbeard occupied Montecristo. Local lore states that Redbeard buried a sizable stash of hidden treasure. Many people in Europe still believe that the treasure Redbeard buried on Montecristo has yet to be unearthed.

Back in the 5th century, St. Mamiliano of Palermo supposedly retreated to a remote island when Sicily was being attacked by the Vandals. Local lore states that St. Mamiliano slayed a ferocious dragon that guarded the island. Once the dragon was vanquished, St. Mamiliano christened the island Montecristo and built a monastery that thrived for centuries. The monastery is no longer active, but the ruins of the structure are still visible.

San Mamiliano monastery at Island of Montecristo (formerly Oglasa) in the Tyrrhenian Sea part of the Tuscan Archipelago in Portoferraio, Italy Photo by depositphotos.com

Today, the island of Montecristo is uninhabited, with the exception of a few Italian Forestry Corps personnel and their families. Montecristo is a scenic nature preserve populated by goats, rabbits, and a sizable population of snakes. It also serves as a vital habitat for migrating birds.

If you’re not afraid of snakes and would love to explore a remote island that may or may not contain buried treasure, you can apply for a special temporary visa that allows visitors to sightsee for one day. It’s important to note that the island of Montecristo is protected by the Italian government, so visitors are encouraged to leave no trace and refrain from digging for buried treasure.

Cala Maestra beach at Island of Montecristo (formerly Oglasa) in the Tyrrhenian Sea part of the Tuscan Archipelago in Portoferraio, Italy Photo by depositphotos.com

Writer Alexandre Dumas was so enchanted by the island of Montecristo that the remote island inspired him to write a timeless adventure novel. If you’re an adventurer at heart, perhaps a visit to the island of Montecristo will inspire you to write your own adventure novel about visiting an island teeming with rambunctious goats and snakes.

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Sea & Islands

Little pearls of the Tuscan archipelago

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Legend has it that the Roman goddess Aphrodite rose from the sea to reach Eros, the God of love. While she was emerging from the water she adjusted the pearl necklace she was wearing, but it broke. Aphrodite tried to catch the loose beads but seven of them fell into the sea. Instead of sinking they floated, became covered with vegetation and populated by animals. This is the story of the seven islands of the Tuscan Archipelago: Elba Island , Giglio Island , Island of Capraia , Island of Giannutri, Pianosa Island, Island of Montecristo and Gorgona Island. Aphrodite must have been wearing a rather strangely necklace, given the difference in size between the islands, that range from 224 square km with the Island of Elba to just under 3 square km with Giannutri Island! All seven islands are part of the Parco Nazionale Arcipelago Toscano , but from a naturalistic point of view Giannutri, Pianosa, Capraia and Montecristo, the smaller ones, are the most unspoilt - even though, as we will see, it is not always easy to visit them! We at toscanainside.com are here to give you all the right tips!

GIANNUTRI ISLAND : this is the island located further south and has an area of less than 3 square kilometres - 2.6 km to be exact! Its coasts are predominantly rocky and jagged and the highest promontory is Monte Mario at 78 metres. It is covered mainly with Mediterranean vegetation and from a wildlife point of view, it is an important stopping point for migratory birds. Giannutri is an island also populated by gulls, the shearwater or the shag. If you are lucky, you may happen to see the Caretta-Caretta turtle . Keep your eyes open... even underwater! Let’s get to the part that probably interests you most, thus beaches, but before I’ll tell you how to get to Giannutri. Ferries for Giannutri leave from Porto Santo Stefano , on the Argentario commercial port, daily in summer and less frequently in winter. Giannutri ferries usually arrive in Cala Spalmatoio, more rarely at Cala Maestra Giannutri . The only town is Spalmatoio-Ischiaiola, where you can also find the only bar, the only restaurant and a grocery store. As for sleeping in Giannutri, bear in mind that there are no Giannutri hotel facilities. Instead, you can book a b&b in Giannutri or apartments . Make sure you arrange in advance because there are not many! Now we know where to sleep we can start to visit Giannutri! Of course, you can always decide to visit this island just for the day. Now for the Giannutri beaches: the island is pretty rocky and therefore there are no beaches, but delightful coves. They can be reached by different routes that all more or less start in Giannutri village centre. Being a protected area, you can swim only at Cala Maestra and Cala Spalmatolo. As for diving, there are many possibilities, just think of the ca wreck. What is there to see in Giannutri apart from the sea? You can visit the Roman ruins near Cala Maestra, where the Roman villa Giannutri dating back to the second century A.D. is located. For trekking lovers, this is definitely a great place where to find interesting and picturesque routes. If you are looking for a quiet place to escape the crowds, a holiday in Giannutri is not ideal during the summer months. In fact, during the day, there is always a Tuscan Islands cruise that carries a significant amount of tourists. If you love peace and relaxation, choose the period from March to June and from September to November.

