A selection of news, tips, ideas, edited by Sardinia Unlimited.

  

What to do in Sardinia in November? Autumn sea

Holidays in Sardinia in November, all you need to know!

Those who have scheduled holidays in the autumn period may wonder what to do during this period. Besides staying in our pajamas, sipping hot chocolate, and watching TV series - all of which we love!—for the month of November, we suggest you visit Sardinia, for several good reasons, which are explained below.

 

Let's start by saying that this is a special island, which has so much to offer throughout the year. There are many things to do in Sardinia in September, October, and even November.

 

Transport and connections with Sardinia.

During the autumn and winter season, the main air and sea connections with the Italian peninsula are guaranteed, also by virtue of the “Territorial Continuity Policy”, as well as numerous flights to and from various European cities.

The main airports are those of Cagliari, Olbia and Alghero. The main ports are in Cagliari, Olbia and Porto Torres.

 

-        Climate in Sardinia in Autumn.

Temperatures during daytime are still mild even during autumn, especially in the coastal locations, where we have temperatures around 20°C are recorded, with infrequent rains, alternating with sunny periods.

While in continental Europe almost everyone starts thinking of Christmas, we in Sardinia look back to summer.

A slight temperature difference is also recorded between the north and south of the island, since the latter area is slightly milder during autumn and winter, also because it is less exposed to the northern and northwestern winds.

In the hilly and mountainous interior, temperatures are colder, and it could happen that at the end of November the first snow falls on the Gennargentu Massif and on Monte Limbara, which could be the ideal opportunity for a pleasant walk on the white slopes of these mountains.

 

Advantages of deseasonalization.

Visitors from Central European and Scandinavian countries are well aware of the advantages of visiting Sardinia in October and even in November, representing the largest tourist group during the autumn months. We should learn from them, to fully enjoy an island with many facets, more liveable when uncrowded, not neglecting the undoubted economic advantages compared to the summer months, due to the lower costs for a villa or a holiday home to rent in Sardinia. 

 

Read on to discover our 5 tips on autumn in Sardinia.

  What to do in Sardinia in November? 5 Top tips : Read More

  

Winter in Sardinia, the places to visit. Mamoiada, the Mamuthones

Rites, traditions and destinations for the winter in Sardinia

It probably sounds strange to spend a winter holiday in Sardinia.
In fact, this island holds many surprises and is full of attractions, events and things to do in every season, even during the winter.

• Skiing in Sardinia.

Probably, if you love skiing, Sardinia is not the most suitable destination for you... even if, to be honest, there is a ski area on the island spread over the territories of Fonni, Villagrande Strisaili and Desulo. You didn't expect it, did you?
The main ski slopes are located on the summit of Bruncu Spina, part of the Gennargentu massif, and extend for several kilometers in the heart of the province of Nuoro, with facilities of ascent.
The ski season lasts 2 to 3 months, usually from December to March, when abundant snowfalls occur, attracting several thousand Sardinian and non-Sardinian enthusiasts.

• Visit archaeological sites.

The attractions in Sardinia in winter are certainly not limited to activities in the ski resorts.
The cold season is particularly suitable for visiting archaeological sites, which are distributed far and wide throughout the island, to be included in trekking itineraries and healthy open-air walks.

In Sardinia there are between 7,000 and 8,000 Nuraghi: massive truncated conical towers dating back to the Bronze Age, built with stone boulders of different sizes, using revolutionary construction techniques for the time.
Several Nuragic villages have been brought to light through massive archaeological excavations, and are perfectly preserved. We strongly suggest you to visit one of the major complexes. Depending on where you are, you will surely have an archaeological site nearby: Nuraghe Arrubiu, Palmavera, Santu Antine, Su Nuraxi, Sa Prisgiona, Nuraghe Losa, Riu Mulinu, and so on.
To grasp the essence of these impressive monuments and the fascinating Nuragic culture, it is good to rely on an expert guide, who will introduce you to a highly evolved civilization, of which too little has been said in the past.

Further important monuments, from the prehistoric or nuragic era which are worth visiting, are the Domus de Janas, the Sacred Wells and the Tombs of the Giants. Also to discover these monuments it is good to rely on expert archaeological guides.
The magnetic and imposing statues of the Giants of Monte Prama deserve more attention: we have already talked about them, in the blog about Sardinian legends and myths.

• Participate in the Sardinian “Karrasegare” celebrations.

The months of January and February in particular, in addition to being among the coldest periods of the year, hold important and surprising events related to Karrasegare: the Sardinian Carnival.

