Where to Stay in Sardinia, Italy

It’s no secret that Sardinia is one of the best beach holiday destinations in the world. From its turquoise waters to its soft, white sands, it’s also a fantastic water sports destination for global visitors to the Mediterranean sea. 

However, don’t be fooled into thinking you will only find beaches in Sardinia. Other beautiful cities on the island are valued for other reasons besides salt and sand, including secluded mountain towns, vineyard-filled villages, and even some old archaeological sites

Are you planning a trip and want to know where to stay in Sardinia? You’re in luck because we’ll cover where to stay in Sardinia for the best beaches, best Sardinia hotels and even a few places off the beaten track that you may not know. 

Are you ready to find where to stay in Sardinia, Italy? It’s time to find out!

Accommodation in Costa Paradiso, Northern Sardinia

Want to know where to stay in Sardinia? How does paradise sound?

Costa Paradiso, also known as the Paradise Coast of Sardinia, is the perfect spot for water sports lovers. It boasts long coastal stretches throughout, including excellent scuba diving, sailing and windsurfing spots.  

Nature lovers will also be able to hike in this area. Other destinations around Costa Paradiso include Li Vaccaggi, Lu Colbu and Greuli.

Costa Paradiso on a Budget – Resort Gravina

Are you looking for Sardinia resorts that won’t break the bank? Resort Gravina is a budget-friendly choice of note. Every room includes a balcony or terrace and free wifi and air conditioning for visits during the hot summer months.

Book your stay at Resort Gravina

Where to stay in Sardinia, Italy
Gravina Resort in Costa Paradiso, Sardinia.

Costa Paradiso Apartment – Paradise Hill

Built against a rock face on the coast of Costa Paradiso, this luxury apartment exudes coastal charm. Paradise Hill features sweeping panoramic views of the ocean, large bedrooms, rustic rocky architecture and a wrap-around balcony and comfy sun-loungers, we think relaxing in paradise looks something like this.

This apartment is just 8 minutes away from the beautiful sandy beach of Spiaggia di Cala li Cossi, and is one the best places to stay in Sardinia due to its proximity to natural beauty.

Book your stay at Paradise Hill

Places to stay in Sardinia - Paradise Hill
Paradise Hill apartment in Sardinia

Luxury Hotel in Costa Paradiso – Hotel Costa Paradiso

Touted as one of the best hotels in Sardinia, Hotel Costa Paradiso is a luxury hotel boasting a fantastic granite coastal view. Guests have praised this hotel as dreamy for its large clean rooms, refreshing seawater pool, exceptional team of staff and fresh coffee bar.

Book your stay at Hotel Costa Paradiso

Hotels in Sardinia - Hotel Costa Paradiso
Hotel Costa Paradiso in Sardinia

Boutique Accommodation – Costa Paradiso Resort

Do you want to enjoy Sardinia by staying in a boutique resort? Look no further than Costa Paradiso Resort, a favourite amongst Sardinia resorts.

This unique boutique resort offers many villas of varying sizes to guests – so don’t expect a standard hotel room when you arrive! The resort features a large terrace with a private pool, luxury family villas, a private beach area and proximity to Spiaggia Del Porto La Cruzitta, as well as hiking, snorkelling and nearby fishing sites. 

Book your stay at Costa Paradiso Resort

Sardinia resorts - Costa Paradiso Resort
Costa Paradiso Resort

Accommodation in Porto Istana, North-East Sardinia

Porto Istana is a village in Olbia, Sardinia within the Sassari province. This picturesque village offers crystal-clear water at its beaches, as well as glistening white sand and lush green vegetation throughout the town. You will also be treated to beautiful views of the neighbouring island, Isola Tavolara. 

Other destinations around Porto Istana include Li Cuncheddi, Bunthe, Costa Corallina and Murta Maria.

Apartment in Porto Istana – Garden of Plenty

The Garden of Plenty Apartment is the quintessential terracotta home and features in our top list of where to stay in Sardinia. This idyllic apartment features a cactus garden, breathtaking coastal views, an outdoor barbecue, a shaded patio and luscious lawns.

