Stintino: Coast, Nature and Maritime History

Coastal views of Stintino

Stintino’s western side, the “mare di fuori,” is high and rugged, with sandy and pebbly coves alternating along the coast. The eastern coast, the “mare di dentro” in the Gulf of Asinara, is low-lying and sheltered. This distinction is a practical starting point for planning your trip: depending on which part of the coast you want to explore, you’ll encounter different landscapes.

La Pelosa is known for its clear water, which remains very shallow for many dozens of metres, and its fine white sand. A road about 3.5 kilometres long connects the town of Stintino to the beach, and shuttle buses run along it. La Pelosetta also has a shallow, sandy seabed that is ideal for swimming and relaxing. The small island opposite can be reached on foot at low tide. Check local conditions before crossing.

Other stretches of coast have different features: Punta Negra combines clear water and a richly diverse seabed with opportunities for swimming and snorkelling. Cala Lupo is a cove on the west coast with medium-grain golden sand, rocks and Mediterranean scrub. Its clear, deep blue waters and richly diverse seabed are ideal for snorkelling and diving.

Nature and Trails

The Cesaraccio and Pilo ponds form a natural oasis. Purple herons, little egrets and kingfishers live there. The wildlife at Capo Falcone is also remarkable: peregrine falcons nest in rock crevices, and the rare Eleonora’s falcon is also found there. The view takes in the entire Gulf of Asinara and Stintino’s west coast.

The route around Stagno di Casaraccio is 1.7 kilometres long. It can be covered on foot or by bicycle and has no particular difficulties in terms of gradient or terrain. A well-marked, easy trail to Torre del Falcone is 2.2 kilometres long and can be used on foot or by bicycle. These two distances give you a practical guide when choosing between the routes mentioned.

Maritime History and Experiences

Torre della Pelosa kept watch over the Strait of Asinara and was in sight of the towers on Isola Piana and at Capo Falcone. It was probably built before 1578. The Museo della Tonnara explores the history of tuna fishing in the Gulf of Asinara through a multimedia experience. Exhibits include fishing equipment, diaries, newspaper articles, “Mattanza” clothing, boat models and works by Sardinian artists.

The Regata della vela latina was founded in 1983. Its purpose was to preserve the surviving boats with lateen sails and rekindle interest in this maritime heritage and body of knowledge. The Palio Remiero is also part of the annual calendar: the Canottieri Stintino sports association organizes it every year on 8 September for the patron saint’s feast. Le Saline beach is also home to a military site dating from the Second World War. About 25 positions are spread between Le Saline and Monti Frattu.

The Porto Museo delle Vele Latine in Porto Minori, opened in April 2023, houses several characteristic gozzi from Stintino’s seafaring tradition. On a Pescaturismo trip, visitors can experience the everyday life of local fishermen aboard traditional boats and explore the clear waters of the Gulf of Asinara. At Il Gabbiano beach, the Windsurf Center offers windsurfing and sailing lessons for all levels.

Trips to Asinara

A maritime passenger service connects Stintino and Asinara. Direct departures for excursions operate from April to October. Check the timetable for your planned date so you can include this seasonal trip in your travel plans.

Discover more destinations: Tottubella, Ploaghe, Porto Torres, Marina Di Sorso, Ardara, San Nicola, Bonorva, Padria.

For the main travel overview: Sassari.