The best beaches, hotels and activities on the island: the secrets of holidays in Sardinia and reviews of tourists. Sardinia (Italy): description, location on the map of Italy, rest and reviews of tourists
The climate in the interior of the island is continental, on the coast - mild, with little rainfall. The average temperature in January is +8.6 °С, and in July +23.2 °С.
Geography
The shores of the island are high and rocky. The main part of the island of Sardinia is occupied by mountains and hills, among which Spramonte, Albo, Limbara and La Marmora stand out (the highest point of the island is at an altitude of 1834 m). The territory of the region includes many small islands, which are located not far from Sardinia. The Flumendosa, Coghinas and Tirso rivers are used for irrigation and electricity generation. The island is connected to the mainland by sea and air communications. There are airports in Olbia, Cagliari and Alghero. The south and north of the island (Cagliari and Porto Torres) are connected by a highway. Main ports: Cagliari, Olbia and Porto Torres.
Diving in Sardinia
Restaurants and cuisine
Local Sardinian wines are very popular throughout Italy. And first of all, Cannonau Argiolas, Vermentino La Cala, and just "sweet nutmeg".
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Sardinia is located 200 km west of mainland Italy and only 12 km south of French Corsica. This is a place where you can combine a wonderful beach holiday with interesting sightseeing trips: most of the island is occupied by natural and archaeological reserves. And its southern coast is famous for its long sandy beaches, palm and pine groves, calm and clear sea. And, importantly, comfortable hotels.
Sardinia is the quintessence of Mediterranean beauty and is adored by lovers of swimming, boating, windsurfing, hiking, rock climbing and hiking. In the warmest month (in August), the coastal areas are literally clogged with them. At the same time, the inner life of the island in parts remote from tourist resorts is very interesting and original. After all, it is an autonomous island. Officially, it belongs to Italy, but don't try to declare it in front of the Sardis, who consider themselves a special people. And the stone monuments of the Nuragic civilization of 1500 BC. e. testify that the inhabitants of Sardinia overtook the Etruscans for several centuries in what is now mainland Italy.
How to get to Sardinia
By plane
The most famous of the three international airports in Sardinia is Costa Smeralda in Olbia, from which the famous resorts of Porto Cervo, Baia Sardinia, Porto Rotondo are within easy reach. From June to September, the Italian Meridiana Fly flies here directly from Moscow Domodedovo (1 time per week, travel time 4 hours, round-trip ticket from 350 USD) and the Russian Es Seven (3 times a week). The rest of the time, Olbia is conveniently reached by Alitalia flights with a transfer in Rome (6 hours 20 minutes) or Milan. Buses 2, 3 and 10 run between the airport and Olbia from 06:15 to 23:40 (15 minutes to the center). The cost of a taxi ride is 36 EUR. Prices on the page are for November 2018.
The southern coast is famous for its endless sandy beaches, palm and pine groves, calm and clear sea. The famous hotel complex Forte Village is located in the Santa Margherita di Pula area. Villasimius, located nearby (40 km from Cagliari), is of interest to divers: not far from the coast, 4 sunken ships lie there, there are also underwater reefs. There is an aqua park and a golf club 20 km from Villasimius towards Cagliari.
Transport
The main means of transportation on the island are buses and trains. All urban and intercity bus services linking almost all the settlements of the island are operated by the regional transport company ARST. True, the frequency of flights is quite low, and the schedule is often violated. Tickets are sold at special ticket offices, vending machines, newsstands, bars and tobacco shops. Traveling without a ticket is punishable by a hefty fine.
Single tickets are valid on city buses for 90 minutes. The day pass is valid from the start of the first trip until 00:00 on the same day.
Major cities and ports of the island are connected by lines of the State Railway (off. site in English). Trains from Olbia to Cagliari depart 6 times a day (3.5 hours on the way), to Sassari - the second largest city in Sardinia - 8 times a day (1 hour 40 minutes). From mid-June to mid-September, of particular interest to tourists are the "Green Trains" in retro style (off site) plying on several routes through the protected corners of the island. The length of the routes is from 46 to 159 km. To overcome them on a narrow-gauge railway, a train of 2-4 wooden trailers, led by an antediluvian steam locomotive, takes from 2 to 5 hours.
Taxi ride within the city - 15 EUR.
Ferries
An important role in the transport system of Sardinia belongs to ferries. They connect the main ports of the island, and the island itself - with the cities of mainland Italy. Especially popular is the ferry from Santa Teresa Gallura to Bonifacio in French Corsica (4 times a day, 50 minutes). On the ferry from Porto Torres you can swim to Spanish Barcelona (12 hours).
Bicycles for rent
Many hotels offer bike rentals. True, for two people the cost of such a service is quite comparable to renting a compact class car. Prices in street companies are lower, and the choice of bicycles - city, mountain, road, is much wider. When ordering via the Internet, the bike will be delivered to any place and taken back.
Sardinia Hotels
The most luxurious hotels in Sardinia are located in Porto Cervo, which are members of the international association The Luxury Collection Hotels & Resorts - Pitrizza, Romazzino and Cala Di Volpe, famous for the movie "The Spy Who Loved Me". Astronomical prices in them at the peak of the season (1000 EUR for a double room) reliably protect these heavenly corners from the casual public. They are hindered from raising the bar even higher by the rest of the fives, which also have everything necessary for a full-fledged VIP vacation, but at the same time cost half as much.