Porto Istana beach is just a five-minute drive away, but we bet you probably won’t want to leave the apartment!

Book your stay at Garden of Plenty

Accommodation in Porto Istana
Garden of Plenty, Porto Istana

Porto Istana on a Budget – Porto Istana Holiday Home

Are you looking for a budget holiday home? You may enjoy the Porto Istana Holiday Home. This quaint one-bedroomed home is pet friendly and includes terrace and garden views. It is simple yet has everything a beach lover might need when the day is over.

It includes a basic kitchenette, air conditioning, and a flat-screen TV for your entertainment. Porto Istana Holiday Home is close to Olbia, and Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport is only 7km away. 

Book your stay at Porto Istana Holiday Home

Porto Istana Holiday Home
Porto Istana Holiday Home, Sardinia

Luxury Resort – Baglioni Resort Sardinia

This hotel is located around 10km out of Porto Istana and is one of the best places to stay in Sardinia. Its steep price tag comes with offers of pet friendly accommodation, celebrity treatment, world-class service, a private beach, sweet and savoury breakfast options, a fitness centre, and three swimming pools.

Couples especially enjoy it, which makes this resort one of the best Sardinia hotels for a honeymoon. This picturesque hotel also has dedicated sun lounge terraces for guests to use.

Book your stay at Baglioni Resort Sardinia

Baglioni Resort Sardinia
Baglioni Resort Sardinia

Boutique Hotel – Hotel Stefania Boutique Hotel 

If you’re after a rustic experience when deciding where to stay in Sardinia, Hotel Stefania is one of the best hotels in Sardinia for a homely experience. It features a Moorish decorative style and is located in Olbia, close to Porto Istana. 

This 4-star hotel is a mere 100m away from Pittulongu Beach. This hotel features a fitness centre, outdoor pool with terrace, paid beach service and restaurant. Hotel Stefania has a unique set-up as the hotel is split into two buildings – the central hotel offers 28 rooms, and the separate Villa Stefania has an extra ten rooms. 

Book your stay at Hotel Stefania Boutique Hotel 

Hotel Stefania Boutique Hotel 
Hotel Stefania Boutique Hotel 

Accommodation in Santa Reparata, North Sardinia

Santa Reparata is a beautiful city in Sardinia and is characterized by its white sandy beaches. This unique location offers impressive coastal views in spades and is close to many other destinations in the region. 

Other destinations around Santa Reparata include Funtanaccia and Capo Testa to the north-west, Santa Teresa Gallura to the north-east and Buoncammino to the east.

Apartment in Santa Reparata – Wilma’s Watch 

One of the best places to stay in North Sardinia is Wilma’s Watch. Named after the Flintstones character, this prehistoric pad, complete with arched walls and thatched roof, offers luxurious surroundings that may surprise you.

Wilma’s Watch features a complete outdoor kitchen with a hob, large barbecue grill, alfresco dining area and shallow pool surrounded by a lush garden. Additionally, you’ll find a hot tub for starlit nights, an outdoor shower for cleaning off after a swim and a flat roof terrace for sundowners. 

While the exterior may look dated, the interior is modern, boasting modern white walls and classy furnishings – which make it the ultimate spot for relaxation in Sardinia. 

Book your stay at Wilma’s Watch

Accommodation in North Sardinia, Italy
Wilma’s Watch

On a Budget – Hotel Da Cecco 

Located just 200m from Santa Tera Gallura’s main beach, this budget hotel offers rustic charm. Featuring a pastel exterior, free wifi for every room and a buffet-style breakfast, Hotel Da Cecco is an excellent choice if you’re looking to save on accommodation costs.

It’s also close to a bus stop that links Olbia and Sassari, making it an excellent choice for city-hoppers in discovering where to stay in Sardinia. 

