Precisely because they are so few, the inhabitants of Isola di San Pietro maintain their cultural customs. You will experience the special atmosphere of the island right on you very first trip into the interior.
General Info
Starting its life as a fishing town on the island of San Pietro just south of Sardinia, Carloforte was founded by 30 families of coral fishermen who gave the name after (Carloforte – Charles’ Fort) after the King Charles Emmanuel III of Sardinia who granted them permission to settle here. Today it’s famous among the community for its beaches, remote location and history.
The main activities these days are tourism and some fishing, though the tuna fisheries are now a thing of the past and the former processing plant is now a museum. There is also a strong a strong tradition of wooden boatbuilding with lots of local craftsmen producing fishing or sailing boats that can be seen in the harbor.
Travel & Arrival
The only way to get to this small island is by ferry which makes 30-40 minutes trips from Calasetta to the south east or Portosscuso in Sardinia to the north east, the closest land to the island, actually an island in itself. Arriving here could prove problematic, but once you’re here, you’re group will enjoy the wonderful scenery and quiet atmosphere.
Avant & Apres Sail
Apart from the very colorful town of Carloforte which still retains much of its 19th century architecture, visible right from the harbor, you’ll find that the whole island of San Pietro is perfect for those trips due to the mostly wild landscapes. You’ll also find some Punic and Roman temples and settlement remnant scattered around the backcountry.
There is also some high ground, the Guardia dei Mori, with the old abandoned lighthouse which is worth visiting at least once with your friends, as the view from here is said to be one of the best in Sardinia.
The cuisine in Carloforte is famous for its Arab influences which blend perfect with the Sardinian cuisine in flavors and smells that are among the most memorable in Mediterranean cuisine. The guest can enjoy dishes such as pasta cu pestu – fish and pasta, or tuna and musciamme, capon which is served with marinated tomatoes, olive oil, basil and chickpea flour. Among the Arabic influences you’ll find couscous as well as some condiments.
Events & Actions
For such a small town, you’ll find that Carloforte has a wide assortment of events, but most are food related, so gourmands should really think twice when booking their trip. The last week in April is dedicated to one of the local specialities – the couscous tabarkino, when numerous servings are organized (during that time extra ferries travel to the island). The Girotonno is a famous celebration of all seafood that lasts from the 29th of May to the 1sty of June.
Some cultural events that groups can attend include the international music, cinema, theater and dance festival from August until September and the Creuza de Ma film festival which features film screenings and concerts in September.