Must-see Breathtaking Attractions in Sardinia

As the second largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, Sardinia has a lot to offer visitors - from stunning natural beauty and scenic beaches, to gorgeous Italian villas, ruins of Greek temples, Gothic style churches, and much more. Whether you are a first-time traveller or a returning visitor, these following attractions should not be missed.

Neptune's Grotto

Visit the Grotta di Nettuno (or Neptune's Grotto) for an experience quite different from the usual tourist holiday attraction. It is located far from the buzz of any city, far from the splendour of huge historical cathedrals and Italian villas, but this fact only amplifies its charm. Neptune's Grotto, named after the Roman god of the sea, is a beautiful stalactite cave in Alghero. Entering the cave is like going into an entirely different world - with the only way to get there via a steep stairway carved into the side of a cliff. Guided tours are organized only if the waters are calm, but if you're lucky enough to get on to a tour it guarantees you a fantastic experience. You'll explore the passages of stalagmite and stalactite formations, and you can marvel at them in all their lit-up glory – it's a truly magical experience.

Tavolara Island

Tavolara is very secluded island off the northeast coast of Sardinia. There is a nearby fishing village and some other small islands, but in essence it is an isolated spot – and that is its appeal to many. Only half the island is accessible to the public, while the other half is closed off for military purposes. If you're staying in any of the Italian villas within access of the island, it makes for an interesting day trip - especially for scuba divers. The beach surrounding the island is a well-known diving spot, and the lovely cove is a great place to relax. Just a few families inhabit Tavolara Island, which means it is a wonderful spot for tourists who want to get away from the heaving crowds.

Public Parks and Gardens in Cagliari

Most cities in Sardinia are characterised by cathedrals, museums, and plenty of lovely Italian villas to rent - but these are not the only eye-catching attractions. More than 6,000 hectares of the island is environmentally protected, with its capital Cagliari considered one of the greenest cities in Italy. There is no shortage of stunning national and regional parks to visit, along with lovely public gardens where tourists can discover the many different types of flora and fauna. In Cagliari you can visit the Monte Urpinu Park, an amazing wooded park with a panoramic view of the city. The best thing about these public parks is that they are absolutely free, so everyone can enjoy their magnificent natural beauty.

Jonathan Magoni is Senior Manager of Cottages to Castles, a family owned company specialising in high quality holiday villas, apartments and cottages in Italy. For spectacular Italian villas in Tuscany, Sicily, the Italian lakes, ski resorts or city centres, we offer only the very best. Discover Italy at your own pace and without time restrictions in our hand picked villas and cottages.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.