The village of San Paolo was and still is a fishermen’s hub, which has experienced strong tourism growth over the years, thanks to its beaches and its daily ferry links with the island of Tavolara. The charming hamlet lies near the entrance to Don Diego Beach, on the border between San Teodoro and the hamlet of Vaccileddi, not far from Porto Taverna Beach.
Tavolara, despite its elongated shape, is only about five kilometers long and one kilometer wide, with its highest point reaching 565 meters at Punta Cannone, on the island’s western side, where cliffs often drop steeply into the sea. Always exposed to the wind and sea, the coast on this side features the long sandy beach called Spalmatore di Terra, a stunning sandy stretch with a unique view found only in Sardinia.
In these very places, a king once took refuge: Bertoleoni, king of Tavolara. On the eastern side of the island lies Ulisse’s Arch, a natural rock arch over fifty meters tall. Also on this side is the Grotta del Papa (“Pope’s Cave”), easily recognizable by a rock that resembles a human face wearing a papal tiara. This cave is significant due to the presence of Neolithic remains and intriguing prehistoric petroglyphs that have been discovered inside.
Just a few hundred meters from Tavolara lies Molara, its smaller “sister” island, although the nature of the two is completely different. Molara is a granite islet, part of the same rocky foundation that supports Sardinia. In medieval times, the village of Gurguray was founded on the island, remnants of which still exist today. The island is covered in Mediterranean vegetation, particularly olive trees. Near Cala di Chiesa on the northern side, two freshwater springs can be found, and a trail leads visitors inland to explore its hidden charm. Further east, along the coast, one can see the “dinosaur rock”, a striking natural formation shaped by erosion. On the southern end of the island are the ruins of a medieval fortress, perched on Monte Castello, with walls up to 150 meters above sea level offering breathtaking views of the sea.
The Marine Protected Area of Tavolara Punta Coda Cavallo was established in 1997 by decree of the Ministry of the Environment and covers approximately 15,000 hectares of sea and coastal territories of the municipalities of Olbia, Loiri Porto San Paolo, and San Teodoro. It is managed by a consortium of the three towns, which has received EMAS certification. In 2007, the MPA also received the prestigious ASPIM (Specially Protected Area of Mediterranean Importance) designation.
Thanks to its unique natural features and breathtaking scenery, combined with rich historical events, it is one of the most interesting protected sites in the Mediterranean. In alignment with its goals, the Marine Area offers educational trails and environmental education programs designed to stimulate curiosity and awareness.
The area benefits from a close partnership with I.CI.MAR (Institute of Maritime Civilizations) in San Teodoro, which hosts a small but fascinating museum with archaeological artifacts and exhibits telling the story of this corner of Gallura.
Tourist Information
Tel: +39 0789 40466
Local Police
Tel: +39 0789 41106
Emergency Medical (Croce Verde)
Tel: +39 330 318686
Tourist Medical Service
Tel: +39 0789 40510
