All about holidays in Tabarka. Near Lake Ishkel there is a unique nature reserve, a place for wintering migratory birds. things to do in Tabarka

If you are planning your holiday in Spanish city Alicante, then a great one-day entertainment will be a visit to the island of Tabarka (or New Tabarka).

A day spent on the island will diversify your vacation and give you a lot of unforgettable impressions.

Tabarca Island is located 22 kilometers from the city of Alicante. You can get to it on regular boats (catamarans), which leave every day from. These are small red catamarans, they stand approximately in the middle of the seaport, near an inconspicuous gray booth.

It is in this booth that catamaran tickets are sold. Each ticket is valid for two trips there and back. Round trip ticket prices are:
- for one person - 19 EUR (euro)
- two persons - 38 euros
- three persons - 57 euros ...

All prices in one photo

Ticket office

Catamaran

Upper deck

Lower deck, closed

The catamaran, which will have the inscription Vision Submarina on board, is equipped with windows below the waterline, you can look at the sea and fish along the way. When we visited the island, the stained-glass bottom catamaran departed from Alicante at 11:00 and returned from Tabarka at 16:30. Although this effect did not particularly impress us, because:

• 1. to look into the glass windows you have to kneel;
• 2. the windows are rather dirty;
• 3. the catamaran moves fast, except for the white foamy water, nothing is visible. So what kind of addition would be fun entertainment except for kids.

IN tourist season, from June to September, catamarans run daily. From Alicante to the island depart at 10:00, 11:00 and 12:30 hours. From the island of Tabarca they return to Alicante at 16:30 and 18:00, you can board any catamaran, regardless of what time you arrived on the island.

From 30.09 to 20.06 there are only two catamarans, one in the morning, one in the evening. The morning flight departs from Alicante at 11:00. Return from the island at 16:30.

Check the information on the current schedule and ticket prices on the official website of the company www.cruceroskontiki.com.

Travel time is about an hour there and the same time back.

Advice! Keep your tickets, on the way back, when returning from the island, they will be picked up from you when boarding the catamaran.

A couple more tips! Even in warm weather on upper deck the catamaran is quite cool, so take a light blouse with you.

Take some bread with you. The fact is that the island and its coastal waters are a protected area, so the water in the sea near the island is surprisingly clean and transparent and is famous for a huge variety of fish living off the coast. Approaching the island, the catamaran slows down, at this time throw pieces of bread into the sea and in an instant there will be a lot of fish of various shapes, sizes and colors at the side, and your bread will disappear before our eyes.

Video taken from a catamaran when approaching the island - feeding fish, Tabarka Island

Also, the island of Tabarca can be reached from Santa Pola / Santa Pola and Benidorm / Benidorm on catamarans of various colors, small boats, water taxis and even boats with a motor.

Some photos from the catamaran trip

Departure from the seaport of Alicante

Path to the island

In the distance you can see the island of Tabarka

Tabarka is a resort in the north of Tunisia. It is located near the border with Algeria. Tabarka attracts travelers with a picturesque view of oak groves and pine forests. Lush greens combined with luxurious beaches and rocks are among the characteristic features of recreation in Tabarka, Tunisia. Prices for accommodation, entertainment and attractions are designed for tourists with different levels of income.

The history of these places has been traced since the 16th century, when the Genoese captured a pirate ship and traded it for a city. Then a fortress was built there. In parallel with the Genoese, the French also claimed these lands. The long dispute was ended when Tabarka was raided by Ali Pasha. The cruel ruler sold the population of the city into slavery. Later, in the first half of the 20th century, the French came here. During construction main square the government decided to remove the Roman baths. Unfortunately, the ancient elements of the culture were covered with asphalt.

Climate

Considering the small area of ​​the island, it is dominated by Mediterranean climatic conditions that attract tourists from all over the globe. From all sides, Tabarka is blown by sea winds. In winter it is not cold here and it can rain. The temperature does not fall below plus 6 degrees. In summer it is warm and dry here. But the heat reaches 40 degrees in the shade.

Transport

Most tourists visiting this wonderful place recommend taking a taxi. Such pleasure will be available to every tourist.

