Events for European Parks Day and International Day for Biological Diversity

For European Parks Day (May 24) and the International Day for Biological Diversity (May 22), the Tuscan Archipelago National Park is hosting a series of outdoor initiatives. Activities highlight island landscapes, biodiversity and conservation practices.

Main program

• Sunday, May 17 – Elba Island: Hike to Torre del Giove
  Meeting point: Casa del Parco di Rio at 3:00 PM. Duration: 2h 30m. Difficulty: medium. Route: holm oak woods, Mediterranean scrub and trail 259 up to the 1459 defensive tower with views over the Piombino Channel. Free activity; reservation required.

• Saturday, May 23 – Elba Island: Walk on the Lacona Dune
  Meeting point: Info Park Lacona at 3:00 PM. Duration: 2h 30m. Difficulty: easy. Focus: native species and invasive alien plants; children’s workshop and data collection via iNaturalist as part of the “Biodiversity of the Lacona Dune” project. Free activity; reservation required.

• Saturday, May 23 – Capraia Island: Hike to the Pozzalamone caves
  Meeting point: CEA “La Salata” at 11:30 AM. Duration: 6h. Difficulty: medium. Route: former agricultural penal colony area, natural shelters used by shepherds and the springs trail to the Mortola junction. Paid activity; reservation required.

• Sunday, May 24 – Elba Island: San Cerbone dry stone walls
  Meeting point: Marciana, Cabinovia parking at 3:00 PM. Duration: 3h. Difficulty: medium‑easy. Aim: discover and promote dry stone walls, recognized as intangible UNESCO heritage, and learn about park-led restoration efforts. Free activity; reservation required.

Practical information

Participation: many events are free but require prior booking. Some activities have fees (e.g. Pozzalamone caves). Check booking procedures and participant limits.

Difficulty levels: walks range from easy to medium. Assess the itinerary if you have physical constraints or special needs.

Recommended gear: hiking boots or sturdy shoes, water, sun protection, layered clothing and, when needed, a smartphone with iNaturalist for biodiversity surveys.

The program is an invitation to explore the Park as a space for learning and active conservation, to appreciate and protect the natural heritage of the Tuscan Archipelago.