ISLAND OF PIANOSA. The name of this island anticipates its features, since it is mostly flat. The coasts alternate rocky stretches to sandy beaches! Well, to be precise, there is just one sandy beach, enough to satisfy those seeking to sunbathe. Covered by the typical Mediterranean vegetation, Pianosa Tuscany presents numerous species of sea birds that are widespread in the Tuscany National Park. Worth mentioning is the peregrine falcon, a rare presence in the rest of Italy. You have probably heard of the Pianosa Prison: from 1865 the Agricultural Penal Colony was operating on the island, which in 1968, became a Maximum Security Prison. Pianosa Island prison was active until 2011 and housed prisoners accused of crimes related to mafia . The presence of the Prison in Pianosa, the prison island, has effectively safeguarded its seabed, one of the most intact of the archipelago. Its spectacular seagrass and the amount of species that find a perfect habitat here are truly marvellous. To see this Tuscan islands’ pearls what better than to swim in its waters: although the island is part of a protected area, Pianosa diving has been possible since 2013 only through accredited diving centres. If you are wondering how to visit Pianosa, bear in mind that you can only visit via organized Pianosa tours for a limited number of participants, or by booking your accommodation well in advance. Hotels in Pianosa are one option for accommodation, otherwise you can choose to stay in a holiday home or a bed and breakfast. Ferries for Pianosa depart from Piombino or from Rio Marina and Marina di Campo (Elba Island). Once you arrive on the island you just need to decide how to visit Pianosa: excursions on Pianosa Island Tuscany can be made by bus, on foot, by horse and cart, mountain biking and canoeing. What about what to see in Pianosa? You definitely have to visit the Neolithic tombs located in some small caves, the Villa and Theatre of Agrippa Postumo that date back to the Roman period and the Christian Catacombs . As for the village, where there is only one bar, one restaurant and the only hotel on the island, try to give a look to the Exhibition Hall: sometimes there are interesting exhibitions on show. Fun fact: you will see an imposing concrete wall which effectively divides the village from the rest of the island. This is the ‘ Muro Dalla Chiesa' , commissioned by the magistrate especially with symbolic value : the mafia inside the wall, the government free outside. Our mini-tour will end with a bit of relaxation on the beach of Cala Giovanna, a real luxury on these islands!

