Carloforte
Carloforte
A Ligurian Village in the Heart of Sardinia
Located at the southwestern tip of Sardinia, Carloforte is one of the island’s most enchanting villages. Founded in 1738 by a colony of Ligurian fishermen from Tabarka, Tunisia, this village still preserves its Ligurian character and traditions, evident in its urban layout and local culture. Strolling through the historic center, the Ligurian influence is immediately noticeable: narrow alleys, pastel-colored houses, and the Battellieri promenade, home to a monument dedicated to King Carlo Emanuele III, under whose reign the colony was established. Carloforte is a unique place where Sardinian and Ligurian cultures blend in a captivating mix, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Sardinia.
San Pietro Island: Wild Nature and Breathtaking Landscapes
The Island of San Pietro, home to Carloforte, is part of the Sulcis Archipelago, which also includes the nearby island of Sant’Antioco. Of volcanic origin, San Pietro is renowned for its rugged coastline and cliffs plunging into the sea, reaching heights of 150 meters. The island’s interior is covered in Mediterranean scrub and boasts an unspoiled natural environment, perfect for hiking and nature walks. Its shores alternate between sandy coves and towering cliffs, creating a diverse landscape with numerous panoramic viewpoints. The island is an ideal destination for nature and sea enthusiasts, offering opportunities to explore both the coastline and the interior to discover its pristine beauty.
The Girotonno: Celebrating Bluefin Tuna in Carloforte
One of the most significant events for Carloforte is the Girotonno, an international festival dedicated to the tradition of bluefin tuna fishing, held annually between May and June. During the Girotonno, chefs from around the world gather in Carloforte to celebrate the bluefin tuna (Thunnus Thynnus), one of the Mediterranean’s most prized products. This event features tastings, culinary competitions, and showcooking, transforming Carloforte into the “Capital of Quality Tuna.” The fishing of bluefin tuna, carried out at the San Pietro Tonnara, is a centuries-old tradition with deep cultural and historical significance for the people of Carloforte, remaining a distinctive element of the island's identity.
Experience Carloforte with Toucan Travel: Between Culture, Nature and Tradition
With Toucan Travel, you can discover the uniqueness of Carloforte and the Island of San Pietro, immersing yourself in a journey that blends culture, nature, and culinary traditions. Explore the Ligurian-origin village, uncover the island’s wild landscapes, and take part in the Girotonno, experiencing authentic southwestern Sardinia. Carloforte offers a taste of history and tradition in a natural and cultural setting that still preserves its unique identity and the charm of ancient Mediterranean traditions.
