The Only Road on Asinara Island: Scenic Drive from Fornelli to Cala d’Oliva

# The Fornelli-Cala d'Oliva Road: Sardinia's Hidden Gem

If you're hunting for one of the world's most stunning coastal drives, look no further than the Fornelli-Cala d'Oliva Road on Asinara Island. This 21.1 km stretch is literally the *only* paved road on this remote Italian island in the Mediterranean, making it pretty special.

Tucked into the northwestern corner of Sardinia near the Province of Sassari, Asinara was kept under wraps until 1999 when it finally opened to tourism. The concrete road itself blends beautifully into the landscape, connecting the southern town of Fornelli (where a former maximum-security prison stands as a historical landmark) with the charming northern settlement of Cala d'Oliva, complete with whitewashed houses and buildings that once housed prison staff families.

What makes this drive absolutely magical is the incredible biodiversity and scenery you'll encounter. As you wind along the road, you'll pass through the island's most important habitats, catch glimpses of unique wildlife, and witness dramatic coastal panoramas. The route connects several picturesque towns—Fornelli, Tumbarino, La Reale, and Cala d'Oliva—each with their own charm.

Spring and autumn are the perfect times to visit, when you can soak in those dreamy turquoise and azure waters, pristine white sand beaches, and some of the Mediterranean's most breathtaking seascapes.

Here's the catch though: don't plan on renting a car. Private vehicles are strictly off-limits for visitors. You'll need to hop on a guided tour, rent a bicycle or e-bike, or take an electric cart provided by the park. Parking is limited to designated areas near key spots, and rules are enforced seriously—so respect them!