Tavolara​

​There can be few places of this size in the world with such a unique array of attractions. In the north eastern corner of Sardinia and just a short distance from the Costa Smeralda, lies the island of Tavolara. You can see the island from miles around with the distinctive shape of its 565 metre high Monte Cannone and on arrival you're faced with the spectacle of bright blue, crystal clear water. 

The island is a magnet for private yachts and the sea is popular among diving enthusiasts but this only tells half the tale. 
Charmed as I was by the natural beauty of the island, I was even more intrigued by the fascinating story of the Kingdom of Tavolara. The story goes that in 1836, the incumbent King of Sardinia, Charles Albert, appointed one Giuseppe Bertoleoni, a humble fisherman, as King of Tavolara. It's unclear how seriously this appointment was made but the seriousness was not lost on the appointee who at the time was the only person living on the island. Subsequent to his encounter with King Charles Albert, the newly-crowned King Giuseppe the first moved his family to the island and upon his death, the crown passed to his son Paolo who became Paolo the first. 

The title of king has passed down through the generations and now belongs to Tonino the 1st, or simply, Tonino to his friends. King Tonino runs the Da Tonino restaurant which is one of two on the island, the other one being run by his sister, Princess Madalena. I know it sounds ridiculous but you've got to trust me on this!

There is a tribute to this story on the island where you'll also find a pathway explaining the flora and fauna that can be found there. You'll also find a tiny cinema and during the summer there's also an annual film festival that takes place outside. 

It takes around 20 minutes to reach Tavolara by a small ferry from Porto San Paolo. ​
​Category: Sardinian Islands

Region: Sardinia

Regional district: Sassari Province

Population: ​20

​Size: 5.9 km²

Highlights: ​The royal story, beautiful beach, Monte Cannone

Recommended stay: ​Hotel ​Don Diego (Loiri Porto San Paolo)
Arrival port: Tavolara

Journey time from Sardinian mainland: 20 minutes

Distance from nearest Sardinian mainland port: 8 km
Arrive by: Ferry
​
Arrive from: ​Loiri Porto San Paolo

Best airport: Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (20 km)

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