Book your stay at Hotel Da Cecco

Hotel Da Cecco in Sardinia
Hotel Da Cecco in Sardinia

Luxury Hotel – Colonna Grand Hotel Capo Testa

The Colonna Grand Hotel in Capo Testa offers Mediterranean-style architecture, panoramic views and a private white-sand beach on the premises. 

Look no further if you were wondering where to stay in Santa Reparata, as this location will give you quick access to Santa Reparata and Funtanaccia in northern Sardinia. Every room includes air conditioning, a furnished balcony, a choice of 2 restaurants serving local fare and a terrace bar with views of Corsica and the Mediterranean Sea. 

Additionally, this hotel offers a free shuttle service to Santa Teresa di Gallura, only 2km away.

Book your stay at Colonna Grand Hotel Capo Testa

Colonna Grand Hotel Capo Testa
Colonna Grand Hotel Capo Testa in Santa Teresa Gallura, Sardinia

Boutique Accommodation – Hotel La Coluccia

Located in Santa Teresa Gallura, La Coluccia Hotel is only 50m away from the nearest beach and boasts beautiful views of Spargi island. 

Some of the main features include Turkish baths, a spa and fitness centre, an outdoor swimming pool with sun loungers, buffet breakfasts and panoramic views over the peninsula. It is 17km from Palau, which offers ferry trips to Genoa.

Book your stay at Hotel La Coluccia

Where to stay in Sardinia - La Coluccia
La Coluccia in Sardinia

Accommodation in Cagliari, South Sardinia

Cagliari is one of the best places to stay in Sardinia, the island’s capital. There is an activity for just about anyone here, including museum visits, excellent restaurants, local breweries, shopping malls and unforgettable beaches.

This large piece of land is located close to Quartu Sant’Elena to the east and Quartiere Vivere to the west. 

See also What to See in Cagliari, Sardinia

Cagliari on a Budget – Hotel Residence Ulivi E Palme

Looking to save some money on accommodation? Check out Hotel Residence Ulivi E Palme. It’s located in the middle of Cagliari’s city centre, making it perfect for a cultural tour of Sardinia. 

Some packages include complimentary breakfast for 2, free wifi for every room, and access to the hotel’s restaurant and fitness centre. 

Book your stay at Hotel Residence Ulivi E Palme

Where to stay in Cagliari, Sardinia
Hotel Residence Ulivi E Palme in Cagliari, Sardinia

Boutique Hotel in Cagliari – La Villa del Mare 

Want a truly unique boutique stay in Cagliari? La Villa del Mare might be a perfect choice. This early 20th-century villa boasts an Art Nouveau experience on the seafront, complete with a reading room and furnished garden on the premises. 

A bus stop is located 20m away should you want to visit the city centre, making this central location perfect for a secluded getaway.

Book your stay at La Villa del Mare

La Villa del Mare in Cagliari, Sardinia
La Villa del Mare in Cagliari, Sardinia

Luxury Stays in Cagliari – T Hotel

T Hotel is one of the best hotels in Sardinia. With its modern design, big rooms, and exceptional city views, you can’t miss out on this king of luxury Sardinia resorts when staying in Cagliari. 

T Hotel features a state-of-the-art hydrotherapy spa complete with steam baths, full English breakfasts every morning, and a modern gym. It is close to the Lyric Theatre as well as the Cagliari Cathedral and Cagliari-Elmas airport.

Book your stay at T Hotel

T Hotel in Cagliari, Sardinia
T Hotel in Cagliari, Sardinia

Cagliari Apartment – Right House

Right House is a luxury apartment in Cagliari. It boasts modern finishes and appliances, classy interior decor and a central location close to train stations, restaurants and bus stops right in the city centre of Cagliari. 

The nearest beach, Poetto Beach, can be accessed via a bus close to the apartment.

Book your stay at Right House

Places to stay in Cagliari, Sardinia
Right House in Cagliari, Sardinia

Conclusion

From Cagliari in the south to Porto Istana in the North, you’ll find many beautiful places to stay in Sardinia. Featuring beautiful abodes filled with sunny terraces, cacti gardens and pools aplenty, you’re bound to find something to suit your next trip to Sardinia, regardless of your budget.

