We Found the Treasure of Montecristo !
Starting to describe this experience is challenging—you don’t quite know where to begin. So, let’s start from the beginning: how did we manage to reach this “forbidden island” that’s almost impossible to visit?
As always, what is forbidden or rare ignites curiosity. So, we searched—and we found a way. The path isn’t particularly hard, but the process certainly is. Our team spans Generation X, Millennials, and Gen Z, so let’s just say getting the Montecristo permit is like securing Coldplay tickets. The Parco Nazionale Arcipelago Toscano releases only 1,000 spots a year, and four of us were lucky enough to grab tickets for June 13th, 2025.
The confirmation email read: Montecristo is waiting for you. WOW.

Excited like kids, we read the official instructions—each line adding gravity to the experience: hiking shoes, walking sticks, minimum 1.5 liters of water per person… No swimming. No picking plants or animals. No water available on the island. Follow your guide and the Forest Carabinieri at all times.

that morning at 8 AM in Porto Santo Stefano, we were ready.

The ferry ride took three hours. Onboard, the lead guide assessed everyone’s physical condition and assigned us to one of three itineraries:

Monastery Trail: 460m altitude gain, difficult, full sun, good cardio condition required.

Elvedere Trail: 230m altitude gain, moderate difficulty.

Basic Trail: 42m gain, easy.

We were tempted to go all in with the Monastery Trail - but we wanted to stay together, and the sun was already intense. So we chose Belvedere, led by our guide Alessandro - who soon proved to be extraordinary. He began the trek by sharing his deep love for the unique plant species that inhabit the island. His extensive knowledge and genuine passion for the natural environment made the experience even more engaging and exciting.
Then, he led us up the hill to begin our hike.

Alessandro’s passion for the island’s unique flora was contagious. He introduced us to species found only here, and spoke with such reverence for nature that it deepened our connection with the landscape.
For a short part of the itinerary, there were still a few trees, but soon after, there wasn’t a single inch of shade. And you never know how long you'll be walking under those conditions. The sun was high, and you could feel your veins pulsing in every part of your body. Alessandro was attentive to everyone’s condition and, as a great guide, gave each person the time they needed. Overall, the group was fairly fit, so we didn’t have to wait too long for anyone.

We made a few brief stops so Alessandro could show us a unique herb or explain the root of a peculiar plant.
About 40 minutes in, we reached the top of our trail. From there, we could see the “brave ones” ascending the Monastery Trail on a near-vertical slope - proof we made the right choice.
We sat on sun-baked granite, surrounded by raw nature. Our lunch - prepared at home (don’t even think there’s a café or any kind of place to grab a bite!) - was quick and simple.

Sitting under the blazing sun, surrounded by the raw scents of stone, sea, and wind, you couldn’t help but feel the sheer power and wild spirit of nature - and the deep need to respect its untamed rules. Recharged, we continued our journey along the slope, with the island still unfolding its wonders.
At one point, Alessandro pointed out a stunning beach nestled in a breathtaking bay below, untouched and untouchable. The seabed was partially covered by Posidonia, a rare and vital marine plant that grows only in Australia and on Montecristo Island. Alessandro explained the enormous ecological importance of this plant (and no, it’s not seaweed!)
We listened, entranced, as the descent led us through changing terrain - rocky, slippery, narrow.

The final part of the route brought us to the only buildings on the island: the Royal Lodge, the small botanical museum, and the Carabinieri station.
Back at Cala Maestra (the main beach and ferry boat dock), we felt the full weight of the day - not from muscle fatigue, but from hours under the sun.
The ferry awaited us right where we had left it, ready to carry us back on another three-hour journey across the sea.
This experience surpassed all our expectations - its impressions still linger, slowly settling yet deeply etched in our memories.
Alessandro, with his captivating stories and heartfelt passion, opened a door to the island’s beauty and the wild nature that embraced us so respectfully.
Wow — it was worth every moment: the effort, the wait, the patience.

Words can barely capture the full depth of what we lived. We remain in awe, forever changed by this unforgettable journey.
If Montecristo Island is on your list, our advice is simple: wait, hope, and when the time comes, seize the chance to visit.
We’ll keep you posted on ticket releases — but don’t hesitate.
Do it.
Because once you do this experience, you truly find the treasure.