Santa Teresa di Gallura: things to do and see in the village

There is a small village in the most northern extremity of Sardinia that looks straight towards Corsica and sticks out towards the La Maddalena Archipelago: it is Santa Teresa di Gallura. This touristic spot is an authentic representation of the atmosphere of the most typical Sardinia, far from the glamour of the Costa Smeralda. Therefore, if you are looking for relaxation, contact with nature, a cultural and archaeological digest for your next holiday in Sardinia, we suggest you take into consideration this area that is as fascinating as it is mysterious. 

The turquoise of the sea, the white of the fine, soft sand, the green of the myrtle and olive trees and the impressiveness of the wind-smoothed granite rocks. There is no need to search for exotic and remote destinations, this jewel of the Mediterranean sea will enchant you with its wonderful beaches, nuragic sites and most hidden natural areas. If you are wondering about the perfect travel itinerary that will suit all tastes, keep reading below.

Let's start with the best-known Santa Teresa di Gallura beach, a small jewel of Mediterranean maquis just 500 metres away from the heart of the coastal village, Piazza Vittorio Emanuele. We are talking about Rena Bianca, which, as its name suggests, is a stretch of soft, white sand that plunges into a shallow, transparent seabed. It is not surprising that it has even been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag recognition, attesting the cleanliness of the water and the care of the shoreline. A small tip: the beach is not particularly spacious and could easily fill up in the high season months. Hence we recommend Cala Balcaccia as an alternative, an unspoilt and reserved bay, since it is accessible via a private road or by sea.

Continuing eastwards, on the small peninsula of Capo Testa we immediately find the beach of Cala Spinosa, surrounded by granite cliffs overlooking a turquoise and midnight-blue water. A landscape that is worth exploring, if you have the opportunity to practice water sports such as diving and snorkelling. It is here that an enchanting view of the Strait of Bonifacio will literally leave you speechless. If you have other preferences and are looking for wide, well-equipped beaches, Rena Majori is for you. Situated only 9 kilometres from Santa Teresa, it is undoubtedly a beautiful beach of the island, with a crystal-clear seabed and adorned with granite rocks that give the sand a quartz-pink hue.

The beach of Santa Reparata is a small cove (as a matter of fact, it quickly becomes crowded, especially in high season) about 3 kilometres away from Santa Teresa. However, visiting it is really worth it: the rocky seabed and turquoise waters are a true spectacle of nature. Finally, towards Palau we find La Marmorata beach, a long strip of fine white sand and a sky-blue sea. Sheltered from the mistral wind, here the most adventurous can reach the small island right ahead, where you can find the remains of an ancient quarry dating back to Roman times.

Going on holiday in Sardinia does not necessarily mean sea, sea and again sea. There are so many things to do in Santa Teresa di Gallura and we can't wait to share them with you: it will be a journey into the wildest and most primitive side of the island, forgetting your daily routine.

• Tower of Longonsardo. In the outskirts of Santa Teresa, we find the famous Aragonese tower, located in a strategic position for spotting enemies approaching the island from the sea. Reaching the top of the cliff at sunset, you will enjoy the fortress lighting up, creating a unique play of light and shadow.
• Excursion to Corsica. The Gallurese village is known to be the most privileged port to reach the French island, even on a day trip. Here, too, there is no lack of beaches and magical landscapes, such as Isola Piana or the Lavezzi Archipelago. If you would like to arrange a boat tour departing from the port of Santa Teresa di Gallura, you can contact us here.    
• Surfing in Porto Liscia. Did you know that the winds that blow constantly on the island create the perfect conditions for riding waves all year round? Surfing enthusiasts of all ages can try their hand at this sport on the Porto Liscia beach. Read more about surfing in Sardinia here. 
• Visiting the Valle della Luna (Moon Valley). A mysterious place on the west side of the Capo Testa peninsula that in the 1960s became a popular attraction for those who wanted to be in contact with nature. The valley opens up between impressive boulders and rocks, making it accessible only by a hiking trail.
• Visiting Nuragic sites Sardinia is known to be the land of the Nuragic civilisation, which dates back thousands of years. Testifying to the passage of this indigenous population are the nuraghi and tombs of the giants, some of which can be easily found nearby. The first spot is the nuraghe of Lu Brandali, just outside the village. Alternatively, about a 40-minute drive from Santa Teresa di Gallura, near Arzachena is the nuragic complex of La Prisgiona, consisting of the nuraghe and surrounding ancient huts.

The best way to make the most of your time and be able to enjoy all the activities the area has to offer is to rent a villa in Santa Teresa di Gallura. We have selected a few to inspire you and let you start dreaming.

• Villa Bolina: a modern and cosy villa for rent in Santa Teresa di Gallura, where groups of up to 8 people can enjoy a comfortable holiday. Imagine waking up every day with a sea view like that!
• Villa Incanto di Gallura: near Baia Santa Reparata, this villa with private pool is characterised by a rustic style, according to local tradition. The five bedrooms are furnished with all the comforts you will need, as are the well-equipped kitchen and the outdoor living area.
• Villa Filugnana: a villa for rent in Sardinia cannot but be surrounded by olive trees, have walls and surfaces covered with granite and overlook the horizon of the blue sea. Indoors, a large living room and three bedrooms can comfortably accommodate small groups of up to six people.

If you're already daydreaming, with this guide of the things to do in Santa Teresa di Gallura at your fingertips, all you have to do is contact us (also via Whatsapp and email) and easily request a quotation to plan your next holiday in northern Sardinia.

Sardinia Unlimited is a real estate agency in Olbia with an extended portfolio of villas in Sardinia. We will be happy to assist you in buying or renting a property in many of the island's most exclusive locations, all you need to do is contact us here.

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