All manifestations and rites of the Barbagia Carnival, which mixes the sacred and the profane, are of enormous interest. This period of the year has great anthropological and socio-cultural value, due to the strong identity imprint it has on local populations.
The carnival in the Barbagia begins with the rituals which take place on January 16, on the eve of the feast of Saint Anthony the Abbot. Masked figures dance around the ritual fires that are lit in the squares in many villages.
Several towns have their own traditional carnival masks.
The most famous masks, known even beyond the island's borders, are those of the town of Mamoiada, which celebrates the beginning of Carnival on January 17th, and where the anthropomorphic figures of the Mamuthones and Issohadores perform a suggestive parade.

Tradition provides that twelve Mamuthones (one for each month of the year), personified by vigorous local actors, proceed at a rhythmic pace in two parallel rows. The solemn footsteps and leaps of the imposing figure covered in black sheepskins make the cowbells resound loudly. The bells are clasped on their shoulders and weigh around 55 lbs.
Mamuthones’ faces are hidden behind the viseras, which are traditional wooden masks made of peartree wood. The visera is painted black and has grotesque features from which only the penetrating eyes of the actors can be seen. It is handycrafted by local artisans, or by the Mamuthones themselves. They also wear the characteristic handkerchief on their heads, called Muncadore, which is tied under the chin.

Their pace has a strong magnetic power, also arousing awe in the audience: as soon as the Mamuthones appear, a respectful silence falls, the crowd dodges to make room for the procession and the children run away in fear.

The ritual is completed by a further costume, a colored one (dominant colors are red and white): the Issohadores. Eight of them proceed alongside the Mamuthones, who they watch over and to whom they dictate the pace. In addition, the Issohadores jokingly capture the spectators, using a rope called "sa soha", thrown as a lasso on the crowd enjoying the parade.
The Issohadores also wear a wooden mask, called "sa visera 'e santu", painted white and with more delicate features, in contrast to the black one with the rough features of the Mamuthones.

Other towns in the interior of Sardinia have their own anthropomorphic masks and their own propitiatory rituals, which you can discover by spending the days of Carnival in Sardinia. We point out the Boes and Merdùles from Ottana and the Thurpos from Orotelli.

In other Sardinian municipalities, far from the province of Nuoro and from the ancestral tradition of the Barbagia Carnival, it is celebrated in an evocative way. Interesting is the very ancient "Karrasegare Osinku": a peculiar carnival of the seaside town of Bosa, on the west coast of Sardinia.
One of our favorite ways to celebrate carnival is to attend the spectacular and evocative equestrian event called the Sartiglia in Oristano. It is a horse race, where the knights try to catch a silver star while riding fast through the town. It takes place on the last Sunday and Tuesday of Carnival and which includes wonderful rituals and choreography.
Other Sardinian towns offer more modern and widespread celebrations and events, with allegorical floats and dances that involve the whole population, as happens for example in the heart of Gallura, in Tempio Pausania.

• Celebrating Christmas and the New Year’s Eve at the sea in Sardinia.

Celebrating Christmas and New Year's Eve in Sardinia could prove to be an unexpectedly interesting experience, especially if you choose a city or coastal location.
Waking up on Christmas Day with a view of an intense blue sea, after spending the eve with loved ones, or mingling with the hospitable inhabitants of the island in clubs and Christmas markets, is priceless.
Among the places that offer an optimal combination of tradition and fun on the sea we mention Alghero, Cagliari, Olbia and Castelsardo: tourist cities that usually have a very rich events calendar for New Year's Eve, with various events and free concerts in the town squares by internationally renowned artists.

  Winter in Sardinia: all about the spots to visit : Read More

  

Sardinia: 5 Villas with direct access to the sea. Beach walk

Seaside villas in Sardinia: choosing the right ones!

Booking a villa with direct access to the sea in Sardinia brings a series of great advantages, which may seem obvious, but which we want to talk about briefly below.

First of all, we would like to stress on the fact that, seaside villas or with direct access to the sea are rare on Sardinia. This is due to urban planning regulations and laws aimed at preserving the environmental and naturalistic integrity of the shores. And everyone knows, the rarer a good, the greater its value!
Thus, renting exclusive villas in Sardinia with direct beach access can be a privilege, as well as an opportunity to spend unforgettable days in fabulous locations.
To spend a holiday in Sardinia in an independent villa is a great experience. The absolute protagonist, which embellishes and gives meaning to the experience itself, is this island out of time. Thanks to its unparalleled biological variety, its great cultural richness and ancient traditions, its immense historical archaeological heritage, as well as its legendary and wild beauty, Sardinia is one-of-a-kind.

In our opinion, the best possible housing solution is a villa with direct access to the sea, to spend your holiday in relax and privacy, without having to give up fun and a dip in crystal clear waters. Furthermore, you don’t need boring car transfers to reach the seaside resorts, nor to worry about parking, often expensive or completely absent.
Some of our villas have the only access to a sandy or rocky beach, effectively turning them into private beaches. Short private paths, which sometimes are hidden from view by the Mediterranean scrub, lead to beautiful inlets bathed by crystal clear waters with unbelievable shades of blue.
Spending a holiday in a villa with private access to the sea means to live a great experience, in the utmost privacy and tranquility, away from the massive and intrusive presence of other vacationers.