Whether you’re budget conscious, looking for a private apartment, want to splurge on a luxury hotel or enjoy a boutique experience, you can find accommodation to suit you in practically every city in Sardinia. 

By now, we hope you know where to stay in Sardinia – at many different price points. Some of the best Sardinia hotels are waiting for you – so be sure to visit Sardinia next time you’re planning a trip to Italy. 

See also Best Towns in Sardinia, Italy


Best Beaches in Sardinia, Italy

Some of the best beaches in Italy can be found in Sardinia, flanked by the Mediterranean sea on all sides, and one of its most popular tourist attractions. Renowned for its natural beauty, illuminating turquoise water, the beaches in Sardinia will give you plenty of choices when it comes time to choose a relaxing destination.

Because there are so many beaches on the island, we’ll discuss the best beaches in Sardinia that you absolutely cannot miss.

See also Best Towns in Sardinia, Italy.

Best beaches in Sardinia, Italy
Valle dell’Erica beach, Sardinia, Italy

The Best Beaches in Sardinia

Sardinia regularly tops polls of the best beaches globally, so you can bet that the beaches in Sardinia are breathtaking! Here are some beaches to check out, split into the best beaches in North and South Sardinia!

Best Beaches North Sardinia

The cities of Sassari, Alghero, Stintino and Vignola Mare boast some of the best beaches north Sardinia. 

La Pelosa Beach

La Pelosa Beach is arguably the most famous beach in all of Northern Sardinia. La Pelosa is located a mere 2.5km away from Stintino in the North-West of Sardinia. It’s considered one of the best beaches in north Sardinia due to its fine white sand and shallow sea that boasts a gradient of turquoise hues, including aquamarine and topaz waters. 

This beach is bustling in July and August, so try to avoid these months for a more peaceful visit. As of 2020, the beach allows only a limited number of visitors on the beach, so you’ll need to book your place using the dedicated app

The beach is 300 meters long and up to 60 meters wide in some places. It is labelled as one of the best beaches in Sardinia because it is reminiscent of a Caribbean beach paradise.

La Pelosa Beach in Sardinia, Italy
La Pelosa Beach in Sardinia, Italy

Cala Ostina Beach 

Cala Ostina is a beautiful and secluded beach in Sardinia, located a few kilometres east of Castelsardo. It sits quietly in a small bay under a steep, earthen-toned coastal landform. Its unique appearance and private atmosphere make it a contender for one of the best beaches in north Sardinia. 

It is a small beach of only 60 meters in length, but its deep golden sands caused by volcanic rock nearby and almost translucent water are a sight to behold. 

This beach is part of an inlet, meaning there are no waves at this beach in Sardinia, which helps make it one of the best beaches in Sardinia for tranquility. As a result, you can expect peaceful swimming and an abundance of green plants in the area. This beach is quite remote despite being easily accessible, so visitors should bring their facilities when travelling as none are available on the site.  

Porto Ferro Beach

Porto Ferro is located in the province of Sassari and is one of the best beaches in north Sardinia due to its immense beauty.

For over 30 years, Porto Ferro has been visited by ‘naturists’ or nudists and built a reputation for being one of Sardinia’s most extensive nudist beaches. In 2018, Porto Ferro was labelled one of the first official nudist beaches in Sardinia. As the beach is famous, ‘nudist’ visitors may use only specific beach areas for nudists, including a 200 meter stretch of tiny coves beyond the stone tower at the end of the beach.

Porto Ferro is also well-known for its backdrop of pine forests and towering dunes that make up a truly unique ecosystem. There are ancient towers in this area that add special charm to this beach in Sardinia.

Best Beaches south Sardinia

The cities of Cagliari, Pula, Chia and Porto Pino offer some of the best beaches south Sardinia. 