The best option for a vacation with a decent level of service is 4 * hotels located on the first line. A wide range of prices - from 100 to 300 EUR, allows you to choose an option that does not threaten complete ruin.
Ceteris paribus, the cost of hotels in the northeast of the island is 20-30% higher than in the south and west.
But not all hotels in Sardinia are designed exclusively for wealthy people. The most numerous and demanded category of housing on the coast is 2-3 * hotels and guesthouses not chasing "stars", where you can get a job for 50-100 EUR per day.
An alternative to a beach holiday is agritourism. More than 600 estates, wineries and farms of the island allow you to experience the joys of a serene rural life for only 50 EUR for a double room.
Beaches
Sardinia accounts for a quarter of all the beaches in Italy. Moreover, according to the Italians themselves, the best part of them. The beaches of the Costa Smeralda, caressed by celebrities, are located in small beautiful bays with white, golden or pink sand. The most popular are Prince's Beach, named after the Ismaili leader Karim Aga Khan IV, who founded the resort, and Lischia Ruja Beach, framed by juniper and strawberry trees. Porto Rotondo with rocks of an unusual shape, was chosen by divers. Young people prefer the beaches of Baia Sardinia - the noisiest resort on the Costa Smeralda. The beaches of the protected archipelago of La Maddalena, which have preserved their original beauty, have to be reached by boat.
On some beaches, for example, Rosa beach on the island of Budelli, covered with pink shells of shellfish, it is forbidden to land - they can only be admired from the water.
The central beach of Lido in Alghero is one of the best on the Coral Riviera. Those looking for privacy can choose Le Bombarde beach located to the north with clear water and the smell of pine needles.
For a set of two sun loungers and an umbrella, you need to pay 8-19 EUR (depending on the prestige of the place). A shower can also be paid (1 EUR).
The beaches of Mari Ermi and Is Arutas, 20 km west of Oristano, with white quartz sand and gentle shallows, are recommended by Italian doctors for families with children. To the south of them begins the Costa Verde - the Green Coast, wide sparsely populated beaches with sand dunes, fenced off from the outside world by a wall of evergreen shrubs. The northwestern mistrals drive high waves towards them, which are so appreciated by surfers.
Each beach in the southeast is good in its own way. Poetto beach in Cagliari with bars, restaurants, food vendors, beach equipment rentals is the largest and most crowded on the island. On the beach of the quiet town of Torre delle Stelle, the swimming season lasts from April to November - longer than anywhere else in Sardinia. The beaches of Costa Rei are the cleanest on the island.
Diving in Sardinia
The underwater part of Sardinia is no less attractive than the surface. Turquoise clear water, comfortable temperatures, an abundance of marine life, bizarre underwater terrain, ships lying at the bottom and first-class diving centers have made Sardinia a popular diving destination.
The protected Coral Riviera is known for its abundance of crustacean-occupied red corals and the mesmerizing worlds of Ghost Cave and Galatea Cave. Wreck diving fans are attracted by the southern coast in the Cagliari region, where ships lie at the bottom that sank during a storm or became a victim of the English fleet. The richest underwater flora and fauna is in the La Maddalena National Park. Here, among the stone boulders overgrown with red gorgonians, flocks of barracudas circle, huge tunas swim lazily, and stone perches and groupers hide in crevices.
The cost of one dive with insurance and delivery back and forth on a rubber boat - 45/35/30 EUR for one person / group of 2-9 people / group of 10-14 people. Rent of a full set of diving equipment - 30 EUR/day.
In the diving centers you can take a course to get the initial certificate PADI Scuba Diver (270 EUR) or more advanced Open Water Diver (340 EUR), giving the right to independent diving. Seasoned divers can upgrade their skills to Adventures (180 EUR) or Rescue Diver (300 EUR).
To see the underwater world of Sardinia, it is not necessary to dive with scuba diving. There are many snorkeling spots that are easily accessible by boat. The cost of a 5-hour tour is 35 EUR/person.
Spa and thalassotherapy
Sardinia is known for its high quality thalassotherapy centers with unique programs and world-class specialists. The AcquaForte Thalass&Spa beauty and wellness center in the Forte Village resort specializes in a healing technique based on swimming in pools with different temperatures and different degrees of salinity of the water.
The first pool contains the so-called "sea oil" - natural sea water with a high content of magnesium salts, which really resembles oil in its consistency. The second is enriched with extracts from aloe and mint, making the skin silky and stimulating the production of endorphins. In the 3rd and 4th, unique hydromassages with hot sea water are used. Bathing in the 5th and 6th cooler pools completes this highly beneficial procedure that speeds up metabolism and drainage processes, helps to optimize ion exchanges and release toxins.
No less pleasant and useful are the spa programs at The Pelican Beach Resort & Spa, which include various types of water massage, shiatsu and pressotherapy, combined with special diets and gymnastics to burn calories and cleanse the body. Moreover, for all the uniqueness, the prices for the most popular procedures are not too high and are available not only to wealthy clients.
Sardinia
What to bring
As in any resort in the country, the island has boutiques of all the most famous Italian brands: Gucci, Prada, Armani, Dolce & Gabbana. Most of them are concentrated in the fashionable Porto Cervo and the main Sardinian city of Cagliari. You can buy branded items with a 50-70% discount at the Luxury Mall Italy in Olbia and at the Sardinia Outlet Village in Sestu in the south of the island.