  5 Dream villas with direct access to the sea in Sardinia : Read More

  

Ideas for villas for rent in San Teodoro. Puntaldìa harbor

The beaches of San Teodoro, all the secrets of cobalt blue

Among the top five most important and well-known tourist destinations in Sardinia, you cannot miss San Teodoro, about which we already talked in the past, and which we can define as the “King of the Northeast coast”. The town is much loved by young people, in winter has approximately 5,000 inhabitants, who multiply exponentially in the high season. Many Sardinians own their holiday homes in this location in south-eastern Gallura, and there is certainly no lack of villas in San Teodoro for rent.
If you are looking for a dynamic destination, surrounded by unspoiled nature, with splendid beaches and the sparkling nightlife, we advise you to continue reading this article: you could discover your next holiday destination.

Few places in the world can boast such a high number of paradisiacal beaches, scattered on a coast of about 35 km, that we can easily list among the most beautiful in the world.
Below a brief description of the main and best-known beaches:

  • La Cinta beach
    It is the best-known and most popular beach in San Teodoro, which we can define as the city beach due to its proximity to the town. It can be easily reached by car, motorbike, bicycle, and even on foot after a few minutes walk north of the town.
    The beach is about five kilometres long and has the shape of an arch. It is made of very white and soft sand, which winds between the crystalline sea and the brackish lagoon behind it, ideal for relaxing walks on the shore. The small sand dunes, which make up the beach, gently degrade into the turquoise water, merging with the shallow seabed, beloved by families with small children, as well as by sea and nature lovers.

    La Cinta is located in front of the Marine area of Punta Coda Cavallo and the island of Tavolara and borders to the west with the San Teodoro lagoon. This unique ecosystem rich in biodiversity is frequented by birdwatchers from all over the world, who visit San Teodoro to photograph different species of the local birdlife. Above all, the wonderful pink flamingos stand out, which can be seen close to the sand dunes, that smell of helichrysum, juniper and sea lilies.
    The beach is equipped with all services: car parks, info points, beach and sports equipment rental, sailing and kite-surfing schools, kiosks and refreshment points.
    The visit of La Cinta is an unmissable stop for those staying in the area.

  • The beach of Puntaldìa
    Puntaldìa beach is set in a cove overlooking the majestic island of Tavolara and constitutes the northern continuation of La Cinta. The two beaches are in fact separated by the mouth of the San Teodoro Lagoon. The location of the beach shelters it from the strong winds that blow from the north and the northwest, and is, therefore, suitable for children, also thanks to the crystal clear and shallow water, the smooth rocks and the fine sand. The beach is also popular with various water sports enthusiasts - such as kites and windsurf - who find the ideal marine weather conditions just outside the bay.

    The beach is located south of the Marina of Puntaldìa, an ideal area for San Teodoro villa rentals.
    There are also exclusive resorts and golf courses. The area is equipped with all the services, refreshment points and various clubs where you can spend pleasant evenings.

  • Cala Brandinchi
    We have already written several articles about this beautiful beach, placing it in our top 5 Sardinian beaches ranking. A real Eden, not surprisingly nicknamed "little Tahiti", which we will always boast about.

    Located in front of the protected marine area of Tavolara, the imposing limestone island whose silhouette dominates the landscape, Cala Brandinchi borders a maritime stretch of great biological interest and dazzling beauty. The sand is white and soft and gives the sea its characteristic turquoise colour with cobalt reflections, and crystalline transparency. Clean waters, which invites you to dive. The beach slopes gently into the sea, with a very shallow seabed for tens of meters, ideal for families with children.
    Nearby there is a pine forest, with refreshment points and parking.
    From the car park, in addition to Cala Brandinchi, you can access the Lu Impostu beach, part of the same ecosystem.
    Further back we find the Brandinchi pond, very popular with biologists and birdwatchers, home to various species of aquatic birds, such as flamingos and herons.

  • Lu Impostu beach
    Lu Impostu is considered the twin beach of Brandinchi, it is a little less known than its sister but just as beautiful!
    The beach is about one kilometre long and quite wide. There are white dunes of fine and soft sand, covered with Mediterranean scrub. The crystalline sea reflects shades of blue and emerald green. The seabed is sandy and shallow, thus suitable even for children.
    There are all main services, such as refreshment points, boat and beach equipment rental. In addition, it is accessible to people with disabilities, and the large parking area in front of the beach is also suitable for campers.

