The Casa Valdese in Rio Marina could be defined as the younger sister of the other Case Valdesi, in the sense that it is the smallest in terms of the number of beds. But this doesn’t mean that there aren’t great surprises in store…
Simply the fact that it is on the Island of Elba, the largest in the Tuscan Archipelago National Park, makes it special.
Visitors are not only struck by the beauty of the crystal-clear sea and various beaches, coves and cliffs; whoever comes to the island, leaving the mainland behind, is enchanted by the panoramic views, inebriated by the scent of the Mediterranean brush and amazed by the incredible mineral soil, which in some areas of the island creates a highly unique landscape. It is no coincidence that the beach of Rio Marina is known as the beach that glimmers!
The Casa Valdese is located at a very short distance from the Mining Park and the museum connected to it, which is located within the walls of Palazzo del Burò, in the heart of Rio Marina. The museum is the starting point for an unusual experience that both adults and children will enjoy immensely. In addition to the minerals on exhibit (some exceptionally beautiful), inside the building, the various mining environments have been faithfully reconstructed with materials from old construction sites. To perfectly recreate the atmosphere, ancient machinery and vintage photos have been added to the display.
A visit to the museum can easily be combined with excursions organized by expert environmental guides, on foot, on board the quaint train or in an off-road vehicle.
Numerous outings can be organized with Rio Marina as a starting point; it’s really pleasant to tour the whole island because the paths that run all through it offer different views from each point.
But the truly unique thing about the small village of Rio Marina are the people who live there all year round and look after it as if it were a family jewel. If we were to describe Rio Marina and its inhabitants with one word, it would be authenticity.
Because of its special features, the Island of Elba is the ideal destination for both family holidays as well as holidays with couples or friends. Outdoor sports lovers (including fans of snorkeling and diving) will be able to do their favorite activities in a natural setting that is almost untouched.
You have to know that the cherry on the cake is the typical Elban cuisine which is anything but negligible: simple but at the same time sophisticated, it is the exemplary expression of the Mediterranean diet, characterized by fish and shellfish dishes, as well as the use of tomatoes, olives, peppers, pine nuts and capers. You can pair everything with excellent quality wines – as well as Elba’s artisan beer, unfiltered, unpasteurized and produced with natural methods, well worth trying.
The Casa Valdese offers its guests a simple but comfortable and functional accommodation (there are various solutions depending on the needs, including mini apartments for families or groups of six people). In addition there is a large garden where everyone can relax.
A little tip: May and September are two wonderful months to visit the island, less crowded than other periods. In May, especially, there’s a veritable explosion of blossoms and the temperature is ideal.
If you share the principles and values that underpin the projects supported and managed by the Waldensian Diaconia, if you love nature, if you espouse the philosophy of responsible tourism… What do you say? Are you packing your suitcase?
Casa Valdese Rio Marina – Telephone: +39 055 212576
