Starting from 1988 until his death in 1993, Nureyev lived on the island. He updated the villa's decor to suit his tastes and made a considerable effort to improve the water supply and cultivate the gardens. A few years after his passing, Gallo Lungo went back into Italian hands when hotel developer Giovanni Russo purchased it in 1996. Now, aside from using the island as his own private residence, he rents out the estate to lucky guests who are served by a staff of seven.
If you are looking to explore this dolphin-shaped island rich in history, you'll need to rent time at the residence. While anyone is allowed to swim in the waters surrounding the island, only guests are permitted to dock and take a look around. Luckily, its incredible shape is best viewed from above anyway.