MONTECRISTO ISLAND . If I were to ask you the first thing that comes to your mind when you think of this island, I'm sure many of you would answer: 'The Count of Monte Cristo'! In fact, Alexander Dumas, after having stayed on the island, drew inspiration from this area and its legends for his adventure-filled novel. How to blame him… Montecristo is a fascinating island, wild, bare and truly wonderful. It is entirely hilly - the most important relief is Monte della Fortezza at 645 m of height. Its coasts main features are overhanging rocky cliffs. Many exemplars of the Montecristo goat live on the island, a wild goat native of the Middle East , which arrived on the island via human agricultural developments in ancient times. As we all know, goats love to graze, so plants such as heather have to be fenced off to be protected! Since 1971 the entire island has been a Nature Reserve and therefore there are many restrictions when visiting it. Let's have a look at what these entail. To begin with, before visiting you must apply for an access or visit permit via the State Forestry. And if you are wondering how to get to Montecristo island: Montecristo can be reached by boat, which must be booked in advance and submitting all necessary information to the State Forestry. Swimming, surfing and diving are forbidden within 1 km from the coast. The only berthing location in Monte Cristo is Cala Maestra: you cannot drop an anchor, but you can use a buoy from the port. The ‘ access permit ’ , which might take several months to be issued, lets you visit Cala Maestra, the Royal Villa and the Botanical Garden . The 'visit permit', for which the waiting time can last as long as three years given that it is only granted to 1,000 visitors a year, allows guided tours only along certain paths. It is not possible to stay overnight on the island. The only exceptions are made for the two agents of the State Forestry Corps stationed on the island and for the island custodian and his family. The island has a very interesting history, and is characterized by a succession of attempts to colonize this rugged land. Archaeological finds at Cala Maestra Montecristo show human presence on the island as far back as the Roman times. In medieval times, the island was inhabited mostly by monks , and it is probably for this reason that the original Greek name 'Oglasa' was changed to 'Monte Cristo'. The Monastery of San Mamiliano was erected on top of the remains of the Roman temple of Jupiter, which inspired many legends about the alleged treasure contained in the apse of the chapel. A treasure chest was indeed found in 2004 i the Abbey of San Mamiliano... but in Sovana, in the province of Grosseto, and not in Montecristo! On the island there is also the Cave of San Mamiliano, where another legend relates the story of a Saint who defeated a dragon by holding the cross. Returning to the island, from the 1800s onwards the island witnessed several attempts of colonization and establishment of human settlements: two German hermits failed due to their incompatible personalities, a married couple and finally, the most famous attempt, the English botanist George Watson Taylor, who bought it in 1852 and seemed to have much in common with Dumas's Count in the tale of Montecristo . He built beautiful gardens with exotic species, the Royal Villa and the library. In the following years the long list of hermits and owners continued and the island passed from being a penal colony to a hunting reserve. Fortunately in 1971 the Nature Reserve was established and the island was preserved from the ravages of unauthorized planning developments.

ISLAND OF GORGONA . With its 2.34 square km, it is the smallest pearl of the Tuscan Archipelago but certainly not the least valuable. It is predominantly mountainous and covered by rich Mediterranean vegetation which also includes chestnut trees and alder. It is currently home to a penal colony run by the Ministry of Justice . It seems that the island has been inhabited since Neolithic times and only sporadically by the Etruscans and Romans; after these populations human presence on the island has been primarily limited to hermits and monks. Their presence is witnessed by the Monastery of San Gorgonio, where the saint's relics are kept. Eventually, however, even the Carthusians, due to frequent raids of pirates, left the island. Cosimo de Medici tried to reinforce its defences by strengthening the existing Torre Pisana. The Grand Duke Leopold thought of populating it with Lucca farmers but after repeated attempts his operation did not give the desired results and the island remained basically deserted. Let's get to the point: can you visit Gorgona? On the Island of Gorgona visits are permitted but, being the seat of a prison, there are limitations. The visit is permitted only on certain days of the week for a maximum number of tourists . Would you like to know how to get to Gorgona? Simple, ferries to the island of Gorgona are those running services between Livorno, Capraia and Elba. Once you arrive in the vicinity of Gorgona, you will be picked up by a patrol boat that will take you to Cala Maestra Gorgona: don't worry, they will not take you to jail! They will instead take you on a guided tour of the Gorgona National Park and its most beautiful spots: you will reach Cala Scirocco and Cala Martina and go high on the mountains from where you can observe the pirouettes of the numerous birds that live in Gorgona. You are only allowed on the island if you are older than twelve. So, if you have younger children, unfortunately you'll have to give up, at least until they are a bit older! Swimming is not allowed on most Gorgona island beaches, but there are plans to lift the ban, at least on some of them. For diving, instead, there is still a long road . Still, try to find out more.

If you like the sea, the one with wild waves, not just with gentle frothing and frilling, choose one of these islands for your Tuscan islands Holidays . Whether for a weekend or even for a day trip, you will have the chance to be surrounded by beautiful, unspoiled nature. Let the scenery overwhelm your mind... and you will never want to leave! So, dear modern Countess and Count of Montecristo, are you ready for an adventure?

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▷ MONTECRISTO NATIONAL PARK » Things to see and do

With more than 1900 hectares, montecristo national park is a wonder of salvadoran nature, where we can enjoy camping and hiking to see the trifinio biosphere reserve, from which we can see guatemala, honduras, and el salvador..

