Destination Guide

Things to Do & See in Sardinia

The northwest coast

Northwest Sardinia is a land of wild, dense green maquis interspersed with wind blown rocks and some of the finest beaches on the island. The region of Alghero has remained largely unspoilt and is recognised for its charming seaside resorts, archaeological sites and above all, its spectacular coastline. Alghero itself boasts an atmospheric old town which has retained its Catalan favours and tends to be rather crowded in the height of the summer season. Further north, Stintino is a smaller, more laid-back resort with a few bars, restaurants and one of the most stunning beaches nearby, La Pelosa. La Pelosa beach is one of Sardinia's famous swimming spots, lapped by shallow, turquoise sea of crystalline clarity. Some say it is one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe! Le Prigionette Nature Reserve at Porto Conte is a great spot for hiking and cycling through the mountains and valleys. Grotte di Nettuno is one of Sardinia's most visited tourist attractions: 60 million year old caves discovered by fishermen in the 18th century. The Sardinia Cavalcade is held on the third weekend in May in Sassari and is the island's most celebrated folk festival with music, dancing, a horse exhibition and a costumed parade.

Recommended: 3* Club Hotel Ancora in Stintino »

The Gallura & Costa Smeralda

In the northeast part of the island, the Gallura region offers a magnificent contrast between its dramatic rugged coastline and inland, rolling green countryside, grazing sheep and small hilltop towns which time seems to have passed by. In the 1960s the Costa Smeralda became the most fashionable Mediterranean holiday destination for the rich and famous, lured by its white sandy beaches, clear emerald waters and luxurious hotels. Today the area's exclusive reputation remains as strong as ever. The obvious attractions are the pristine beaches but if you venture away from the coast you will be rewarded with a variety of historical sites and local villages offering a glimpse of Sardinian culture. La Piazzetta in Porto Cervo is the place to lounge in style, ideally with an apéritif in hand! Catch a ferry from Palau to La Maddalena to discover this archipelago paradise of white sands and clear waters which is also home to a US naval base. Some claim the waters surrounding the islands are the clearest in the world!

Recommended: 4* Hotel Le Ginestre in Porto Cervo »

The Interior

If you prefer to immerse yourself in the real Sardinia, the huge province of Nuoro is probably your best bet. Embracing mountains, lakes and isolated villages, the region has delightfully retained its oldest customs and you will often see locals wearing typical costumes or working in a craft shop trying to keep up the traditions. The region also hosts some of the Sardinia's most intriguing festivals and each village organises at least one "festa" a year, an event not to miss! Nuoro's Museum, "The Museo della Vita e delle Tradizioni Sarde" invites guests to discover local costumes, jewellery, masks, carpets and other handicrafts.

Recommended: 4* Hotel Su Lithu in Bitti »

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