Utterly singular, with incredible local traditions, and truly spectacular landscapes, Sardinia offers vacations in Italy but not as you imagine them. The second largest island in the Mediterranean Sea and an extremely popular tourist destination, it is one of those places that you will likely have heard about plenty if you haven’t been yourself already. However, don’t come expecting the culture of mainland Italy but, rather, a distinct culinary scene, history, language, and more. Those who book a villa in Sardinia will come to find that there is nowhere else quite like it…
The coastline, with its pristine beaches and endless outdoor pursuits is, certainly, a major attraction of Sardinia as a tourist destination. Undeniably, this is a gorgeous part of the world with much to offer visitors. However, those looking to avoid tourist crowds and to find something a little more untouched should simply head inland where there are a wealth of other things to see and do and many adventures await those who book a holiday rental in Sardinia.
In the centre of the island, to the south, you’ll find the Giara di Gesturi, or Giara Plateau, for example. This steep plateau is a protected area included in the Regional Plan of Parks and Nature Reserves and has parklands that can be explored. However, most famously, this land is home to the charming wild Giara horses.
Central Sardinia is also home to the archaeological site of Su Nuraxi, one of the most famous of the nuraghi, the mysterious ancient cone-shaped dry-stone ruins dotted about the island. Head a bit further north east and you’ll discover Orgosolo, famous for the over 150 murals painted on buildings all across town.
Hiking and cycling routes, plenty of other charming towns, craggy peaks, ancient churches and towers, and much more besides, the heart of Sardinia is very much alive and waiting to be explored.
Of course, none of this is to say that you shouldn’t explore Sardinia’s celebrated coastline! We recommend both. Just be prepared for lots of fellow travellers during the peak summer months and also be prepared for the heat if you’re going to be spending long days in the beach – it gets very, very hot!
Swimming, tanning, diving, snorkelling, surfing, sailing, and other water-based sports and activities are all a must while along the coast but there are also a bunch of Sardinia-specific seaside pursuits to enjoy as well: seeing the famous Grotta di Nettuno with its intricate underground network of caves, rock formations, and lakes; hiking the Cammino di Santa Barbara along the cliff while taking in coastal views; exploring the ancient streets of the ruins of the settlement of Tharros; and taking the ferry from Stintino or Porto Torres to the National Park Island of Asinara to meet its own wild horses and as well as wild donkeys and goats.
Among the endless list of excellent beaches to visit on the island, those around Villasimius, in the south, are particularly famous, as well as those along the luxurious Costa Smeralda, though you’ll find stunning examples all over Sardinia.
Without having any particular attractions or activities in mind, if you simply want to go and wander one of the many gorgeous towns or cities during your stay in one of our vacation rentals in Sardinia, we recommend the Gothic historic centre and beautiful bay of Alghero, the pretty seaside town of Bosa with her colourful buildings and majestic castle, and the capital of Cagliari with its astounding architectural gems and tourist attractions.
These are merely scratching the surface of the list of lovely towns to visit but no matter where you go, be sure to also sample the Sardinian cuisine and local specialities, which are totally unique to the island and quite distinct from Italian traditional dishes.
With so much to see, do, eat, and experience, a holiday rental in Sardinia and a heart open to adventure is all you need for a perfect vacation on this utterly remarkable island.