With its 1,973 hectares, Montecristo National Park is the ideal destination for those who wish to get in touch with nature. Its misty forest enjoys an incomparable beauty that would be impossible to describe.

It is a protected area where you can enjoy an excellent climate and the most important flora and fauna of El Salvador . It, in turn, allows you to come into direct contact with all species in their natural habitat.

MONTECRISTO NATIONAL PARK - National Parks of El Salvador. Photo by ElSalvadorViajar.

So, if you want a different vacation experience in Montecristo National Park , you can enjoy a spacious natural garden that will leave you speechless. But what activities await you? We will talk about that and more below.

Montecristo National Park Data

Location of Montecristo National Park

Activities we can do in Montecristo National Park.

Part of the attractions of Montecristo National Park is its landscapes, making it inevitable to take advantage of the opportunity to take stunning photographs. In addition to observing wildlife and any number of species in their environment .

The environment, shape, smell, and even the smallest detail make this park the perfect destination to share with family and friends, where recreational activities reflect the many ways to enjoy nature.

Without further ado, here are some things you can see and do in Montecristo National Park during your visit.

Montecristo National Park has three hills that you can visit without any problems. We are talking about Miramundo at 2,393 meters above sea level, El Brujo at 2,140 meters above sea leve l, and Montecristo at 2,418 meters above sea level. You can enjoy a fantastic view of the surroundings from different heights.

But, if you reach the highest point, you will be precisely at the Trifinio Point. It has been given this name because it is where the border between El Salvador, Honduras, and Guatemala is located.

On the other hand, although the trails are marked, the park has guides that offer you a complete tour through the forest. They will take you through those trails where you can see the most emblematic fauna of the place in its habitat.

Hiking to viewpoints and general areas

As mentioned above, Montecristo National Park has a large number of trails. Many go up to the hills, and others have detours leading to the viewpoints.

Visit Montecristo National Park in El Salvador

If you want to get to these points, you can request a tour from park guides. From there, you can take the pictures you like while discovering all the magic in this forest.

Camping in Montecristo National Park

What could be better than arriving and discovering that you don’t have to take a day tour but that you can camp inside Montecristo National Park ?. For this purpose, the park rangers have designated some places for this activity.

But you can also rent one of the cabins available for tourists . They all have essential services such as electricity, water, showers, and a kitchen.

Price and visiting hours

One aspect that makes Montecristo National Park an ideal vacation destination is that you can camp and stay inside the facilities. All services are priced per day, which are as follows:

The entrance fee for nationals is 3.00 USD, and for students with ID is 0.50 USD.
Parking for light cars is 1.00 USD, and 2.00 USD for heavy vehicles.
Camping areas cost 5.00 USD per person.

On the other hand, the schedules are a fundamental part of the park’s operation since this is the way to control the entrance of tourists and the time they spend in the park.

Entrance from 7:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
The cabins are delivered at midnight.
Departure time 3:00 p.m.

Location, origin, and history of Montecristo National Park

Montecristo Natural Reserve was the first area declared National Park in El Salvador in 1987. It is located in Metapán, in the Department of Santa Ana .

Its highest peak is Montecristo Hill , known as the Trifinio Point, as it is part of the border between El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras. On the other hand, it has a colonial town dating from 1783 that was used for mining.

Museum of stuffed animals, inside the Montecristo National Park.

Later, it became a hacienda where sugar cane, coffee, and wheat, among others, were cultivated. In 1932, the San José River flooded , causing great destruction in Metapán .

After these events, the exploitation of the area was prohibited. That was when in 1973, the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock acquired the land. As a result, it received the title of forest reserve until it was later declared a national park, now under the responsibility of MARN.

Climate, flora, and fauna of Montecristo National Park

The climate in Montecristo National Park depends on factors such as altitude and the year’s seasons. The average annual temperature is between 16 ºC and 25 ºC, dropping in winter to 0 ºC at its highest point.

Due to the climatic conditions, the park is the perfect refuge for many species . In the case of flora, arboreal specimens are more than 700 years old and 30 meters high.

