Serpentara Island

A Wild Paradise at Largo di Villasimius

Located about four kilometers off the southeastern coast of Sardinia, Serpentara Island is a natural gem emerging from the crystal-clear waters off Sarrabus. This elongated, sinuous granite island owes its name to its snake-like shape, with rocks and cliffs sculpted by wind and sea. Covering an area of about 134 hectares, the island is uninhabited and boasts lush Mediterranean vegetation, fragrant and verdant, covering most of its territory. Home to wild rabbits and a haven for numerous protected bird species, including the rare Audouin's gull, herons, and shag cormorants, the island is an unspoiled ecological treasure. Dolphins are also frequent visitors to the surrounding waters, offering an exciting spectacle for those nearby. The northern part of the island is marked by large rocks known as the Variglioni, which form natural pools ideal for swimming, while the southern area features rock formations in a variety of hues, including yellow, gray, and pink.

Tower of San Luigi: A Testimony of Spanish Domination

At the top of the island, about 50 meters above sea level, stands the historic San Luigi Tower, a watchtower dating back to the Spanish domination of the 16th century. This structure, built to protect the Sarrabus coasts from Saracen pirate raids, now offers an unparalleled panoramic view. From here, you can gaze across the entire southeastern coastline of Sardinia, admiring the vivid colors of the sea and the coastline's profile. The tower is a distinctive feature of the island and, although in ruins, tells an important chapter of Sardinia's defensive history.

Serpentara Island is accessible only by sea, via private boats or organized excursions from the nearby port of Villasimius, a town located on the Sardinian coast. This isolation has allowed the island to preserve its ecosystem, making it an ideal destination for those seeking an experience immersed in wild nature.

Capo Carbonara Marine Protected Area: A Natural Treasure to Preserve

Serpentara is an integral part of the Capo Carbonara Marine Protected Area, a region dedicated to preserving the delicate environmental balance of its waters and seabeds. Fishing, navigation, and diving are regulated in this area, as well as on the nearby Isola dei Cavoli, to ensure the protection of the marine habitat and the species that inhabit it. The waters surrounding the island are home to a variety of marine fauna, including fish, mollusks, and aquatic plants, making this area a true paradise for sea and diving enthusiasts.

In addition to being a refuge for seabird species, the island and the seabeds around Serpentara are also populated by meadows of Posidonia oceanica, a marine plant essential for the health of the sea and coastline. Thanks to the protection provided by the marine protected area, Serpentara and its waters maintain exceptional biodiversity, making this island a site of community interest and a highly attractive natural destination.

From Villasimius to Serpentara: An Itinerary of Nature and History

The proximity to Villasimius makes Serpentara an unmissable stop for those visiting southeastern Sardinia. Villasimius is renowned for its stunning beaches, including Porto Giunco, Punta Molentis, and Cala Caterina, all easily accessible from the town center. Clear waters and stretches of white sand define these beaches, which are among the most famous on the island. The area around Capo Carbonara offers extraordinary views and places rich in biodiversity, such as the Notteri Lagoon, known for its pink flamingos.

Near Villasimius, you can also visit archaeological sites of great interest, such as the necropolises of Accu is Traias and Cruccuris, remnants of ancient civilizations that once inhabited these lands. The surrounding territory offers a perfect blend of nature and history, with hiking trails and scenic routes that lead to the discovery of hidden corners and natural wonders.

A Unique Experience Between Nature and History

Discover Serpentara with Toucan Travel

With Toucan Travel, you can explore Serpentara Island on a tour that combines unspoiled nature, dolphin and seabird sightings, and extraordinary views from the San Luigi Tower. An organized excursion will take you to this pristine island, allowing you to experience it in all its beauty. Our tours offer the opportunity to admire the natural pools of the Variglioni, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and learn about the ancient history of Sardinia’s coastal defenses.

Serpentara will provide you with an authentic and unforgettable experience, immersed in the scents and colors of Sardinia, surrounded by turquoise waters and rocks shaped by time.