A selection of news, tips, ideas, edited by Sardinia Unlimited.
Sardinia in autumn: what to see?
Monday, November 8, 2021
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 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!
Budoni: 5 tips on what to do and where to stay
Friday, November 5, 2021
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):
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.
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.
Wedding in Sardinia
Friday, October 15, 2021
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
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
Sailing in Sardinia
Thursday, October 14, 2021
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.
Stintino is located about 45 km from Sassari
Thursday, October 14, 2021
Just 45 kilometers from Sassari
Stintino is located about 45 km from Sassari in the northwest of Sardinia, in front of the island of Asinara. In the year 1885 the inhabitants of this island had to leave to find a new place to live. So they built the small fisher village Stintino. Today it is one of the most famous places in Sardinia thanks to its wonderful beaches and the holiday villas you can rent there. The view from Stintino over the Mediterranean sea, the island of Asinara and the ancient tower is fantastic.
One of the most famous beaches in Sardinia is La Pelosa in Stintino. The water has indescribable colors with blue, green and turquoise shades. The white sand is so fine that you have the feeling to walk on wadding. There are also bars and you can hire sunchairs. The seabed is shallow, so it is also a perfect beach for families with kids.
In front of the beach of La Pelosa there is an ancient tower which was built to defend this wonderful area. You can easily swim to the little islet and explore the tower from outside. The entrance to the tower is closed for safety reasons.
Today the Asinara island is also known for its white donkeys and it is a wildlife and marine reserve. But it is possible to visit the island, you can book some excursions directly in Stintino. Until 1997 there was a maximum security prison, where even big mafia bosses were brought. But in 1997 the prison was closed and since this year there are no longer inhabitants on this island.
The village of Stintino has two ports: Porto Mannu and Porto Minore, from where you can start different tours or hire a boat. Stintino offers a lot of activities to do. From diving over kitesurf to kayaking you can try many sports near Stintino. Also bars and good restaurants are open during the season. Some bars and restaurants are also open the whole year.
We recommend you to do a day trip to Stintino or to rent one of the beautiful holiday houses near this unique location, like:
Il Rifugio del Bandito
Villa Lynaire
Villa Reina del Mar - located in Alghero, in the hamlet of Fertilia.
One of the most famous beaches in Sardinia is La Pelosa in Stintino. The water has indescribable colors with blue, green and turquoise shades. The white sand is so fine that you have the feeling to walk on wadding. There are also bars and you can hire sunchairs. The seabed is shallow, so it is also a perfect beach for families with kids.
In front of the beach of La Pelosa there is an ancient tower which was built to defend this wonderful area. You can easily swim to the little islet and explore the tower from outside. The entrance to the tower is closed for safety reasons.
Today the Asinara island is also known for its white donkeys and it is a wildlife and marine reserve. But it is possible to visit the island, you can book some excursions directly in Stintino. Until 1997 there was a maximum security prison, where even big mafia bosses were brought. But in 1997 the prison was closed and since this year there are no longer inhabitants on this island.
The village of Stintino has two ports: Porto Mannu and Porto Minore, from where you can start different tours or hire a boat. Stintino offers a lot of activities to do. From diving over kitesurf to kayaking you can try many sports near Stintino. Also bars and good restaurants are open during the season. Some bars and restaurants are also open the whole year.
We recommend you to do a day trip to Stintino or to rent one of the beautiful holiday houses near this unique location, like:
Il Rifugio del Bandito
Villa Lynaire
Villa Reina del Mar - located in Alghero, in the hamlet of Fertilia.
In the northeast of the island
Wednesday, October 13, 2021
In the northeast of the island, surrounded by a shimmering turquoise sea and small and large islands, stands the historic region of Gallura, with its bizarre rock formations, its hills, and a majestic mountain range. Among them, we can find enchanting villages in the hinterland in areas still uncontaminated.