It is worth going to the mountainous Barbagia for shepherd's knives with a handle made of mouflon horn and a leaf-shaped blade, the secret of sharpening of which has been passed down from generation to generation. Medieval Alghero is famous for its red coral jewelry. They are mined here, in the sea off the coast of the Coral Riviera. Particularly beautiful are the gold and silver items made using the filigree sard technique. Textiles with traditional hand embroidery are sold throughout Sardinia - blouses, shawls, tablecloths, bedspreads and very expensive Sardinian sheep wool carpets.
In addition, olive oil, the famous myrtle liqueur Mirto di mirto and wonderful cheeses are brought from Sardinia: hard Pecorino, soft Dolce Sardo and the most delicate provoletta with a creamy taste in the shape of a pear.
Cuisine and restaurants in Sardinia
Sardinian cuisine is simple, like all ingenious. On any table there will certainly be thin yeast-free cakes, which are called “music paper” for their light crunch. If you put scrambled eggs on it and season with grated sheep's cheese, you get the traditional Sardinian dish "pane fratau". Sardinian fregola pasta, resembling small balls, goes well with stewed beef, roasted pig with spices, mushrooms and vegetables.
Despite the fact that Sardis have always been, first of all, shepherds and only then fishermen, they also know how to cook fish and seafood. What are worth though "bottarga" - dried mullet caviar or sauce "la scorpetta del marino" ("sailor's slipper"), suitable for pasta "lorigitos" in the form of rings of twisted dough strips. Vegetarians can choose culurjones - ravioli with potatoes and pecorino cheese, and those with a sweet tooth can choose round seadas patties poured with honey with tender cheese inside.
It is worth thinking carefully before tasting casu marzu cheese, but the sardines themselves adore this specialty with live cheese fly larvae.
They not only love to feed guests on the island, but they also know how. Of course, on the Costa Smeralda, chosen by the beau monde, in Alghero and Cagliari there are enough pretentious restaurants that meet the needs and wallets of people who have lost count of money. But even more simply good food - meat and fish, with quite reasonable prices: from inexpensive restaurants and pizzerias to trattorias with traditional home cooking, alien to newfangled gastronomic trends. There are many of them not only in resort areas, but also in the interior of the island.
Dinner in a good restaurant with wine - 50 EUR per person, lunch in a small trattoria with local cuisine - 20 EUR, focaccia (5 EUR) and panini with various fillings sold in bakeries and street stalls are suitable for a snack on the go.
The best photos of Sardinia
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nature created here, man only slightly embellished her creations. The most fantastically beautiful cliffs, similar to a bizarre sculpture garden, are located on Cape Testa in the north of the island. There are few places in the Mediterranean where you will meet such a wild coast full of unexpected charm.
The "star" of Northern Sardinia is the 55-kilometer coastline, called the Costa Smeralda (Emerald Coast) for the amazing color of the water. In the 1960s the beauty of this place captivated the multi-billionaire Prince Aga Khan IV so much that he decided to turn it into a resort "for his own." The center of the social life of the Emerald Coast is the glamorous Porto Cervo with the best marinas in Europe, where yachts of world celebrities moor.
From the north, the islands of the La Maddalena archipelago look at the “billionaire reservation”, the entire territory of which is occupied by a national park. To understand why they are so famous, one must walk along the paths laid here, inhaling the scent of pine trees and admiring the bays and dramatic pink rocks created by wind and sea waves. On one of the islands of the archipelago - Caprera, Giuseppe Garibaldi lived for 26 years. The house of the father of a united Italy is now a museum.
The starting point to the islands of La Maddalena is the port of the resort town of Palau, the approaches to which are guarded by the fortress of Monta Altura.
Not only the geographical, but also the cultural and historical center of Sardinia is the inner mountainous region of Barbagia with picturesque towns and villages, formerly real robber nests. The name of the most infamous village - Orgosolo, whose inhabitants were engaged in banditry, has become a household name. Now she looks very hospitable. The walls of her houses are decorated not only with bullet holes, but also with bright murals that have turned Orgosolo into a real tourist hit.
In addition to harsh peaks and charismatic settlements, Barbagia attracts with the deepest canyon in Europe - the Gorropu Gorge, a real miracle of nature with waterfalls, tiny lakes with turquoise water and white sheer walls rising to a height of 500 m. The width of Gorropu at its narrowest point is only 4 m.
A characteristic part of the Sardinian landscape is nuraghi, high conical towers made of basalt blocks. They are scattered throughout the island, but south of Sassari and in Barumini are especially abundant. There is nothing in the world that even remotely resembles these mysterious prehistoric buildings. Entire complexes of nuraghes have been preserved, separated from each other by only a couple of tens of meters. What are these - temples, tombs, watchtowers? Their builders left behind neither writing nor even legends.
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Weather
Sardinia always has comfortable weather. Already in March there is enough sun and heat. Starting in April, resort hotels fill up with vacationers. In mid-May, even children can swim. Summers are dry and hot, especially in the south of the island. Sea breezes, trips to mountainous areas and hotel air conditioners save you from the scorching heat. In September, the heat gradually subsides, but this does not affect the water temperature in any way. In October the nights become cold and the sea begins to cool. Winter is rainy, but quite pleasant. There are almost no tourists, and only European pensioners entertain themselves with excursions to the interior of the island.
