Caprera Island, Garibaldi's wild home
A protected oasis, in the far north-east of Sardinia, which evokes a sense of wonder and adventure
Caprera, also known as the Italian Tahiti, is the second largest island in the Maddalena archipelago, which covers an area of over 15 km². Its jagged coast sees a succession of breathtaking views, which alternate with numerous hidden coves sheltered by pine forests and woods. In 1982, it was preserved thanks to its designation as a nature reserve, thus making fishing strictly prohibited in its waters and thus allowing marine wildlife to thrive undisturbed.
Currently, only a small part of Caprera is inhabited, with the hamlet of Stagnali representing the only real inhabited center on the island. The granite terrain that characterizes the island tells a story of wild and uncontaminated beauty. However, in 1994, this beauty was seriously compromised by a devastating fire that affected much of the area. This event caused the degradation of the precious forest ecosystem of Caprera, leaving only a few areas with signs of rebirth, such as in the Pino Domestico planting dating back to the 1950s.
The beaches of Caprera
The beaches of Caprera are famous for their beauty, counted among the best in Italy and perhaps in the entire Mediterranean. But which are the ones that absolutely deserve a visit?
First of all, the Due Mari beach stands out, easily reachable by a bus service. It is an enchanting bay made up of two adjacent beaches, separated by a small isthmus of land. Here the sea with its crystalline seabed combines with the white sand and small pink granite rocks, creating an environment of rare beauty. It is considered by many to be the most beautiful beach in Caprera.
Cala Coticcio , on the east coast, is why the island is often associated with Tahiti. Its exotic beauty, with turquoise sea, white sand and pink rock formations, seems to come from a tropical dream. Although not easily accessible, it is one of the most particular and precious beaches in Sardinia, absolutely unmissable.
Then there is Cala Serena , defined by an American newspaper as the most romantic beach in the world. Accessible via a path that branches off from the road to Cala Garibaldi, it offers evocative landscapes and an enchanting atmosphere, perfect especially at sunset for an unforgettable moment as a couple.
For those looking for a more intimate atmosphere, there is Cala Napoletana on the north coast. It stands out for its warm and welcoming atmosphere, and for the very white sand. Reachable via a short path that offers breathtaking views along the way, this bay is an oasis of absolute peace.
Last but not least, there is the Spiaggia del Relitto , so called for the wreck of an old wooden motor sailing vessel (the Motoveliero Trebbo) which emerges from the shoreline, offering a unique and fascinating spectacle. The story that brought the coal mine to there dates back to 1955 when, following a large fire, it ran aground to the east of the island. It can be easily reached by following the signs for Stagnali.
Garibaldi and Caprera, the last years of the hero of two worlds
One of the things for which Caprera is best known is certainly that it was the final residence of Giuseppe Garibaldi. In fact, from 1856 to 1882 , Garibaldi lived on the island with his family, personally dedicating himself to the agricultural company he had started and to the cultivation of fields and orchards. This place, better known as the Garibaldino Complex , is now open to the public for guided tours. In addition to the sumptuous rooms of the so-called White House that house his precious collection of memorabilia and personal objects, one of the most fascinating attractions is the majestic pine tree in the center of the garden. Planted in February 1867 on the occasion of the birth of his daughter Clelia, this tree represents a tangible symbol of Garibaldi's history and family.
Tickets for the general's house museum, open every day of the week, offer affordable prices and are also available for advance purchase .
Boat excursion to Caprera
Caprera, although it has modest dimensions, presents itself as a jewel capable of satisfying every type of traveler who has the privilege of exploring it. Among its most precious treasures are the trekking paths that wind through the lush Mediterranean vegetation, such as those of Poggio Stefano and Monte Teialone , and the picturesque village of Stagnali , enriched by a unique historical heritage and a fascinating mineralogical museum that reveals the secrets of the geological origins of the island.
However, the crystal clear sea continues to be the true protagonist of this little Sardinian gem. Its transparent waters are a direct invitation to practice fantastic snorkeling , offering visitors the opportunity to explore the rich marine ecosystem and spot dolphins and sea turtles in the surrounding areas.
But what's better than exploring these enchanting waters aboard a boat? Our boat tour with Golfo Aranci Escursioni offers an unparalleled experience, allowing you to discover secluded coves and places full of charm. With our team of experts guiding the journey, you can relax and enjoy the spectacle offered by the seascape, wrapped in an atmosphere of exclusivity and personalisation.
Our boat tour is a special experience that we offer only on request, but guaranteeing an unrepeatable adventure. Whether you simply want to relax while admiring the breathtaking views or you have the desire to explore hidden and fascinating places, joining us in this activity is the perfect way to create even more indelible memories of your visit to Caprera. Don't miss this unique experience!