Looking to the sea, the landscape of the Gallura coast is varied: emerald green water, fine sand beaches, bays and fantastic rock formations that, thanks to the action of the wind and the sea, show their beauty to the visitors. One of them, Prince Aga Khan, in 1960, after discovering the small coastal area between Cala Razza di Giunco and the bay of Poltu Quatu, decided to found what would become the Costa Smeralda. In a few years, the Costa Smeralda became the paradise of movie stars and important personalities.
Costa Smeralda is the perfect place to enjoy exclusivity, luxury and classy life. Nothing to envoy to popular destinations such as Malaga, the Cote d'Azur, Monaco and Sanremo thanks to its incomparable turquoise blue sea, its breathtaking creeks and its charm.
Returning inland, we can admire an unspoiled nature, along with fascinating and deserted lands. Here, a dense spot and fragile and naked rocks, form fascinating formations that recall in some areas a lunar landscape.
Advertised in every tourist guide, but still worth exploring, is the mighty mountain range of Limbara - where among cork trees and stones you can walk around roverella forests, caves and deep valleys -, as well as the small charming town of Tempio Pausania at the foot of Limbara. The small and idyllic Gallura capital develops mainly in the historic center with local granite boulevards. The heart of the city beats within the streets and squares of the center: from Piazza Gallura to Via Roma, from Piazza Don Minzoni to Via Manno and from Piazza Purgatorio to Via Monti Masa. Renowned for its water springs, Tempio is the perfect place to relax in the summer heat.
For those interested in historical tourism, you can visit the house of Giuseppe Garibaldi, the hero of the Italian Risorgimento, that rises on the island Caprera. From here you can visit all the Maddalena National Park with its crystal clear waters. Further west we can find Santa Teresa di Gallura, a small town of few thousand inhabitants, characteristic and privileged thanks to its location just a few miles from Corsica. Both for sea and mountain lovers, the northeast of Sardinia is therefore an ideal place to spend your holidays.
Take a look at these villas, ideal to discover the area:
Villa Belle Vue
Villa Mariù e Amelie
Villa Filugnana
Looking to the sea, the landscape of the Gallura coast is varied: emerald green water, fine sand beaches, bays and fantastic rock formations that, thanks to the action of the wind and the sea, show their beauty to the visitors. One of them, Prince Aga Khan, in 1960, after discovering the small coastal area between Cala Razza di Giunco and the bay of Poltu Quatu, decided to found what would become the Costa Smeralda. In a few years, the Costa Smeralda became the paradise of movie stars and important personalities.
Costa Smeralda is the perfect place to enjoy exclusivity, luxury and classy life. Nothing to envoy to popular destinations such as Malaga, the Cote d'Azur, Monaco and Sanremo thanks to its incomparable turquoise blue sea, its breathtaking creeks and its charm.
Returning inland, we can admire an unspoiled nature, along with fascinating and deserted lands. Here, a dense spot and fragile and naked rocks, form fascinating formations that recall in some areas a lunar landscape.
Advertised in every tourist guide, but still worth exploring, is the mighty mountain range of Limbara - where among cork trees and stones you can walk around roverella forests, caves and deep valleys -, as well as the small charming town of Tempio Pausania at the foot of Limbara. The small and idyllic Gallura capital develops mainly in the historic center with local granite boulevards. The heart of the city beats within the streets and squares of the center: from Piazza Gallura to Via Roma, from Piazza Don Minzoni to Via Manno and from Piazza Purgatorio to Via Monti Masa. Renowned for its water springs, Tempio is the perfect place to relax in the summer heat.
For those interested in historical tourism, you can visit the house of Giuseppe Garibaldi, the hero of the Italian Risorgimento, that rises on the island Caprera. From here you can visit all the Maddalena National Park with its crystal clear waters. Further west we can find Santa Teresa di Gallura, a small town of few thousand inhabitants, characteristic and privileged thanks to its location just a few miles from Corsica. Both for sea and mountain lovers, the northeast of Sardinia is therefore an ideal place to spend your holidays.