    All the pearls of San Teodoro are very close: to the south of Lu Impostu, we find Puntaldìa, to the north Cala Brandinchi, while to the northeast stands the peninsula of Capo Coda Cavallo. Beyond it, a little further north, the horizon is once again dominated by the imposing silhouette of Tavolara. To the west extends the second largest pond of San Teodoro, in an area rich in marsh vegetation and Mediterranean scrub. Further south, on the border of the San Teodoro area, the Isuledda beach stands out.

  • Capo Coda Cavallo
    Capo Coda Cavallo is a granite promontory that slopes down to the maritime stretch in front of the islands of Tavolara and Molara and the islet of Proratora. The peninsula has numerous sandy coves and cliffs covered with aromatic Mediterranean scrub. The Coda Cavallo beach has a peculiar shape, behind which lies the etymology of the name of the promontory.
    The land strip and the islands make up a protected area of about 15,000 hectares of crystal-clear waters and wonderful coves, which goes from Capo Ceraso to Punta s'Isuledda. It is a very popular location for those who practice snorkelling and diving: one of the most beautiful spectacles in the Mediterranean Sea, with white sandy beaches, protected inlets, uninhabited islands, lagoons rich in flora and fauna... and infinite shades of colours that will make you fall hopelessly in love with this area.

    Within such a beautiful naturalistic context, there are many exclusive villas with pool to rent in Sardinia, often in a strategic position and with an amazing sea view.

  • Isuedda beach
    The beach extends for about 500 meters and is located in the southern part of the territory of San Teodoro, on the southern border of the marine protected area of Tavolara, which can be seen in the distance. Furthermore, from the beach, you can admire the promontory of Capo Coda Cavallo and Puntaldìa.
    The sand is white and soft, while the sea has shades ranging from blue to turquoise and incredible transparency. The shallow water seems to have been made especially for children.
    The Mediterranean scrub surrounds the beach with its intense scents and colours. Furthermore, in the vicinity of the bay, there are several land lots with olive trees and fruit trees.
    Even this beach has a small lagoon behind it, where it is possible to admire colourful birdlife.
    There are ample parking and refreshment points. It is possible to rent beach and sports equipment. The beach is also popular with water sports enthusiasts.

  Villas for rent in San Teodoro: where to stay? : Read More

  

Sardinian myths and legends. Sea Storm

Origins of Sardinian myths

Sardinia is an ancient and enigmatic island full of mystery and charm. On this land, where centuries-old popular rites and traditions survive, tales and legends have been handed down for centuries, the origin of which are often uncertain. Let's discover some interesting Sardinian Legends.

Our grandparents have handed down to us tales about fantastic creatures and anti-heroes of everyday life, as well as stories that seem to be closely linked with myths and legends of the ancient Greek tradition and of the Roman era. We all recall their fascinating and wise way of narrating with great pathos. In turn, our "giajos" (ancestors) learned these tales around the home fireplace, where the family gathered in ancient times, to pass down the so-called "contos de 'foghile" (fireplace tales).

Every single town and city of Sardinia has its own legends and tales, part of Sardinian folklore, handed down from father to son. In the Anglona and the lower Gallura, were narrated the deeds of “Antoneddu”, a shrewd boy struggling with witches and ogres, which he defeated thanks to his cunning. A cross between Hop-o'-My-Thumb and the little Hans from the Hänsel and Gretel tale.
Inevitably, the stories have undergone distortions over the years, due to the oral passage from generation to generation, like ancient rhapsodies did, which brought to many variations of the same stories.

Further legends are linked to historical characters who really existed, whose deeds have been emphasized in hyperbolic folk tales. Several stories narrate the exploits of legendary Sardinian bandits of the past: island brigands who fought against the Savoy armies, and who were not at all hated by the population, quite the contrary! It is possible to compare these figures to other “mythicized” personalities of international fame, such as Robin Hood and Rob Roy MacGregor.

The best known and most feared bandits of the time belonged to a noble family: the Delitala, sworn enemies of the Savoy. The most notorious exponent of the family was nothing less than a legendary woman: Donna Lucia Delitala Tedde, a sort of female version of Zorro. She lived during the Spanish Succession War, and she was respected and feared as a warrior queen. A masked outlaw, animated by a strong patriotic sentiment, remembered for her heroic deeds, as well as for her pugnacious and rebellious character. She was an example and encouragement to the population to fight to free themselves from the oppressors. Even the death of Donna Lucia is still shrouded in mystery: conflicting versions circulate on the ways and circumstances in which she was murdered.

The then viceroy Carlo Amedeo Battista of San Martino d'Agliè di Rivarolo, wrote a letter to King Carlo Emanuele III, in which he described the banditess with the following words: She did not want to marry in order not to depend on a husband, according to what she used to say. She has two grenadier mustaches and she uses weapons and horse like a gendarm., thus feeding even more the legend of Donna Lucia.

