Excursions on Asinara: the island that will blow your mind!
If Asinara were a TV series, it would be the one you wouldn't stop watching because each episode is a new adventure. An island where nature, history and wildlife mingle to create a dream scenario! Forget normal holidays, here every step is a discovery. Are you ready for adventure? We'll tell you how to explore this super Instagrammable island that will get you hooked!
How to get to Asinara
Start from Stintinoand after a 30-minute mini boat cruise into the crystal blue, you will immediately be catapulted into another world. The salty air and the sight of the approaching island are just the beginning of an experience that will prove to be intense and full of surprises. If you are in Porto Torres, you can also set off on an equally fascinating journey that will give you a foretaste of the adventure that awaits you.
What to do about Asinara
The Asinara is a mix of wild beaches, hidden bays, e unspoilt nature that will make you feel like the protagonist of an adventure documentary. Imagine walking through the ruins of a former prison, visiting Cala Royaland discover the mysterious history that the island brings with it. But it is not only the history that makes the island unique, it is also the fauna that inhabits it. You can meet thelittle white donkeya symbolic animal of the island, the mouflon and the Sardinian deerwhich, if you are lucky, might suddenly appear during your excursion, giving you an exclusive safari thrill. Le beaches are a sight for sore eyes, with turquoise and transparent waters that look like something out of a postcard.
Asinara Excursions: Where to start?
Excursions Asinara from Stintino
If you are in Stintino, you are in the perfect place to set out to discover Asinara. Here, the boats that take you to the island set sail directly from the marina. The crossing takes about 30 minutesbut in the meantime you can enjoy the epic panorama over the crystal-clear sea. Once on the island, you can choose from a wide range of excursions: trekking, train rides, snorkelling or tour in a 4×4. Stintino is the ideal spot for those who want a quick and practical, uncomplicated experience.
Tip Extra: Look for tour that include photo stops in the most beautiful coves, such as Cala Reale or Cala d'Oliva!
Excursions Asinara from Alghero
Alghero is a little further from Asinara, but don't worry: many local agencies offer complete packages with transport included to Stintino or Porto Torres, the main departure points. This is perfect if you want to combine a bit of culture with the sea. From Alghero, you can organise a day trip that combines the charm of Asinara with the liveliness of a historical town.
Tip ExtraLeave early to make the most of the day and book tour that will also take you snorkelling or kayaking in the waters of Asinara.
Excursions Asinara from Porto Torres
From Porto Torres, the journey to Asinara is super comfortable. The boats leave from the main port, and the crossing takes about 60 minutes. Once on the island, you have all kinds of options: bike excursions, guided off-road tours or kayak adventures. Porto Torres is an ideal starting point for those looking for a slightly more structured experience and who also want to explore the town before or after the excursion.
Tip ExtraChoose a tour that includes a visit to the famous Fornelli Prison to discover the island's incredible stories.
Asinara boat and catamaran excursions
Embark and be carried away by the crystal-clear sea surrounding the island. Boat excursions depart mainly from Porto Torres e Stintinobut you can also go up to Cala olive o Cala Royal. Once on the boat, you will enjoy spectacular views of the rugged coastline and wild landscapes that characterise the island. During the tour, you will have the opportunity to stop at some of the most beautiful beaches of the island, such as Cala Royal e Cala oliveand to explore sea caves mysterious or do snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters. A highlight of the tour is definitely the visit to the Maximum Security Prison and the Lazarettoplaces rich in history and with an eerie charm that will make you feel like an explorer discovering a forgotten world.
Duration and prices
Boat excursions can last half a day or 1 full day and prices range from 30 to 100 euro per person. For an even more exclusive experience, you can choose a private excursion, which will allow you to explore the island in a more personal and intimate way.
Hiking Asinara on foot
If you love trekking and wish to fully immerse yourself in the wilderness of Asinara, its trails are one of the most authentic experiences you can have. The Horse Trail, which starts from Cala olive and arrives at the Peak of Monte Tondawill give you a panoramic view that will leave you speechless. Arriving at the top, you will be overwhelmed by the beauty of the landscape that opens up before you, an expanse of wild nature, with the sea stretching to the horizon. Equally impressive is the Trail of Monte Fornello, which starts from Cala Royal and offers spectacular views of the coast.
Duration and prices
You are free to explore the trails on your own, without the need for a guide, but if you prefer a more in-depth experience, guided hikes range from 20 to 30 euro per person. These routes can last from 2 to 4 hoursdepending on the path chosen.
Excursions Asinara snorkelling and kayaking
If you like the sea, snorkelling e kayak are two activities not to be missed. Imagine paddling through the clear waters of the Asinara, exploring the sea caves and admiring the underwater fauna that inhabit these depths. Snorkelling excursions will take you to colourful fish and corals that look like something out of a nature documentary. If you prefer a more active experience, kayaking will allow you to explore hidden corners of the island and reach remote coves where you can stop and enjoy the peace of the place.
Duration and prices
Kayaking and snorkelling excursions last approximately 2 hourswith a cost varying between 35 and 50 euro per person. If you want an even more complete experience, some agencies offer tour combined with off-road driving, a perfect way to experience the island in an intense and complete way.
Hiking Asinara at night
Night excursions on Asinara are a unique experience, perfect for those who want to discover the island when nature comes alive under the starry sky. This is the ideal time to look for animals that are most active at night, such as the mouflon and thelittle white donkey. The tranquillity that surrounds the island, far from the crowds, will allow you to live an almost magical experience, where every sound of nature seems amplified and every step brings you closer to a mysterious world.