Take a look at these villas, ideal to discover the area:
Villa Belle Vue
Villa Mariù e Amelie
Villa Filugnana
Island Tavolara and Cala Brandinchi
Tuesday, October 12, 2021
One of the most beautiful beaches in north east Sardinia
The Island Tavolara and Cala Brandinchi are part of the protected marine area of Tavolara, and are located on the north-eastern coast of Sardinia, in the region which goes from Capo Ceraso to Capo Coda Cavallo, including the islands of Tavolara, Molara and Molarotto.
This large stretch of both land and sea includes some of the most beautiful and famous beaches of Sardinia: among them there is Cala Brandinchi, which has often been classified as the most beautiful beach of Sardinia, and one of the most beautiful all over the world. When you visit this beach you feel like being in Polynesia or in the Caribbean, because you can admire a real paradise! Its fine white sand, the crystal clear and shallow waters are simply amazing.
To get there, take the State Road 125 from San Teodoro towards Capo Coda Cavallo , and then drive straight on until you reach an unpaved road which leads to "Salina Bamba" where you can park the car and easily walk to the beach.
As soon as you get out of the car, the feeling is that of being immersed in the garden of Eden, a paradise! You will immediately assailed by the scents of the typical Mediterranean plants and the breeze of this wonderful sea. Especially in low season, the beach stands out in all its pristine beauty.
Cala Brandinchi is equipped for tourists, who can hire sun chairs and sun umbrellas, kayaks, boats and rafts as well. There is also an area where there is a pond and a pine forest ideal for birdwatchers due to the presence of peculiar species of birds such as the pink flamingos of Sardinia.
From Cala Brandinchi you can reach on foot the beach of Lu Impostu, where you can easily find some beautiful villas and houses for rent. This type of accommodation will give you the possibility to be more free in visiting these places: think about enjoying baths at the sunset in the evening, when the beaches are less crowded.
We believe that the villas like - Villa Sogno Indaco and - Villa Zaffran will be perfect to explore this area.
This large stretch of both land and sea includes some of the most beautiful and famous beaches of Sardinia: among them there is Cala Brandinchi, which has often been classified as the most beautiful beach of Sardinia, and one of the most beautiful all over the world. When you visit this beach you feel like being in Polynesia or in the Caribbean, because you can admire a real paradise! Its fine white sand, the crystal clear and shallow waters are simply amazing.
To get there, take the State Road 125 from San Teodoro towards Capo Coda Cavallo , and then drive straight on until you reach an unpaved road which leads to "Salina Bamba" where you can park the car and easily walk to the beach.
As soon as you get out of the car, the feeling is that of being immersed in the garden of Eden, a paradise! You will immediately assailed by the scents of the typical Mediterranean plants and the breeze of this wonderful sea. Especially in low season, the beach stands out in all its pristine beauty.
Cala Brandinchi is equipped for tourists, who can hire sun chairs and sun umbrellas, kayaks, boats and rafts as well. There is also an area where there is a pond and a pine forest ideal for birdwatchers due to the presence of peculiar species of birds such as the pink flamingos of Sardinia.
From Cala Brandinchi you can reach on foot the beach of Lu Impostu, where you can easily find some beautiful villas and houses for rent. This type of accommodation will give you the possibility to be more free in visiting these places: think about enjoying baths at the sunset in the evening, when the beaches are less crowded.
We believe that the villas like - Villa Sogno Indaco and - Villa Zaffran will be perfect to explore this area.
The 5 most beautiful beaches in Sardinia: our tips for visiting them
Monday, October 11, 2021
Which is the most beautiful beach in Sardinia?
Sardinia is a unique island in the world, a chest full of naturalistic gems of rare beauty. Many define Sardinia as a mini continent. In fact, there are different ecosystems and a geographical variety attributable to a continent, rather than to an island: hills, plains, mountains, rocky coasts, heavenly beaches, dreamy archipelagos... and even large desert areas and a ski resort. All enclosed in a colorful patch of just 24.000 km2 (about 9.266 square miles) of land.
But today, let’s focus just on the beautiful beaches .