If desired, you can use the services original transport local places: horse-drawn carts, called "kaleshi". Tuk-tuks are also common here. Price category depends on originality vehicle. Horse-drawn carts lead in price. This is the most expensive option - up to 12 TND.

How to get there?

To travel to Tabarka, you can use the plane or bus:

By plane

There is no air communication with Russia in Tabarka. The flight is carried out only to Tunisia, fly 40 minutes, with Enfida - 60 minutes and from Monastir - 90 minutes. Upon arrival at the airport, it is recommended to go further by taxis, which are waiting for customers at the exit.

By bus

You can choose either municipal transport or a minibus. Direct access is convenient only from Tunisia. Drive about 5 hours. The cost is 35-40 TND.

Where to stay

The resort area is conditionally divided into two parts. In its western part there are residential quarters, and on the contrary, the tourist part in the east.

Residential areas are a place where vacationers can have a great time. Here, tourists walk along the rare harbor and the famous Genoese fortress. And on the slopes of the hill - a quarter of cottages class "Elite". Here is the port of pleasure boats.

Tourist area in the form of two lines of hotels located along the east coast of Tabarka.

Best hotels

La Cigale Tabarka

This luxurious hotel is for those who are not constrained in their means and prefer only a comfortable stay. Price category per person - from 5000 rubles. Luxurious construction located near the beach. There are a couple of outdoor pools on site, where guests can swim and relax on the terrace while admiring the scenic sea views. Included in the price Buffet where are sold the best dishes traditional cuisine. The hotel also provides an opportunity to visit the thalassotherapy center. Guests who prefer leisure, can play a game on the tennis court or go to the golf course. Also here you can order a specialist who will allow you to admire the beauties of the underwater world, diving together with the guest into the gentle waters of the sea.

Hotel Mehari Tabarka Thalasso & Spa

The hotel has free wi-fi, outdoor pools. You can have a bite to eat at the restaurant. This option is suitable for couples with children and honeymooners. Price category from 2.500 rubles. from a person. Rest cool summer evening you can on the terrace, in the club, children can frolic on the playground. The airport is located just 11 km from the hotel.

Marina Prestige Tabarka

The hotel is located almost on the beach. Therefore, first of all, travelers appreciate it for its good location. Price category from 3.500 rubles. from a person. If desired, you can order a room with a cozy living room. Private parking is available on site. The rooms have comfortable living conditions, the interior will pleasantly surprise guests and contribute to a comfortable stay. You can have a bite to eat at the restaurant located on site.

Traditional cuisine

It should be noted that the basis of national dishes is goat meat, fruits and vegetables, fish and cheese. Tuna is especially popular here. Many chefs know a large number of recipes for this delicious fish. Specialists also use spicy herbs that allow the dish to open up and enjoy the taste to the fullest. The local population eats a lot of bread. Therefore, the menu is dominated by French baguettes and pita bread. It is served with almost all dishes. At the same time, for some of them it serves as a spoon.

• The European omelet is called burnt here. Only instead of meat, pepper sausage is added there. One of the varieties of omelet is tagine, although according to tourists, it is more like a pie, as it contains a large amount of meat, pepper and cheese.
• Among the first courses, the championship is occupied by chorba, which is a fragrant soup, the basis of which is veal and vegetables. This is an everyday dish.
• Those who prefer meat should try mashvi. This is roast lamb on a spit. Also a popular brochette, like a chicken kebab. The only difference is that very small slices are taken for the dish.
• Among the sauces here, harris is held in high esteem, which is prepared in the form of a paste of red pepper and olive oil. The main spices here are parsley, cumin, garlic is added.
• Side dish to the majority meat dishes goes couscous. It is common in most Arab countries. The basis is sifted cereals, to which meat, vegetables and sauce are added.
• For lovers of sweets, you should try baklava, a cake with dates, dried apricots and prunes. Malbia cakes are also popular in establishments, the basis of which is rice and nuts.
• Coffee lovers can enjoy a hot cup with cardamom.

The most popular establishments where you can have a tasty meal for little money are Barberousse, Touta, Le Festival.

shopping

Walking in the ports, you can buy unusual souvenirs and household items. In residential areas, attention should be paid to coral products. The local market offers good quality olive oil at affordable prices. It also sells woven carpets made of cotton and wool, bags, ceramic products. But it is better to buy them in the store. Thus, you can protect yourself from forgery. Especially popular are bags made of camel leather, which are worn for a long time without losing their original appearance.