The second largest island in the Mediterranean, which was chosen by celebrities and politicians. It is a wonderful cocktail of azure sea, white sand and rich history. The air saturated with the aromas of pine needles and various flowers, green hills, almost two thousand kilometers of beaches make Sardinia unusually attractive. The beautiful nature is complemented by an excellent tourist infrastructure. There are about five thousand hotels, the most intense entertainment program, and restaurants and shops are innumerable. Of course, holidays in Sardinia are not cheap, but the availability of inexpensive hotels allows people with low incomes to visit it.
Sardinia is an island with its own culture, history and special atmosphere. It has its own president, its own parliament and even its own flag. Here you can see traces of ancient civilizations, architectural monuments, Gothic cathedrals and many other interesting sights, some of which are more than twenty centuries old.
Flights to Sardinia
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How to get to the island of Sardinia
By plane
There are no direct flights to Sardinia from Russian airports. You can fly to Cagliari with one transfer by many air carriers to choose from: Alitalia, S7, Air Berlin, Meridiana. The cost is from 270 to 400 € depending on the airline.
On a ferryboat
Ports that accept ferries from other regions: Olbia, Porto Torres, Arbatax, Cagliari. The nearest port to mainland Italy is Olbia, where the journey will take at least 6 hours, and the price is about 40 €. Ferries depart from Civitavecchia, Genoa, Palermo, Livorno and Naples to Olbia, as well as to Cagliari.
Hotels on Sardinia
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There are about 5,000 hotels on the island. The most expensive hotels and luxurious villas are located on the Emerald Coast and in the northern part of Sardinia. It is better to look for inexpensive housing in the southern part of the island and on the northwest coast.
There are more than 20 five-star hotels on the island. Villa Las Tronas Hotel & SPA, located in the former royal residence, stands out among them. The price of a double room starts from 400 €. You can feel like a celebrity at Hotel Romazzino. The cost of a double room starts from 1000 € per night. The Colonna Pevero Hotel is located on the Emerald Coast. Here, vacationers will appreciate the private beach and 5 swimming pools. The price of a single room starts from 700 €.
Of the apartments, Betil House, Casa Veronica, Residenza Sarra di Entu and Sunflower have the most positive reviews. A week of rest in them will cost about 500 €. You can stay within 30 € per night at La Valle Dei Nuraghi, Ostello Hostal de L "Alguer, Residence Tanca Della Torre, Appartamenti Paduledda and B&B Cheap Holidays.
Shopping in Sardinia
Sardinia has many inexpensive shops, shopping centers, Italian designer boutiques and colorful markets. There are plenty of shopping opportunities here.
A large selection of souvenirs is presented in Isola stores, and for wine it is worth going to the winery in Cagliari. It is better to buy products in markets where prices are lower than in stores. In Olbia, this is the Piazza Crispi market, in Dorgalo - Piazza Santa Lucia, and in Nauro - Via Sassari. Also low prices in Auchan, which operates in major cities.
For productive shopping, head to Olbia's Luxury Mall Italy or La Rinascente in Cagliari. Also in the capital, on Via Roma and Giuseppe Garibaldi, dozens of boutiques are concentrated, and most luxury brands from Roberto Cavalli to Prada are represented on the streets of Porto Cervo. Inexpensive clothing can be found at Warner and Centro Commerciale. Here jeans cost around 25€ and a shirt 10€.
Beaches in Sardinia
There are more than two hundred beaches on the island of Sardinia, and their total length is 2000 kilometers. Here you can relax both in a deserted place and on a well-equipped beach. Particular attention deserves the southern part - Costa Smeralda, famous for its 55 km long sandy coastline, palm and pine groves, clear sea. This is one of the most expensive and prestigious areas of the island, which is called the Emerald Coast.
Who does not dream of spending a vacation on an island in the middle of the gentle warm sea? Yes, and not far, in Europe? With ancient history, wonderful nature, mild climate… Meet Sardinia. This is where a wonderful, uncomplicated rest rest! Sardinia (Italy) is located just two hundred kilometers west of the coast of the Apennine Peninsula. And twelve kilometers to the north is another island, already French - Corsica. Experienced tourists say that it is not bad, taking advantage of the short distance and the lack of border control, to go to the homeland of Napoleon Bonaparte for a day. And in Sardinia, they recommend combining a beach holiday with a rich excursion program. After all, most of the island is occupied by archaeological and natural reserves.
How to get there
If you are planning a holiday in Sardinia during the summer months, you should not have any problems with flying to the island. From Moscow and other large cities of Russia, charter flights of travel companies go there. But tourist reviews warn that if you want to visit Sardinia at another time, you will have to fly with transfers. But maybe it's for the best? From Moscow, Aeroflot or Alitalia planes can take you to Rome. And after getting acquainted with the Eternal City, go further. There are three airports in Sardinia: in addition to the capital Cagliari, also in the cities of Alghero and Olbia. If we listen to those who have been here repeatedly, we will learn that there is another way to get to the island - not by air, but by sea. Ferries of various shipping companies depart from mainland Italy (Naples, Genoa, Civitavecchia, Piombino, Livorno) and Sicily (Palermo and Trapani).
When is the best time to visit Sardinia?