You can see oaks, pines, and coppices. But, the most important and remarkable is the 100 years old garden, because here you can find a variety of orchids unique to El Salvador and first discover in Germany.

In addition, there are another 200 species of orchids of equal importance . As well as 21 types of ferns, 20 types of fungi, and approximately 42 varieties of pines, among others.

The fauna in Montecristo National Park is another of its outstanding attractions. Through the trails, observing white-tailed deer, porcupines, black shrews, and 343 other species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians will be effortless.

Recommendations for your visit

Given the number of tourists that come to Montecristo National Park , daily access is limited. Similarly, some regulations must be fully complied with to ensure the safety of other visitors. Such is the case of:

Make a reservation to access the park in advance. To do this, you must fill out the application form available on the official website MARN.gob.SV. Or by calling +503 2123-6220 / 2123-6239 / 7850-9056.
Between May and October, the cloud forest is closed to the public, and it’s because it is the breeding season for the fauna in the area. However, the camping areas, Casco Colonial, and the trails to the viewpoints remain open.
Do not carry alcoholic beverages or narcotics, cigarettes or similar, firearms, bladed weapons, or pets.
Wear comfortable clothes and shoes considering the climate of the park and the activities you wish to do. If you are going hiking, you should have an extra pair of shoes due to the humidity of the environment.
Bring your food and plenty of water for your stay.
Bring bags for waste.
Avoid loud sounds to avoid affecting the fauna or disturbing the rest of the tourists.
Given the conditions of access to the park, it is recommended to enter in non-automatic vehicles.

Nearby places to visit

If you like everything Montecristo National Park offers, you can take advantage of other tourist attractions in the Department of Santa Ana. In the Municipality of Metapán , you will find the Lake Güija , the Metapán Lagoon , and the Cuscachapa Lagoon .

Here you can perform activities such as jogging, fishing, boating, and touring the area to enjoy all the vegetation. But this is not the only thing you will find here, because in this region you will also find one of the eight most beautiful lakes in the world.

We are talking about Coatepeque Lake , which can be fully appreciated from the Santa Ana Volcano , another favorite destination for tourists. In addition to the above, you can also visit Cerro Verde , the Apuzunga Turicenter, and the Tazumal Archaeological Site in your itinerary.

In short, in Santa Ana , you will find all kinds of attractions and places to visit, and you will have no choice but to organize a new vacation to the department . Of course, you can also discover and learn about its rich history.

But what can we say about its gastronomy? The traditional and emblematic dishes of the region are so varied that you can eat whatever you want. Yuca sancochada, fried yucca, pupusas stuffed with chicken, fish, beans, and sweets are known as borrachitos.

If you prefer international dishes, you will find restaurants that offer varied menus of all kinds throughout the department. As well as lodging, cabins in the forest, and more, you must prepare your itinerary and come to know the Montecristo National Park and all its attractions.

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Montecristo Island: A Nature Reserve Worth Discovering

Discover the beauty of montecristo island , a nature reserve in the Tyrrhenian Sea. Explore its unique flora and fauna and learn about its conservation efforts.

Montecristo Island, nestled in the Tyrrhenian Sea, is a haven for nature enthusiasts seeking an unspoiled paradise. With its pristine beauty and rich biodiversity, it has become a prime destination for eco-tourism. A nature reserve in its own right, Montecristo showcases a unique array of flora and fauna, serving as a critical migratory stop for various bird species.

Journey Through Montecristo Island’s History and Geography

The island is home to a diverse range of plant species, some of which are found nowhere else in the world.

Unveiling the Island’s Origins

Montecristo Island, believed to have formed during the Pliocene period, originated from volcanic activity and now forms part of the Tuscan Archipelago National Park. Spanning a modest 10.39 square kilometers, this rocky island boasts towering cliffs that rise over 600 meters above sea level.

A Glimpse of its Unique Characteristics and Location

Situated approximately 60 kilometers west of mainland Italy, Montecristo sits between the islands of Elba and Corsica. Its rugged terrain has played a significant role in preserving its natural beauty and fragile ecosystem. With only a handful of park rangers residing on the island, Montecristo remains mostly uninhabited.