Porto Pino Beach

Porto Pino beach is widely regarded as one of the best beaches in all of south Sardinia. This oasis of a beach is located at the border of Cagliari and Carbonia-Iglesias provinces, southeast of the village of Porto Pino. 

It is 4km long and is characterised by its pristine dunes and pond surroundings, where bright pink flamingos are often spotted. This beach is one of the best beaches in South Sardinia due to its unique backdrop and crystal-clear shallow waters, making it a good choice for families with children.

Porto Pino is well-equipped with many sun umbrellas, bars, bathrooms and water sport activities, including surfing and scuba diving. 

Poetto Beach

Poetto Beach is the main beach of Cagliari, the capital of Sardinia. It is one of the best beaches in south Sardinia as it is one of the longest, making for some seriously majestic and romantic beach walks. It is over 8km long and offers deep blue waters and hillside views to the South. 

Poetto is well-equipped with kiosks, beach bars, restaurants, nightclubs, water sports facilities and even a marina. It is arguably one of the the best beaches in Sardinia for kitesurfers, and it is easy to reach by access. Many kitesurfing and windsurfing championships take place at Poetto.

There are so many amazing beaches in Sardinia that we couldn’t list all of the beaches in Sardinia here, or you’d be reading for years!

See also What to see in Cagliari, Sardinia.

Cagliari Sardinia beaches
Poetto beach in Cagliari

Best hotels in Sardinia on the beach

A beach getaway wouldn’t be complete without checking out the best hotels in Sardinia on the beach. Naturally, the best beaches in Sardinia should be accompanied by the most relaxing accommodation on the island!

On a Budget: Caesar’s Hotel

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Caesar’s hotel is located only 20-minute walk from the beach. It includes free wifi throughout and is a short bus ride away from the historical centre of Cagliari.

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Holiday House rental: Villa Carina

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Villa Carina is a beautiful 3-bedroomed house in Conca Verde, Sardinia. It has a heated pool, sun terrace with ocean views, private veranda and outdoor grill, as well as a full kitchen and combined lounge and dining room. It can sleep five people in total and includes a full family bathroom and en-suite bathroom.

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Boutique Accommodation: Jatika Boutique Hotel 

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A boutique hotel set on the beach, Jatika has ultramodern, clean white finishes in each room. This 4-star hotel includes a restaurant and bar on the premises and offers free wifi for each visitor.

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Family-friendly Hotel: Chia Laguna Hotel Village 

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Aside from its natural beauty, this resort offers boutique shops, many restaurants and bars, private beaches and even a tennis club. It includes a dedicated children’s area for families with children, including a mini club, kid’s pool, and playground.

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Luxury Accommodation: Petra Segreta Resort and Spa

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This luxury accommodation offers modern wellness facilities, a heated freshwater pool and traditional Sicilian houses known as Stazzi scattered throughout the property. Each room is uniquely furnished in a classic modern country style and includes air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, a private bathroom and a private patio.

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Head to Sardinia for sun, sand and beach vibes

No matter where you choose to go, it’s totally possible to pick a few random names out of a hat and still land up at some of the top beaches in Sardinia; because there are just so many beaches to choose from on the island!

When looking at staying on the island, whether going on a budget tour or staying with family members, there are some of the best hotels in Sardinia on the beach (and in the whole of Europe) when it comes to natural beauty and epic relaxation. 

Check out some of our other posts on travel in Italy:


Best Towns in Sardinia, Italy

Sardinia is the gorgeous autonomous region of Italy located in the Mediterranean Sea. Known for its rich history and seductive beaches and stunning landscapes, it is the perfect place to enjoy all that Italy has to offer without the noise and bustle of the mainland.

Divided into eight provinces, the island’s most populous is the Cagliari Province in the southeast. Apart from the beaches and coastal views, the best thing about Sardinia is visiting the many Sardinian towns.

To make the most of your visit to Sardinia, you have to visit some of the best towns in Sardinia. We’ve covered a few of our favorite regions and towns to explore.