The subtropical climate allows you to extend the tourist season not only for the summer months. Many travelers note that you should not go here when there are a lot of people. After all, already in mid-May, the water warms up to a comfortable temperature for swimming. The sea cools down only in November, and even then in the second half of the month. The hottest month in Sardinia is August. The air temperature is stable at + 34 ° С, and water - + 25 ° С. There is very little rain in summer. But, as lovers of the Mediterranean assure us, the best holiday in Sardinia is in September. The water has already warmed up well over the summer and has not yet had time to cool down. The temperature is optimal for obtaining a bronze tan without burns - + 27 ° C in the shade. Most vacationers - especially those with noisy school-age children - have already moved out. The winter storms haven't started yet. The sea is gentle and pleases with a comfortable +23 degrees. Lots of fruit, not so hot to go on exciting excursions.
Where to stay
In fact, the entire coast of the island is covered with luxurious resorts. The south of Sardinia is especially famous for its endless beaches stretching beyond the horizon. Strips of sand interspersed here with pine forests and palm groves surrounded by azure lagoons. For tourists who want to get a comfortable and elite holiday in Sardinia, the Santa Margherita di Pula area is often recommended. This resort houses the Forte Village hotel complex for VIP clients. Nearby, in the southeast, is the resort of Villasimius. It attracts divers, because the remains of four sunken ships lie in the coastal waters. Another high-end holiday destination that has received a lot of positive feedback is the Emerald Coast, Costa Smeralda. Its sandy beaches stretch for 55 kilometers. And in the north-west of the island there are two more noteworthy resorts: Costa Paradiso (which translates as Paradise Beach) and the picturesque town of Stintino.
Holidays in Sardinia: hotels
If you are traveling on your own, you have the opportunity to book a hotel for every taste. There are both very affordable hostels and very expensive club hotels. However, not many hotels operate with the All-Inclusive system, beloved by Russians. The vast majority of hotels practice either breakfast or half board. Russian travel companies send their clients to the south of the island, to Villasimius and Santa Margherita di Pula. There are many large hotel complexes with developed infrastructure and entertainment. The north of the island is considered more expensive and refined. The most elite holidays in Sardinia are in Costa Smeralda, Porto Rotondo and Porto Cervo. Tourists who crave solitude prefer to settle in Castelsardo and Stintino. From boutique hotels, Capo D’Orso Thalasso & Spa 5 * in Palau, Villa Macchia Blu in Stintino are often praised. Worthy fours are the Bajaloglia Resort Super in Castelsardo and the Villa Oasis apartment complex.
The beaches of Sardinia
This small island has a quarter of all the beaches in Italy. And the lion's share of them was awarded the Blue Flag. Even the native Sardinians have not visited all the local beaches. And there are more than 360 of them, and you can read extremely positive reviews about all of them! Among them there are sandy, and pebbly, and even rice. Big and small, well-groomed and wild. The most "promoted" is La Pelosa on Capo Falcone (north of the town of Stintino). It is also called the "European Caribbean". There are equally beautiful beaches. The snow-white sandy coast of the Costa Smeralda is very popular. Pebble lovers are welcome at Spiaggia Kokkorochchi in Gairo. Pink marble chips cover the coast in Baia Sardinia and Cala Mariolu (Porto Cervo). Rice beaches are not a poetic metaphor at all. On the western tip of the island are Iz Arutas and Mari Ermi. These beaches are covered with small quartz stones. For many thousands of years, the sea has rolled them around, and they began to resemble rice grains in appearance. Walking on them is a little uncomfortable, but what a massage! And the air over such a beach is healing. Recently, it has become very fashionable to come to this island with families. Gone are the days when it was thought that there was nothing to do with children here. Now special tours are organized here, and many hotels vying with each other offer the best conditions for kids. Reviews say that holidays in Sardinia with children are preferable to Capriccioli and Liscia Ruja. Most of the tourists who came here claim that the sea is calm here, the entrance to the water is gentle, and the sand is surprisingly soft and silky, like powder for babies.
Tours
This island is a pleasure to travel on your own. After all, most of the sights are located in the old towns. A sightseeing holiday in Sardinia is impossible without getting acquainted with the mysterious ancient civilization. They say that the first inhabitants of the island were the Phoenicians. The people of Sardinia left behind a legacy of nuraghes - cone-shaped fortresses in the form of truncated pyramids. Ancient Rome left numerous necropolises, baths and amphitheaters on the island. The Middle Ages gave Sardinia churches and fortresses. The reviews of tourists are especially recommended to go to the town of Sassari and the town of Castelsardo. The island has many reserves with salt lakes, which are home to pink flamingos. For the beauties of nature, reviews advise you to go to the islet of Asinari. If you are vacationing with children, then many tourists who travel with families offer to go to the famous local water parks - and you will be fine, and the kids will enjoy it.
Holidays in Sardinia: reviews of culinary and souvenirs
We briefly told what you need to see on the island. Well, what should you definitely try? The Sardinians themselves hesitate whether their land is more famous for its beaches or wines. It looks like these two "visiting cards" shared the first place. Even after tasting the ordinary “Sweet Muscat”, you will surely feel that you have never tasted anything tastier in your life. A bottle of Cannonau Agriolas or Vermentino La Cala will be the best memory of your holiday in Sardinia. Reviews also advise visiting the weaving factory in Ogliastra and purchasing the famous local cotton and wool carpet.