Never heard of the white sand, the sea with colors ranging from intense emerald green to the light turquoise of Sardinia!? There are many beaches with these characteristics on the island, and they are evenly distributed between the north, south, west and east coast.
If we would ask the locals to rank the 5 most beautiful beaches in Sardinia, we would receive a different answer for each interlocutor! In this case the old Sardinian say seems very appropriate: "Chentu concas', chentu berrittas'!" - literally translated: one hundred heads, one hundred typical Sardinian hats!, because everyone has got his own idea on the matter -.
It is almost impossible to establish which are the best beaches in Sardinia, there are too many that are just fabulous. In fact, there are too many elements that contribute to making a certain stretch of coast pleasant to us. To which are added several variable factors, such as weather conditions, the period of the year, or even the time of day we visit a particular beach. Just think of the color difference of the waters, determined by the incidence of sunlight during different hours of the day.
Therefore, it just is impossible to crown the number one beach in Sardinia, without awakening atavistic regional disputes (fortunately, only verbal).
But today, let’s focus just on the beautiful beaches .
Never heard of the white sand, the sea with colors ranging from intense emerald green to the light turquoise of Sardinia!? There are many beaches with these characteristics on the island, and they are evenly distributed between the north, south, west and east coast.
If we would ask the locals to rank the 5 most beautiful beaches in Sardinia, we would receive a different answer for each interlocutor! In this case the old Sardinian say seems very appropriate: "Chentu concas', chentu berrittas'!" - literally translated: one hundred heads, one hundred typical Sardinian hats!, because everyone has got his own idea on the matter -.
It is almost impossible to establish which are the best beaches in Sardinia, there are too many that are just fabulous. In fact, there are too many elements that contribute to making a certain stretch of coast pleasant to us. To which are added several variable factors, such as weather conditions, the period of the year, or even the time of day we visit a particular beach. Just think of the color difference of the waters, determined by the incidence of sunlight during different hours of the day.
Therefore, it just is impossible to crown the number one beach in Sardinia, without awakening atavistic regional disputes (fortunately, only verbal).
The 5 most beautiful beaches in Sardinia: our tips for visiting them : Read More
Folk festivals in Sardinia to visit
Monday, October 11, 2021
History and tradition
Sardinia is full of old traditions and unique customs. Many folk festivals in Sardinia are based on an old culture of this magic island. Here are some festivals which you should not miss during your holidays in Sardinia.
Sant'Antonio Abate is a festival also known as a festival of fires. It is one of the oldest festivals in Sardinia and it happens every year during the night from the 16th to the 17th of January. In many villages people make big fires of different kind of wood and also Mediterranean plants. It is the beginning of Carnival and the first time of the year, when the people put their traditional costumes on and dance around the fire. The tradition requires that they make 3 rounds around the fire in clockwise direction and counterclockwise direction to ask the spring to bring warm weather and good crop.
Processione dei Misteri "Lunissanti" takes place in Castelsardo in the week of Easter. On Easter Monday, in the early morning there is a mass in the church of Santa Maria and afterwards there is a parade where the participants of the "processione" sing the old religion songs. The parade bring them to the Basilica "Nostra Signora di Tergu" where another mass is celebrated and then there is a lunch all together on the open air and then the return to the village in the evening. At the end of the parade there is a dinner for all like the last dinner of Jesus with his apostles. Also on Thursday and Friday there are parades but the smaller ones. With these festivals and ceremonies people welcome the spring.
Sagra di Sant'Efisio is a huge festival in the south of Sardinia at Cagliari. Every year since 1657 at Cagliari they celebrate this festival / parade at the first May. The legend says that thanks to the Saint Efisio the black death found an end in Sardinia. The parade start in the church with the name Efisio and goes to Nora at the end. The parade is accompanied by almost all folk groups of Sardinia in the traditional costumes and also with horsemen at the end.
