Tremiti Islands
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Latest page update: 22 January 2025
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By: Dion Protani
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The Tremiti Islands (Isole Tremiti) is a group of four islands located around 35 kilometres from the Gargano National Park in the Province of Foggia.
The islands can be reached by ferry from various places on the Italian mainland in Puglia, including Vieste, Rodi Garganico and Peschici, all of which are towns on the Gargano Peninsula. Those routes are only available during the summer months, while out of season you can also reach the islands from the town of Termoli in the region of Molise. |
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Four islands
What the islands lack in size, (the total size of all four islands combined is just 4 square kilometres), they make up for in beauty. From each of the islands it's just a short hop (well ok, boat ride) to any of the others and their defining feature is the crystal clear water. Having personally visited all of Italy's coastline and islands, I would say the water here is just about the most spectacular.
The ferries arrive on either San Domino or San Nicola which are the two main islands. San Domino has a beautiful, sandy beach called Cala delle Arene and is also where you'll find the island group's four hotels and the majority of its restaurants.
Throughout the day there are boats crossing to San Nicola which is a different kind of island; the main attraction here being the Castello dei Badiali. You can take a really interesting hike from one end of San Nicola to the other and it's from here that you'll get the best views of the other islands. There are also some restaurants on San Nicola and it also has its own beach.
The ferries arrive on either San Domino or San Nicola which are the two main islands. San Domino has a beautiful, sandy beach called Cala delle Arene and is also where you'll find the island group's four hotels and the majority of its restaurants.
Throughout the day there are boats crossing to San Nicola which is a different kind of island; the main attraction here being the Castello dei Badiali. You can take a really interesting hike from one end of San Nicola to the other and it's from here that you'll get the best views of the other islands. There are also some restaurants on San Nicola and it also has its own beach.
Boat hire
To visit the other two islands it's best to either hire a boat or take one of the various boat trips on offer from San Domino. The island of Capraia (not to be confused with Capraia in Tuscany), is the third largest of the group and uninhabited, as is the case with the smallest of the four islands, Cretaccio.
There is also a fifth island that officially forms part of the Tremiti Islands group; it's called Pianosa and also has an equivalent on the Tuscan Archipelago (this Pianosa).
The Tremiti Islands Pianosa is a good distance north west of the four islands that make up the majority of the archipelago; roughly the same distance as it is from Termoli to San Domino. It can only be reached via a private excursion however and is so small that it gets very few visitors.
There is also a fifth island that officially forms part of the Tremiti Islands group; it's called Pianosa and also has an equivalent on the Tuscan Archipelago (this Pianosa).
The Tremiti Islands Pianosa is a good distance north west of the four islands that make up the majority of the archipelago; roughly the same distance as it is from Termoli to San Domino. It can only be reached via a private excursion however and is so small that it gets very few visitors.
Isole Tremiti
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Province: Foggia
Region: Puglia Population: 452 Highlights: San Domino, Castello dei Badiali, Cala delle Arene Recommended stay: Hotel Kyrie Isole Tremiti |
San Domino
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San Domino is known as the "garden island" for its lush pine forests and fragrant Mediterranean flora, it is a haven of natural beauty. The island boasts crystal-clear waters, hidden sea caves, and picturesque beaches like Cala delle Arene.
Historically, the Tremiti Islands were used as a place of exile during Roman times and later hosted monastic communities. San Domino is the largest and most visited island in the archipelago, offering opportunities for hiking, snorkeling, and exploring its dramatic coastline. Its unspoiled charm makes it a treasured destination for nature lovers. |
San Domino
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San Nicola
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San Nicola is the archipelago’s historical and cultural heart.
Known for its rich history, it is home to the Abbey of Santa Maria a Mare, a fortified monastery dating back to the 9th century, which stands as a testament to medieval architecture and religious devotion. The island features dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and narrow paths leading to stunning viewpoints. Historically a place of strategic importance, San Nicola has seen Greek, Roman, and Norman influences. |
San Nicola
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Capraia (Tremiti)
Capraia
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Cretaccio
Cretaccio
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Tremiti Islands Ferry Schedules
Tremiti Islands Ferry, Puglia
