Isola Gallinara
A protected, uninhabited islet off the Ligurian coast, famed for its turtle shape and rich marine life. A nature reserve offering boat tours and divin...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos
Isola Gallinara
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A protected, uninhabited islet off the Ligurian coast, famed for its turtle shape and rich marine life. A nature reserve offering boat tours and diving.
"The island is stunning in any light or daytime."
Book Boat Tours Ahead
Tours to Isola Gallinara are popular; book in advance to secure your spot, especially in summer! :ticket:
Drone Views are Stunning
Capture breathtaking aerial shots of the island's unique shape and surrounding Ligurian coast. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Turtle-Shaped Islet
Off the coast of Albenga
This uninhabited island's unique turtle shape is a natural wonder, a protected reserve teeming with life.
Dolphin Sightings
Surrounding waters
Keep an eye out for playful dolphins that often frequent the waters around the island, a magical encounter.
Guided Diving Expeditions
Underwater around the island
Explore the rich marine biodiversity with guided dives, revealing the underwater beauty of this protected area.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Isola Gallinara Visit
Getting to Isola Gallinara
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Boat Tours Ahead
Tours to Isola Gallinara are popular; book in advance to secure your spot, especially in summer! :ticket:
Drone Views are Stunning
Capture breathtaking aerial shots of the island's unique shape and surrounding Ligurian coast. :camerawithflash:
Look for Marine Life
Keep an eye out for dolphins and other marine creatures during your boat trip. :dolphin:
Consider a Dive Trip
For a unique perspective, book a guided dive to explore the underwater world around the island. :scuba_mask:
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Boat Tours Ahead
Tours to Isola Gallinara are popular; book in advance to secure your spot, especially in summer! :ticket:
Drone Views are Stunning
Capture breathtaking aerial shots of the island's unique shape and surrounding Ligurian coast. :camerawithflash:
Look for Marine Life
Keep an eye out for dolphins and other marine creatures during your boat trip. :dolphin:
Consider a Dive Trip
For a unique perspective, book a guided dive to explore the underwater world around the island. :scuba_mask:
Wild & Selvaggia Charm
Embrace the island's wild, untouched beauty; it's a natural reserve with a rich history. :evergreen_tree:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Isola Gallinara for its stunning natural beauty and unique turtle-like shape, often describing it as a 'fantastic' and 'stunning' sight. The opportunity to see dolphins and explore the protected marine environment through boat trips or dives is a major highlight. Some note that direct access to the island is limited due to its reserve status.
"The Gallinara Island is known for its turtle shape. It is now a nature reserve and a shelter for herring gulls and rare plant species. The island is stunning in any light or daytime."
Michelle
"Gallinara island is the whale island in hunter x hunter where the freecs family lived"
Keith jayson Nunez
"Nice historical island located some KMs from Alassio. Touristic 😉"
Kelvine Shu
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Isola Gallinara is best reached by boat. Tours depart from nearby towns like Albenga and Alassio. You can also arrange private boat rentals or join guided diving excursions that include transport. 
There are no public ferries directly to Isola Gallinara. Access is primarily through organized boat tours or private charters.
Many visitors opt for boat tours that circle the island, offering great views and photo opportunities. For a more immersive experience, consider a guided dive or snorkel trip.
Yes, Alassio is a popular departure point for boat trips to Isola Gallinara. Several operators offer excursions from the town's harbor.
No, Isola Gallinara is an uninhabited island and cannot be reached by car. Access is exclusively by sea.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While the island itself is a nature reserve, you'll need to book a boat tour or diving excursion to visit. Tickets are for the boat trip, not for entry to the island itself.
Tour prices vary depending on the operator and duration, but typically range from €20-€50 per person for a boat trip. Diving excursions may cost more.
Boat tours generally operate during daylight hours, with departures spread throughout the day, especially in summer. It's best to check with individual tour providers for specific schedules.
Access to the island itself is restricted as it's a protected nature reserve. Most tours circle the island, and landings are usually limited or not permitted to preserve the environment.
Yes, private boat rentals and tours are available, offering more flexibility. This is a great option for groups or those seeking a more personalized experience.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
From the boat, you get fantastic views of the island's turtle shape. Aerial shots are particularly stunning, showcasing its unique form.
Absolutely! Drone footage and photography capture the dramatic coastline and the island's distinctive silhouette beautifully.
Early morning or late afternoon light often provides the most dramatic and picturesque views of Isola Gallinara.
Yes, most boat tours allow and encourage photography. You'll have ample opportunities to capture the island and surrounding sea.
Coastal roads and viewpoints near Albenga and Alassio offer distant but beautiful perspectives of the island.
🎫 🐠 Marine Life & Activities
The waters around Isola Gallinara are known for dolphin sightings. It's also a protected area for various marine species, making it great for diving and snorkeling.
Yes, it's a popular spot for diving due to its protected status and rich underwater ecosystem. Several dive centers offer excursions.
While swimming directly around the island might be restricted due to its protected status, many boat tours stop in safe areas nearby for swimming.
Some boat rentals offer opportunities for water sports, and diving/snorkeling are the primary aquatic activities directly associated with the island.
As a protected marine area, the waters teem with diverse fish species. Divers often report seeing a variety of Mediterranean fish.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1While direct access to the island is limited due to its protected status, the boat journey itself is the main attraction. Pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and water, as the sun can be intense on the water. Consider a shorter tour if your children have shorter attention spans.
🐠 Dive Enthusiasts
It's advisable to book your dive trip in advance, as these excursions are popular. Ensure your chosen dive operator is reputable and provides all necessary equipment and safety briefings. The underwater visibility can vary, but the chance to explore this unique ecosystem is well worth it.
📸 Photographers & Drone Pilots
The dramatic Ligurian coastline also provides a stunning backdrop. Aim for golden hour – early morning or late afternoon – for the most dramatic lighting and captivating shots. Even without a drone, the views from the boat tours are spectacular, offering ample opportunities to capture the island's beauty and the surrounding azure waters.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Natural Reserve of Isola Gallinara
The island's distinctive turtle shape is a prominent feature, visible from various vantage points. This natural formation, combined with its ecological significance, makes Isola Gallinara a fascinating destination for nature enthusiasts and those interested in conservation efforts. The surrounding waters are also rich in marine life, often visited by dolphins, adding to the area's appeal.
+1Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect the island's delicate ecosystem. This includes monitoring wildlife populations and managing visitor impact. Understanding and respecting these conservation goals is key to ensuring the long-term preservation of Isola Gallinara's natural beauty and biodiversity for future generations.
Exploring Isola Gallinara by Boat
+1Many boat trips also include stops in picturesque bays or coves near the island, allowing passengers to swim, snorkel, or simply relax and enjoy the Mediterranean waters. Keep a keen eye on the sea, as dolphin sightings are a frequent and delightful bonus for many visitors.
+1For those seeking a more active aquatic adventure, private boat rentals and guided diving or snorkeling tours are available. These options allow for a more personalized exploration of the island's surroundings, including its underwater marine life. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially during the busy summer months, to secure your preferred tour.
+1Historical Significance of Isola Gallinara
One of the most significant historical connections is with Saint Martin of Tours. Legend has it that he sought refuge on the island in the 4th century AD, fleeing persecution. This association has lent a spiritual aura to the island over the centuries, making it a place of historical and cultural interest beyond its natural beauty.
While the island is now a protected nature reserve and largely uninhabited, remnants of its past, such as ancient monastic structures, hint at its former significance as a place of settlement and spiritual retreat. Exploring these historical layers adds another dimension to the visitor experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit