Excursion to Asinara Stintino La Pelosa National Park

Explore Sardinia’s Asinara National Park for a Day of Unique Activities and Scenic Beauty

The Excursion to Asinara Stintino La Pelosa National Park offers a comprehensive 9-hour adventure through one of Sardinia’s most captivating protected areas. Priced at $189.73 per person, this private tour ensures an intimate experience with exclusive access to stunning coves, historical sites, and wildlife recovery centers. The tour departs from Viale la Pelosa, 12, Stintino at 9:30 am, making it ideal for those seeking a full day of exploration without the crowds. With admission tickets included for key stops and flexible itineraries, this experience caters well to curious travelers eager to discover Sardinia’s natural and cultural treasures, all while enjoying excellent cuisine and personalized attention.

The tour emphasizes swimming, snorkeling, and cultural visits, with the chance to see sea turtles at the recovery center and explore the Cala d’Olive prison. A highlight for many is the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters and relax on secluded beaches, complemented by freshly served meals outside the catamaran. While the tour is mostly praised for its professional guides and breathtaking scenery, travelers should be aware that the cancellation is non-refundable and relies on good weather for optimal enjoyment.

Key Points

• Private, 9-hour tour exploring Asinara National Park with all tickets included.
• Multiple stops for swimming, snorkeling, and land visits, including sea turtle recovery and prison sites.
• Flexible itinerary tailored with input from participants for a personalized experience.
• Delicious local food served outside the catamaran, with seasonal seasonal fruit in the evening.
• Expert guides like Franco and Francesco receive high praise for their professionalism and hospitality.
• Good weather required; cancellations caused by poor conditions are fully refunded.

Departing from Stintino for a Full Day in Asinara

This tour begins at Viale la Pelosa, 12, Stintino, early in the morning at 9:30 am, setting the stage for an extensive exploration of Asinara Island. The journey is designed to be approximately 9 hours long, with all stops scheduled to maximize time at each location, including swimming, snorkeling, and land excursions. The private nature of this tour means only your group participates, offering a more relaxed and customized experience compared to larger group trips.

The meeting point is conveniently close to public transportation, and the tour concludes back at the original spot, allowing for easy planning of the rest of the day in Sardinia. The mobile ticket system streamlines entry, ensuring a smooth start to your adventure.

Discovering the Highlights of Asinara’s Coveted Spots

Swimming in the Natural Pools at Asinara

The tour kicks off with a 50-minute swim in the coves of Asinara, where natural pools offer calm waters perfect for relaxing or light snorkeling. Known for their pristine conditions, these coves provide the first taste of the island’s stunning marine environment. The admission is free, making this a fantastic value for travelers eager to enjoy Sardinia’s famous waters.

Visiting the Sea Turtle Recovery Center at Cala Reale

At Cala Reale, the tour includes a 50-minute visit to the sea turtle recovery center. Admission is included, giving a glimpse into Sardinia’s efforts to protect its marine wildlife. Expect to see rescued turtles and learn about conservation initiatives. This stop adds an educational element to the day, appreciated by those interested in nature and environmental preservation.

Exploring the Cala d’Olive Prison and Bunker

After mooring at Cala Oliva, travelers are invited to climb roughly half an hour to the Centrale Prison and bunker. The visit is free, offering a fascinating look into Sardinia’s penal history. The 1 hour and 30 minutes allocated for this part of the tour allows ample time to absorb the history and take photos of the historic buildings.

Bathing and Land Excursion at Old Quarries

The next stop takes you to Fornelli Cove within the Parco Nazionale dell’Asinara, where 50-minute swimming sessions take place in waters famed for their clarity. Afterward, an excursion inland explores the old granite quarries used by inmates. This area offers insight into the island’s industrial past and features free admission.

Snorkeling in Fornelli Cove

The final highlight is a 50-minute snorkeling session at Fornelli Cove, known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. This stop promises excellent underwater visibility, making it a favorite for snorkeling enthusiasts. The free admission allows everyone to enjoy Sardinia’s vibrant aquatic ecosystem.

