Spring: 5 things you can see and visit in Sardinia
What to see in Sardinia during the Spring
Spring has begun! The whole of Sardinia is invested with its colors and scents that greet the blossoming of flowers in the fields. Weather permitting, and in recent years it has been more than generous, April and May are the perfect months to discover the island and its beauties without fearing the crowds of peak seasons. In spring, Sardinia enjoys a mild and pleasant climate. Temperatures begin to warm up, with averages ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. Rainfall is generally rare, and the island fills with flowers and lush vegetation. Beaches begin to be visited but are not as crowded as during the summer.
Let's find out together what to see in Sardinia in spring. Well, let's go!
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What to see and what to do in Tempio Pausania?
What to visit in the historic center of Tempio Pausania?
The city of Tempio Pausania occupies an important position in the heart of Gallura. Its peculiarities and traditions have been preserved and sometimes evolved, making this small and picturesque town an example of a perfect blend of eras and styles. The manufacturing and use of granite represent an architectural constant of the area, in fact, in every street of the historic centre there are buildings that, with their stone facades, manifest the deep relationship between nature and urbanization. The Cathedral of St. Peter and the Church of Santa Croce are certainly great examples of this. Two buildings of medieval origin, which over the centuries have grown in importance and, in particular the first one, have assumed prominent roles in the religious life of the island.
Tempio Pausania and its historic centre each year host cultural and folkloristic events. Fabrizio de André square (dedicated to the famous Italian singer) and Del Carmine theatre, often host musical and theatrical events, bouncing the musical notes of the local and national tradition, within the granite walls of the splendid Via Roma.
We cannot talk about Tempio Pausania without mentioning the famous local carnival. Perhaps the best known of Sardinia, that makes of the irony and sarcasm its emblem. With allegorical floats that parade accompanied by a festive crowd, who are loudly called to gather from all over the island, to exorcise the facts of the social life. "Lu Carrasciali Timpiesu", as is called, represents the best moment to visit the city and to enjoy the festive and light-hearted atmosphere that this event continues to offer.
The scents and shades of the colourful vegetation attract thousands of visitors and trekking lovers who along the various itineraries to discover this magical place. From the top, it will be possible to admire the dominion of the rocky giant that extends from the valley below to the waters that bathe Corsica. For lovers of Urbex (Urban Exploration), we point out the ruins of the now abandoned former USAF radio base. A fascinating and intense site in its own way. A site that because of its charm, between the melancholy and the desolate, we cannot but recommend to visit it. One day, hopefully soon, it will surely be returned to nature. But in the meantime, why not take the opportunity. In any case, we remind you to pay attention. On the other hand, it is still a series of abandoned and unsafe buildings that do not undergo maintenance works and are not secured.
Opposite the mountain, just beyond the city gates, we find one of the main archaeological remains of the area, the Nuraghe Majori. Its name is due to the large boulders that compose it. Its tower stands among the trees that surround it. From its strategic position, it stands guard over the valley below. Its presence gives us concrete proof of the strategic importance of the Tempio Pausania area over the entire Gallura area already in the Nuragic age. The same structural complexity can be found in the suggestive Nuraghe Izzana which, in Gallura, is the most majestic and particular example of Nuragic architecture known to us.
The path along our imaginary "granite road" continues to the famous Moon Valley. A plain that stretches for several kilometres. The area is rich in Mediterranean scrub and rock masses, which seem to explode and come out of the ground with all their strength (showing its volcanic origin). Sculpted by atmospheric erosion, who, like an artist, modelled their forms, making them anthropomorphic and familiar (It will not be rare to recognize faces or shapes among these boulders. In short, the apotheosis of pareidolia).
The attraction that the whole of Gallura and Tempio Pausania exert on travellers is well known. This is why we would like to advise you to discover it starting from our holiday homes and villas for rent in Costa Paradiso. An oasis, poised between the crystalline sea and the raw granite rock.
-Rifugio Degli Architetti: Born from the idea and collaboration of some architects as a symbol of their friendship, this beautiful villa, thanks to its elevated position and its splendid swimming pool, will be able to give you unique moments during your next holiday in Sardinia.
-Villa Corallo: A villa set among the granite of the area. A perfect blend of nature and comfort. This Villa with private pool in Sardinia is a gem not to be missed during your stay in Gallura.
Not only Costa Paradiso. But we are also waiting for you in our villas for rent in Portobello di Gallura. Discover Villa Gloriator and forget the stress of everyday life. Comfortably immersed in its infinity pool, from which, at sunset, you can enjoy the spectacle offered by the sun reflecting on the waves of the sea.
