ADVERTORIAL • July 2016
Five unmissable places to explore in Sardinia
Sardinia’s incredible beaches trump anything you’ll find on the mainland, while the laidback atmosphere, delicious food and welcoming people mean the island still has a distinct Italian feel. Here are five places to explore during your visit
Costa Smeralda
From luxury hotels to campsites, there’s plenty of choice when it comes to resting your head on Sardinia’s northern coast. Get back to nature by pitching your tent at one of the many campsites situated along the seafront. To access the superb beaches in the area, you’d be smart to hire a car – plus, driving along the coast provides great views of the yachts dotted along the shore.
The Maddalena Archipelago
Until recently, travellers weren’t able to access La Maddalena, leaving the small collection of islands just off Sardinia’s north coast relatively untouched. Take a boat from Palau across to the small settlement on the south of the main island, before heading out into the wilderness to the north. Turquoise waters surrounding rocky outcrops and quiet, white-sand beaches feel more Caribbean than Mediterranean. To find the most secluded spots, seek out a boat tour that will take you to the beautiful patches of sand accessible only by water.
San Teodoro
A typical Sardinian seaside town, San Teodoro hosts many of the exclusive, ultra-chic resorts on the island. Plenty of beaches for daytime relaxation and a vibrant nightlife give the town lots of character. Spend your days enjoying water sports, including sailing, canoeing or windsurfing, or head to the salt lakes to watch the flamingos paddling in the shallows.
Olbia
Olbia is perfectly positioned to take advantage of Sardinia’s amazing coastline, with Costa Smeralda to the north and San Teodoro to the south. Basing yourself at a hotel in town means you are perfectly placed to explore the whole area. Some of the best restaurants in the region can be found a short drive out into the countryside.
Tempio Pausania
A rustic hill town set amid holm oak forests and cork trees, Tempio Pausania is worth the trip inland to see a different side to Sardinia. While you’re in the mountains, check out Nuraghe Majori – an ancient ruin that dates back to the Bronze Age. Travellers can also trek into the Limbara Mountains and up towards the summit of Vallicciola, or roam through the cork forests and pick up a souvenir from the many arts and crafts shops in the region.
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