Faro di Capo Ferro

Faro di Capo Ferro is a lighthouse standing on the rocky headland of Capo Ferro, a few kilometres from Porto Cervo, in the municipality of Arzachena, on the Costa Smeralda coast of north-eastern Sardinia. It's one of the most recognisable landmarks along this stretch of coastline — a white, cylindrical tower rising above the cliffs, overlooking the strait that leads toward the La Maddalena archipelago.

Where is the Capo Ferro lighthouse located?

Capo Ferro sits on the outermost tip of the Gallura coast, between Porto Cervo and the smaller coves nearby, including Cala Granu beach. The lighthouse stands roughly 50 metres above sea level, which alone explains why this spot is one of the best vantage points on the entire Costa Smeralda. Two structures share the site: an older, now decommissioned tower, and a newer one that's still in active use.

How do you get there?

The easiest way to reach Capo Ferro is by car from Porto Cervo — the road winds past villas and open countryside toward the headland, and the final stretch to the lighthouse itself is on foot. It's a short walk, but the ground around the lighthouse is rocky and uneven, so comfortable shoes are worth packing. It's a popular half-day outing for travellers based in Porto Cervo, Poltu Quatu, or the other resorts along the Costa Smeralda.

What will you see once you're there?

The lighthouse has been operating since 1858, guiding ships along this section of coast for well over a century — its light carries roughly 24 nautical miles out to sea. You can't go inside the tower itself, but the building isn't really the point of the visit. From the cliffs around it, you look straight across the strait separating Sardinia from the La Maddalena archipelago and out over the Pelagos Sanctuary, a protected marine area known for the cetaceans, including dolphins, that live and breed in these waters. On a clear day, it's one of the better spots on the Costa Smeralda to watch boats pass by and take in the open horizon toward the islands.

When is the best time to visit?

Late afternoon and early evening give the best light, when the sun catches the cliffs and water at a different angle, and sunset makes the headland especially photogenic. Expect more visitors in the summer high season around Porto Cervo — if you'd rather have the place to yourself, aim for early morning or a visit outside peak months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you go inside the lighthouse? No — the tower is a working navigational aid and isn't open to the public inside. The draw here is the surrounding cliffs and the view, not climbing the lighthouse itself.

How far is it from Porto Cervo? Capo Ferro lies a few kilometres from central Porto Cervo. It's a short drive, with the last stretch to the lighthouse covered on foot.

What can you see from the headland? Looking out from Capo Ferro, you get views across the strait toward the La Maddalena archipelago and over the waters of the Pelagos Sanctuary, home to dolphins and other cetaceans — one of the best panoramas along the Costa Smeralda.

Is it worth combining with Cala Granu beach? Yes — Cala Granu is close by, so many visitors pair the walk to the lighthouse with time on the beach the same day.