Isole Tremiti

Introducing Isole Tremiti

This beautiful archipelago of three islands, 36km offshore, makes for a splendid trip. The hour-long boat ride takes you to a world 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, somewhat masking the islands’ natural beauty and tranquillity. In the low season they are magical, if oddly deserted. Most tourist facilities close down, and the few permanent residents resume their quiet and isolated lives.

The islands’ accommodation and 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 foxgloves. The centre harbours a nondescript small town with several hotels.

Easily defended, the small San Nicola island was always the administrative centre of the Isole Tremiti – 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 (€5 return) in high season – from October to March a single boat makes the trip after meeting the boat from the mainland.

Last updated: Oct 27, 2008