Tracing Montecristo Island’s Rich History

Montecristo Island’s captivating history dates back to ancient times, with evidence of Etruscan and Roman settlements discovered. Throughout the Middle Ages, the island served as a refuge for pirates and smugglers, thanks to its remote location. As naturalists and botanists discovered the island’s exceptional flora and fauna in the 19th century, Montecristo gradually earned recognition and protection. In 1971, it was declared a nature reserve, which it proudly maintains to this day under the Tuscan Archipelago National Park.

Discover the Flora and Fauna of Montecristo Island

The island is a haven for birdwatchers, with rare and unique species found throughout its ecosystem.

Montecristo Island’s biodiversity is the crown jewel that mesmerizes nature enthusiasts from all corners of the world. Its remarkable ecosystem, nurtured by its geographical isolation, supports a myriad of rare and endemic species.

Immersed in the Island’s Biodiversity

Montecristo Island’s diverse landscape encompasses Mediterranean scrubland, rugged cliffs, and lush forests, providing a habitat for over 400 plant species. Notably, the island’s endemic plants include the vibrant Montecristo broom (Genista desoleana), adorned with bright yellow flowers and spiny stems. Other noteworthy species that grace the island are the Montecristo heather (Erica multiflora), the Montecristo juniper (Juniperus phoenicea ssp. turbinata), and the Montecristo oak (Quercus ilex subsp. montecristensis).

Encountering Unique Species

Montecristo Island plays host to a range of exclusive species that call it home. The critically endangered Montecristo wall lizard (Podarcis siculus coeruleus) is one such reptile found nowhere else but here. The island also shelters various magnificent bird species, including the peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus), the European shag (Phalacrocorax aristotelis), and the Eurasian scops owl (Otus scops).

Challenges to the Ecosystem

Despite its protected status, Montecristo Island faces several threats to its delicate ecosystem. Invasive plant species, such as the black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia), pose a significant risk to the island’s native flora. Furthermore, uncontrolled tourism and overfishing in the surrounding waters can have adverse effects on the island’s fragile ecosystem. Conservation efforts, including habitat restoration and monitoring programs, play a vital role in preserving Montecristo’s biodiversity.

Embarking on an Eco-Tourism Journey

The island's pristine beaches and sparkling waters make it a popular destination for tourists.

Montecristo Island welcomes visitors not only as a nature reserve but also as a playground for eco-tourism enthusiasts. Offering a plethora of activities, the island invites exploration, relaxation, and appreciation of its remarkable treasures.

Experiencing Memorable Activities

Hiking reigns supreme as one of the island’s most beloved activities. The numerous trails offer breathtaking vistas of the Mediterranean Sea, as well as a chance to encounter Montecristo’s enchanting flora and fauna up close. Adventurers can also take to the waters, exploring the island’s coastline by kayaking or embarking on a boat tour. For those seeking to delve beneath the surface, snorkeling unveils the vibrant underwater world of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Navigating Accessibility and Transportation

To reach Montecristo Island, one can embark on a boat journey from the nearby islands of Elba and Giglio. Ferries and private boat rentals provide access to this secluded gem. It is crucial to note that access to Montecristo Island is restricted, and visitors must obtain a permit from the Tuscan Archipelago National Park Authority before setting foot on the island.

Embracing Nature’s Retreat

Montecristo Island’s purpose as a nature reserve means there are no hotels or resorts gracing its landscapes. However, an intimate guesthouse, overseen by the Tuscan Archipelago National Park Authority, offers a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the island’s natural beauty.

In conclusion, Montecristo Island promises an unforgettable eco-tourism experience. Its breathtaking natural wonders, coupled with an array of activities, cater to every adventurer’s delight. As TooLacks, we wholeheartedly recommend journeying to Montecristo Island, supporting eco-tourism, and preserving its unique flora and fauna for generations to come.

Remember, the world brims with hidden treasures waiting for discovery, and Montecristo Island is undeniably one of them. Click here to find out more about TooLacks and the wonders that lie ahead.

