What is Asinara and why is it unique?
Asinara is a corner of paradise that looks like something out of a dream, but it is a dream come true. The island is famous for its crystal-clear waters, secluded beaches, unique wildlife and a fascinating mix of history that makes it truly special. The island, located a few kilometres off the coast of Porto Torresin the province of Sassariis also a national park covering 50 square kilometres of wilderness. If you are looking for a place that makes you feel far away from everything and everyone, Asinara is the right destination. Here, time seems to slow down: without Wi-Fino crowds, just the sea, the Mediterranean maquis and the remains of a history rooted in the past.
When we think of an island, we often imagine a heavenly, peaceful place. But Asinara is not only a natural beauty, it is also a place with a complex history. From penal colony a Asinara National Park, this island has gone through different eras, becoming one of the most interesting and mysterious places in Sardinia. If you are from Gen Zyou won't find it difficult to fall in love with this place for its unique energy, its mix of nature, mystery and beauty.
How to get to Asinara: practical guide
If you're wondering how to get to Asinara, it's simple! The island is accessible by ferry from Porto Torreswhich is only half an hour away, or from Stintinowhich takes about an hour. The ferry trip is a unique experience: you can enjoy the view of the Sardinian Seaas you fly over the crystal-clear waters, perhaps spotting some dolphins. If you are in the area, you cannot miss the trip, which is an adventure in itself.
Once you arrive on the island, you can only explore it on foot, by bicycle or by private transport. Organised excursions are perfect for discovering the most remote and fascinating places on Asinara. The Asinara National Park has several areas accessible only with official guides, who will immerse you totally in the wilderness and history of the place.
Many visitors arrive at theAsinara to admire not only the breathtaking views but also to discover the island's unique fauna, including the famous white donkey, an indigenous breed that lives freely.
Where to sleep on Asinara
Sleeping on theAsinara is a unique experience that allows you to live completely immersed in the island's wilderness. However, accommodation options are limited compared to what you would find in more touristy locations, which adds to the charm of this destination. Here is where you can sleep on Asinara:
Campsites and Hostels
If you love adventure and direct experience with nature, there are some campsites and hostels that offer a simpler but very fascinating stay.
Campsite Cala d'Oliva: This campsite is located near the beach of Cala olive, one of the most famous bays on the island. It is one of the most popular options for those seeking an authentic experience, with direct contact with nature. The campsite is well equipped, but without losing its rustic charm.
Hostel Asinara: Located in one of the quietest areas of the island, the hostel is an excellent choice for budget travellers. It offers shared dorms and private rooms, and is the perfect starting point for excursions within the Asinara National Park.
Private houses
A more comfortable alternative for those seeking a quiet stay is to rent houses or flats. These accommodations will allow you more freedom and privacy during your stay on the island. Many flats are located in the areas of Cala olive o Cala Royaltwo of the most easily accessible locations on the island.
Holiday homes and private flats: Some owners offer houses or flats for rent, especially near Cala olive o Cala Royalwhere you can enjoy the tranquillity and natural beauty of the island without sacrificing comfort.
Farmhouses
On Asinara, some farmhouses offer an authentic experience, with a stay that allows you to immerse yourself even further in the local culture and traditions. These accommodations are mainly located in the innermost parts of the island and allow you to live in harmony with nature.
Farmhouse Asinara: Offers a peaceful stay with the opportunity to enjoy typical Sardinian dishes, prepared with fresh, local produce. Here you can enjoy activities such as hiking or cycling, to explore the island in total relaxation.
Sleeping in Stintino and Porto Torres
If you cannot find accommodation on the island, you can always opt for accommodation in the nearby Stintino o Porto Torreswhich are well connected to Asinara by ferries. Both locations offer a wide range of hotels, bed & breakfasts and flats to suit all budgets.
Hotels in Stintino: The location is famous for its proximity to La Pelosaone of the most beautiful beaches in Sardinia. Here you will find quality facilities, perfect for a more comfortable stay.
Hotels in Porto TorresPorto Torres is an ideal starting point for exploring the island, and offers a variety of accommodation ranging from budget to luxury hotels.
