With their unspoiled natural beauty and historic mystique, the Li Galli Islets are among the most legendary islands along Italy’s southern coastline.

Sitting just opposite Positano and not far from Capri, these islets are both nearby yet inaccessible and have been known for their wild beauty and captivating history for millennia. The Li Galli archipelago is composed of three islets – Gallo Lungo, La Rotonda, and Isola Dei Briganti (the name comes from its past life as a hideout for ships of brigands, but today it’s also known as La Castelluccia) These private islets have changed owners various times over the past few decades, and today are privately owned and accessible only to invited guests.

The islands have two names, and understanding both requires a small lesson in ancient mythology. The older name — Le Sirenuse — was recorded by the Greek geographer Strabo in the first century BC. 

The story of the Sirens is one of the most enduring episodes in the entire Odyssey. Sailing home from the Trojan War, Ulysses is warned by the sorceress Circe that his route will take him past islands where the Sirens dwell — creatures whose song is so beautiful, so irresistible, that every sailor who hears it forgets everything else and steers directly towards his own death on the rocks below.

The fame attached to the Li Galli Islets flourished once more in the 20th century when this beautiful and historic archipelago caught the eye of a number of celebrities and Hollywood stars. In 1924, the Russian dancer and choreographer Léonide Massine bought the islands and built a sumptuous villa on the Roman ruins.

In the 1980s,  the archipelago became the property of Rudolf Nureyev, another star of the Russian ballet firmament. During his years there, Nureyev hosted a number of international celebrities on these exclusive islands overlooking Positano, including Sophia Loren, Franco Zeffirelli, Jacqueline Kennedy with Aristotle Onassis, and many other famous names.

Currently, this luxurious, private island paradise has been entirely renovated and updated to pristine condition by it’s current owner. It is the ultimate getaway for those wishing to have paradise all to themselves while able to enjoy the mainland when desired. A captained zodiac is available for quick transfers as well as a 75 foot motor yacht included for trips to the mainland, Capri or Ischia, etc. A full staff is on hand to provide all services. The rate is all inclusive. More information and availability by request.