Carloforte (San Pietro island) lies off the south-western coast of mainland Sardinia, about 80 kilometers from Cagliari. 3 nautical miles separate it from the port of Calasetta, and 5 nautical miles from that of Portovesme.
Ferries to Carloforte leave from Portovesme and Calasetta. The first one takes about 40 minutes, the second 30 minutes. There are numerous daytime sailings, approximately every hour, while there is a night service only from Calasetta.
Information and timetables: delcomar.it
When leaving from Cagliari or from the Cagliari-Elmas airport, take the SS 130 in the direction of Iglesias, after 44 kilometers take the turn for Villamassargia-Carbonia and at the next junction head for Carbonia-Sirai choose whether to continue to Portovesme or to Calasetta: ferries to the San Pietro island leave from both ports.
It is also possible to reach the ports of Portovesme and Calasetta by public transport. Depending on the day of the week and the point of departure, it might be necessary to change means of transport (bus or train) in Iglesias, Villamassargia or Carbonia.
Information and tickets: arst.sardegna.it
The port of Portovesme can also be reached by private shuttles.
> Go to Rentals
If you are arriving by car, you can park it at the port of departure (Portovesme or Calasetta) as in Carloforte there are several bicycle, scooter and car hire companies; there is also a local public transport service.
> Go to Rentals
Spring arrives early here. The sky is immediately brighter, the countryside in bloom and the air fragrant. The sea now seems to emit its own beautiful light, full of every shade of green and blue. This is the best time of year for trekkers and cyclists – and for gastronomic specialities. In May the island’s ancient tradition of tuna fishing takes place and can be savoured in the restaurants and trattorias of U Paize.
In Carloforte, the hot months arrive early and leave later. Everything suddenly comes alive: the streets, the beaches, the sails on the sea, and long evenings in the village. People find enjoyment in being outdoors, in the small streets and squares, on chairs outside their houses, and at tables outside bars and cafes. It is also the season of festivals, fairs and open-air cultural events.
Autumn arrives late in San Pietro. At the beginning, when the first rains open in the north, people are still swimming, boating and sunbathing. The colours of the countryside become more intense and the desire for long walks and bicycle rides returns. The sky also deepens and on certain evenings the sunsets seem to set it on fire.
Winter also comes to San Pietro island. But it is short and different: its climate is mitigated by the surrounding sea, and by February it already gives the promise of Spring. In the meantime, the mistral wind puts on a show on the northern and western coasts of the island, waves thundering on the cliffs and reefs, while in the town the easterly winds arrive dampened by the close proximity of nearby mainland Sardinia.
Carloforte has a helpful Tourist Office where you can get a free map, up-to-date information on events, tour operators, transport and all the services available on the island.
Where: As soon as you disembark from the ferry, cross the street and you’ll find us just beyond the statue of Carlo Emanuele III that dominates the seafront.
Piazza Carlo Emanuele III
09014 Carloforte SU
Tel: 0781 854009
info@carloforteturismo.it
The office is open on the following hours:
Every morning from 10.30 am to 12.30 pm and every afternoon from 5 pm to 7 pm.
Ferry ticket office: Delcomar (+39) 0781 857123 / 348 3349198
Harbour Master: 0781 854023/855955
Carabinieri: 0781 855821
Municipal Police: 0781 855716/854441
L.A.VO.C. (Voluntary fire-fighting and civil protection association,
open 24h: (+39) 0781 855940 / 339 2773196
Croce Azzurra (emergency services): 118
First Aid, Emergency: 0781 855666
Polyclinic: 0781 856155
Piccaluga Pharmacy: 0781 854011
D’Atri Pharmacy: 0781 854006
Veterinary: 0781 857187
Italian Post Office: 0781 854038
