Why Sardinian Travel Expert Keeps Returning to San Pietro Island
Claudia Tavani has explored more than nine Italian islands, from Sicily to Stromboli. Yet the Sardinian-born travel writer, founder of the website Strictly Sardinia, names San Pietro, a small island off Sardinia's southwest coast, as her favorite destination. She returns there regularly, drawn by its unique culture, distinctive cuisine, and changing seasonal character.
What Makes San Pietro Different from Sardinia
San Pietro feels culturally distinct from mainland Sardinia. Its only town, Carloforte, was established in the 18th century by Tabarchini families, Ligurian settlers whose ancestors had previously lived on the Tunisian island of Tabarka. This heritage remains visible today.
Residents speak Tabarchino, an old Ligurian dialect, and the local food blends Ligurian, Sardinian, and North African influences. The town itself resembles Genoa, with scenic caruggi, narrow alleys lined with colorful buildings.
Why Food Draws Visitors Back to Carloforte
Tavani cites food as a primary reason for her repeated visits. Carloforte has a renowned tuna-fishing tradition, including the mattanza, a centuries-old ritual for harvesting Mediterranean blue-fin tuna that typically occurs in June. During tuna season, many local seafood restaurants feature the fish prominently.
Another local specialty is cascà, the Carloforte version of couscous, reflecting the island's North African culinary connections.
How San Pietro Changes with the Seasons
The island's atmosphere shifts dramatically between summer and other times of the year. In summer, Carloforte becomes lively, popular with visitors from southern Sardinia, yet it remains relatively unknown to international tourists.
Tavani visited in early August this year and took a boat tour around the island. Even at peak season, she noted far fewer boats than around heavily visited spots like La Maddalena.
Outside summer, San Pietro becomes much quieter but remains a pleasant place to spend several days. Tavani says she enjoys being in Carloforte, eating there, walking through town, and observing how its character evolves throughout the year.
What Else Does San Pietro Offer Beyond Food and Culture
The island features beautiful beaches, impressive cliffs, salt pans, and spectacular sunset viewpoints. Strong winds are common and shape the island's character, which is why Tavani advises visitors to allow ample time. She mentioned that her boat tour took years to complete, as it had been canceled multiple times due to wind conditions.
Why San Pietro Is Not Just a Summer Destination
Tavani emphasizes that San Pietro is not associated solely with beaches or summer holidays. The island's cultural richness, culinary traditions, and seasonal transformations make it a year-round destination worth exploring.
Claudia Tavani is the founder of Strictly Sardinia, a travel website dedicated to her home island.
This article was originally published on August 26, 2026.