Stretching over 11 kilometers, Pellestrina is a narrow island in the Adriatic Sea. It forms a natural barrier between the sea and the Venetian lagoon to the south-west of the Lido. This strip of land is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and peaceful atmosphere, offering a striking contrast to the hustle and bustle of Venice. Local specialties and crafts, such as lace, reflect a rich culture and preserved heritage, attracting visitors in search of authenticity.
With an average width of just 120 metres, Pellestrina's environment is dominated by its fine sandy beaches and rows of reefs known as 'Murazzi'. These reefs were erected to protect the island from the onslaught of the sea. Fishing villages, colorful houses and narrow roads make it a charming place and a haven of tranquillity for cyclists and walkers in search of serenity.
Key points
- Pellestrina is a peaceful island in contrast to bustling Venice.
- The island is renowned for its crafts, notably lace, and its fishing culture.
- Murazzi' protect Pellestrina from the elements, a testament to its unique environment.
Geography and Environment
According to our team of local experts, Pellestrina is a narrow, delicate island in the Venetian lagoon. Together with Lido and other slender islands, it forms a natural bulwark separating the Venice lagoon of the Adriatic Sea. Pellestrina, with its unique environment, offers a striking blend of nature and history.
Location and physical characteristics :
- Venice Pellestrina is part of the municipality of Venice.
- Lido The island is administratively associated with Lido.
- Chioggia At the southern tip, you can sail to Chioggia, another colorful fishing town.
- Malamocco Near Malamocco, slabs of earth have been laid down as a shield against the onslaught of the Adriatic.
The island is a jewel for nature lovers. To the south, the Ca' Roman nature reserve attracts nature-lovers and birdwatchers alike. The ecological wealth includes dunes and salt marshes, home to significant biodiversity.
Access and activities :
Holidaymakers interested in Pellestrina can depart from Venice by vaporetto for a picturesque trip across the lagoon. By visiting Pellestrina, they can enjoy a more authentic side of Venetian life, away from the crowds of the historic center.
Services available :
- Guided tours Bonjour Venise, the reference site for French-speaking travelers, offers daily guided tours.
- Lodgings A variety of accommodation options are available to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere.
Content update :
The Bonjour Venise website ensures daily updated content to provide practical and accurate information for visitors to Pellestrina and Venice. The travel agency, with its expertise since 2014, aims to offer the best advice for a memorable trip to Italy.
Attractions and Culture
This article draws its wealth of information from our team of local experts, who reveal the enticing cultural and tourist facets of Pellestrina, the picturesque fishing village on the Venetian lagoon often overshadowed by nearby Murano and Burano.
Crafts and Homes
Pellestrina is famous for its craftsmanship, in particular bobbin lace, an art passed down from generation to generation and still practiced today. The houses of the village offer a lively panorama, with the Carrizzada Belvedere with breathtaking sunset views.
Tourism and Lodging
The island offers visitors an authentic experience far from the hustle and bustle. For your stay, several hotels and typical lodgings are available, especially in Portosecco or near the Santa Maria del Mare. Local restaurants offer freshly caught seafood specialties, making for a pleasant day trip from Venice.
Transport & Access
Pellestrina can be reached via the Lido di Venezia by the regular waterbus (vaporetto). The main road of the island is ideal for cyclists who appreciate the bike path along the Murazzistone breakwaters protecting the island from the tides. Any questions about transport can be answered by our expert guides, who are up to date with the day-to-day news on how to get to Pellestrina.
Frequently asked questions
Our local experts will share with you the essential information you need for a serene visit to the island of Pellestrina, that pearl of the Venetian lagoon often overshadowed by its famous neighbor, Venice.
What are the best ways to get to Pellestrina from Venice?
To get to Pellestrina from Venice, visitors can take a vaporetto to the Venice Lido. They can then take another boat or bus that crosses the breakwater to Pellestrina. This is a picturesque way to approach the island.
What points of interest should tourists visit in Pellestrina?
Tourists to Pellestrina can discover colorful houses lining the water, tranquil beaches far from the hustle and bustle of tourism, and traditional lace-making craftsmanship. A stroll through the small fishing villages is also recommended to capture the island's authenticity.
What accommodation options are available on the island of Pellestrina?
Pellestrina offers a variety of accommodation options, from family-run B&Bs to small hotels. Visitors can choose between accommodations overlooking the lagoon or the Adriatic Sea.
How do you get around the island of Pellestrina once you've arrived?
Once on the island, visitors can get around on foot to enjoy the peaceful surroundings, or rent bicycles to explore the lanes and coastal paths. There is also a local bus service that runs from one end of the island to the other.
What's the best time of year to visit Pellestrina?
The best time to visit Pellestrina is from spring to autumn. This is when the climate is pleasant, allowing you to take full advantage of the island's outdoor activities and beaches.
What are the typical dishes on the island of Pellestrina?
Culinary specialties on the island of Pellestrina include fresh seafood, such as fish from the lagoon. Traditional seafood pasta dishes are also very popular.
Visitors can enjoy these delicacies in small local restaurants or at a picnic on the shore.
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