Best towns in Sardinia

Here are a few of the best regions and towns in Sardinia.

Bosa: Small but beautiful medieval Sardinian town

Bosa is on the northwestern coast of Sardinia, 45 km south of Alghero, down a spectacular coastal road. A mix of traditional and modern, it has a unique and compelling historic centre. There is a warren of cobbled streets with pastel coloured medieval tower houses called Sa Costa.

The main street in the old town, Corso Vittorio Emmanuele, is lined by 19th century palazzos with wrought iron balconies, and interesting shops, cafes and bars. Castello Malaspina, dating from 1112, guards Bosa at the top of the hill. The river Temo runs through Bosa and is lined with palm trees on one bank and derelict tanneries on the other, which are of historic and national significance.

Bosa has an illustrious and wealthy past, based on its position in a well-defended valley, along the only navigable river in Sardinia, and its (now defunct) leather tanning industry. There is a large cathedral and many smaller churches in the town and surrounding countryside. The feeling is relaxed and the local people are friendly and welcoming.

As it is a real working city, albeit small (8,000 inhabitants) it has an authentic, original character rather than just being an ersatz tourist village. Tourists do come to Bosa, but they tend to be people looking for culture, history, natural and architectural beauty as well as a sun and sand holiday.

There are numerous beaches nearby. The largest one is Bosa Marina, which is regularly voted cleanest beach in Italy. It is a sandy strand, fringed with bars and caffes run by locals, protected by a rocky arm with a Catalan tower at the end. There are also smaller cove beaches accessible by footpath or boat, and stunning and unusual rock formations and natural swimming pools. The sea is clear and amazing shades of blue. The prevailing northwest wind, La Mistrale, cools the air during the hottest summer months.

Just south of Bosa is a fertile valley, where Malvasia di Bosa, a sherry like wine, is produced in tiny artisan vineyards. There is a wine trail and it is possible to go on tasting tours. The sun is strong and the colours are bright — if you are visually orientated the place will amaze you. If you like music and dance, there are frequent public festivals and open air concerts.

If you have a sense of adventure, with every day bringing a new discovery, Bosa will not disappoint. It is a great place to go for a family holiday, or to relax and unwind, and get in touch with yourself. If you are looking for a place with lots of clubs and pubs full of drunken young people, this is not the place to come. There is lots to do and see in the area, but it is more chilled than frantic.

Best towns in Sardinia
Bosa, Sardinia

Costa Smeralda: Some of the worlds most beautiful beaches

Costa Smeralda is a coastal area in the north east of Sardinia, between Palau and Olbia. It is home to some of the worlds most beautiful beaches – great for sun worshippers. In order to have access to the best of the beaches you will probably need to hire a car (mopeds are not so good on the bumpy tracks down to the beaches).

Driving on the coastal roads gives great views over the yacht lined Costa Smeralda coastline. The best of the beaches are Liscia Ruia, Cappriccioli and Romazzino.

You can pick up fantastic bargains from the beach traders who sell jewellery, clothes, CDs etc. But if you want to be as stylish as the rich tourists of Costa Smeralda you may go to Porto Cervo or Porto Rotondo for expensive clothing.

You can get up close to the super yachts when they come in to Porto Cervo in the evening. For snorkeling take a trip around the archipelago Della Maddalena from Porto Palau.

Most restaurants on the Costa Smerelda are overpriced. For authentic Sardinian cuisine try the campsite restaurants where all the locals go.

It can be quite difficult finding accommodation in the Costa Smeralda as the area is mainly serviced by Italian tour operators but some local operators provide detailed accommodation information online. If you don’t have your own private yacht to stay on and can’t afford the £300 per night prices of the exclusive hotels then you might want to hire a villa through a website. Alternatively you can hire bungalows at a number of the Sardinia campsites on the coast, the best of which are Isola dei Gabbiani, situated on promontory in the sea to the west of Palau. It has a particularly good restaurant and is the place to go for windsurfing. Alternatively try Villagio Camping Cugnana, situated on the road to which has great facilities and a massive swimming pool.