If we talk about clothes, you should pay attention to National costumes from natural fabrics.

Things to do in Tabarka

Tabarka, despite its low popularity among foreigners, including Russian tourists offers a very rich entertainment complex:

Beaches

Beach and contemplative recreation is represented by a wide range of beach line and a gentle descent into the sea. The snow-white expanses of sand on the beaches will interest, first of all, families with children. To fully enjoy the views, it is worth walking to the rocks. Rocks-needles look especially original.

Diving

Not far from the resort, tourists are attracted by the La Galite archipelago, which provides an opportunity for nature lovers to see the coral reef. Thanks to the rocky bottom, the water remains clear even on great depth. And many caves with their inhabitants introduce guests to various representatives of the seabed. There are huge specimens of tuna here. La Galit is the only archipelago in Tunisia volcanic origin. If you wish, you can go down to the sunken merchant ship.

Golf

Fans of this game will be able to play in a picturesque area. Throughout the territory, emerald hills, groves, oak and eucalyptus plantations delight the eye. Here you can play one of the eighteen holes.

Festivals

There are two open amphitheaters in Tabarka, where concerts and performances are organized. If you come in May, you can participate in the Spring Festival. And in August and September, the Coral Festival and the Neptune Festival are of interest.

What to see?

Holidays in Tabarka in 2019 is an opportunity to get acquainted with the sights of northern Tunisia.

Genoese Fort

Situated on an island, the fort is badly damaged, but its visitors enjoy memorable views of Tabarka. This structure was built in the 16th century. And today it attracts many tourists from different corners earth. It impresses with its architectural design, powerful walls. On its territory there is a courtyard with buildings and watchtowers. Climbing up the hill to the fort, you can enjoy the picturesque views and immerse yourself in the atmosphere from ancient times. Guests can go to the Museum of Ancient Mosaics, which is located here on the site of the attraction.

Bulla Regia

Located 65 km. from Tabarka, and represents the ruined ancient Roman buildings of the 3rd-4th centuries. Due to the fact that most of the rooms in these ancient villas were underground, the floor mosaics are well preserved. True, the best elements were transported to the Bardo Museum in the capital. But something remains in Bulla Regia.

This place was richest city Roman Africa. Merchants who lived in ancient times got rich in the grain and olive trade, could afford to build huge villas underground to hide from the hot heat and winter cold.

These buildings had a central courtyard, decorated with columns, and all residents could go down the stone stairs here. But over time, the earthquake destroyed several floors, especially the lower ones, which were covered with soil. But many specialists have been digging out the lower tiers for a long time.

The villa impresses with its luxurious elegance fishing. Hexagonal windows are cut into the walls of the structure, the rooms are decorated with mosaics, in which you can easily see the inhabitants of the sea. It is also worth visiting the Hunt House, where Corinthian columns have been preserved to this day.

Dougga

This is an ancient Roman city located in African territory, which has been preserved most fully. His distinguishing feature- a labyrinth of streets, unlike most Roman cities, where the streets were arranged rectangularly. In ancient times, the Median king Massinissa was the ruler here. Twelve temples, fountains, several theaters, a necropolis, a mausoleum, a leotard and much more have been preserved on the territory to this day.

It is worth noting that traces of chariots are visible to the naked eye, which allows the traveler to plunge into the atmosphere of that time. This ancient place can be visited by both connoisseurs of history and those who are interested in the sights of this region.

Basilica in Tabarka

Church built on the ruins of Roman cisterns. There is a basilica in the central part of Tabaka. At the beginning of the 19th century, French missionaries fortified it with Roman cisterns in the form of a quadrangle with magnificent arches.

What else do you need to know

A tourist needs to understand that the best periods when it is worth going on a trip are from the beginning of March to December. Snow falls in some areas during the winter months. And for these places it is already a disaster. This situation may lead to a traffic stop. Most tourists recommend going here in the spring, when hot heat does not interfere with a comfortable stay.