Duration and prices
Night excursions last approximately 2 hours and costs vary between 25 and 30 euros per person. It will be a trip that will make you see the island in a completely different light.
Hiking Asinara: bicycle or off-road vehicle
For those who like to explore dynamically, the island offers two very different, but both adrenaline-filled experiences. You can choose an excursion in bicyclewhich will allow you to travel along dirt tracks and reach remote corners of the island, or opt for the off-roadwhich will make you feel like a real explorer as you cross breathtaking landscapes and rough trails, far from the tourist routes.
Duration and prices
Cycling tours last between 2 and 3 hourswith prices ranging from 20 to 40 euro depending on the type of bike and the duration of the tour. If you choose off-road, get ready for a real 4×4 adventure.
Asinara excursions: prices and options
Here is an overview of the costs for different excursions on the Asinara:
Boat Excursions30-50 € per person, including stops for snorkelling or visits to historical sites.
Toy train rides15-25 € per person, perfect for a scenic and relaxed tour.
Guided walking tours20-30 € per person, ideal for trekkers and nature lovers.
Bicycle hire20-40 € per day, with a choice of traditional or electric bike.
Snorkelling or kayaking35-50 € for two hours, perfect activities to discover the island's crystal-clear waters.
Private boat toursover 100 €, with personalised service and exclusive itinerary.
Hiking Asinara tips
Bring the essentialsAsinara is a protected nature park with few refreshment facilities. Take along:
- Comfortable shoes for walking.
- Backpack with water and snacks.
- Sun cream, hat and sunglasses.
- Swimming costume and towel if you plan to go swimming.
- Camera or smartphone to capture the breathtaking views.
Respect the environmentDo not leave litter and respect the local fauna. The Asinara is a delicate and protected ecosystem, so avoid disturbing animals or collecting plants.
Adapt your itinerary to the season:
- In spring and autumn, prefer trekking and land-based activities because the temperatures are milder.
- In summer, use the days for snorkelling, kayaking or relaxing on the beach.
Find out about park regulations: Some areas of the island are only accessible with authorised guides. Check the available routes and make sure to respect the rules.
Evaluate a guided tour: Even if you can visit the island on your own, a guide will allow you to discover stories, curiosities and details that you might otherwise miss.
Calculate visit times: If you only have one day, choose an excursion that covers the main sites, such as Cala Royal, Fornelli Prison and a beach. If you have more time, you can explore less frequented routes or engage in different activities.
Avoid crowding: If possible, visit Asinara in the off-season or on weekdays for a quieter, more authentic experience.
FAQ on Asinara: everything you need to know
How to visit Asinara on your own?
You can reach Asinara by ferry from Stintino or Porto Torres. Once on the island, you can explore it on your own by choosing between trekking, bike rental, kayaking or simply walking. However, it is important to respect the rules of the National Park.
How to book to visit Asinara?
Bookings can be made through local tourist agencies, official websites of shipping companies or directly at the ports of Stintino and Porto Torres. We recommend booking in advance, especially during the high season (June-September).
How much does the Asinara train cost?
The cost varies between 15 and 25 euros per person, depending on the tour chosen. It is a comfortable option for exploring the island without physical exertion, perfect for families or those who prefer a relaxed approach.
What to bring to Asinara?
Comfortable shoes for walking. Hat, sunglasses and sun cream. Water and snacks (few refreshment points available). Swimming costume and towel for bathing. Backpack to carry all the essentials.
What to see on the island of Asinara?
Must-sees include Cala Reale with its old hospital and nature museum, the Fornelli prison, beaches such as Cala Sabina and natural pools. Don't forget to spot white donkeys and Sardinian deer.
How much does the ticket for Asinara cost?
The cost of the ferry to Asinara ranges from 15 to 25 euros per person one way. Some excursion packages already include the cost of the crossing.
Where to bathe at Asinara?
The best beaches for swimming are Cala Sabina and Cala Prisoners. The clear waters are perfect for relaxing or snorkelling, but remember that not all beaches are accessible to protect the environment.
How much does it cost to rent a bike at Asinara?
The cost of renting a bicycle ranges from 20 to 40 euros per day, depending on whether it is a traditional or an electric bike.
Where do you take the ferry to Asinara?
Ferries depart from Stintino and Porto Torres. Check timetables in advance as departures are limited.
How does bicycle hire work?
You can rent a bicycle directly on the island, at Cala Reale or Cala d'Oliva. Electric bikes are a popular choice for tackling longer routes without too much effort.
Who lives at Asinara today?
Asinara is practically uninhabited. Only the park rangers and a few people associated with the management of the tourist and research facilities live there.
How do you turn the Asinara?
You can tour the island on foot, by bike, kayak, tourist train or tour off-road. Each option offers a different experience depending on your interests.
How many days does it take to visit Asinara?
You can see the main points of the island in one day, but to explore it thoroughly and do activities such as snorkelling, trekking and historical tour, we recommend at least two days.
When to go to Asinara?
The best months to visit Asinara are from May to September, when the climate is most favourable and the sea is perfect for swimming.
How long does it take to visit Asinara?
A one-day visit is enough to explore the main places. If you have more time, you can stay a couple of days to discover the more remote beaches and do extra activities such as kayaking or trekking.