Events
It is impossible to visit Sardinia and stay away from the vibrant life of the local people. Every month interesting events, festivals and holidays take place on the island. The most famous of them is Autunno in Barbagia (Autumn in the Land of the Barbarians). This is another argument in favor of why you should prefer a holiday in Sardinia in September. For almost a month, there are festivities dedicated to the new grape harvest. In all cities of the island, tastings of the most popular drink are held, residents in national costumes organize festive processions and treat them to local dishes.
gallery (Sardegna) is one of the cleanest islands in the Mediterranean. It has retained its traditional patriarchal way of life, the original diverse culture and traditions, the beaches are not crowded, the sea is emerald, there are many beautiful grottoes and caves, and festivals and holidays are held here almost all year round.
north coast
The north coast is famous for its granite monoliths and picturesque archipelagos - La Maddalena, Caprera, Tavolara and Molara. Isola Rossa ("Red Island") - a pleasant tourist resort with many beaches, got its name from the pink granite cliffs on the coast. The world-famous elite resort of Costa Smeralda ("Emerald Coast") - the realm of granite rocks, green juniper, virgin beaches and small islands. Here is the Pevero Golf Club, famous throughout Italy, and the chic beach of the same name.
The northeastern part of the island is interesting for its limestone cliffs and the Neptune Cave, which is reached by 656 steps from the top of the cliff at Capo Cacia, as well as the beaches of Alghero and the picturesque island of Asinara, which used to be a prison. Now here is a national park, and a tourist center is being built nearby, which will become a base for excursions in Asinara in the future.
East Coast
On the east coast are the beautiful beaches of San Teodoro and Budoni, considered the longest stretch of wild beaches in the country. On the shores of the Gulf of Orosei, one of the last tracts of coastal subtropical forest in Europe grows. From the sea, these beaches are surrounded by giant limestone cliffs, secluded beaches and coastal caves are almost isolated from the rest of the land. Further south stretch the wild and little-known to tourists the shores of Tortoli, Barisardo, Gairo and Tertenia.
South coast
In the south of the island is the province of Cagliari with the capital of Sardinia - the port of Cagliari. Of interest here are the sand dunes of Pistis and Piscinas, the iron-limestone cliffs of Iglesiente near Masua Nebida, which are an unusual and impressive sight. In the Sulcis archipelago, you can trek along dizzying trails over cliffs or under gray and red rocks. The Gulf of Cagliari is a flat sandy shore with numerous beaches and lagoons, which are inhabited by a large number of waterfowl.
Costa del Sud ("South Coast") is interesting for beaches known only to locals, hidden coves and the ruins of the beautiful Roman city of Nora.
West and Southwest
On the southwest coast, the excellent beaches of Muravera, Castiadas and Villasimius stretch, the water temperature here is higher than on the rest of the coast of the country. On the west coast there are many steep coasts, beautiful dark volcanic rocks, among which you can find completely wild beaches in small coves. The tourist resort of Sinis, located near the city of Oristano, is widely known on the peninsula of the same name. Sinis is famous for its white sand beaches, as well as its rich archaeological heritage - the city of Tharros founded by the Phoenicians and numerous monuments and monuments from the era of the Punic Wars.
The beaches of Sardinia
In 1921 the painter and poet David Lawrence visited Sardinia, remarked about its geographical position that the island "was lost between Europe and Africa and does not belong to anything." gallery lies away from the "traveled" trails, but perhaps this is its attractiveness. The beaches of Sardinia are among the cleanest and least crowded in Italy. The capital of the island Cagliari- an excellent starting point for exploring Sardinia.
Popular resort Costa Smeralda- zone of luxury and sophistication. It is not suitable for a "budget" holiday, unlike the old Spanish port Alghero, a favorite hangout place for tourists from the UK.
Cagliari
5 km from the center Cagliari the beach is located Poetto (Poetto)- one of the most beautiful urban beaches in the Mediterranean. 11 km of sandy coast attract tourists and locals all year round. Thanks to the warm, mild climate, you can swim here from the end of April to the end of October.
Small shops, bars and tourist offices stretch along the beach. From here you can watch regular sailing regattas and competitions. in the harbor Marina Piccola (Marina Piccola) you can rent yachts, motor and sailing boats, visit windsurfing courses and a sailing school.
The surroundings of Cagliari are also rich in beaches. Near the town Pula, located 27 km from the capital, lies the beach Nora (Nora), interesting not only for its beautiful white sand, magical caves and picturesque rocks, but also for the archaeological excavations of the Punic city of Nora. Another eight kilometers further you will find an amazingly beautiful beach. Santa Margherita, impressing guests with a lush pine forest stretching for 12 km along the sea. Both beaches are equipped with showers, toilets and sun umbrellas.
Moving further east, you can reach the beach Chia. Above it rises the tower of the same name, from the foot of which offers stunning views of the beach and the island Cardulin (Cardulin) connected to the shore by a narrow strip of sand. Behind Chia lies a scattering of smaller beaches. They are covered with low sand dunes overgrown with juniper and undersized Mediterranean shrubs. In front of the beach S "Aqua Durci (S" Acqua Durci) you will see a rocky island Su Giudeu, whose foot is black from the abundance of octopuses living here. Adventure seekers can wade up to the island and, having risen to a height of 18 meters, inspect all the magnificence surrounding them.