Other northern Sardinian myths, related to a legendary bandit narrate the deeds of the infamous Muto di Gallura, an emblematic character, protagonist of the homonymous historical novel by Enrico Costa from Sassari. The real name of the ruthless deaf-mute was Bastiano Tansu, who rose to the news as one of the most vengeful Sardinian outlaws, involved in the ferocious feud between the Vasa and the Mamia families, which bloodied Gallura in the mid-nineteenth century. He was originally from Aggius, a wonderful village in the internal Gallura, in whose territory there are lunar landscapes due to incredible granite rock formations, also known for the "Museum of Banditry", which is worth visiting.
Following the publication in 1884 of the novel by Costa, entitled "Il Muto di Gallura", the inhabitants of Aggius and neighboring villages fed the myth of the bloodthirsty bandit, adding colorful details to the stories about his heinous deeds.

The events of Bastiano Tansu were recently imprinted on film, in a powerful movie by Matteo Fresi, presented in 2021 at the 39th edition of the Torino Film Festival.

In modern times, several capable and willing local authors have published collections of "contos de 'foghile", collecting as many myths and legends as possible, having them recounted by the last keepers of these "oral treasures": elderly people, often part of the large group of Sardinian centenarians. Unfortunately, it is not possible to collect all the Sardinian legends and folk tales, which will inevitably fall into oblivion.

A legend that we think is very interesting was written with great narrative skill by the sharp writer Gianmichele Lisai. It is part of the wonderful collection of myths and legends about Sardinia called "101 stories about Sardinia, that you have never been told". We have paraphrased the legend of Torco, hero of Sandalia. The links to ancient Greek myths are obvious:

Before civilization developed in Sardinia, Torco protected the ancient island from attacks by enemies from the sea, who intended to conquer and plunder it. Son of Neptune, God of the sea, Torco was gifted with a legendary strength and a great connoisseur of seafaring art. Tireless, he watched the coasts of Sardinia aboard a boat made of reeds. It was him who noticed that the island had the shape of a sandal, baptizing it precisely "Sandalia". Torco clashed several times with the powerful Atlante, commander of the Mediterranean pirates from the coasts of Africa. The bloody battles between Torco's and Atlante's crews always ended in the same way: Sandalia's brave soldiers, led by Torco, had the upper hand.


Over the years, even Torco aged, despite his divine origins. Atlante, in full vigor, decided to take advantage of Torco's physical decay, to launch the definitive attack. He placed himself at the head of all the pirate crews of Africa, which he led to the coasts of Sandalia to carry out its conquest. Here an epic battle took place between the two armies of the sea. The pirates were in surplus, and at various stages of the battle they managed to land on Sandalia. Despite the numerical inferiority, Torco and his valiant men always managed to repel the invaders and even took over, until a nefarious event overturned the fate of the battle. Atlante's ship rammed Torco's fragile boat, which sank into the sea depths with all the crew. The inhabitants of the island fell into despair, because without the brave leader they defenseless against the pirates.


Neptune's intervention was providential. He saved his lifeless son by blowing the spirit of the sea into his mouth, to turn him into a merman: half man and half fish. Torco acquired the ability to swim as agile and fast as a fish. With renewed determination and strength he placed himself at the head of the army of mermen, with whom he surrounded the pirate ships. By vigorous movements of the tails they caused high waves, which shattered the boats of the invaders, causing them to be shipwrecked. Once again the island was saved thanks to its hero.


Legend has it that even today Torco and his faithful mermen inhabit the sea of Sandalia, causing impetuous storms with powerful movements of their tails to signal the dangers coming from the sea.

Other legends are more recent, or have been elaborated and taken up in the scientific and archaeological theories of various Sardinian writers and scholars. Probably, the most fascinating legend of all, is related to the theory of the well-known Italian journalist Sergio Frau, who identified Sardinia as the mythical Atlantis!
In his essay, the writer of Sardinian origins accurately analyzes many clues, numerous geographical, anthropological and historical analogies, traces of cataclysms on nuragic constructions and archaeological finds. His investigations and deductions lead the writer to formulate the theory that the mythical Pillars of Hercules, of which among others wrote the philosopher of ancient Greece Plato, have for centuries been wrongly located. Sergio Frau states they should be in the Strait of Sicily. Starting from this assumption, the legendary island of Atlantis, of which Plato speaks in the "Timaeus and Critias", would actually be Sardinia

If you are passionate about historical archeology and want to deepen this fascinating theory, you can read the essay by Sergio Frau, entitled "The Pillars of Hercules".