Safety

It is worth noting that it is safe to relax here, just like swimming on the beaches. Regarding the safety of the weak half of humanity, it should be noted that tourists should behave decently and not dress too much. revealing clothes, because local population not used to it.

The picturesque resort of Tabarka is located in the north of Tunisia, just 22 km from the Algerian border. Covered with pine and oak groves, emerald hills descend to the coast, where wide white sandy beaches alternating with rocks - this is the characteristic landscape of Tabarka. Great diving, wonderful fish restaurants and coral souvenirs are the main objects of tourist interest in this resort. Here you can also play golf, go hiking in the mountains - along the valleys and relax in the thalasso centers. In general, solid splendor and unity with nature.

How to get to Tabarka

There are no direct flights from Russian cities to Tabarka. Landing at the airport of Tunisia, Enfida or Monastir, you can use the domestic air service of the national carrier Sevenair - it offers at least one flight a day to Tabarka. The flight time is about 40 minutes from Tunisia, 1 hour from Enfidha and an hour and a quarter from Monastir.

It is most convenient to arrive from the airport to the city center by taxi - yellow cars with a number on the roof are waiting - they will not wait for customers right at the exit from the arrivals hall. The trip will cost about 15 TND during the day and 18-20 TND at night.

Another option is to get to Tabarka by land transport: municipal buses or collective minibuses - “luages”. Direct communication is established only with Tunisia, in other cases a transfer will be required. The road from the Tunisian capital to Tabarka will take 4-4.5 hours and cost 30-40 TND.

From any Tunisian resort, you can also arrive in Tabarka by luage or bus. There is no rail connection in the northern region of the country.

Prices on the page are for September 2018.

Search for flights to Tunis (nearest airport to Tabarka)

How to navigate

Tabarka is conditionally divided into 2 parts: residential and tourist. The first is located to the west along the coastline, the second - respectively, to the east. The residential area of ​​Tabarka is a marina, an isthmus leading to the island with a towering Genoese fortress, the old harbor and needle rocks, as well as the westward stretching quarter of elite villas, occupying the hillsides. Tourist Zone Tabarka is a dozen hotels located on the first and second lines along the east coast of the resort. There is no special entertainment here - everything is concentrated "in the city", so taxis with tourists scurry between "rest" and "civilization".

Weather forecast for Tabarka

Transport in the city

around the city and tourist area The best way to get around Tabarki is by taxi. Payment by meter, a trip within the city will not cost more than 4-6 TND, between the residential sector and the tourist zone - 6-9 TND. Also at your service are tourist "bells and whistles": horse-drawn carts - "kalesh", "tuk-tuks" and trains. The tax depends on the exotic nature of transport (horses, of course, are the most expensive) and on the ability to negotiate. Coachmen take about 10-12 TND “for a circle”, drivers of “tuk-tuks” and steam locomotives - 4-6 TND.

Diving in Tabarka is considered the best in Tunisia thanks to the 300-kilometer coral reef and the protected area around the La Galit archipelago.

Tabarka Hotels

Tabarka does not shine with a rich variety of options for living. There are about 15 hotels in the resort, of which two are very worthy "five": Dar Ismail and Sentido Tabarka Beach with good spa centers and wonderful beaches. Among the “fours”, Mehari Tabarka and Itropika Beach are popular (the first one has a high-quality thalasso center); the rest of the hotels are three-star, with a standard set of services for their category. You can also stay in the urban area - there are fewer amenities, and you have to go to the beach, but the prices for accommodation are simply ridiculous - 45-70 TND "from the nose". Among the nice ones is Les Mimosas.

Sea and sun

Although the beaches of Tabarka are not as “hyped” as the coasts of Hammamet or Mahdia, however, the resort has something to be proud of: a wide coastline, gentle descent into the water, the almost complete absence of algae and shallow, almost White sand. The rocky coastlines that come across (for example, on the "Genoese Peninsula" and in the Eagle area) will diversify the bathing experience. Considering that Tabarka is located on the northern coast of the country, the sea here is a degree or two cooler than on eastern resorts, and a little more restless.

5 things to do in Tabarka

1. Admire the seascape and the majestic Genoese fort from the observation deck.
2. Scuba dive to the largest coral reef in the Mediterranean, joining coral divers.
3. Take a picture at the formidable 25-meter cliffs with the speaking name Needles.
4. Hit the ball (no matter if it goes the wrong way) on one of the best golf courses in the country.
5. Spin to the rhythms of salsa international festival Latin American music.