What are you waiting for then? whether you want to rent your property or you are looking for a villa for your next vacation, we at Sardinia Unlimited are waiting for you to offer you our services.
Tavolara island: what to do and how to get there
What to do in Tavolara?
Who, during their holidays in Sardinia, on the coast that goes from San Teodoro to Golfo Aranci, hasn't taken at least one photo of the island of Tavolara? The limestone massif overlooking the sea that dominates and is the backdrop to some of the most beautiful beaches in the area (such as La Cinta, Cala Brandinchi and Lu Impostu).
Despite being mainly known as a naturalistic area in the middle of the crystalline sea, Tavolara is much more. Its history, mixed with some legends, has to do with Kings (in this case the King of Tavolara), goats with gold teeth and explorers in search of new lands. First of all, know that Tavolara is the smallest kingdom in the world. At the end of the 18th century, Giuseppe Bertoleoni, after living in the archipelago of La Maddalena, decided to settle with his family on the island of Tavolara, to live off the breeding of goats with gold teeths (a peculiarity given by their diet) which in large numbers settle the territory. According to the legend, the king of Sardinia, having landed in Tavolara and meeting Bertoleoni, recognized its sovereignty on the island.
Are you wondering about what to do in Tavolara? First of all, we specify that not the whole island is visitable. The north side, Punta Timone, is inaccessible due to the presence of a NATO military base. On the other hand, the southern section will give you a lot of fantastic moments. Let's start our day in Tavolara from the most obvious reason to visit the island, the sea: As soon as you will arrive, you will be welcome by a strip of land covered by golden sand, with pink shades, bathed by an emerald sea, with low water (on the shore) suitable for children. If you are not comfortable with stopping at the first beach, know that it is possible to follow a short and easy path that will allow you, guided by the various didactic signs, to discover some of the main coves on the island (among those reachable on foot).
It's lunchtime. It's time to taste fresh fish dishes prepared in the two restaurants on the island. One of them takes its name from Mr Antonio called Tonino, as well as the current King of Tavolara. So, enjoy your meal! After the excellent lunch, we take a walk along the naturalistic path or take part in one of the organized excursions. We assure you that once you arrive at Punta Cannone, the highest peak on the island with its 565 meters above sea level, you will enjoy one of the most evocative views in Sardinia.
Every year Tavolara hosts “Notte in Italia” (a Night in Italy), the kermesse created to promote the dualism between cinema and environment which always attracts a large number of audiences flocked to the island to attend the various shows and events. All in a splendid atmosphere of encounter and sharing between actors, directors and their audience. You will be witnesses to one of the most interesting events of the Italian summer.
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What to see in Stintino? Don't miss anything!
How to reach Stintino?
Founded in 1885 by a group of fishermen from the island of Asinara, Stintino is still considered one of the most beautiful villages in Italy to this day. The name of this small village is often mentioned in relation to La Pelosa beach. After all, it is the most famous beach in Sardinia. A unique attraction that, with its crystalline sea and white sand does not fear comparison with the most famous beaches in the world. The charm exercised by this town is such that it attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists every year, so much so that it becomes one of the first limited numbers of beaches in Sardinia (an initiative that is useful for making the experience more livable).
Let's see how to get to Stintino:
From Alghero airport, it is possible to reach Stintino by car passing through Porto Torres and following the signals. Otherwise, for those arriving from Olbia airport or Golfo Aranci, they must first reach Sassari along with the SS 131, following the road signs towards Porto Torres, and then take the SP 57.
There is no railway line that arrives in Stintino, but it is possible to reach it through the various transport services in the region that connect the main cities in the area with the center of the village and the La Pelosa beach.
Although it is preferable to travel by car to enjoy and discover the area, it is possible to use the shuttle service that connects the main beaches with the center of Stintino. But, even if more limited, a sedentary experience, if well organized, will be unforgettable. So whether your holiday is dedicated to discovery or total relaxation, we suggest some of our villas which, thanks to their unique location and characteristics, are perfect as a starting point for discovering Stintino and its wonders. Both by car and on foot.
A dream villa, one of the most exclusive in Sardinia. Its infinity pool is the stage for one of the most evocative shows on the island. The privileged view of the Falcone tower and the spectacle of the sunset you will see from here is impossible to describe in words. You can only admire it and be amazed.
A charming and welcoming villa, perfect for those who decide to spend their family holidays in Stintino. Thanks to its beautiful garden and its proximity to the main beaches it will make you feel at home.