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How to travel to exclusive Montecristo island in Tuscany, Italy
Montecristo Island: what to see, how to get there
Montecristo island is one of the hardest places in Italy to get into
Montecristo Island and Literature: Alexandre Dumas
Visiting the Island of Montecristo
Isola di Montecristo

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Montecristo island
Geologically, the island of Montecristo is an enormous wedge of granite, a chain of three main peaks: the Monte della Fortezza (645 metres above sea level), the Cima del Colel Fondo (621 metres) and the Coma dei Lecci (563 metres). The island achieved worldwide fame in Alexandre Dumas' novel The Count of Montecristo, which has inspired a slew ...
Montecristo, the wildest and most solitary island
So, you'll see that Montecristo is the wildest and most solitary island in Tuscany, although even the Etruscans wanted to live there. Its history begins when Saint Mamilian founded of an important abbey there and sojourned in the island as a hermit in the fifth century. By the mid 1500s, the Saracens attacked the Monastery which brought about ...
Visit the island of Montecristo
The island of Montecristo measures just over 10 square kilometers and has a shape that resembles a pyramid. Its highest peak, Monte Fortezza, reaches 645 meters above sea level and its rocky coasts emerge prominently from the sea. It almost looks like a volcano but it is not. The protection to which the island is subjected has ensured that ...
Monte Cristo Island
9 Places to Visit in Montecristo Island, Tuscany. 1. San Mamiliano Monastery. The San Mamiliano Monastery in Montecristo Island - Ferpint, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons. The rural San Mamiliano Monastery is an ex-place of worship, based on a massive hill of the Island.
How to travel to exclusive Montecristo island in Tuscany, Italy
In an effort to protect Montecristo's environment, a maximum of 1,000 visitors are allowed to visit the island a year (roughly 50 visitors are permitted a day) with 600 spots reserved for students ...
Isola di Montecristo
Montecristo: a natural haven that inspired art Situated in the Tuscan Archipelago, Montecristo island has inspired adventurous legends and it still remains a territory rich in mystery, certainly helped by its location, difficult to reach and visit. Its name is powerfully linked to literature, as the island was Alexandre Dumas' inspiration for […]
Montecristo Island: what to see, how to get there
The island of Montecristo is the most mysterious and inaccessible island in the entire Tuscan Archipelago.Snatched from housing speculation in the 1971 by ministerial decree on March 4, which declared it "State Integral NatureReserve," graduated in 1988 Biogenetic Nature Reserve to the Council of Europe and today, in addition to being included in the Tuscan Archipelago National Park, the ...
Montecristo Island
Montecristo is the fourth largest island in the Tuscan Archipelago, with an area of 10.4 sq. km. The island is currently uninhabited and the subject of an integral reserve. The history of Montecristo has its roots in the Neolithic age, between the sixth and fifth millennia B.C., a time to which fragments of pottery and a flint artifact found ...
Isola di Montecristo
The wild island, home of saints and legends. Wild, forbidden, legendary. The Isola di Montecristo is the most protected and unspoilt of the entire Tuscan Archipelago - with restricted visitor numbers and all forms of bathing, fishing and sailing prohibited near the coast. This is because several animal species choose the waters surrounding the island as their natural habitat, including the ...
Montecristo
Montecristo, also Monte Cristo (/ ˌ m ɒ n t i ˈ k r ɪ s t oʊ /, Italian: [ˌmonteˈkristo]) and formerly Oglasa (Ancient Greek: Ὠγλάσσα, romanized: Ōglássa), is an island in the Tyrrhenian Sea and part of the Tuscan Archipelago.Administratively it belongs to the municipality of Portoferraio in the province of Livorno, Italy.The island has an area of 10.39 km 2 (4.01 sq mi), is ...
Montecristo
Montecristo, or "The Mount of Christ," is a tiny island in the Tuscan Archipelago, halfway between Corsica and the Italian peninsula. It might have remained just another small Mediterranean ...
Montecristo Island
Montecristo Island, member of the Arcipelago Toscano, in the Tyrrhenian Sea, between the Italian mainland and Corsica, south of the island of Elba.Part of Livorno province, the islet is mountainous, rising to 2,116 ft (645 m), with an area of 6 sq mi (16 sq km). It is a hunting preserve owned by the state and contains the ruins of a 13th-century monastery that was abandoned in 1553 after ...