Practical Details: Meeting Points, Schedule, and Comfort

The tour begins at 9:30 am from Viale la Pelosa, a well-known spot in Stintino. The itinerary is flexible, with the host staff actively involving participants in planning the day’s stops, ensuring everyone gets the experience they most desire. The catamaran used is spacious, clean, and comfortable, designed to facilitate relaxation and socializing during the day.

The tour includes lunch served outside the catamaran, with each guest in their own chair, a setup that allows for personal comfort and unobstructed views. Seasonal fruit such as watermelons or white melons is served in the evening, adding a refreshing end to the active day.

The Role of Guides and Crew in Making the Experience Special

Guides like Franco and Francesco are highly praised for their professionalism, warmth, and helpfulness. They actively engage with guests, sharing stories about the island’s history, wildlife, and local culture. Their passionate and sympathetic approach, combined with great cooking and hospitality, enhances the overall experience, making the day both entertaining and informative.

Emphasis on Safety and Comfort

Guests can expect top-tier safety standards, especially during swimming and snorkeling stops. The crystal-clear waters at Fornelli Cove make underwater activities particularly enjoyable. The crew ensures everyone feels comfortable, attentive to individual needs, and ready to assist if required.

Food, Drinks, and Refreshments Aboard the Catamaran

The lunch served outside the boat is a highlight, featuring local ingredients and expertly prepared dishes, according to reviews. The onboard experience is complemented by fresh seasonal fruit in the evening, enhancing the relaxed, holiday atmosphere. The tour crew is noted for delivering plentiful, quality food, making mealtime a delightful part of the day.

Weather Conditions and Cancellation Policy

This tour is dependent on good weather, as it involves outdoor water activities. In case of poor weather conditions, the tour is either rescheduled to a different date or fully refunded. The non-refundable policy applies to cancellations, so travelers should plan accordingly and be prepared for potential weather-related changes.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This private tour is ideal for those who wish to experience Sardinia’s natural beauty and history in an intimate setting. It suits travelers who enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and exploring historic sites without the hassle of large group tours. The personalized service and flexible itinerary make it especially attractive for families, couples, or friends looking for a mix of relaxation, adventure, and culture.

The Sum Up: An Authentic Day in Sardinia’s Asinara National Park

The Excursion to Asinara Stintino La Pelosa National Park stands out thanks to its personalized approach, high-quality guides, and well-curated stops. The many swimming and snorkeling opportunities, coupled with visits to historic sites and the sea turtle recovery center, create a diverse and rewarding experience.

While the cancellation policy is strict, the tour’s flexibility in itinerary planning and excellent value for the included tickets and services make it a worthwhile choice for those seeking a full day of scenic beauty, culture, and wildlife. This tour most appeals to adventurers and nature lovers eager to explore Sardinia’s pristine waters and historic landmarks in comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the flexible schedule makes it family-friendly. Just ensure children are comfortable with swimming and outdoor activities.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring suitable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, and a towel. The tour offers a comfortable boat and life jackets for water activities.

Are meals provided?
Yes, lunch is served outside the catamaran, with seasonal fruit offered in the evening, according to reviews.

What is the maximum group size?
Since this is a private tour, only your group participates, ensuring a personalized experience.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is dependent on good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you can opt for a reschedule or receive a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made around 9 days in advance but can be secured earlier to guarantee availability.

What makes this tour different from others?
The personalized itinerary, inclusive tickets, and high praise for guides like Franco and Francesco set this experience apart, offering both relaxation and educational insights.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, the stops are agreed upon with all participants to suit your interests.

Is there any physical difficulty?
Most activities are suitable for most travelers, but some walking uphill or standing for periods may be involved during land visits.

What is the overall rating for this tour?
It holds a 4.5 out of 5, with 91% recommending it based on 43 reviews, reflecting high customer satisfaction.