  Sardinian myths and legends : Read More

  

South Sardinia, the ideal villas for rent. Panorama Torre delle Stelle

South of Sardinia, destinations and accommodations for your vacation

Southern Sardinia is a treasure chest waiting to be discovered, which will soon get the attention it deserves. We are sure of this.

We can delimit this territory, associating it with the historic province of Cagliari and ideally placing it south of the provinces of Nuoro and Oristano.
The territory occupies approximately one third of the island, and is crossed by the vast Campidano plain and some medium-sized mountain ranges. The islands of Southern Sardinia are also part of it, such as the Island of San Pietro, the Island of Sant’Antioco, Serpentara and the Isola dei Cavoli.

It is a less known area than the north of the island, which contains glamorous destinations such as the Costa Smeralda, the wonderful coast of Alghero, the iconic Stintino and the sparkling San Teodoro, as well as the paradisiacal Maddalena Archipelago.
However, even the south includes some of the best known coastal areas and most beautiful beaches in the world. Tuerredda in the territory of Teulada, Cala Cipolla in Chia, Cala Sinzias in Castiadas, Porto Giunco in Villasimius near the natural marine protected area of Capo Carbonara, and the many sandy shores of Costa Rei and Porto Pino are just some of the southern beaches with white sand, and waters of unreal transparency and with shades ranging from turquoise to sapphire.

If you are planning your next holidays in Sardinia, but you have not yet booked the holiday home where to spend them, why not take into account that there is a large number of villas for rent in Southern Sardinia, suitable for all needs and budgets.
Keep reading this article to find out more.

  South-Sardinia: the best villas for rent : Read More

  

What to see in Sardinia in autumn? Bird

Sardinia in autumn, all the places to visit

Have you ever wondered what to see in Sardinia in autumn and if it is worth booking an off-season holiday on the island? Take a few minutes of your time to read this article, you will discover with us a wonderful destination… even out of season.

Sardinia is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world, offering a combination of summer at the sea, relaxation and fun for all budgets. After the high season, however, the island does not go into hibernation waiting for next summer. On the contrary: we locals guarantee you that, just when the summer is coming to an end, the island starts offering the best activities. In addition, there is no shortage of places to visit in Sardinia in autumn.
In fact, due to the high temperatures recorded in summer, which often lead to lazy days on the beach or by the pool, some types of activities are not indicated at all. On the other hand, with the mild autumn climate there are many things to do in Sardinia. Keywords are: physical activity, fun, traditions and culture.

Visiting Sardinia out of season also has several advantages from an economic point of view: the prices of most villas for rent in Sardinia drop drastically compared to the summer months, as well as the prices of various services, flights and ferries, and those of rental cars. With less expense, you can still discover a fascinating island, in some ways even more beautiful than the summer one, to daily enjoy open air.

Following the first rains, nature awakens, in a sort of late second spring. The hilly landscape of the countryside loses the golden tones of the dry grass, to take on a bright green color, reminiscent of some islands in the north of the Atlantic. Added to this are the saturated colors of the blossoms and flowers of the species that bloom in the autumn months. Even the coastal landscapes take on more intense colors in the autumn days of October and November, with a great mix of lights and shadows due to the incidence of sunlight, clouds and the clarity of the air.
If you are passionate about photography, we suggest you visit the island in autumn, to capture its true essence.

Lovers of cultural and traditional events and food festivals can rest assured that Sardinia will not disappoint their expectations. In fact, in autumn there are many opportunities to get to know the true heart of Sardinia: the inland areas where centuries-old traditions survive, and where the rhythms of everyday life still follow the pace of the nature and the countryside. A reality which is very distant from the Costa Smeralda and the kind of tourism it represents.

More and more visitors from the peninsula and even from abroad flock to the streets of the villages in the mountainous countryside during the "Autumn in Barbagia" events. You can savor the hearty flavors of the island, jealously guarded in recipes handed down for generations, attend evocative performances of ancient carnival masks, admire traditional costumes and enjoy the well-known Sardinian hospitality. All in unique landscapes and locations.
We advise you to enjoy some of the “Autunno in Barbagia” days. The events calendar is very rich and easy to check online (see link at the bottom of the page). In addition, you will have the opportunity to explore the mountainous interior of Sardinia, with dense forests, natural parks, valleys, canyons, lakes and karst caves, all of great interest and incomparable beauty.

Further magical places to visit in autumn are the countless archaeological sites of Sardinia. It is with the cool season that the nuragic villages and pre-nuragic sites can be best appreciated. On the island there are between 7000 and 8000 nuraghi, some of which are well preserved and absolutely worth visiting to realize what the Bronze Age populations were capable of and what builders' skills and scientific knowledge they had.
Above all, we suggest you do not miss, depending on where you are staying, the nuragic palace of Su Nuraxi in Barumini, the complex of Santu Antine in Torralba, the Nuraghe Losa in Abbasanta, or the Nuraghe Arrubiu in Orroli. More info can be found in the links at the bottom of the page.
Furthermore, the so-called Domus de Janas (“the fairy houses” in Sardinian Logudorese dialect), ancient prehistoric burials, sources of various Sardinian myths and legend, and the Sacred Wells, linked to the ancient “water cult” and to the position of the moon.

