Enjoying the Myriad Attractions of Spectacular Sardinia

Holidays to Sardinia are always going to be packed with a great combination of beautiful beaches, picture postcard scenery and visits to charming towns and villages. This Mediterranean island is blessed with very pleasant summer weather, and much of it remains untouched by the mass tourism that has invaded many other equally stunning destinations. Rich in history and with a deeply entrenched culture, this lovely island is just waiting to be discovered.

If you really want to make the most of your holidays to Sardinia, hire a car and travel around independently. This way you can see exactly what you want to in your own time.

Explore the island

Holidays to Sardinia can be spent in one place or touring the island and exploring some of its many hidden gems. Alghero, on the west coast of the island, is a delightful old town with a working port that provides the region with its main industry. Consequently it does not rely on tourists and instead offers the visitor a more authentic experience. The town boasts plenty of excellent seafood restaurants and a lovely sandy beach, perfect for children.

If beaches and coastal exploration are on your agenda, the small town of Cala Gonoe on the east of the island is a lovely place to hire kayaks and explore by water. You can paddle to some stunning secluded beaches, gaze into coastal caves and admire the diverse and interesting sea life. This is great for the more active family on holidays to Sardinia.

Alternatively, Il Lazzaretto beach is worth a visit. Jump on the bus in Alghero and in no time at all you'll be at the beach. Located in the regional park Porto Conte, this white sandy beach is bordered by a headland and is home to a tower that dates back to the 16th century. The beach boasts crystal clear waters, soft silky sand and is also very close to the Nuraghe Palmavera, which is a fascinating archeological site.

If you have your own car, take the coastal road down to Oristano where you'll enjoy pretty views and beautiful cliffs and beaches. On the way to Oristano, why not stop for lunch in the little town of Bosa, with its individually coloured buildings and quaint narrow cobbled streets? Oristano is quite different from Bosa, being a more elegant town; it has a beautiful Baroque style cathedral to explore as well. From here you can also visit Arutas Beach and the famous Roman site of Tharros, which are both close by.

For those looking for a little more sophistication, the Costa Smeralda is the resort capital of the island. Many a celebrity has visited this stunning area of coastline and the resorts have consequently gained a reputation for their class, refinement and exceptional quality.

Helen Forbes is from Essential Italy, a company specialising in Italian holiday villas, apartments and hotels. If you’re looking for the perfect villas for your holidays to Sardinia, it can be made so much easier with our help. Our handpicked villas offer distinctive Italian qualities, great comfort and convenience.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.