Cuisine and restaurants

The fishermen of Tabarka regularly supply fresh fish and seafood to the restaurants of the city and resort area. The best fish establishments can be found in the marina - walking along the piers, study the menu and showcases-refrigerators, choose the cold-blooded ones you like - and welcome to the table! In the season, lobsters and oysters are served - the latter, by the way, are famous throughout Tunisia. Other local delicacies include game and meat from wild animals such as hare or deer. Wild boar hunting is very popular in the region, but it is practically not served cooked due to religious prohibitions on pork.

Among other things, you can try national dishes everywhere: Tunisian salad and mechouya salad, brick, tagine, couscous, shorba soup, etc. Popular restaurants include Barberousse, Le Pescadou and Le Pirate.

In addition to lobsters and oysters, among the delicacies of Tabarka are game and meat of wild animals living in the surrounding forests.

Shopping and shops

Souvenirs and just cute little things can be bought in shops located in the port of pleasure boats. Coral decorations and home furnishings incorporating coral are sold in several shops in the residential area rising up from the marina. However, one should not expect a flight of fancy and richness of execution - the decorations are not too numerous, of the same type and rather modest.

From the original folk crafts, pay attention to the products from the mountains of Krumiri, surrounding Tabarka on all sides and extending south along the western border of Tunisia. These are lovely homespun rugs, mats, handbags and napkins made of wool and cotton dyed with natural dyes. Also in the shops of Tabarka are sold ceramic products from the neighboring Sezhnan of a characteristic “ultra-primitive” look, painted in white, red-brown and black.

You can also bring olive oil from Tabarka (a different variety than on resort coast) - you should buy it on the market, handicraftly bottled from under mineral water. The oil is very fragrant, with a tart, slightly sore throat taste.

Views of Tabarka

Entertainment and attractions of Tabarka

There are two main attractions in Tabarka - and they are located in close proximity to each other. The first is needle-shaped rocks 20-25 meters high, standing at the edge of the surf, an ancient formation of iron-bearing rock of the Miocene era. They are called - Needles (Les Aiguilles). The second is a Genoese fort of the 16th century, standing on the once island of Tabarka (Ile de Tabarka), turned into a peninsula by the efforts of the French. On a 1 km long causeway, you can quickly reach the foot of the fort, which occupies the top rocky mountain. But it will not be possible to inspect the fortress from the inside - it is occupied by parts of the Tunisian army.

A few architectural monuments are represented by the basilica - Roman cisterns, turned into a temple by the French missionaries of the 19th century. Massive quadrangular columns and no less ponderous arches form the basis of the building.

A little higher, on a hill, is the French cemetery, it is worth visiting not for the melancholy mood, but because of the magnificent view of the harbor of Tabarka.

Another place of eternal rest is located 14 km from the city - memorial cemetery who died in World War II, where 500 soldiers of the Allied forces found shelter.

Diving

Diving in Tabarka is undoubtedly the best in Tunisia due to the 300-kilometer coral reef and the protected area around the La Galit archipelago. Thanks to the rocky bottom, the water here is transparent even at a solid depth, and a lot of cold-blooded representatives live in numerous underwater grottoes: here you can see pike perch, zubans and sea breams, eels and octopuses, red mullet, squids and shrimps, groupers, tuna of all sizes - from 50 to centimeter young to giants weighing 200 kg.

six islands under common name La Galite lie 60 km from the coast. The surrounding waters have received the status of a protected area - fishing is prohibited here, and peace marine life nothing breaks. In addition, the seabed itself is of interest - La Galite was formed under the influence of volcanic activity(it is the only archipelago of its kind in Tunisia). Wreck fans will be interested in a merchant ship that sank in the 50s of the 20th century, and naturalists will be interested in a colony of monk seals.