All beaches near Chia are also equipped with everything necessary for lovers of swimming and water sports.
Further west is the city Teulada and a dark gray limestone promontory of the same name. The cliffs rise to 40 meters, and from here you can see the white sandy beach lying below. The width of the beach is about 70 m, almost all of it is covered with luxurious dunes. The height of some sandy hills reaches 30 m.
The beach is surrounded by shrubs and pine trees, and sometimes you can find traces of turtles laying eggs on the sand. Most of the territory is a nature reserve and remains virtually untouched, since it is located within the borders of a secret military base.
The best vacation spot west of Cagliari is a pebble beach Cala Regina. At the far end of the beach is a 17th-century watchtower. Similar towers are built along the entire coast. The sandy beach is next. Mari Pintau. Its name translates as "Painted Sea". And indeed, the amazingly rich green color of the water near the shore will surprise you. Moreover, with all the depth of color, the water remains crystal clear.
Geremeas- another sandy beach, perfectly equipped for recreation. Bars, restaurants, swimming pools lined up along the coast for 2 km. You can also take horse riding lessons on site, and there is a modern water park very close to the beach.
The longest swimming season lasts on the beach Torre delle Stelle located between two granite capes. These are, in essence, two long beaches with white sand, in most of which you can swim for free.
Solanas- a favorite holiday destination for countless tourists, attracted here by the beautiful sandy beach and clear water. The seabed near Solanas is also sandy, gentle and safe. On the beach you can rent boats, pedal boats, go in for water sports, sit in a bar on the beach. There is also an ambulance station on site.
Sarrabus (Sarrabus)
Region Sarrabus can be divided into two parts: mountainous and coastal. The mountain is covered with lush Mediterranean vegetation, and the seaside, respectively, with magnificent beaches.
Picturesque coast near the city Villasimius has become a popular holiday destination in recent years. in the bay Capo Carbonara (Capo Carbonara) there are several beaches of various sizes, separated by rocky capes and deep stone caves. Among them Capo Boys (Capo Boi), Spiaggia del Riso, Porto Giunco and Punta Is Molentis.
The bay is part of the geological marine park and is a protected area. Thanks to this, the water and sand here are surprisingly clean, and the surroundings delight the eye with untouched natural beauties. The purity of coastal waters can also be judged by the fact that in the bay you can often see the white-bellied seal, which lives only in safe, unpolluted waters.
Beach Capo Boys hides among the lush greenery growing at the foot of the picturesque granite rocks. The picture is complemented by white sand and emerald green coastal waters. The beach has everything you need: umbrellas, sun loungers, bars, rescue service, water sports.
Spiaggia del Riso located near the tourist harbour. The beach got its name (Rice Beach) due to the fact that the stones on the coast, grinded by the sea for thousands of years, gradually turned into tiny pebbles the size of a grain of rice.
The uniqueness of the beach Porto Junco- in its amazing pink sand. And above the sandy beach of Punta iz Molentis rise the ruins of "nuraghe" - a fortified dwelling of the Bronze Age.
In the town Castiadas from 1800 to 1950 there was a penal colony, the prisoners of which were engaged in agricultural work and land reclamation. There was no industrial development. As a result, the area has remained practically unpolluted and is currently being developed in the resort direction. The local attraction is Peppino's Rock (Peppino's rock)- a detached rock 20 meters from the shore. You can wade up to it and from its top you can see a delightful panorama of the surroundings.
Not far from the city there is an 8-kilometer sandy coast Costa Rey, with golden beaches, small caves and emerald coves surrounded by lush greenery. A secluded beach Cala Pira, hidden behind rocks and boulders turned by water, attracts lovers of silence and loneliness.
Muravera (Muravera) is the largest city in Sarrabus. It is located on a fertile plain and is surrounded by citrus plantations. Muravera and its surroundings are famous for the highest average temperature in Sardinia (at any time of the year), as well as beaches of exceptional beauty. Among them - a beach at the mouth of the river Flumendosa (Flumendosa), the beaches of San Giovanni (S.Giovanni), Saline, Colostrai (Colostrai) and Torre Salinas.
Torre Salinas- a beautiful, long and uncluttered sandy beach, on the one hand washed by the green of sea waves, on the other - surrounded by greenery of lush shrubs. The sea here is calm, the bottom is shallow, sandy. On the beach there are bars and small kiosks with fast food and drinks, rental of umbrellas, sunbeds and various boats. The beach of San Giovanni is also well equipped, with its snow-white wide ribbon of the finest sand and the incredibly clear sea caressing the shore.
Nuoro
Nuoro is the central region of Sardinia with a very diverse landscape. There are mountains, and spacious valleys, and gently sloping green hills descending to wide beaches.
Not far from the city Gairo located amazing beach Spiaggia Coccorocci (Spiaggia Coccorocci). The dunes on the beach are composed of porphyry rubble ground into sand, which is mostly dark in color. The unusual landscape is complemented by veins of pink, gray and green hues found here and there. This is the largest pebble beach in Sardinia. From here you can see a majestic panorama of mountains rising above the shore and covered with dense forests.
A little south along the coast lies a large sandy beach. Torre di Bari surrounded by rocks and small coves. Above the beach is a well-preserved watchtower from the 17th century.
