Horse Island
The island of Cavallo is located in the Mediterranean Sea, off the southeastern coast of Corsica, in French territory. The island is situated about 2 kilometers from the southern coast of Corsica and less than 1 kilometer northeast of the Lavezzi Islands.
Why is the Island of Cavallo famous?
In addition to its crystal-clear waters and white sandy beaches, the island of Cavallo is known for being an exclusive and privileged destination, with luxury residences and high-quality facilities.
Some of these residences belong to famous and wealthy personalities. It is an ideal place for those seeking privacy and relaxation in a natural environment of great beauty.
This paradise corner was discovered in the 1960s by the Central European aristocracy, which transformed it into an elite refuge. Thanks to its idyllic location and aura of exclusivity, the Island of Cavallo has become a beloved destination for celebrities, aristocrats, and prominent personalities.
A few villas nestled in the wind-sculpted rocks, but above all, the beauty of its sea has made Cavallo an iconic island: the colors of the water in Cala di Zerri or in the Palmà cove compete with those of a coral lagoon.
This mix of exclusivity has made Cavallo the preferred refuge of a certain world: from the Spanish Royals to the Onassis, from the Grimaldi to Princess Diana, who spent her last vacation here with her partner, the Arab billionaire Dodi Al Fayed, aboard Dody’s father’s yacht, the Jokinal. Not to mention movie stars and magnates from the film and finance industries.
The Island of Cavallo and Vittorio Emanuele di Savoia
Also noteworthy is the sad story involving Vittorio Emanuele of Savoy, who, on August 18, 1978, intoxicated by alcohol, fired two shots from a rifle that led to the death of the young Dirk Geerd Hamer, a 19-year-old German student, after a long agony.
The entire case was recently reconstructed by the documentary series “Il Principe,” directed by Beatrice Borromeo.
The island also preserves the remains of the granite quarries of the ancient Romans and those of the villa probably belonging to the quarry owner, where a finely crafted floor can still be admired.
Bonifacio Strait Nature Reserve
The island of Cavallo is part of the Bonifacio Strait Nature Reserve. Established since 1972, the Reserve has allowed the protection and conservation of marine and bird species, preserving the territory from the onslaught of mass tourism. Diving into the waters of the Island of Cavallo is like bathing in an immense aquarium, with fish of all species populating it.
The lush Mediterranean vegetation, with bushes and trees that reach the edge of the shore, together with the granite rocks sculpted by wind and sea, which have shaped the forms, give a unique touch to this island.
Nature lovers can enjoy walks and excursions to explore the island and its flora and fauna.
Water Activities: The waters around the Island of Cavallo are ideal for activities such as snorkeling, swimming, and sailing. Many people visit the island to enjoy these recreational activities.
How to Reach the Island of Cavallo?
The Island of Cavallo is accessible by sea or by air, by helicopter. With the Fil Rouge sailboats, 15 meters long, it is possible to reach the Island of Cavallo by sailboat from La Maddalena or Palau, in maximum safety.
Sailing through the Bonifacio Strait will take about 90 minutes, and it will be possible to admire protected bird species such as the Great Shearwater, the Northern Gannet, and the Corsican Gull.
Dolphin sightings are frequent. Excursions can be made in small groups (12 people) or exclusively.
