Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Isole Tremiti
POP 500
This beautiful archipelago of three islands, 36km offshore, is a picturesque sight of raggedy
cliffs, sandy coves and thick pine woods, surrounded by the glittering dark-blue sea.
Unfortunately the islands are no secret, and in July and August some 100,000 holiday-
makers descend on the archipelago. At this time it's noisy, loud and hot. If you want to sa-
vour the islands' tranquillity, visit during the shoulder season. In the low season most tour-
ist facilities close down and the few permanent residents resume their quiet and isolated
lives.
The islands' main facilities are on San Domino, the largest and lushest island, which was
formerly used to grow crops. It's ringed by alternating sandy beaches and limestone cliffs,
while the inland is covered in thick maquis flecked with rosemary and foxglove. The centre
harbours a nondescript small town with several hotels.
Easily defended, small San Nicola island is the traditional administrative centre - a
castlelike cluster of medieval buildings rises up from the rocks. The third island, Capraia, is
uninhabited.
Most boats arrive at San Domino. Small boats regularly make the brief crossing to San
Nicola (€6 return) in high season - from October to March a single boat makes the trip
after meeting the boat from the mainland.
Sights & Activities
San Domino
Head to San Domino for walks, grottoes and coves. It has a pristine, marvellous coastline
and the islands' only sandy beach, Cala delle Arene. Alongside the beach is the small cove
Grotta dell'Arene, with calm, clear waters for swimming.
You can also take a boat trip (€12 to €15 from the port) around the island to explore the
grottoes: the largest,
Grotta del Bue Marino
, is 70m long. A tour around all three islands costs
€15 to €17. Diving in the translucent sea is another option with
Tremiti Diving Center
( 337 64
89 17; www.tremitidivingcenter.com; Via Federico 2)
. There's an undemanding, but enchanting, walking
track around the island, starting at the far end of the village.
ISLAND