San Simplicio is the patron of Olbia and of the region of Gallura and in his honor every year, in the week around the 15th May there is a big festival in Olbia, in the north of Sardinia. Every day of that week there are different festivals in the city. From parade in traditional costumes over concerts to traditional food you can find everything. It is really one of the biggest celebrations in Sardinia, we recommend you absolutely to take part in it!
I Candelieri is a religious holiday in Sassari, Nulvi, Ploaghe and Iglesias. In the evening of the 14th August in Sassari, there is a parade through the city with over 100.000 visitors and participants from all over the world. It is an old tradition in honor of the Madonna Assunta and with the pray that she will protect the persons from illness and epidemics. You will find small markets and of course traditional food during this evening in Sassari.
Sagra del Redentore is the biggest summer folk festival in Sardinia in Nuoro. With its different parades through the city at the end of August, it is a spectacular for all tourists. Whole Sardinia presents its traditional costumes and in the evening there are traditional Sardinian dances and choirs. The small markets offer traditional food and the whole city is celebrating. This festival is dedicated to the redeemer. Don't miss it!
Sagra del Bovino Gallurese is a festival in honor of the cattle of the region of Gallura which takes place at the end of August. The idea of this festival is to remember the persons to eat good quality and local beef. But recently it has become just a huge festival with more and more visitors. There is a big parade with the folk groups of Sardinia and also with the famous cattle of Gallura. In the evening they bring big tables for all the persons and everyone can try the beef of Gallura and other typical plates of Sardinia.
Festa del Turista also known as Sagra della salsiccia arrosto e del formaggio is a festival for all who love the Sardinian traditions. A parade with the costumes and afterwards celebrations with concerts and Sardinian dances. During the festivities you can try the local sausages and cheeses. There are also small markets with handmade local souvenirs. The festival is always in the mid of August in Aglientu.
Carnevale estivo takes place in Orotelli in the region of Nuoro. In August a summer carnival is celebrated with the traditional masks of Sardinia. It is a wonderful festivity with a lot of participants. At the end of the carnival parade you can try lamb and Cannonau wine. In the city center there is an open air disco where you can dance and celebrate with the habitants of Sardinia and also many tourists! Enjoy the party!
The most suitable villas for these events are:
- Villa Lumière;
- Villa Mariù e Amelie;
- Villa Sa Mola.
Sant'Antonio Abate is a festival also known as a festival of fires. It is one of the oldest festivals in Sardinia and it happens every year during the night from the 16th to the 17th of January. In many villages people make big fires of different kind of wood and also Mediterranean plants. It is the beginning of Carnival and the first time of the year, when the people put their traditional costumes on and dance around the fire. The tradition requires that they make 3 rounds around the fire in clockwise direction and counterclockwise direction to ask the spring to bring warm weather and good crop.
Processione dei Misteri "Lunissanti" takes place in Castelsardo in the week of Easter. On Easter Monday, in the early morning there is a mass in the church of Santa Maria and afterwards there is a parade where the participants of the "processione" sing the old religion songs. The parade bring them to the Basilica "Nostra Signora di Tergu" where another mass is celebrated and then there is a lunch all together on the open air and then the return to the village in the evening. At the end of the parade there is a dinner for all like the last dinner of Jesus with his apostles. Also on Thursday and Friday there are parades but the smaller ones. With these festivals and ceremonies people welcome the spring.
Sagra di Sant'Efisio is a huge festival in the south of Sardinia at Cagliari. Every year since 1657 at Cagliari they celebrate this festival / parade at the first May. The legend says that thanks to the Saint Efisio the black death found an end in Sardinia. The parade start in the church with the name Efisio and goes to Nora at the end. The parade is accompanied by almost all folk groups of Sardinia in the traditional costumes and also with horsemen at the end.
San Simplicio is the patron of Olbia and of the region of Gallura and in his honor every year, in the week around the 15th May there is a big festival in Olbia, in the north of Sardinia. Every day of that week there are different festivals in the city. From parade in traditional costumes over concerts to traditional food you can find everything. It is really one of the biggest celebrations in Sardinia, we recommend you absolutely to take part in it!