What to see in Alghero and its surroundings, the attractions between history and nature
In the heart north west of Sardinia: discovering Fertilia
The city of Alghero and the “Riviera del Corallo” are some of the most precious pearls of Sardinia. "L'Alguer" (as it is called in the local language) is characterized by a unique charm in Sardinia, due to its Catalan origin. A must for all those who every year decide to choose the north west coast of Sardinia for their holidays and who let themselves be conquered by its cuisine, the archaeological sites and the white and impalpable sandy beaches that abound in the area.
In the surroundings of Alghero, about 6 kilometres from the city, lies the small village of Fertilia. The hamlet was founded in March 1936 following the reclamation of the Calich coastal lagoon. Since then this small hamlet became the home of the exiles of Ferrara first, and then of Istria and Dalmatia. By this mixture, Fertilia in Sardinia represents an atypical reality, which has continued and evolved since then, developing a new identity but without forgetting the past. Not entirely Sardinian, but from the island. From Alghero, but not Catalan.
Fertilia on a tourist level represents an alternative reality for those who decide to choose Alghero and surroundings to see and to experience, offering the opportunity to enjoy all the advantages offered by the nearby Catalan city, which represents one of the most famous tourist destinations of Italy, but without giving up relax and privacy.
The location of Fertilia is ideal for those wishing to discover the area. In 5 minutes by car, you can reach the most beautiful beaches in the entire area. Le Bombarde, Il Lazzaretto and Mugoni, with their silky sand, are a must and can undoubtedly be counted among the most beautiful beaches on the entire island. But we must not think that there is only the sea. The Roman bridge, the Calich pond (chosen as a home by various bird species such as flamingos), the beautiful archaeological complex of the nuraghe of Palmavera, the suggestive via climbing ways and nature trails, make this area full of attractions.
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Northern Sardinia, what to do and see
Villages and white sand: The secrets of northern Sardinia
Northern Sardinia is a vast area, which we can associate with the Province of Sassari, including the former province of Olbia Tempio and the whole of the Gallura, and which ideally includes the northernmost strips of land of the provinces of Nuoro and Oristano. This quadrant is known all over the world for its dreamy bays of white sand and transparent waters, which are among the most beautiful beaches in the world. Furthermore, the international fame of the Costa Smeralda has meant that several locations in the North East stand out among the most exclusive locations of all, Porto Cervo in the lead.
Even the tourist villages of the north-west have more and more their say in the international tourist panorama, due to the presence of beaches of great beauty, historic centers with architectural pearls, the result of interesting and intricate historical events.
In this article we reveal what to see in northern Sardinia, departing a little from the usual tourist itineraries.
Which are the quietest beaches in Sardinia?
The 5 best secluded beaches in Sardinia, according to us.
Sardinia is an island kissed by nature. Few territories in the world can boast such a high number of dream beaches as this magical island in the middle of the Mediterranean.
All the beaches of Sardinia differ from each other in some features, given by the combination of recurring elements. The unique color of the sand, from the purest white to coral pink, passes through intense gold. The consistency of the shoreline can be composed of impalpable sand like powdered sugar, smooth pebbles like grains of rice, or even bare rock. The shades of the crystalline water vary between turquoise, deep blue, cobalt blue, and emerald green. The presence or absence of vegetation and Mediterranean scrub. The shape of the bay, horseshoe, crescent, thin strip between two seas, oblong, diamond-shaped, or converging arches. The presence in the surroundings of high cliffs, granite rocks, flat fields, imposing dunes, islands, and islets. Countless combinations can be obtained, and it seems that nature in Sardinia wanted to try them all, as if unsure which beach should be named the queen.
Some beaches of Sardinia are known and loved by tourists from all over the world, who visit them regularly, such as Cala Brandinchi in San Teodoro, the iconic La Pelosa in Stintino, or Porto Giunco in Villasimius, not to forget the Ogliastra coves and the beaches of the Maddalena Archipelago. The downside of such international fame is that the most beautiful and easily accessible beaches are quite crowded, especially during high season. Today, we want to suggest some Sardinian hidden beaches, equally fascinating but certainly less frequented. We are sure that all the effort and the long journey to the unspoiled gems will be worth it.
Read on to discover the best bays where you can enjoy the sea and the sun in complete tranquility and where you can relax all year round.
The best beaches in the North of Sardinia
The best beaches in the North of Sardinia are located in the National Park of La Maddalena which represents a real jewel of the Mediterranean Sea. Some of the most famous and suggestive beaches of Sardinia and of the world are located here, in this group of beautiful islands.