Golf in Tabarka

Tabarka Golf is waiting all year round for fans of this game on a magnificent 18-hole course, designed on an area of ​​118 hectares. The edge of the sea, oak, eucalyptus and coniferous groves, as well as open emerald hills make up the local landscape with a length complete itinerary 6400 m. The pleasure of driving a ball through 9 holes will cost 70 TND, a full course will cost 125 TND per day. Subscriptions for 5 or more days are offered at a price of 480 TND. Training is also offered - individual at a price of 40-45 TND per hour and group - 35 TND per hour.

Events

Despite the apparent remoteness from the main resort party, Tabarka boasts a remarkable cultural life- there are two open amphitheaters in the city, where theatrical and musical performances are held during the season.

In May, Tabarka hosts the Spring Festival, at the end of June the Latin American Music Festival and the Jazz Festival take place, in August-September - the water Coral Festival and the Neptune's Trident.

This one picturesque resort Tunisia is located in the north of the country, just 20 km from the border with Algeria.

Tabarka closed between the mountains and the sea and this determines the typical picture of this place - hillsides covered with pine forests, wide beaches interspersed with rocky areas.

The resort is located in the province of Jendouba, the population is about 20,000 people. For tourists, Tabarka is attractive for its beaches, diving opportunities, local cuisine with a good selection of seafood, coral souvenirs, a jazz festival and the Coralis underwater photography festival.

How to get to Tabarka

The resort has a small airport, but it is not the most convenient way to get to Tabarka: you have to use connecting flights at the airports of Tunisia, Enfida or Monastir.

The most expedient route runs through the capital - from international airport in Tunisia (Carthage International Airport) the distance to the resort is 185 km. You can overcome this distance:

• by bus: for this, from the airport you need to get to Northern bus station Tunisia - Gare Routiere Nord de Bab Saadoun(by taxi - 20-30TND, travel time 20 minutes, or by metro - 4 TND, travel time 30 minutes). There are 5 flights a day from the bus station to Tabarka, travel time is 3.5 hours, the cost of the trip is 10TND;
• on the luage (similar to our fixed-route taxi): for this you need to get from the airport to the bus station Bab Alioua(by taxi - 20 minutes, the cost of the trip is 30 TND or by metro - 4 TND, travel time is 30 minutes). Luages ​​depart as they fill up, travel time is 3.5 hours, the cost of the trip is 9 TND;
• by car: more about renting a car in Tunisia or an individual transfer.

Basically, tourists from Russia arrive here on flights with connections in Istanbul, Paris, Rome, Frankfurt.

Tabarka is most often chosen by independent tourists for recreation.

Transport in the resort of Tabarka

As in other resorts in Tunisia, the most convenient mode of transport is taxi. The prices are affordable, payment by the meter, the cost of a trip within the tourist area is 4-5 TND, to residential areas of the city, namely where you will go for entertainment and shopping, - 6-9 TND.

For lovers of local exotic there are "tuk-tuks", horse-drawn carts, tourist trains.

Weather in Tabarka

The high season at this resort lasts from June to September.

At this time, daytime temperatures can reach 30-35°, but the heat is moderated by the sea breeze. In early spring And late autumn it's pretty windy here strong winds, and snow can fall in winter, so if you intend to visit the resort during the low season (for example, for thalassotherapy), you will have to take care of warm clothes.

The popularity of the beaches of Tabarka is not as high as that of the beaches of Hammamet or Djerba. However, they are quite worthy of the attention of beach lovers:

• the coastline is wide;
• gentle descent into the sea;
• significantly less algae than on the beaches of other resorts;
• there are rocky areas.

The sea is a little cooler (by 2-3 °) and more restless, but it is here that diving enthusiasts will find something to see.

The infrastructure of the beaches is the same as on all the others - a standard set of entertainment, restaurants, improved areas assigned to a particular hotel.

The hotel base of Tabarka does not differ in variety, but you can choose any price category. Most of the hotels are located in the tourist area, there are also in the residential area - the prices for living in them are low, but they are far from the beach.

The level of hotels, their condition, service is typical for Tunisia (you can see more about the features of Tunisian hotels).

While the majority foreign tourists in search of the sea and sand, they rush to rest in Djerba, Hammamet and Sousse, many Tunisians opt for the beaches of Tabarka.

rocky coastline with white sandy beaches, crystal clear water ( real paradise for lovers of underwater fishing) and the dazzling emerald green of the wooded hills in the depths make this resort a popular tourist destination.