I Candelieri is a religious holiday in Sassari, Nulvi, Ploaghe and Iglesias. In the evening of the 14th August in Sassari, there is a parade through the city with over 100.000 visitors and participants from all over the world. It is an old tradition in honor of the Madonna Assunta and with the pray that she will protect the persons from illness and epidemics. You will find small markets and of course traditional food during this evening in Sassari.
Sagra del Redentore is the biggest summer folk festival in Sardinia in Nuoro. With its different parades through the city at the end of August, it is a spectacular for all tourists. Whole Sardinia presents its traditional costumes and in the evening there are traditional Sardinian dances and choirs. The small markets offer traditional food and the whole city is celebrating. This festival is dedicated to the redeemer. Don't miss it!
Sagra del Bovino Gallurese is a festival in honor of the cattle of the region of Gallura which takes place at the end of August. The idea of this festival is to remember the persons to eat good quality and local beef. But recently it has become just a huge festival with more and more visitors. There is a big parade with the folk groups of Sardinia and also with the famous cattle of Gallura. In the evening they bring big tables for all the persons and everyone can try the beef of Gallura and other typical plates of Sardinia.
Festa del Turista also known as Sagra della salsiccia arrosto e del formaggio is a festival for all who love the Sardinian traditions. A parade with the costumes and afterwards celebrations with concerts and Sardinian dances. During the festivities you can try the local sausages and cheeses. There are also small markets with handmade local souvenirs. The festival is always in the mid of August in Aglientu.
Carnevale estivo takes place in Orotelli in the region of Nuoro. In August a summer carnival is celebrated with the traditional masks of Sardinia. It is a wonderful festivity with a lot of participants. At the end of the carnival parade you can try lamb and Cannonau wine. In the city center there is an open air disco where you can dance and celebrate with the habitants of Sardinia and also many tourists! Enjoy the party!
The most suitable villas for these events are:
- Villa Lumière;
- Villa Mariù e Amelie;
- Villa Sa Mola.
The Costa Smeralda
Friday, October 8, 2021
The most fascinating destination in Sardinia
Costa Smeralda, the most fascinating and exclusive destination in Sardinia, is a part of the north-eastern coast of Sardinia from Capo Ferro to the Golfo di Cugnana, with plenty of beaches and romantic hidden coves. It is considered the most beautiful part of Sardinia, of the Mediterranean Sea and even of the whole world.
The colour of its sea is emerald green, as the precious stone, and you will find amazing coves such as Cala Granu and Cala Petra Ruia and also the most beautiful beaches of the world such as Capriccioli, Cala di Volpe, Piccolo- and Grande Pevero and Romazzino. The enchanting beach of Il “Principe” is located just in the heart of this coast, near the famous town of Porto Cervo.
It is not easy to think about how this land used to look before the sixties of the last century: it was a wild deserted land, mostly countryside and uninhabited. Today it represents, thanks to the investments made by prince Aga Khan and the setting up of the Consorzio Costa Smeralda, one of the most popular places for the international jet set.
This area still dictates fashion and trends and represents at the same time the holiday destination for excellence, full of magic and of unique places.
Despite the construction and its sudden population, the Costa Smeralda has maintained the distinction of original and evocative area: the landscape, marked by smooth granite rocks sculpted by time and the emerald sea.
Also famous for its nightlife and gossip, the Costa Smeralda hosts one of the most famous clubs in the world, frequented by celebrities and wealthy entrepreneurs from all sides: The Billionaire, which is a sumptuous club where everything is full of unbridled luxury; the Ritual, a discotheque carved inside a rock, according to a plan of an eclectic architect.
If Porto Cervo is the most important point in Costa Smeralda, Porto Rotondo, just a few kilometres away from Olbia, with its squares and prestigious shops is the perfect place for people who love shopping.
The best villas to explore the area of Costa Smeralda are:
- Villa Naytiri;
- Villa Esmar.
The Costa Smeralda is absolutely a place to visit during your vacation in Sardinia. See to believe!