Obviously, if time permits, while you are in Sardinia, take the opportunity to visit a beach in the low season, when it is much less crowded than in summertime. We at Sardinia Unlimited also found ourselves swimming in November, when the weather was mild. We guarantee that this is a unique experience of its kind, reserved for those lucky enough to enjoy an earthly paradise in complete tranquility: you will feel at one with the surrounding nature and a sense of peace and serenity will pervade you. Seeing is believing!

  Sardinia in autumn: what to see? : Read More

  

What to do in Budoni: 5 top tips - coast and pine trees

What to do in Budoni? Beaches and tips for your holidays

Of all the places on the eastern coast of Sardinia, we recommend you to spend your holidays in Budoni, a tourist center located halfway between Gallura and Baronia. Less known than the most exclusive destinations of the Costa Smeralda, San Teodoro and the wonderful towns of Baronia and Ogliastra overlooking the Gulf of Orosei, Budoni is a destination to be discovered, where there is certainly no shortage of attractions and things to see.

If you are looking for a destination that offers the opportunity to easily explore a vast territory, ranging from the chic and sophisticated resorts of Arzachena to the adventurous Dorgali, passing through the modern and cosmopolitan Olbia, the medieval Posada and the traditional Siniscola, then Budoni is the right place!
Choose the village of southern Gallura as a starting point for your holidays and you will not regret it.

If at this point you are still wondering what to do in Budoni, here are some suggestions.
The center is less known than some glamorous destinations located a few kilometers away, and this undoubtedly has several advantages. First of all, the prices of the holiday homes tend to be cheaper. Furthermore, the beaches of Budoni are less crowded, especially in low season, than the more famous ones in northern Sardinia… but this does not mean that they are less beautiful!
It is up to you if you wish to spend a relaxing holiday, just chilling out and enjoying the beaches in the area, or a more glamorous one, experiencing the Sardinian night life and discovering what the vast surrounding area offers.

Our 5 tips on what to do in and around Budoni (if the pandemic allows it):

  • 1. Sunbathe on the beach . See below our suggestions;

  • 2. Take a historical-archaeological tour: visit the ruins of the nearby Nuraghe San Pietro, in the territory of Torpé, to discover the fascinating Nuragic civilization dating back to the Bronze Age. Also visit the picturesque old town of Posada, with the beautiful Castello della Fava. All this can be reached in a few minutes by car from Budoni and its surroundings;

  • 3. Take part in the “Sa Festa Manna” in Budoni, (the big city fest). If you are in the area at the turn of August 29, the patron saint is celebrated in the village: St. John the Baptist. There will be 3 - 4 days of events, including concerts, procession of folk groups and various shows;

  • 4. Go on a food and wine tour, to discover the delicacies that you can enjoy in the various restaurants, farmhouses and wineries of the area. In any culinary tour between Gallura and Baronia, the fish dishes and the "roast or spit roast suckling pig", prepared according to tradition, accompanied by local wines, such as the fresh Vermentino di Gallura and the full bodied Cannonau from Oliena, Dorgali or Mamoiada, cannot be missing;

  • 5. Enjoy a night out, to be spent between the clubs and the evening shows in San Teodoro, Olbia, or in the Costa Smeralda. We recommend you to rely on a specialized agency to book a car rental service with driver, who can accompany you safely throughout the evening.


Among the beaches in Budoni, we would like to point out:

Porto Ainu, with the white sand and a shallow seabed bathed by turquoise waters with the typical transparency of the Sardinian sea. The beach is not equipped and there are no services, which is why it is not very crowded even in high season. There is paid parking nearby.

Porto Ottiolu, this is the name of a fraction of Budoni located on the sea. It has got a pretty and important tourist port and a beach that is a small natural pearl. The sand is white and the sea shines with shades between intense blue and cobalt blue. The beach is suitable for families with children, due to the shallow water and the fact that there are several services within walking distance, such as a restaurant, various bars and convenient parking. Furthermore, the beach is accessible to disabled people.

Baia Sant'Anna it is a free beach near Tanaunella, a further hamlet of Budoni, which is certainly worth a visit. The white beach is surrounded by a pine forest that purifies and perfumes the air and the sea is crystal clear and blue.
There are convenient parking lots near the coast.
Close to Sant'Anna beach there is a pond, where it is possible to observe beautiful pink flamingos. In the area between San Teodoro and Budoni there are several aquatic ecosystems, well known to birdwatchers.