Capriccioli beach in Sardinia, Italy
Capriccioli beach in Sardinia, Italy

Cala Gonone: A small fishing village prior to becoming famous among travelers

Cala Gonone is a town in Sardinia, Italy. It lies on the border of the National Park of the Bay of Orosei and Gennargentu. It was a small fishing village prior to becoming a famous tourist destination because of its beautiful beaches. All the variety of seafood is available at local restaurants.

A highlight is to take a boat tour to Cala Luna, Grotta del Bue Marino, Cala Mariolu, Cala Goloritzè. You can choose from the variety of tours offered at the local harbour. Rent a boat to explore the Bay of Orosei on your own. A boat hire is available for about 80€ for a day + gas. Also visit Gennargentu National Park and/or do some rock climbing at Cala Luna.

Gennargentu in Sardinia, Italy
Gennargentu in Sardinia, Italy

Ogliastra: A beautiful natural theatre

Ogliastra is a beautiful natural theatre that opens from the mountains of “Supramonte”, on the border with Barbargia, towards the central-eastern Sardinian coast. The name comes for “Olivastro”, the local wild olive three.

Ogliastra is known and admired for its magnificent coastal area, all surrounded by mountains and cliffs, and for some of the most untouched coast of Italy.

Its natural Mountain-Sea park includes famous spots and landmarks like the “Cale” (beach-harbours); among the most famous ones Cala Gonone, Cala Sisine, Cala Goloritze, and Cala Luna.

Another impressive natural landmark is the massive “Pedra Longa”, a natural cliff literally planted into the sea. Ogliastra is becoming a popular area for lovers of nature, wild landscapes and fabulous local food, it is the area of the island most loved by conscious tourists that like to escape from the crowded areas of the north and the south of the island.

The two major towns of the area are Lanusei and Tortoli. Together, they are the administrative capitals of the recently born “Province of Ogliastra”.

  • Lanusei is a very ancient mountain town overlooking the valley of Ogliastra.
  • Tortoli is a coastal settlement that reached the status of economical centre of Ogliastra, thanks to the proximity of Arbatax port, the main gate to the area from the sea.

Population in Ogliastra is very little, around 45000 people only, with some of the lowest densities in Italy. Dozens of minuscule villages spot the region of Ogliastra, each one with its tradition and its proud heritage. Sardinian language is widely spoken as in most of the Island. English starts to be spoken among the young people, while several elder ones can be surprisingly good in German thanks to the emigration of the 60′ and 70′.

The best towns in Sardinia feature typical Italian small town vibes – great food, beautiful sights, quaint buildings, and, of course, cobblestone streets.

Looking for more posts on Sardinia? Check these out:


What to See in Cagliari, Sardinia

Cagliari is the capital of the island of Sardinia in Italy, and has become one of the most popular destinations to visit in Sardinia.

While it’s a popular summer holiday destination, many don’t know that it’s actually an amazing destination to visit year round. No matter when you visit, among the top list of what to see in Cagliari features many outdoor spots.

And, what’s better than enjoying some fresh air? So, here are five outdoor places to visit in Cagliari, Sardinia!

What to see in Cagliari, Sardinia Italy
What to see in Cagliari, Sardinia Italy

5 Outdoor Places to Visit in Cagliari

If you happen to be in Cagliari and you forgot to buy a guide book, then here are 5 outdoor spots it’s worth seeing in the city! Here’s what to see in Cagliari in the great outdoors!

1. Poetto beach

Whether you go to Cagliari in summer or in winter, you need to go to “Su Poettu” (as we call it in Sardinian!!!). This is the main beach in Cagliari, and being about 8 km long, half of it is actually territory of Quartu S. Elena.

Along Su Poettu there are many bars, services companies and facilities, which are open throughout the year. Here locals go all year long. In winter usually during the day to have lunch, a coffee, watch football matches and have a chat with friends enjoying the sun and the beautiful view. In summer all day long; during the day to get tanned, swim and chill out, and at nigh it becomes a nightlife hot spot, with clubs, cocktail bars and restaurants.