The peculiarity of this amazing places is the presence of coves which, together with the seabed produce bright water colors, ranging from all shades of turquoise to those of deep blue. There are beautiful and famous beaches such as the Spiaggia Rosa (whose colour of the seabed is given by the shells of a particular single-celled organism), the Spiaggia del Cavaliere on the island of Budelli, the beaches of Cala Coticcio; the Cala Napoletana and the Spiaggia del Relitto in Caprera; Cala Corsara and Cala Granara in Spargi.
The National Park of La Maddalena is also very important from a cultural and historical point of view, as there is the house where Giuseppe Garibaldi spent the last years of his life, and which today is a museum of memories and history, of one of the greatest Italian personalities of the eighteenth century.
There is the opportunity to visit Caprera and the other islands through different private companies which offer boat trips. Moreover, this area is well organized to welcome tourists, who could easily rent apartments or detached villas for example in Palau, Costa Paradiso and Santa Teresa di Gallura, which are located in a strategic position, so that you can visit the north Sardinia without difficulty also in a short time.
For example the marvelous beach of Spiaggia Rosa: Is told that long years ago the current guardian of the island was traveling on board of a catamaran, and when he saw the sea of Budelli Island he decided to change his life, enchanted by the beauty and charm of the beach of Spiaggia Rosa. Instead of traveling to Polynesia, he decided to stay in this little corner of paradise, turning an old military building into his house and enjoying his status of unique inhabitant of a real heaven: Spiaggia Rosa.
In our mind these villas for rent will be perfect to explore the area:
Villa Incanto Di Gallura
Villa Naytiri
Villa Brandinchi
Alghero, Catalan town in the North-West of Sardinia
A charming Catalan town in the North-West of Sardinia
Alghero is a wonderful city in the Mediterranean sea with massive ancient defensive walls and a stunning city center. You will find there so many nice bars, restaurants, small shops and a lot of culture. The walls with its old arms for the defense of the city are absolutely to see. In the old town you'll find amazing handcrafted jewels, of gold and silver and the famous Sardinian red coral of Alghero, which is known as one of the finest and most expensive in the world.
Starting from the touristic port of Alghero you can take part at some great boat excursions. For example, you can book a dolphin watching excursion. Dolphins often swim near Alghero. Another great experience is to explore the Grotte di Nettuno at Capo Caccia - one of the most famous caves in Italy. You will see how the water formed the rocks over the years. You can visit the grotte also walking from Capo Caccia, using the "Escala del Cabirol" steps to reach the cave. From there you have a spectacular view over the Mediterranean sea.
Near Alghero you can explore another precious historic monument of Sardinia - the Nuraghe Palmavera. Nuraghi are typical Sardinian old stone towers from the bronze and iron age.
Alghero also offers beautiful sandy beaches, both in the city and a bit outside. If you are staying in Alghero for more than a day, we recommend that you also visit Stintino, a village near Alghero with beaches with sand so fine and white that you will never forget it.
From the touristic harbor of Alghero, you can also take a boat to the shores of Capo Caccia, which are mainly reachable only by boat or with a long walking and climbing session.
So, don't miss visiting Alghero and the vicinity when staying in one of the villas in Sardinia:
Villa Il Rifugio del Bandito
Villa Linayre.
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What to do in Sardinia with children?
What to see in Sardinia with children? 5 top places
We at Sardinia Unlimited know very well, from personal experience, how beautiful, fun and rewarding it is to spend our holidays with children. Spending some time in the company of the little ones can also be challenging; you must always find a way to stimulate their imagination, to get them involved in playful and educational activities. A holiday in Sardinia provides endless opportunities for relaxation and recreation, in enchanting natural settings, but offers also a lot of attractions for families. This magical island is not just turquoise sea, beautiful beaches and dream landscapes: it has much more to say, even for the youngest. Below we list five of the main Sardinian attractions for children of all ages, tested directly by our little ones.
Donnortei Natural Park.
Donnortei Park is a real gem, almost a secret place that we would like to suggest to anyone visiting Sardinia, at any time of the year. It is a wonderful natural park set in a unique mountain context, in the territory of Fonni, part of the Barbagia di Ollolai. The park is private, and is managed by the family that owns these lands, as well as the homonymous farmhouse. The management of the park is done in collaboration with several Italian and Sardinian universities, which study the unique flora and fauna present within the park itself, including various endemic species. In the farmhouse you can try the typical dishes of Sardinian and Barbagian cuisine and you can stay overnight in comfortable rooms. But the main reason why we suggest visiting this wonderful structure is the possibility of booking a guided excursion inside the park itself, which is not otherwise accessible since it is fenced.
