Just to the south of Corsica, between the Tyrrhenian Sea and the Sardinian Sea, a sometimes little-known island hides some real treasures. An unspoiled coast, an authentic hinterland, a warm people and unmissable sites… so many reasons to discover Sardinia. Here are 10 essentials.
1 - Porto Cervo and the Costa Smeralda
On the north-eastern coast of Sardinia, the Costa Smeralda is a well-known holiday destination for celebrities. It became famous thanks to Prince Karim Aga Khan who decided to highlight it after falling in love with it in the 60s. This coast is simply sublime and you can admire it by following the road which alternates idyllic beaches and quiet bays bordering turquoise water. Do not miss a visit to Porto Cervo with its procession of luxury shops and its marina where yachts of inestimable value are anchored.
2 - The splendor of the Maddalena archipelago
La Maddalena Park is a national park in the north of Sardinia, a wild and protected place, a real “eden” for nature lovers. The sea is an incredible color mixing emerald blue with turquoise green. Some of its paradisiacal beaches have nothing to envy to those of the Pacific Islands or the Indian Ocean ... and a stay in Sardinia will be much cheaper.
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Note that a cheap trip to Sardinia is quite possible. For example, consider looking at flights offered by Vueling or other low cost airlines. In addition, booking first (for flights) or last minute (for stays) avoiding the months of July and August will allow you to take advantage of promotions and save money. L'Officiel des vacances is a perfect site to help you in this search
3- Cagliari and its citadel
Solar and luminous capital of Sardinia, Cagliari, a city built on several hills resembles Marseille in many ways. Carrying many ancient remains, it seduces with its old town with its terraces overlooking the sea. The citadel perched at the top of a rocky peak is a must, even more beautiful at dusk. Treat yourself to a relaxing break on the terrace of the Caffé Librarium Nostrum or the Caffé Degli Spiriti to enjoy a breathtaking panorama of the city lights.
4- Orgosolo wall frescoes
This village located inland, in the austere mountains of Barbagia, was for a long time the den of bandits before becoming an incredible place of expression in the open air. On most of the walls we find paintings and murals, sometimes faded, illustrating major events, social and political life of the twentieth and twenty-first centuries. A journey through time, in history, full of emotion! A few bullet holes on the doors remind us that life has not always been quiet in Orgosolo…
5 - Alghero, a historic city
In the north-west of Sardinia, Alghero, a city surrounded by ancient fortifications, has real Catalan charm. It reveals its fascinating historic center and its maze of alleys leading to lively squares. Alghero seduces with its festival of colors that can be found on its old pink houses with yellow walls, on its red roofs contrasting wonderfully with the crystalline blue of its cove.
6- Bosa, a colorful village
A true explosion of colors, Bosa is a charming village and undoubtedly one of the most beautiful Sardinian sites. You will fall under the spell of its typical Mediterranean streets, its colorful houses, its adorable churches and its castle offering an incredible panorama of the surrounding landscape. Visitors by car are advised to take the SP49 coastal road connecting Bosa and Alghero. Although a little winding (but without danger) it reveals a unique point of view on the limestone cliffs.
7 - Explore the ruins of Tharros
On Cape Saint-Marc, at the extreme tip of the Sinis peninsula, the beauty of the ancient city of Tharros is striking. Founded around the XNUMXth century BC by the Phoenicians, this ancient city bordered on either side by the clear waters of the Mediterranean leaves no visitor indifferent.
8 - The Nuraghes, symbols of the island
These megalithic buildings from 1900 to 730 BC are found mainly in Sardinia. There are nearly 8000 of them on the island, some of which are extremely well preserved. These ancient stone dwellings are similar to medieval towers. Formerly built by shepherds and peasants, they can be found in particular on the archeological site of Turris Libisonis or the Sceri complex in Libono.
9 - Immerse yourself in festive Sardinia
Sardinia has many festivals and festivals, testimonies of an omnipresent culture forging real links with the history of the island. We can quote for example the Sartiglia which takes place every year in the city of Oristano in February, the Sagra del Redentore, in August in Nuoro, the horse race of S'Ardia in Sedilo, the intriguing carnival of Mamoiada in January or the Sagra del Redentore dedicated to Christ the Redeemer to be discovered in Nuoro at the end of August.
10- Treat yourself to Sardinian cuisine
Varied and tasty, Sardinian cuisine is based on very simple ingredients. Taste the culurgiones of large ravioli garnished with potatoes and cheese, the zuppa gallurese a country dish from northern Sardinia and don't forget to bite into the delicious Pane Carasu, a typical Sardinian bread with the appearance of a tasty thin and crispy pancake.
A simple and authentic country, Sardinia will charm you and give you only one desire, that of returning very quickly to this peaceful Mediterranean island!
