Innamorata Beach

Innamorata lies on the southern slope of Monte Calamita, about 5 km from Capoliveri. It is a bay of just under 300 metres, sheltered by two headlands, with golden sand, small pebbles and very clear water; just offshore rise the Gemini islets. Its name comes from the legend of the Innamorata ("the woman in love"): in 1534 Maria threw herself into the sea to reach her beloved Lorenzo, kidnapped by Barbarossa's pirates, and all that was left of her was her shawl on a rock, the Ciarpa.

Getting there

From Capoliveri take the scenic road above the Golfo Stella towards Morcone and Pareti and on to Innamorata: it is an easy drive, and there is a paid car park at the beach. In summer a shuttle bus links the centre of Capoliveri with the beaches.

Which wind to go with

The bay is sheltered from tramontana (north wind), grecale (north-east wind) and levante (east wind): with these winds the sea is calm and clear.

Facilities and tips

There are beach clubs with umbrellas and sunbeds, a free stretch, bars, restaurants, hot showers and canoe, kayak, pedalo and SUP hire. The sandy seabed around the Gemini is rich in marine life and great for snorkelling; you can reach the islets by swimming or by pedalo. To the left of the car park a path of about 5 minutes leads to Punta delle Ciarpe, overlooking the Gemini. Every year on 14 July the legend is re-enacted with a procession in sixteenth-century costume and a torchlit parade on the beach.