Stay at the Wildlife Recovery Centre
An interesting but limited option is to stay at the Wildlife Recovery Centre of the island. This centre houses some of the local wildlife conservation and recovery projects, and it is possible to participate in some nature conservation activities, making the experience even more engaging and educational.
What to do at Asinara
At Asinara, adventure is guaranteed. Not only can you walk along spectacular paths, but you can also immerse yourself in a natural landscape that will leave you breathless. Every corner of the island tells a different story of nature, mystery and curiosity. Here's what not to miss!
Trekking and hiking
If you like walking surrounded by nature, Asinara is the place to be. I park trails take you through the maquis and along cliffs plunging into the sea. One of the most famous treks is the Horse Trailthrough one of the wildest areas of the island, where you can admire the white donkeys in freedom. But if you fancy a spectacular view, the path to the summit of Monte Tonda is a must: from here, the view of the entire island and the sea will take your breath away. Walking through unspoilt nature will make you feel like an explorer in a world far away from everything.
During the years when the island hosted a maximum security prisonprisoners, including some of Italy's most dangerous criminals, used to walk these paths to build the prison structures. Their remains are still visible in some areas of the island.
Snorkelling and kayaking
The waters of Asinara are among the clearest and most pristine in Sardinia, perfect for the snorkelling and the kayak. The island's coves are a true underwater paradise, where you can swim in crystal-clear waters and discover an incredible underwater world. The area of Cala Royalwith its calm waters, is ideal for snorkelling enthusiasts, or if you want to explore the island by kayak, Cala olive is a perfect starting point. Le marine protected areas ensure that the underwater fauna remains intact, offering a unique natural experience.
The island of Asinara is a protected marine since 1997. This means that the marine fauna and flora are under strict control, preserving an incredibly rich ecosystem.
Wildlife sightings
Asinara is famous for its unique fauna, including the famous white donkeysliving in the wild. But that is not all. If you are a wildlife lover, you might spot peregrine falcons, Sardinian deer, mouflons and even the rare seagull course. The Asinara National Park It is home to many protected species, so when walking on the island it is not uncommon to encounter animals that can hardly be seen elsewhere.
Historical curiosity
White donkeys are an indigenous breed and have become a symbol of the island. They are said to have been introduced in the early 20th century, and have since become an iconic and beloved presence for visitors.
Total relaxation
If your idea of an adventure is a day of complete relaxation, Asinara has it all. Its pristine beaches are perfect for relaxing. Cala oliveeasily accessible, is one of the most popular beaches on the island, famous for its white sand and crystal-clear waters. If you prefer more privacy, explore the more remote coves where silence and peace reign supreme.
La golden hour on the island is a magical experience. The sunset, especially from Cala RoyalIt offers breathtaking colours that will leave you speechless.
The story of Asinara: a past between nature and mystery
The island of Asinara is not only a place of natural beauty, but also a piece of living history. Before becoming a Asinara National Park, the island was used as penal colony and subsequently as maximum security prison since 1885, harbouring some of Italy's most dangerous criminals, including members of the Red Brigades and mafiosi such as Raffaele Cutolo e Totò Riina. During the World War IIwas also used as lazaretto to isolate plague sufferers.
Over the years, the buildings left behind by the convicts have become an important part of the island's history, and today some of these ruined buildings are accessible via guided tours. La agricultural penal colony that was established here was the place where prisoners worked the land, a detail that today contributes an even more authentic and mysterious touch to the island.
Historical curiosity
L'former Fornello maximum security prison is one of the most fascinating places on the island. The original structures are still standing, and walking through the corridors you can imagine the stories of the prisoners who were held there.
The Beaches of Asinara: where to find relaxation and nature
The beaches of Asinara are famous for their unspoilt beauty. You won't find crowds or massive tourist facilities, only tranquillity, nature and dream landscapes. Popular beaches include Cala oliveeasily accessible and perfect for swimming, Cala by Trabuccatoideal for snorkelling, and Sabina Coveperfect for those seeking a quiet corner away from it all.
Don't forget to bring a camera or a mobile phone with a good camera: pictures of Cala Royal at sunset they will leave you breathless
