Turquoise Treasure of Elba Island, Monday, 9/19/22 - Wednesday, 9/21/22
Getting to Elba Island requires a ninety minute ferry ride which turns out to be half the fun. Most of the trip is spent out on deck, kibitzing with other group members, not to mention enjoying the sun, the breeze, and the sights that appear (and are quickly gone) as we whiz by them.
I spend some time on deck gazing into the sea while mentally reviewing the trip so far. Florence, the American Cemetery, Gargonza Castle, bus time and David, Isabella and her family's winery and farm, Roberto the Magnificent of Siena, the Maremma farm tour of this morning. It's all so much more than I dreamed of back in Ohio. Two thirds of the trip is already in the books, but I don't dwell on endings. There is so much more ahead. Fun and sun and an entire free day on Elba Island!
Elba Island, Monday, 9/19/22
Check-in at Hotel Villa Ottone
It's getting dark: time to make our way back to the group meeting point (we arrive there somewhat early). We find our tour leader and driver (David and Rudy) waiting on the group's return at sidewalk tables next to a gelato shop. The men have the right idea; cap the evening with a cup of gelato and watch the world go by.
We get our own cups and spoons and sit at an adjacent table. The six of us chat a bit like old friends, but soon we (ladies) resume our on-going silly discussion on the charms of the butteri. It's a moment before we remember that there are two extremely nice (and polite) gentlemen sitting next to us. Finally, we are done with the subject.
Soon, other couples (and singles) from our group slowly appear from the darkness and join in the fun. Night air and gelato, a party-like atmosphere, and excellent company. Elba Island turns out to be so much more than just a dip in the sea.
Soon we are at the hotel. Our rooms, which are simple and clean are on "The Cottages" side of the grounds. And the grounds, wow! Lush landscaping surrounds the hotel. There's also a swimming pool, a seaside bar and restaurant, and the star attraction: the Mediterranean sea enjoyed from our own private beach.
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We check in and then are off to the nearby town for an evening of fun. As is usual now, Chris, Colleen, Rita and I hang together. Seats are taken at a cute sidewalk cafe, and drinks and food ordered. The gabfest (and laugher) commences.
After dinner, we tour around town. Rita loves the boats (yachts) and snaps a shot of her favorite which is tethered at the pier (she sends the pic to her hubby--her birthday is just around the corner).
Elba Island, Tuesday, 9/20/22
Our last day (and night) on Elba
I take a walk and meet up with one of the California girls, Julie. We have our first real chat and have fun getting to know one another.
After a long while, David wades to shore. When he passes us standing on the beach he says we are just like real Italians. We come to spend a day at the beach and then stand at the water's edge and talk. I take it as a compliment.
After a wonderful breakfast at the hotel, most of the couples take off to enjoy the sights of Elba. Those of us that are left, the California girls, our little foursome, and David, claim the beach. We have the place to ourselves.
We spend the day soaking up the sun (and cocktails) and chowing on (mostly) junk food that the restaurant is happy to deliver to us.
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For a long time our tour leader, David is the sole occupant of the Mediterranean. With an encouraging come-on-in wave he beckons to all of us, but no takers. Finally, I go in (when will I have the chance again?) and soon Rita joins me. Me and my sis bob around laughing and talking and moving our hands through the water as though swimming. It's fabulous. Once home, we can honestly say we swam in the Mediterranean Sea.
Rita and I spend some serious sister time at the pool before returning to the hotel to get ready for the evening.
We spend our pre-dinner time watching the sun go down while sipping drinks on the hotel porch. Afterward, we have a lovely dinner at the hotel restaurant. Our fantastic island vacation is over. Tomorrow, Lucca!