RIDING SPOT #1: LACONA
I fell in love with Serra del Perro, Lacona's best-known trail, a few years ago. It’s fast and, with the sea in the background, it reminds me of Finale Ligure. Rides finish in either the 'da Ledo' bar, with its delicious cappuccinos, or the bar at the 'Orti di Mare'. With its homemade thyme beer, hammocks and colorful chairs, all under a canopy of vines, it's like sitting in an open-air living room.
RIDING SPOT #2: CIMA DEL MONTE
My opinion on Cima del Monte is mixed. The uphill to the summit is brutal. With two incredibly steep climbs even e-bike riders will struggle. The challenge for the groups I’ve guided is to ride up the climbs from Le Panche to Cima del Monte without putting a foot down. If you manage it you get free Aperol for the rest of your time on the island. Feel free to have a go, but if you do it I want a video as proof!
Once at the top, though, the 360-degree sea-views couldn't be more beautiful. Then, it’s down to one of my highlight trails; 'Buca del Bandito'. Fast with lots of flowing turns, but also some technical sections, you’ll be whooping with joy all the way down to the bar at 'Trattoria la Curva'.
RIDING SPOT #3: MONTE PERONE
Monte Perone is my absolute favorite place on Elba. With several trails right next to each other it’s easy to smash out the laps. The mix of built tracks and natural singletrack is simply perfect and once you’re done there is an awesome trail down to the beach in Cavoli for Aperol (what else?) and gelato. Bellissimo!
Before I overwhelm you with details, I'll wrap things up. My advice to anyone who wants to explore Elba by bike is to take your time. Experience the island, take in every beautiful view (there are many), stop at every café you like the look of, maybe even find out about the island’s history (Napoleon was exiled here) and, most importantly, drink plenty of Aperol Spritz!