Monte Cristo Island and Literature: Alexandre Dumas
Located in the Tuscan Archipelago, the Island of Montecristo has inspired legends, adventures and still remains a territory full of mystery, certainly helped by its location, difficult to reach and also to visit.. Its name is strongly related to literature, as this stunning island was Alexandre Dumas' inspiration for one of his masterpieces, The Count of Monte Cristo: wild and silent, it is ...
How to visit Montecristo
Visitors must be at least 12 years of age or over. In the event of bad weather the excursion will be postponed to another date. Once there, bear in mind that due to the difference in the height above sea level, the heat of the sun, the fact that there are hardly any trees so there is practically no shade, the entire walk up to the top may prove ...
Visting Italy Tuscan Archipelago Montecristo Protected
The isle of Montecristo is not your typical Italian summering destination: bathing is absolutely forbidden, for starters. So is fishing. So is spending the night. ... Good Luck Getting Permission to Visit the Italian Island of Montecristo The novel-famous nature reserve allows 1,000 visitors per year. By Athena Wisotsky. September 10, 2018 9:00 am.
The 7 islands of the Tuscan Archipelago and how to reach them
Montecristo is one of the most important islands for the protection of the biodiversity of the Tuscan Archipelago and the Tyrrhenian Sea, which is why access is strictly regulated. Guided tours are authorized up to the maximum number allowed and the periods of tours are between March 1 and April 15 and between May 15 and October 31, with the exclusion of the period April 16 - May 14 for ...
The Island of Montecristo Only Allows 1,000 Visitors a Year
Alexandre Dumas' 1844 novel, The Count of Monte Cristo, is the sort of weighty, swashbuckling page-turner that makes you want to pack up your things and discover a deserted island of your very ...
Off The Coast of Tuscany: A Guide to Island of Elba
Montecristo is perhaps most famous from Alexander Dumas' book, The Count of Monte Cristo, written in 1844, supposedly after Dumas fell in love with the small island after a visit in 1842.It's not hard to do, but actually the book's descriptions aren't so accurate to the real island.
Visit a Remote Island of Montecristo in Italy
The small, remote island of Montecristo has a vibrant history. Greeks, Romans, Vandals, Christians, and Turks have all taken turns laying claim to Montecristo. In the 16th century, the fierce Turkish pirate Redbeard occupied Montecristo. Local lore states that Redbeard buried a sizable stash of hidden treasure.
How to get and visit the Montecristo island
How to visit. Every year on the Montecristo island only a thousand visitors are allowed, of which: 600 students; 400 adults. Excursions are allowed only from April 1st to July 15th and from August 31st to October 31st. And to visit it, it's necessary to ask for a special permit from the Forestry Corps of the State of Follonica (GR).
Monte Cristo island
Instead of sinking they floated, became covered with vegetation and populated by animals. This is the story of the seven islands of the Tuscan Archipelago: Elba Island, Giglio Island, Island of Capraia, Island of Giannutri, Pianosa Island, Island of Montecristo and Gorgona Island. Aphrodite must have been wearing a rather strangely necklace ...
MONTECRISTO NATIONAL PARK » Things to see and do
Hiking. Montecristo National Park has three hills that you can visit without any problems. We are talking about Miramundo at 2,393 meters above sea level, El Brujo at 2,140 meters above sea leve l, and Montecristo at 2,418 meters above sea level. You can enjoy a fantastic view of the surroundings from different heights.
Montecristo Island: A Nature Reserve Worth Discovering
Immersed in the Island's Biodiversity. Montecristo Island's diverse landscape encompasses Mediterranean scrubland, rugged cliffs, and lush forests, providing a habitat for over 400 plant species. Notably, the island's endemic plants include the vibrant Montecristo broom (Genista desoleana), adorned with bright yellow flowers and spiny stems.

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Visit the island of Montecristo

Montecristo Island in the Tuscan Archipelago

Where is the island of Montecristo

Why is it called Montecristo?

History of the island

Natural Reserve of Montecristo

Inhabitants and guardians of Montecristo

How to get to the island of Montecristo

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