Moving further south, we get to two nearby beaches - Spiaggia Orri (Spiaggia Orri) and Spiaggia-Chea (Spiaggia Cea). These are spacious sandy beaches surrounded by granite cliffs and pine forests. A feature of Spiaggia Chea are two spectacular bright red porphyry cliffs rising from the water opposite the northern end of the beach.
in the bay Orosei (Orosei) lies one of the most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean - Cala Luna. The length of the beach is 700 meters, in its southern part there is a freshwater lake surrounded by tall oleander trees. The northern end of the beach is occupied by impressive cliffs. Seven huge cave entrances gape in the stone wall, leading to labyrinths of grottoes, washed into granite by sea waves for millennia.
Beach Cala Sisine, together with Cala Luna, is the best beach in the bay. You can get to it by boat from the nearest towns. The beach is pebbly and sandy, the water off the coast is incredibly clear, at a depth it acquires a juicy blue-blue color. Immediately behind the beach, a dense forest begins, rising to the nearest mountains.
Algero (Alghero)
Allero is the northernmost region of the island. Here is a stone cape Capo Caccia, which is inhabited by vultures, with a wingspan of up to 3 meters.
in the bay Asinara (Asinara) lie the beaches Spiaggia di Balai and Spiaggia di Platamona, covered with sand dunes, on which wild lilies bloom. The beaches are surrounded by pine trees and are a favorite vacation spot for the local population.
Near seaside town Argentiera (Argentiera) there are two beautiful beaches. Above the smaller, southern beach, the entrances to zinc and lead mines from the 19th century have been preserved. The sand on the beach is grayish, mixed with pebbles. And the sea near the shore is deep and very blue.
Gallura (Gallura)
In the northeast of Sardinia lies a mountainous province Gallura. The granite rocks of Gallura are over 300 million years old. All this time, waves and wind "worked" over the stones. And as a result of erosion, amazing "sculptures" have risen above the sea, resembling animal figures in appearance. One of these figures, a huge stone "bear" on a cape Capo D "Orso (Capo D" Orso), is the symbol of Gallura.
The largest beach on the south coast of Gallura is called Isuledda (Isuledda). It is a long strip of white sand surrounded by juniper. Nearby is a 3-kilometer beach La Chinta covered with luxurious sand dunes.
One of the few pebbly beaches of Gallura - Spalmatore. It is located on a cape lying on the western coast of the island. Tavolara (Tavolara). On a small island Budelli you will find a small beach Spiaggia Rosa (Spiaggia Rosa), which got its name because of the soft pink color of the sand on the shore. Hidden between high granite rocks, the beach from afar looks like a secluded Italian courtyard strewn with rose petals.
Very picturesque beach Capriccioli. This, in fact, is a lot of small sandy beaches, separated by rocky massifs protruding from the coast into clear sea waters. Fantastic "sculptures" made of pink granite are scattered over the beaches.
Oristano (Oristano)
Provinces Oristano, stretching along the western coast of Sicily for almost 100 km, is the most untouched area of \u200b\u200bthe island. Pink flamingos still nest on its deserted beaches, surrounded by virgin pine forests. Main river Oriztano - Tirso (Tirso), near the coast forms a system of lagoons and lakes, which is the most interesting "marsh" area in Europe.
Small sandy beach S "Archittu (S" Archittu) got its name due to the natural "bridge" of the same name - a through arch, washed out by waves in a long and narrow cape, outstanding deep into the sea. This is the largest such "bridge" in Sardinia. Due to the unusual landscape, the beach attracts many tourists during the season and is fully ready to receive vacationers. There is a bar, a restaurant, a rescue service, rental of umbrellas and sunbeds.
Spiaggia di S. Caterina di Pittinurri- a medium-sized beach, the northern part of which is sandy, and the southern part is pebbly. The beach is located in a picturesque bay, surrounded by sheer limestone cliffs with undulating relief. The bottom drops quite sharply, and the water, even near the shore, pleases the eye with a deep dark blue color.
6 km beach Is Arenas protected from the winds by a continuous chain of sand dunes, the longest in Sardinia. Unfortunately, in recent decades, this small "desert" (the only such area in Europe) has radically changed its appearance due to the greening of the coast. Today, most of the dunes are lined with pines and acacias, and only a few sand dunes remain untouched. Despite these changes, the beach itself has not lost its charm and may even have benefited from the picturesque green spaces. Is Arenaz is covered with light gray sand and is not too crowded even in the peak season, as it is quite far from major cities and highways.
Another quiet beach - S"Arena-Scoada (S"Arena Scoada). The sand on it is pure golden in color, the coastal waters resemble an emerald in a shade. It seems that you are on a deserted tropical island.
Sulcis (Sulcis)
District Sulcis, occupying the southwestern part of Sardinia, got its name from the ancient city Sulci on the island Sant'Antioco (S.Antioco). Sulcis was the first site on the island to emerge from the waters of the Mediterranean and is an area rich in both mining, archeology and culture.
Amazing, pristine beach Piscinas consists of the purest white sand, which in some areas is formed by a powerful mistral into high (up to 30 m) dunes.
On a small island S.Pietro there are many wonderful beaches. Among them - La Concha- natural swimming pool surrounded by high cliffs. It is connected to the sea by a narrow passage between steep stone shores. When the island is in the arms of the mistral, La Concha is one of the most sheltered beaches from the violence of the hurricane. When the sirocco blows from the southeast, the sea between the stone cliffs becomes rough and unsafe for swimming.