Thanks to its favorable location, Tabarka not only offers all the delights of a beach holiday, but is also a good base for exploring the many attractions of northern Tunisia.

From this coastal town, you can take a day trip to the ruins of the ancient Roman cities of Dougga and Bulla Regia.

Genoese Fort (Genoese Fort)

The Genoese Fort, located on an island connected to the coast by a 400 meter causeway, is worth a visit mainly because of the stunning views of Tabarka and the bay. The fort itself, unfortunately, is in a ruined state.

Bulla Regia

As part of a one-day excursion, you can visit Bulla Regia, one of the main pearls of the ancient Roman heritage, located on the territory of Tunisia.

In Bulla Regia you can see the ruins of ancient Roman buildings - baths, fountains, temples, a theater, a forum and a group of villas from the 3rd and 4th centuries. Most of the rooms in these ancient villas are underground, a unique construction method that protected the inhabitants from the summer heat.

Thanks to the underground architecture, the floor mosaics at Bulla Regia have been remarkably well preserved. The best examples of mosaics are kept in the Tunisian Bardo Museum, but some of them are left in their place.

Location: 65 kilometers south of Tabarka

Dougga

Dougga is considered one of the best preserved ancient Roman cities in Africa. The majestic ruins spread over 25 hectares in the midst of picturesque olive groves and pastures.

Unlike most Roman cities with their rectangular layout, the streets of Dugga form a labyrinth. Don't miss the beautiful theater built on the hill in 161 AD and the Temple of Saturn to its north, as well as the impressive Capitoline Temple, dedicated to the triad of gods: Jupiter, Juno and Minerva.

Location: 128 kilometers south of Tabarka

Shemtu (Chemtou)

The ancient city of Simittus (modern Shemtu) is located at the intersection of two important roads - between Carthage and Hippo (a city in Algeria) and between Sikka Veneria (Le Kef) and Tabarka ( ancient name sounded like Tkhabraka).

The main interest for tourists here is the sanctuary dedicated to the Punic god Baal-Ammon, which is located on the top of Mount Jebel Shemtu. Although only a few ruins remain of the monumental marble altar, many of the colorful elements of this sanctuary, recovered during archaeological sites can now be viewed at the local museum.

The archaeological complex covers the area ancient city at the foot of the hill, a work camp dating from about 154 AD, where there were numerous slaves forced to work in quarries, and the quarries themselves. To the south of this place are the gigantic ruins of the Roman bridge, scattered along the banks of the Mejerda River. The bridge collapsed during a flood in the 4th century AD.

Location: 91 kilometers south of Tabarka

Beaches

Tabarka, being loved beach resort Tunisians, has not yet gained wide popularity among foreign tourists who, out of habit, choose the beaches of Hammamet, Sousse and Djerba for a relaxed holiday.

To the west of the town, closer to the border with Algeria, there are many pebble beaches. To the east, sandy beaches stretch in a luxurious golden stripe, in no way inferior to the most famous resorts Tunisia.

La Galite Islands

Located about 60 kilometers northeast of the coast of Tabarka, the rocky islands of La Galite are uninhabited, with the exception of the main and most major island archipelago. It is inhabited by only a few civilian families and about 40 military personnel at the naval base.

In ancient times main island was called Galatea and was used by the Phoenicians for parking ships. A real adventure will be the exploration of ancient Roman ruins, Punic tombs, abandoned quarries and caves scattered around the island.

There is no regular communication between the coast and the archipelago, but you can arrange a transfer to the islands from Tabarka or Bizerte on a fishing boat.

Needle Rocks (Les Aiguilles)

To the west of the bustling fishing harbor of Tabarka are the needle-shaped cliffs of Les Aiguilles. These ocher-yellow rocks bristled with 25-meter needles on the sea surface. Their bizarre shape is the result of the influence of wind and water for thousands of years.

Other interesting sights in the vicinity

Ain Draham

Nestled on a hill and surrounded by dense forests, charming in its old-fashioned way, this resort is a great place for hiking and many hours of walking on tracks of various difficulty levels. Located at an altitude of 823 meters above sea level, this resort with its clean mountain air serves as an excellent refuge from the sticky heat of the coast during the summer months.