The cat islands, or also “cat islands”, are wonderful refuges where felines feel at ease and can experience the spaces in total freedom. In fact, in some islands around the world, cats even outnumber the residents. If you love cats and can’t resist the temptation to be in their company throughout the day, here are the must-see cat islands in the world: some are in Italy.
Aoshima Island
Aoshima Island, located in Japan, is a real paradise for cat lovers. Currently about 15 people live on the island, but the cat colony has over 100 specimens. Their presence is also favored by total absence of cars or bikes and by the presence of abandoned houses, where they can take shelter during the night.
Geographically, Aoshima is located off the coast of Ehime Prefecture, approximately between Matsuyama and Hiroshima. The island is small and can be easily explored on foot. Among the main attractions are the lighthouse, the temple and a marina.
Procida Island
The Island of Procida, located in the Gulf of Naples, is famous not only for its breathtaking beauty and its cultural heritage, but also for being one of the most fascinating cat islands in Europe. The feline population of Procida lives in harmony with the inhabitants, walking lazily through the colorful streets and resting under the sun. Cats in Procida have already existed since the Bourbon era while today, according to ASL data, there are 38 cat colonies with 623 cats.
Procida is easily reachable by sea from Naples or Pozzuoli. Once you arrive, among the things to see are the Marina di Corricella or Terra Murata, a historic village that offers a panoramic view of the island. There is also no shortage of enchanting beaches such as Spiaggia della Chiaia and Spiaggia del Postino.
Mykonos Island
Mykonos, one of the Cyclades islands in Greece, is renowned for its sea crystalline, the nightlife and, not everyone knows, for its large cat population. The cats of Mykonos are a constant and loved presence by both residents and tourists, helping to create that unique atmosphere that characterizes the island. The cats are in fact cared for by the residents themselves, and some exist associations who care about the well-being of felines.
To reach Mykonos you can opt for a direct flight to the island’s airport or a ferry or catamaran from the main ports of mainland Greece. Once on the island, you cannot miss visiting the famous Little Venice neighborhoodthe Orthodox church and the Armenistis Lighthouse.
Samos Island
Still in Greece there is another “cat island”. The Island of Samos, located in the eastern Aegean, is another Greek jewel known not only for its rich historical heritage and its enchanting beaches, but also for its large feline population. The cats of Samos live in peace, loved and cared for by the residents. You can find them both near the port and among the small streets.
Geographically, Samos it is located near the Turkish coast and can be reached by sea from Athens or other Greek islands. Among the things to see is the city of Vathiwith its historic center and the Archaeological Museum, but also the city of Karlovasi and Kokari.
On Pallosu
Not exactly an island, as it is connected to the mainland with two thin strips of land, Su Pallosu is a beautiful place in the municipality of San Vero Milis, Sardinia. The cat colony “with a sea view” has 60 cats cared for by volunteer associations and microchipped.
This small town is the ideal place for those looking calm and direct contact with nature. Here you will find fine sandy beaches and transparent waters where even cats enjoy the warm sun in summer and winter. To reach Su Pallosu, you can fly to Cagliari or Alghero airport and then continue by car or bus up to the west coast.