The excursion is a unique experience, to live at least once in a lifetime. A long trekking path, which winds through a dense forest of native oaks on the steep slopes of a mountain, leads to the heart of the park. An expert guide explains the natural wonders of this majestic landscape, accompanying the visitors into a little valley. Here the magic takes place every day, leaving no one indifferent - from the oldest to the youngest -. Attracted by food distributed by the guide, dozens of fallow deers, fawns and Sardinian deers materialize in front of the incredulous children, as in a fairy forest. Males with sumptuous antlers, shy females and cute "bambies", approach visitors, eating directly from their hands, despite living in the wild. Few other experiences restore harmony with nature like this, which can be experienced just a few steps from the iconic Gennargentu Mountain.
Absolutely not to be missed!
Aquarium of Cala Gonone.
Not far from the wonderful coves of the Gulf of Orosei, such as Cala Luna and Cala Goloritzé, and the spectacular Bue Marino caves, there is the Cala Gonone aquarium. If you happen to be here with children - but also without! -, take the opportunity to visit this interesting attraction. The modern structure houses 25 exhibition tanks, representing a path that crosses different seas and aquatic areas of the world. About 300 marine species live in them, from piranhas to loggerhead turtles. Educational play activities can also be carried out, to teach about respect for the oceans. Halfway through, the cute fox Rosa Fumetta, mascot of the aquarium, raises awareness of the victims of wildfires, which she miraculously survived. At the end of the visit, it is possible to play with some species in the tactile tank. There is also an outdoor playground, snack bar and ample parking.
Didactic and playful. Kids will love it!
Sardegna in Miniatura Park.
The Miniature Sardinia Park, as stated on their website, is a real integrated scientific pole, spread over an area of about 50,000 square meters. It is a complex of various attractions and theme parks of great interest, and of undoubted charm for children. The park is located near the nuragic village of Su Nuraxi in Barumini, not far from the Giara di Tuili. The first nucleus of the park, which dates back to 1999, is made up of Sardinia in miniature, where it is possible to walk along scale reproductions of some Sardinian monuments and sites. It is even possible to circumnavigate the attraction by boat. Furthermore, at the nuragic pavilion, it is possible to relive the customs and traditions of the nuragic populations during the iron age. All this by visiting the reconstruction of a typical village of the Nuragic civilization, dating back to 3,000 years ago.
An interesting Nature Park is also part of the complex. It hosts a biosphere and a tunnel aquarium, unique in Sardinia, which allows you to visit a tropical ecosystem, while learning the importance of respecting the environment. A tank with large koj carps will surely please the little ones, who will be fascinated by the wonderful colorful fish. The amazement of the children will also be great in front of the kaleidoscopic birds that cheer up the parrot aviary, followed by the oasis of succulents.
There is also an astronomy museum, a real scientific research center, where you can experiment with different activities and learn notions of astronomy and astrophysics. Of great interest is the dome of 11 meters in diameter, under which the planetarium is projected, countrywide one of the largest and most technological.
The highlight is in our opinion the Dinosaur Park, the largest of its kind in Italy, which will leave the youngest visitors speechless. The little ones of the house will certainly have fun in this part of the park, and the adults will like it too. Kids and parents will be amazed by the huge animatronic reproductions of Tyrannosaurus-rex, Apatosaurs and other Jurassic species, including baby dinosaurs, who really move and roar! You cannot miss a visit to the Megalodon, the king of the seas of prehistory, and to the recent area dedicated to the ice age, where mammoths and large prehistoric cats dominate. Are you ready to go back in time and feel like in a Hollywood blockbuster?
Top educational and fun for your children!
BittiRex.
If you are in the north of Sardinia, and you have little time available, or if Tuili and Barumini seem too distant and you don't feel like tackling such a long journey with children, we have a valid alternative for you. Near Bitti, in the historical region of Barbagia, on the border with the province of Sassari, there is BittiRex. It is another small theme park displaying real-size statues of dinosaurs. If your little ones are also passionate about paleontology and the living beings that preceded us on earth, then it is definitely worth visiting this park.
100% recommended!
Water Parks of Sardinia.
On windy summer days, when the sea is too rough and dangerous to swim safely, why not visit one of the many water parks on the island? There are several, scattered throughout the Sardinian territory. Children love sliding down the the tubes and feel the water gliding during those exciting descents. In addition, several parks offer refreshment and entertainment services, involving adults and children with fun activities, choreography and music. The largest water amusement parks, from north to south Sardinia, are: Aquafantasy in Isola Rossa, Trinità d’Agultu e Vignola; Water Paradise in Eden Beach, Sorso; Aquadream in Baja Sardinia; Parco acquatico in Baradili; BluFan in Sarroch; Diverland in Quartucciu.
Cool off by diving into the blue swimming pools!