Cala di Budoni, is how four kilometers of northeastern Sardinian coast are called. It extends between the points Li Cucutti and Porto Ainu. The sea in this area has an unbelievable transparency, while the beach of fine and clear sand slopes gently into a shallow seabed, suitable even for children's games.
There are several services, which allow you to comfortably enjoy the beach, which is also accessible to disabled people. In the vicinity there is also a large parking lot that allows you to easily reach the beach by car. In the area there are several refreshment points, bars and activities that rent beach equipment.

The stretch of coastline takes on different names along its route, including: Li Salineddi, Salamaghe, Lido del Sole, Sa Capannizza.
The area alternates ponds to sand dunes and pine forests, and constitutes a natural habitat with a great variety of fauna. The coast is surrounded by lush Mediterranean scrub, which perfumes the air with its scents and aromas and adds wonderful shades of green to the idyllic landscape.
The cove is also popular with lovers of water sports, such as windsurfing, diving and snorkeling.

  Budoni: 5 tips on what to do and where to stay : Read More

  

Wedding in Sardinia a dream that becomes true. Beach
Have you ever thought of a wedding in Sardinia? Sardinia Unlimited will be pleased to give you different suggestions to make your dream come true.

For anyone interested in organizing private parties for a few guests, we offer outstanding villas with swimming pool close to the sea. You could receive your guests in a wonderful garden while listening to the sea sound in the background. The ceremony could be organized according to your needs, and you could also stay there to enjoy your honeymoon. Moreover, there is a possibility to organize a catering or hire some excellent chefs, which will be pleased to satisfy your culinary needs.

Furthermore, you have also the chance of getting married in a civil ceremony in Sardinia. If you are interested, we can provide you with a contact of a wedding planner, who will illustrate all the procedures that have to be fulfilled.

Another option for the wedding party could be a beach event, which will be organized in a hotel with a private beach, that could also host all your guests. If you prefer a more open atmosphere, you may opt for a public beach: in this case, a wedding planner will be able to help you with all the necessary permits. Then, we would be pleased to host you in one of our villas where you can spend the following days with your closer guests.

Another dream wedding in Sardinia could be an exciting boat wedding!

If you would rather prefer to party in the countryside, we can arrange an event in a wine-growing estate or in an agriturismo. Here you can enjoy the outstanding landscape of Sardinia and take a look at our beautiful olive trees and vineyards. In case of bad weather, a large indoor room will be available, where you can spend your time in an elegant and exclusive setting.

Please note that you can also combine all these different possibilities into one, in order to adapt them to the wedding of your dreams. Moreover, if you are still looking for the right location, do not hesitate to ask us. Villas in Sardinia are often the perfect location for a wedding party, since you can get easily to the sea and spend your time within an intimate and private atmosphere.

To give you some ideas, take a look at these properties:

Villa La Bitta: private pool near the sea;

Villa Smeralda: just 20 meters from the sea;

Villa Linayre: villa to rent in Stintino

  Wedding in Sardinia : Read More

  

Sailing in Sardinia is a wonderful experience beach

Sailing in Sardinia is a wonderful experience thanks to the crystal clear water and the unique coves of this island. The north of Sardinia is a real paradise, for its nature and vegetation, but also for the tradition and culture. There are many different ports where you can hire a sailing-boat or you can book some excursions to the most beautiful beaches.

We recommend you to sail to the National Park of La Maddalena, where you can enjoy some of the popular beaches, like Spiaggia Rosa (whose color of the sand is given by the shells of a particular single-celled organism), the Spiaggia del Cavaliere in the island of Budelli or the beaches of Cala Coticcio. 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 time of his life and which today is a museum of memories and history of one of the greatest Italian personalities of the eighteenth century.

The east-coast is the most popular coast for sailers because the sea is more protected from the mountains. The area around Olbia, Costa Smeralda is known as hotspot for all who are interested in sailing. At the port of Porto Cervo you can spot some of the most expensive yachts in the world. In the whole east-coast area are also small ports where you can anchor and enjoy the small villages at the coast and eat some typical Sardinian food. But exploring the northwest-coast of the island with its stunning red rocks, is a great experience as well, for example do not miss Costa Paradiso. The rocky coast offers unique coves and rocks formed by the water and the wind over years and years.

The most suitable villas for rent for Sailing in Sardinia are Villa Il Mosaico di Nora: Villa just 100 meters from the beach, and Villa Carezza di Mare, with private pool.

But of course we recommend you, if you have time, to sail around the whole island, there are so many nice points to stop and explore. Exploring Nuraghes and landing on unspoiled beaches and coves will make your journey an unforgettable holiday.

  Sailing in Sardinia : Read More