Cagliari Sardinia beaches
Poetto beach in Cagliari

2. Bastione St. Remy

Address: Costituzione Sq.

The Bastione is an old fortification built between the end of the 19th century and the first half of the 20th century. It’s located in the old part of the city, and being pretty high you can admire from it all the city and the harbour. The view is really beautiful from here. On the first floor there is an indoor zone, where usually exhibitions are held. On the top floors there is the outdoor zone, where you can find some cafeterias, or you can just sit down on the benches, have a walk, and enjoy the view. A great place to take pictures of the city with an amazing view on the sea!

3. Yenne Sq.

Address: at the end of Largo Carlo Felice coming from Roma St.

This is one of the main squares of the city, located in the very center of the city. This spot is very busy being at the intersection of four of the main streets of the city. There are many bars, restaurants and cafeterias which put tables and chairs outside, so you can enjoy a hot chocolate or a good espresso sitting in the square itself. Although it is populated all year long, it is in summer that it becomes a nightlife hot spot, and it gets very busy with locals and tourists. Here you can sit down and observe the city, or taste one of the best ice-creams of the city!

4. Marina Piccola

Address: beginning of Lungomare Poetto

This is a small touristic harbour located at the beginning of Poetto beach on Cagliari’s side, right underneath the spectacular hill called “Sella del Diavolo”. As all the places, it gets way busier in summer, when people go there to take a walk, have a drink, and buy some local products at the many stands. I suggest to go there early in the morning and enjoy the sound of the sea and the boats.

5. Roman Theatre

Address: Sant’Ignazio da Laconi St.

Also Cagliari has its small Colosseum. This is an amazing architectural old construction in the rocks, built in the 2nd century A.D. n the past it was a place for fights, while nowadays it hosts concerts, plays and other kind of cultural events. I reccomend to attent at least one of them!

5 Must Sees in Chia, Sardinia

Located approximately 45 kilometres from the town of Cagliari, Chia is home to gorgeous white sandy beaches and blue seas.

Here are our top things to do in Chia, Sardinia.

Chia in Cagliari, Sardinia
Chia in Cagliari, Sardinia

Chia Beaches

Chia is famed for its stunning transparent waters and warm sandy beaches, ideal for sunbathing, walking the shoreline, relaxing and taking in the sights.

Located at the foot of the Chia Tower (see images), Porticciolo beach is a natural half-moon shaped beach at the Hotel Torre Chia. Also nearby are Porto Campana Beach, which is famous for its golden dunes, and the picture perfect S’Abba Durci beach. Beaches are the pride of Chia, and there are literally dozens of fantastic beaches to choose from!

Chia Tower

The Chia Tower stands proud on the cosatline of Chia, providing a unique view of the nearby beaches. This ancient stone watchtower once protected the village from pirate raids, and visiting it makes for a charming and relaxed walk on any given day.

Capo Spartivento

This second most southern point of Sardinia is home to the inimitable Faro di Capo Spartivento – a working lighthouse. On a clear day, you might be able to glimpse it from the east coast at Su Giudeu beach. Pay the lighthouse a visit for stunning 360 degree panoramic views over the blue seas of Sardinia, and don’t forget to pay the gardens a visit, too.

Golf

Whether you’re a scratch golfer or a newcomer, golfers of all stripes will revel in Chia’s offerings! These include the nearby Molas Golf Course, and the village’s own 18 hole Pitch and Putt. Some hotels like Hotel Parco Torre Chia in the area also offer exclusive deals for golfers, so don’t forget to plan ahead!

Nora

The colourful nearby town of Pula is home to the ancient archeological ruins of Nora. These remains of the ancient Roman city include ancient temples, baths and mosaics – a lovely visit for tourists and history buffs alike. Nearby is the Nora Lagoon, another gorgeous sight in near Chia that’s perfect for an afternoon stroll.