A beach holiday in…Veneto? If the region whose claim to fame is the city of Venice didn’t come to mind when deciding where to go for your next beach holiday, you’ll reconsider after reading this article! The surprising truth is that Albarella Island, located in the lagoon south of Venice, is a beach holiday and so much more.

The Beach

Albarella Island is a prestigious “blue flag” beach in the heart of the Po Delta Nature Park. Despite being a lagoon, the northern Adriatic waters here are clean and clear. The sand is fine and golden and there are stretches of “free” beach as well as numerous private establishments offering sunbeds and umbrellas. You’ll find loads of activities such as beach volleyball courts, beach tennis and football. There are restaurants, bars and kiosks offering everything under the sun for a pleasant day and lively evening at the beach.

Activities

The island is a 100% protected environment boasting unique flora and fauna. Species such as deer, pheasants, hares, herons, marsh harriers, stilt plovers and little egrets are common sightings and bird watching is a favorite pastime for visitors. 

If in addition to lounging on the beach you also like to stay active on your holiday, then Albarella will be paradise. A wide range of outdoor activities are offered on the island. Some favorites are bike riding and horseback riding. Lessons for all ages and horseback riding trails and itineraries in the Po Delta Park are offered year-round. For the golfers, the 72 par course is laid out over 70 hectares of fairway with water hazards and dunes and was designed by British architect John Dering Harris. Lessons are available for all ages! 

What beach would be complete without water sports? The Sailing Center holds lessons for all ages and has all sorts of boats available from small to catamarans. There are also SUP (stand-up paddling) and windsurfing lessons held on the beach at the Caleri Lagoon and at the Sports Center. As far as underwater goes, the island has also made its name for its highly-rated diving center. Again, trained professionals will get you comfortable in the water no matter what your age or level.

Getting There

Albarella is connected to the mainland by a bridge making it fairly simple to arrive by car. The nearby train station on the mainland of Rosolina is a possibility as well; however, it requires hiring a taxi to get to Albarella (15 km away). Another option is by helicopter! What a way to make an entrance and to get a spectacular panoramic view of your destination from the air.

Please note: Due to the highly protected environment and the fact that the island is privately owned, the number of tourists allowed onto the island is somewhat regulated. 

Read more about the Po Delta Nature Park
and nearby Comacchio (also known as “Little Venice”)!