Discovering the Costa Smeralda and Its Surroundings

If you're looking for a different part of Italy to explore, why not consider Sardinia? Holidays to this gorgeous Italian island have much to offer the discerning traveller. For those wanting to stay in an area famous for its beaches but complemented with a little action too, head to the Costa Smeralda in the north of Sardinia. Holidays spent here could see you rubbing shoulders with the rich and famous, and this area has more than its fair share of glitz and glamour.

In and Around the Costa Smeralda

When you think of the north coast of Sardinia, holidays spent lazing on the beach come to mind - and that is definitely the name of the game in this region. Along the coast there are some of the best beaches on the island, and arguably some of the best beaches in Europe. Some of the most beautiful include Liscia Ruia, Cappriccioli and Piccolo Pevero, but the most famous is La Cinta. This beach has a thin strip of white sand that separates the sea and a gorgeous lagoon, which is home to hundreds of migrating birds - including the pink flamingo. You can head out on organised tours to see the wildlife and trips like this make a nice excursion, especially if you have children.

Close to the Costa Smeralda is the city of Olbia, and although it is lacking in major tourist attractions there are a few places of note worth visiting. Thee include the new and rather flashy archeological museum and the church of San Simplicio. Around the city, though, there is plenty more to discover. Twenty miles north of Olbia is an interesting cluster of prehistoric remains situated just outside the inland centre of Arzachena. Here you can explore tombs, monuments, and the island's famous Nuraghi, the striking ancient towers found dotted around the landscape.

Still in the north of the island but over to the west, Alghero is a beautiful historic town to visit. The medieval churches, winding streets and busy squares hum with local life and offer a completely different experience of Sardinia. Holidays based on the Costa Smeralda mean that a day trip to Alghero is entirely possible and it is easy to spend a day walking the town’s walls, admiring the sea views and enjoying a little Sardinian al fresco dining.

The Grotta di Nettuno is one of the city’s biggest attractions and these magnificent marine caves that dot the cliffs boast an incredible display of rock formations. It is a lovely idea to take a boat ride out from Alghero to see the caves from the sea in all their glory.

If you want to combine a little history and culture with plenty of beach fun, spend the bulk of your time in the north of this wonderful Italian island. If you hire a car, you'll have the flexibility to come and go as you please and explore at your leisure.

Helen Forbes is from Essential Italy, a company specialising in Italian holiday villas, apartments and hotels. If you’re looking for the perfect villas in Sardinia, holidays 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.