Carloforte​

By Dion Protani
Latest update: 21 October 2023
​​​The port town of Carloforte is situated on San Pietro Island which lies within the Province of South Sardinia.

The town has a population of around 6,100 residents and is included in the list of Borghi Più Belli d'Italia (most beautiful villages in Italy). Places of interest nearby include Spiaggia La Caletta, Sant'Antioco and Spiaggia La Salina. 
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Carloforte is a picturesque town located on the island of San Pietro, off the southwestern coast of Sardinia, Italy. It is a unique and charming destination known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful natural landscapes. Carloforte is a popular tourist spot, attracting visitors with its maritime heritage, delicious cuisine, and welcoming atmosphere.
History
Carloforte was founded in the 18th century by a group of Ligurian fishermen from the island of Tabarka, off the coast of Tunisia. They settled on the uninhabited island of San Pietro to escape the attacks of Barbary pirates. The settlers brought their language, traditions, and unique cultural heritage, which can still be experienced in Carloforte today.
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The town's name is a tribute to King Carlo Emanuele III of Savoy, who supported the Ligurian settlers' relocation. Over the centuries, Carloforte developed into a significant fishing and maritime center, with its economy closely tied to the sea and fishing activities.
Highlights and nearby attractions
  • Piazza Pegli: The central square of Carloforte, Piazza Pegli, is the heart of the town's social life. It is surrounded by colorful buildings, shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it an ideal spot to relax and soak in the local atmosphere.
  • San Pietro Island: The island of San Pietro itself offers beautiful natural landscapes, with rocky cliffs, sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Visitors can explore the island's coastline, go hiking, or enjoy water sports.
  • Cala Fico Beach: One of the most famous beaches on San Pietro island is Cala Fico, known for its stunning turquoise waters and unique rock formations.
  • Tuna Fishing: Carloforte has a long tradition of tuna fishing, and visitors can learn about this historical activity at the Tonnara Museum, which showcases the ancient techniques used in tuna fishing and processing.
  • Local Cuisine: Carloforte is renowned for its seafood cuisine. Restaurants offer a variety of dishes, including freshly caught fish, lobsters, and delicious local pasta dishes.
  • Festivals and Events: The town hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the famous "Girotonno," a gastronomic festival celebrating tuna fishing and culinary traditions.
  • Traditional Music: Carloforte's cultural heritage is expressed through its traditional music, including songs and dances that reflect the Ligurian origins of its inhabitants.
  • Accessibility: Carloforte can be reached by ferry from the nearby town of Portoscuso on the Sardinian mainland. Portoscuso is approximately 80 kilometers from Cagliari-Elmas Airport, the nearest airport.
Comune di Carloforte
Province: South Sardinia

​Region: Sardinia

Population: 5,9625 ​(source: ISTAT 1 January 2023)

​​​​​​​​​​​Size: 50 km²

Close by: ​Spiaggia La Caletta, Sant'Antioco, Spiaggia La Salina

Access: ferry from Portovesme or Calasetta

Fly to: Cagliari Elmas Airport - 2 hours 5 minutes by car and ferry

Recommended accommodation: Lu' Hotel Riviera
One of I Borghi più belli d'Italia (Italy's Most Beautiful Villages)

Listing headline: Anima Ligure (Ligurian Spirit)

Carloforte​  Gallery

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