Asinara National Park

Asinara Island, located off the northwestern coast of Sardinia, Italy, is a unique geographic gem in the Tyrrhenian Sea. Characterized by its rugged, untouched beauty, Asinara is roughly 51 square kilometers in size. The island’s landscape is dominated by rocky cliffs, pristine beaches, and a rolling interior marked by low hills. Its isolation from the mainland has allowed for the preservation of a diverse and rich ecosystem, including rare plant and animal species.

The clear blue waters surrounding Asinara offer excellent opportunities for snorkeling and diving, revealing a vibrant marine world. Its strategic position in the Mediterranean has also made it a historically significant location, featuring remnants of past human habitation, including a former maximum-security prison. Today, Asinara Island is a protected national park, celebrated for its untouched natural beauty and ecological significance – and dare I say it’s even better than the famous Cala Luna!

How to get to Asinara Asinara Island?

Getting to the Asinara Island is an adventure in itself. The island is located off the northwest coast of Sardinia and can be reached by boat from various ports in the region.

One of the most popular departure points is Stintino, a charming coastal town known for its picturesque harbour. From Stintino, you can hop on a ferry or book a guided tour that will take you across the crystal-clear waters to this paradise-like destination. The journey alone is worth it, as you’ll be treated to stunning views of the coastline and maybe even catch glimpses of dolphins swimming alongside your vessel.

Cycling to the beaches

I recommend taking the path on the right and sticking to the main road and not turning too often on natural paths with stones. On the way, you will see several beaches, the most beautiful is Spiaggia di Cala Trabuccato. The town of Cala d’oliva offers beautiful views, a pier and Torre di Cala d’oliva.From here you can easily reach Spiaggio Cala Sabina and Cala dei Ponzesi, two beautiful beaches. 

Cala Sabina and Cala Dei Ponzesi (best beaches)

Cala Sabina Beach is indeed beautiful, but, as one local resident warned us, tourists tend to arrive around one o’clock and leave by three. Therefore, it might be better to head over to Cala Die Ponzesi, which is smaller and a bit more hidden, ensuring you won’t find too many people there.

The return journey is a bit challenging due to a steep hill, so I recommend leaving with some extra time to spare. The boat back departs at six. The return bike ride should take a maximum of two hours, although it took us just over an hour. On the left-hand side of the port, there’s a turtle hospital I’ve heard a lot about, but unfortunately, it closes at half-past five.

The history of Asinara Island National Park

Asinara Island has not always been a national park. In 1855, local fishermen were forced to leave the island under King Umberto’s law. Some families, especially the inhabitants of Cala d’Oliva, decided to build a new town, known today as Stintino. During World War I, about 25,000 Austro-Hungarian prisoners  were forced to remain on the island. One of the must-see sights on the islands is therefore Cala Reale, a former prison that has been turned into a museum. Here, you can learn about the history of the island and its past as a penal colony.

Many died of diseases or starvation and were buried in mass graves. In the 1980s and 1990s, a penitentiary colony with a maximum security guard was transformed. There were one of the most dangerous terrorists and mafias. Thanks to this, the national park is almost untouched today. Asinara Island became the national park in 1998, some sources mention 1997.

Fornelli Village

If you’re interested in archaeology, make sure to check out Fornelli Village, an ancient settlement dating back thousands of years. Marvel at its well-preserved structures and imagine what life was like for its past inhabitants.

Lighthouses

Additionally, there are several lighthouses scattered across the islands that offer panoramic views of their surroundings. From these vantage points, you can take in sweeping vistas of crystal-clear waters and admire the rugged coastline from above

Flora and fauna in the Asinara National Park 

The area is one of the most beautiful in Sardinia, with approximately 80 species of endemics. Around 11 species, including turtles and vipers, are estimated to be among the reptiles. Among the mammals, you can encounter hares, foxes, wild pigs, horses, and albino donkeys, which are typical symbols of this area. There are 680 different species of flora, of which 29 are endemic. The vegetation exhibits typical Mediterranean features.

Albino donkeys

Albino donkeys are donkeys born with a genetic condition known as albinism, which results in a complete absence of melanin pigment. As a result, they have distinctive features, including white fur, pink skin, and pale blue or pinkish eyes. Albino donkeys are rare and require special care, as they are highly susceptible to sunburn and sun-related health issues due to their lack of protective melanin in the skin and eyes. Despite their rarity and unique appearance, their care needs make them distinct within the donkey population.

Asinara National Park at glance

Location: Asinara National Park is located on Asinara Island, the second largest island of Sardinia after Sant’Antioco. It’s part of the municipality of Porto Torres.

Establishment: The park was established in 1997 to protect and conserve the island’s biodiversity, landscape, and cultural and historical values.

History:

The island has a unique history, known as “Devil’s Island” due to its past uses. It served as a quarantine location, a prisoner of war camp during World War I, and a high-security prison until 1998. The island was closed to the public for 112 years before becoming a national park.

Natural features: The park houses a great variety of habitats. It’s known for its Mediterranean scrub and windswept landscapes. The island is home to white donkeys, which are a notable attraction.

Visiting the park: The park can be reached by boat from Porto Torres or Stintino. Visitors can explore the island by tourist train, jeep tours, bikes (including e-bikes), or on foot. There are various guided tours available, including boat excursions.

Attractions:

• Historical sites like former prisons and quarantine stations.
• Beautiful beaches and clear waters
• Unique wildlife, including the white donkeys
• Hiking trails and scenic viewpoints

Last thoughts about Asinara Island

On the Asinara island you can pay a guide that will show you everything important. On the other hand, if you want to explore the island yourself, I recommend renting a bike or getting to the island by a car. Asinara National Park has beautiful nature, clear water, donkeys, and rich history. It is also relatively undiscovered by tourists, so it is a very quiet area worth visiting.

Where to next in Sardinia?

Sardinia is an incredible place whether you’re just visiting or wanting to settle down here. You may want to check out other articles I’ve written, including the ultimate guide that includes places like Olbia and Porto Istana. Capo Testa, black beach, Cala Luna, la Pelosa, cities – Nuoro, Oristano, Cagliari. Alghero, Sassari, Porto Torres, Argentiera, Castelsardo, Bosa.