Embark on an exhilarating e-bike tour of Elba Island’s advanced 70s mine. Explore the innovative and modern mining techniques used during its operation and uncover the untapped iron reserves beneath the sea.
Embark on an exhilarating e-bike tour of Elba Island’s advanced 70s mine. Explore the innovative and modern mining techniques used during its operation and uncover the untapped iron reserves beneath the sea.
- Tenuta delle Ripalte - Nestled where the lush green of the Mediterranean maquis meets the azure sea, Tenuta delle Ripalte resort is located on the Island of Elba, along the Costa dei Gabbiani. This serene retreat offers an escape from the hustle and bustle, bringing guests closer to nature’s tranquility, where time seems to pause and align with…
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Tenuta delle Ripalte - Nestled where the lush green of the Mediterranean maquis meets the azure sea, Tenuta delle Ripalte resort is located on the Island of Elba, along the Costa dei Gabbiani. This serene retreat offers an escape from the hustle and bustle, bringing guests closer to nature’s tranquility, where time seems to pause and align with the gentle rhythm of the environment. The rich, rust-red soil supports ancient pine trees and valuable vineyards.
Tenuta delle Ripalte is situated 9 km from Capoliveri on Monte Calamita, accessible via a 4 km scenic white road, setting the stage for arrival at this unique haven of peace, untouched by modern chaos. - Miniere di Capoliveri - The remnants of the Calamita mine, which ceased operations in 1981 due to economic reasons, include the last excavation sites, iron mineral extraction, and processing facilities. These were considered cutting-edge at the time, as it was the most advanced and affluent mine in Europe.
- Monte Calamita - The name, recorded since the 16th century, originates from magnetite, the iron ore abundant in the local mines. It is located in the municipality of Capoliveri, in the southeastern part of the Island of Elba.
- Galleria Del Ginevro - Ginevro was the largest and most productive magnetite gallery in Europe, a highlight of Italian iron and steel production.
External excavations are somewhat limited, as unlike Calamita and other mines on Elba, it is the only one where internal excavation was conducted through boreholes and galleries, starting from +6 meters and extending across various levels to reach 54 meters below sea level.
Operational from 1971 to 1981, it was among the most modern mines in Europe, constructed with highly innovative methods for its time.

- MTB Guide and Environmental Guide
- Helmet (mandatory)
- Bicycle use
- MTB Guide and Environmental Guide
- Helmet (mandatory)
- Bicycle use
Journey into one of Europe’s most progressive mines in the late 70s. Active from 1971 to 1981, it stood as one of the continent’s most up-to-date mines, established based on some of the most ground-breaking principles of the time. Despite only a third of the deposit being mined at the time of activity cessation, significant amounts of iron remain, accessible even 250 meters below sea level.
Journey into one of Europe’s most progressive mines in the late 70s. Active from 1971 to 1981, it stood as one of the continent’s most up-to-date mines, established based on some of the most ground-breaking principles of the time. Despite only a third of the deposit being mined at the time of activity cessation, significant amounts of iron remain, accessible even 250 meters below sea level.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.