The small village of Stintino, pronounced Isthintinu in Sardinian, dates back to the 19th century, when fishermen and their families were relocated here from the island of Asinara to make room for a prison colony.
The harbors of Porto Nuovo to the north and Porto Vecchio to the south form the main hubs of the town. After seeing the main church and exploring the cobblestone streets of Stintino, most visitors head straight for La Pelosa Beach (Spiaggia della Pelosa). Laze on pristine sands and swim in turquoise waters or enjoy lunch in its restaurant with a panoramic view. Let your eyes wander across the sea towards the Torre Falcone, a watchtower on the nearby Isola Piana.
If you are a scuba diver, book a boat trip to explore the waters around Isola Piana with one of the local dive centers. Experienced surfers can rent a board in the windsurfing centre, or get lessons there, and head to the gorgeous realm of Spiaggia de La Pelosetta.
From La Pelosa it is just a short distance to Capo Falcone, a rocky cape. From here, look out over the former prison island of Asinara, which has become a wildlife haven due to its permanent isolation. Isola Asinara is now an officially a protected nature reserve. Book a boat tour from Stintino to visit Pond of Pilo (Stagno di Pilo), where pink flamingos can feed and breed undisturbed.
Stintino, in the Province of Sassari, is located on the northwest coast of Sardinia, about 22 miles (36 kilometres) northwest of the historic city of Sassari. From Alghero, Stintino is about an hour north by car. If you are arriving by boat, choose between Porto Mannu (with the most amount of berths), Marina di Stintino and Porto Minore.
