A limestone and granite mountain rising from the sea

Tavolara and Molara

A granite colossus dotted with Mediterranean greenery that gives its name to the marine protected area of Tavolara, Molara and Punta Coda Cavallo, characterized by uncontaminated nature, rocky walls, wild paths and crystal-clear waters.

He smallest kingdom of the world

Between history and legend..

Known as the smallest kingdom in the world, Tavolara is a limestone and granite mountain rising from the sea, 560 meters high and four kilometers long. It is defined by its rugged cliffs, its dramatic verticality, and its stunning palette of colors: the green of juniper, rosemary, and mastic blending with the light blue, deep blue, and emerald green of the surrounding waters.

Rich in ancient and modern history and legends, this island with its remarkably unique shape appears in classical mythology as the petrified ship of the Phaeacians, turned to stone by Poseidon with its rudder facing the open sea, punished for having brought Odysseus back to his homeland.

The island, elongated and almost flat in shape, is the heart and iconic symbol of an unforgettable natural spectacle: the Tavolara–Punta Coda Cavallo Marine Protected Area, which stretches for 76 kilometers along the coastline of Loiri Porto San Paolo, Olbia, and San Teodoro, and covers 15,000 hectares of crystal‑clear waters, coves, and inlets from Capo Ceraso to Punta s’Isuledda.

The area also includes the red‑porphyry islets of Molara and Molarotto, the picturesque islet of Proratora, the ‘twin’ islands of Isola Piana and Isola dei Cavalli, as well as the tiny islands of Porri, Topi, Drago, and the Isolotto Rosso. Finally, there is Capo Coda Cavallo, a stretch of granite land extending into a sheltered portion of sea. All of these places are ideal for lovers of boat excursions, and snorkeling.

Tavolara's Highlights

Tavolara island

The vertical cliffs of Tavolara, carved with caves and niches, rise 560 meters above sea level, while at sea level the island’s only inhabited area, Spalmatore di Terra, features a small harbor, several beaches and two restaurants. This is where you will arrive if you visit the island on a day trip. For several years now, Tavolara has also hosted the Italian auteur film festival Una notte in Italia, which attracts renowned artists and a passionate audience. Ideal for a day trip, it is a true paradise for snorkeling enthusiasts.

Tavolara Leggend

Legend has it that in 1836, King Charles Albert of Savoy of Sardinia, having landed on the island during a hunting trip, met Giuseppe Bertoleoni, who introduced himself as “King of Tavolara.” Impressed by this figure, the sovereign stayed on the island for a week and, before leaving, informally recognized Bertoleoni’s title, making Tavolara “the smallest kingdom in the world.” Tavolara’s fame spreads beyond Italy’s borders. Later, Queen Victoria of England docked her ship in Tavolara Bay, where a photograph was taken of the King’s descendants, portrayed on deck.

Molara island

A true natural paradise, its rugged coastline is dotted with small coves, caves, and white‑sand beaches. Among the most famous are Cala dei Francesi, Cala della Tartaruga, and Cala Finanza, all featuring crystal‑clear waters and unspoiled nature. It is said that Pope Pontian was exiled here around 235 AD, as suggested by the medieval ruins of the church dedicated to him. Molara is the ideal place for those seeking peace and tranquility. The island has no human settlements and offers a unique experience of immersion in nature..

Molarotto Island

One of the three islands that together with Tavolara and Molara make up the Tavolara archipelago (completely included in the marine protected area of the same name), it is made up of an outcrop of pink granite and represents the last land outpost before the open sea.

A Protected Marine Escape

Discover Tavolara by Yacht

A limestone and granite mountain rising from the sea, Tavolara is defined by uncontaminated nature, rocky walls, wild paths and crystal-clear waters in one of Sardinia’s most remarkable marine protected areas.

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