Elements of the Perfect Sardinian Honeymoon

How does over a thousand miles of unspoiled, pristine beaches sound for a honeymoon idea? Well, that's what you will find in Sardinia! Honeymoons come in all shapes and sizes, but the experience should always be judged by the quality of the destination and what it can offer. Although not really a mainstream destination among love-struck couples or newly-weds, it doesn’t take much imagination to understand this gorgeous Italian island’s charms - especially from the perspective of the following points.

Picture-perfect Coasts

The island’s coastal areas—its endless miles of fantastic beaches—truly must be seen to be believed. For the romantic in everyone, on Sardinia, honeymoons are enacted under the gaze of Mother Nature—wherever you go, stunning beauty greets you. From the Costa Smeralda to the Maddalena Islands, and from the yellow sands of Piscinas Beach to the snorkelling haven of La Pelosa and the surfers’ beach Santa Margherita di Pula, there’s always something to enjoy in the great outdoors. In Capo Carbonara in the southeast, for example, you will be treated to the wonderful sight of flamingos perching on a sandbar, while nearby, dolphins play. For those who want to get serious about water sports, you can hire professionals to help you engage in such activities as diving or snorkelling.

A Learning Experience

In Sardinia, honeymoons may not only be fun, but also serve as a learning experience as far as culture and art are concerned. For example, a visit to the island’s capital of Cagliari puts in the perfect vantage to explore its various neighbourhoods, each with its own distinct character. The hilltop neighbourhood of Castello rewards you with a palpable experience of its still-heavily medieval ambiance—you'll feel as though you’ve gone back in time. You will also find a modern complex of museums, called Cittadella dei Musei. This cluster of art galleries and museums contain so many important artefacts from history your head will spin—in the most positive sense, of course! From the Museo Archeologico, to the quirky Museo d’Arte Siamese, to the bizarre Mostra di Cere Anatomiche, this is a history lesson you won’t soon forget.

A Gastronomic Excursion

Of course, a romantic holiday with the love of your life would not be complete without thrilling the senses of your palate. For those who come to Sardinia, honeymoons may prove a time to throw dietary caution to the wind! There is so much to savour in the island's delicious cuisine, derived straight from its native bounties. The island is dominated by olive groves, so it's no wonder olives and olive oil play a major part in Sardinian cuisine. Wonderful seafood caught from the surrounding waters—from lobster, to tuna, to swordfish—rubs proverbial elbows with the gamey wild boar, berries, fruits, spices and breads. The paper-thin Carasau, for example, is a must-try, especially with its regular partner, the Coccoi bread. The island’s local wines and liqueurs are also excellent, greatly enhancing any celebration, from the grandiose to the low-key romantic meal.

Helen Forbes is from Essential Italy, a company specialising in Italian holiday villas, apartments and hotels. If you’re looking for the perfect romantic holiday in Sardinia, honeymoons are well catered for. For idyllic honeymoons in Sardinia our accommodation offers distinctive Italian qualities, great comfort and convenience.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.