Excursion to Asinara Stintino La Pelosa National Park

If you’re thinking about a day out in Sardinia that combines stunning natural beauty, a touch of history, and some quality time swimming in crystal-clear waters, then the Excursion to Asinara Stintino La Pelosa National Park might catch your eye. Based on the glowing reviews and detailed itineraries, this tour offers a well-rounded experience that promises both relaxation and adventure. While I haven’t done it myself, I’ve gathered enough info to give you a clear picture of what to expect.

What really appeals to us about this trip are the variety of stops—from natural pools perfect for swimming to historic sites like the old prison—and the chance for snorkeling in pristine waters. Plus, the fact that it’s a private tour means you’re not just part of a large crowd, and the crew’s reputation for professionalism and hospitality shines through the feedback. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that the tour is non-refundable, so it’s best to be certain about your dates and weather conditions.

This experience seems ideal for travelers who love a mix of nature, history, and water activities. If you’re someone who appreciates a well-organized day with plenty of opportunities to swim, explore, and learn about local conservation efforts, then this tour could be a perfect fit. Keep in mind, though, it’s probably not the best choice if you’re looking for a quick, purely relaxing day without much movement or if you’re traveling with very young children.

Key Points

• Diverse itinerary including swimming, snorkeling, and historical visits
• Private tour with a small group, offering personalized attention
• Rich reviews highlighting professional crew, stunning scenery, and good food
• Cost analysis suggests a fair value considering the variety of stops and included activities
• Flexible stops based on participant interests, like sea turtle centers or historic sites
• Weather dependency means your experience is weather-sensitive, with options for rescheduling or full refund

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

We love the way this tour balances adventure and relaxation. It’s roughly a nine-hour trip starting at 9:30 am, which is a decent length—enough time to really get a feel for the area but not so long that you’re exhausted by the end. The fact that it’s a private experience means you won’t be squeezed into a crowded group, allowing for a more intimate and flexible day.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Asinara — Natural swimming coves

The tour kicks off with a swim in the natural pools around Asinara. The reviews rave about the crystal-clear waters, which are perfect for cooling off and taking in the scenery. Expect around 50 minutes here, and since the admission is free, you’re just paying for the boat ride and guides. The water quality seems to be a highlight, with visitors describing the coves as spectacular and the experience as breathtaking.

Stop 2: Cala Reale — Sea turtle recovery center

Next, you’ll visit the sea turtle recovery center. It’s a special sight and arguably one of the tour’s biggest draws. The fact that admission is included means you get to learn about conservation efforts firsthand—something that many reviews mention positively. Around 50 minutes are allotted here, giving you enough time to observe and appreciate the work being done to protect these gentle creatures.

Stop 3: Carcere-Bunker di Cala D’Oliva — Historic site

For history buffs, the step up to the old prison, which is a former detention facility, is a fascinating visit. You’ll walk about half an hour up to the prison and then explore it for about 1.5 hours, free to wander and absorb the atmosphere. The reviews describe this as a free visit that adds a meaningful historical layer to the day, making it more than just a relaxing boat trip.

Stops 4 & 5: Land and Water in Asinara — Old quarries and snorkeling

The afternoon involves a mix of land and sea activities. You’ll visit the old granite quarries, once used by inmates, which gives insight into the island’s rugged past. The second water stop is a snorkeling session at Fornelli cove, praised for its crystal waters and abundant fish. Expect around 50 minutes at each stop, with free admission, allowing you to swim, snorkel, and take in the scenery without feeling rushed.

What Travelers Say

Multiple reviews highlight the friendly and professional crew. Travelers mention Captain Gianfranco, Francesco, Franco, and Cesco as being warm, hospitable, and attentive. One reviewer said, “They made us feel at home,” and many rave about the delicious food served onboard, describing it as “freshly prepared” and satisfying. The ability to relax and enjoy quality food while taking in gorgeous views is a recurring theme.

The tours have received consistently high ratings—around 4.7 out of 5—with travelers noting “beautiful coves,” “spectacular waters,” and “superb guides.” Several reviews mention the value for money considering the stops, the included activities, and the overall experience. One reviewer even called it “an experience to try,” emphasizing the great fun and good company.

What Could Be Better?

The main consideration is that the experience is non-refundable, which means you’ll want to be confident in your plans and check the weather forecast. Since the trip depends on good weather, delays or cancellations are possible if conditions turn poor. Also, since some stops involve a 30-minute walk or more, this trip may not be suitable for those with mobility issues or very young children who can’t walk long distances comfortably.

Value for Money

At around $189.73 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive day in Sardinia’s natural and historic sites. When you factor in the multiple stops, snorkel gear, guided visits, and food, it seems like a solid deal for a full-day private adventure. The reviews reinforce that many travelers felt it was worth the price, appreciating the personalized attention and the well-curated itinerary.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you love water-based activities, exploring history, and relaxing in beautiful surroundings, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s especially suited for those who want a private, flexible experience with knowledgeable guides who care about your comfort and curiosity. The mix of swimming, snorkeling, and sightseeing makes it suitable for travelers with moderate mobility and an adventurous spirit.

However, if you prefer a quick, laid-back day or traveling with very young children, you might find the walking and multiple stops a bit demanding. Also, keep in mind the weather dependency—if you’re visiting during uncertain weather periods, it’s worth checking the forecast or considering the flexible rescheduling options.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 9 hours, starting at 9:30 am and ending back at the meeting point in Stintino.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers the boat trip, guided visits to the sea turtle center and historic sites, snorkeling equipment, and a meal served outside the boat. Admission to the turtle center and prison site is included.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally accessible for most travelers, the walking involved (like the 30-minute ascent to the prison) and the full-day length may be tiring for very young children. It’s best suited for kids who can handle a full day and enjoy walking.

What should I bring?
Bring swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, hat, and possibly a waterproof camera. The boat provides snorkeling gear, but you might want to bring your own if you prefer.

Can I customize the stops?
The itinerary is agreed upon with all participants, so there may be some flexibility based on your interests—especially regarding visits to the sea turtle center or other sites.

What happens in case of bad weather?
Since the experience is weather-dependent, if poor weather cancels the trip, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This Asinara National Park tour offers a well-rounded mix of natural beauty, history, and water fun. The high praise for the crew’s professionalism and the quality of the stops suggests it’s a thoughtful way to explore Sardinia’s coast and inland sites. The private aspect means you’ll enjoy a more personalized experience, making it a good choice for travelers who want comfort without the crowds.

While the non-refundable policy requires some planning, many reviews emphasize how memorable and worth it the day turns out to be. If you’re after a full, engaging day with plenty of swimming, sightseeing, and good food, this tour could be just what you need for an authentic Sardinian adventure.

In short, this tour suits those who love a mix of exploration and relaxation, with a bit of history and conservation thrown in. Pack your sense of curiosity and adventure—you’re in for a memorable ride.