Top 10 things to do in Sardinia (in 7 days) 23/05/2021 – Posted in: Discover Sardinia – Tags: Alghero, Asinara Island, Cagliari, Emerald Coast, Gulf of Orosei, Neptune grotto, Nuragic Civilization, Supramonte, Top things to do in Sardinia

Embarking on a northern journey from Cagliari, a drive of approximately an hour leads to Sardinia’s foremost Nuragic archaeological site: “Su Nuraxi” in Barumini. Exclusive to Sardinia, the Nuragic Civilization flourished during the Bronze Age, spanning from 1800 B.C to the Roman colonization of 200 B.C. Its hallmark is the Nuraghe, an iconic cone-shaped construction crafted from sizable local stones, representing the island’s distinctive architectural legacy. With over 7000 sites scattered across the island, Su Nuraxi stands out as the largest and most impeccably preserved.

Should your travels take you further north, another significant Nuragic site awaits exploration: “Santu Antine” in Torralba, ranking as the second most important. The Nuragic Civilization’s unique structures offer a captivating glimpse into Sardinia’s ancient history, providing a compelling reason to delve into the island’s archaeological treasures.

Many inquire about the quintessential Sardinian dish to savor, and my response is clear: for an authentic taste of the island’s diverse culinary offerings, consider reserving a dinner experience at an Agriturismo. While this typically involves an “eat and sleep” arrangement, many opt solely for dinner, although an overnight stay might prove tempting on occasion. At an Agriturismo, there’s no traditional menu; instead, customers are treated to an abundance of locally sourced food and wine. The fundamental principle is a commitment to serving only homemade products from the surrounding region.

As Sardinia’s culinary traditions vary across its diverse landscapes, spanning the North, South, East, and West, your palate will encounter a spectrum of distinct flavors based on your location. It’s crucial to choose wisely, as not all Agriturismos embody authenticity. Opt for establishments that stay true to the essence of Sardinian gastronomy, ensuring a genuine and memorable dining experience.

When exploring the central region, a must-visit destination is Cala Gonone. Consider embarking on a small cruise or reserving a private tour in the Gulf of Orosei, an undisputed hidden gem of the island. This area boasts crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and breathtaking rock formations. To make the most of this experience, you can opt for a hop-on-hop-off tour available directly at the harbor of Cala Gonone, or indulge in a private or shared guided tour aboard a rib boat.

The Gulf of Orosei is adorned with iconic beaches, each with its unique charm. Among the standout options are Cala Luna, Cala Mariolu, Cala Goloritze, and Cala Sisine.

6) Go Trekking in Supramonte and have a meal at the shepherd’s hut

If the weather is mild, consider immersing yourself in the mountainous expanse of the Supramonte by booking a trekking tour. Spanning 35 thousand hectares, this area encompasses canyons, peaks, plateaus, caves, and sinkholes, constituting yet another gem in Sardinia’s diverse offerings. Historically, this national park served as a transhumance route for shepherds guiding their cattle between summer and winter pastures.

A trekking tour provides a unique opportunity to delve into the authentic Sardinian experience, with the option to include lunch at a genuine shepherd’s hut. One reputable company covering the vast Supramonte region is Jebel Sardinia. They offer an array of tours catering to different difficulty levels, ensuring a memorable and immersive exploration of this captivating natural landscape.

On the west coast of Sardinia lies the enchanting small city of Bosa, nestled at the mouth of the island’s sole navigable river. Boasting a picturesque landscape, Bosa is a vibrant and colorful town crowned by a hilltop castle. The journey from Bosa to Alghero along the coastline road is hailed as one of the most scenic drives in the world, offering breathtaking views. Take your time on this route, as you’ll find numerous opportunities to pause and capture the scenic beauty through your lens.

Upon reaching your destination, make sure to explore the Catalan city of Sardinia, Alghero. Steeped in history, Alghero invites you to wander its charming streets and soak in its unique cultural atmosphere. For those navigating the island by car, here’s a valuable tip to enhance your experience.

Approximately 40 minutes from Alghero, you’ll find yourself at Capo Caccia, a lofty promontory with commanding views of the sea. Nestled just beneath this promontory is the renowned Neptune’s Grotto, one of Italy’s largest marine caves, dating back around 2 million years and extending 4 kilometers deep. Within this captivating subterranean realm lies a pristine beach, a sizable lake, and numerous chambers awaiting exploration.

Accessing the grotto is possible either by boat from Alghero Port or by ascending the 654 steps from Capo Caccia. Whichever route you choose, the Neptune’s Grotto promises a unique and mesmerizing encounter with the geological wonders that have evolved over millennia.

While Alcatraz is widely recognized as the iconic maximum-security prison island near San Francisco Bay, fewer are familiar with the equally formidable high-security prison on the island of Asinara. Once deemed the destination for mafia members or terrorists, Asinara’s history is as diverse as it is fascinating.

Originally inhabited by a community of shepherds and fishermen in the 1600s, Asinara later served as a summer residence for the Savoia royals during Italy’s monarchy. It evolved into a quarantine station for maritime travelers before transforming into a prison camp for Austro-Hungarian soldiers during World War II. Subsequently, it became a high-security prison.

In the present day, Asinara has morphed into a National Park, its territory protected and open to guided tours that unveil its multifaceted history. Visitors can explore the prison cells, the historic lighthouse, pristine beaches, and poignant memorials, gaining insight into the island’s remarkable journey through time.

Visiting the Archipelago stands out as one of the most enjoyable experiences in Sardinia. The La Maddalena Archipelago, designated as a National Park, comprises a collection of smaller uninhabited islands in close proximity to each other. The water’s breathtaking hues and the mesmerizing shapes of the rock formations make for an unforgettable spectacle.

Beyond their natural beauty, these islands hold a rich list of historical events involving notable figures such as Napoleone, Lord Nelson, Garibaldi, Mussolini, and more. Exploring this historical backdrop adds an extra layer of fascination to the already stunning surroundings. To embark on this journey, consider booking a private or shared guided tour, ensuring an immersive and informative exploration of the La Maddalena Archipelago.

Capo Testa, situated at the northernmost tip of Sardinia, shares a view of the Strait of Bonifacio, with its summit adorned by an aged lighthouse. The landscape is framed with an array of granite boulders, each bearing unique shapes and formations. Oriented toward the West, providing an unobstructed horizon, the cape has become a favored spot for those seeking the enchantment of a sunset.

On calm, clear days, this experience transforms into a truly romantic spectacle. Consider bringing along a bottle of wine or a beer to enhance the ambiance, and share this moment with your significant other, best friend, or family. The memories forged during such a serene sunset at Capo Testa are bound to leave an indelible mark, creating a cherished and unforgettable experience.