Tour Sardinia virtually with us and give yourself a taste of this paradise island. From stunning beaches to ancient villages, Sardinia has a rich tapestry to offer. Best of all, you can easily tour yourself, and we have everything you need right here to make that a reality.
First, let me talk about beaches. After all, Sardinia does have the best beaches in the Mediterranean. So, which Sardinian beach is the best one? Well, look at the photo below to see one of the finalists, and if you want to know which is the best of all, click here.
My personal choice for exploring Sardinia is by boat, and it’s an experience I highly recommend. Imagine gliding over crystal-clear waters, discovering hidden coves, and docking at charming coastal villages. Surprisingly, this adventure isn’t as expensive as one might think—much more affordable than I ever expected.
Chartering a boat allows you the freedom to explore at your own pace, reaching secluded beaches and picturesque spots that are often inaccessible by land. Sardinia’s coastline is dotted with stunning locations like the Costa Smeralda, with its glamorous resorts and pristine beaches, and the rugged beauty of the Golfo di Orosei, known for its dramatic cliffs and hidden caves.
Sailing around Sardinia also offers a unique perspective on the island’s rich history and culture. You can anchor near ancient ruins, like the Phoenician city of Nora, or visit traditional fishing villages where time seems to stand still. Plus, the local cuisine—fresh seafood, handmade pasta, and delicious wines—tastes even better when enjoyed with a view of the shimmering sea. Visit my Sardinia sailing vacation page for more.
How about a bicycle tour in Sardinia?
Exploring Sardinia by bike is an exhilarating way to experience the island's diverse landscapes, rich culture, and hidden treasures. The island offers a variety of routes suitable for all levels of cyclists, from leisurely coastal rides to challenging mountain trails.
One option sees your journey start on the stunning Costa Smeralda, where the turquoise waters and pristine beaches provide a breathtaking backdrop. The coastal roads here are relatively gentle, making them perfect for a relaxed ride. As you pedal through charming villages like Porto Cervo and Cannigione, take the time to enjoy the local cuisine, although expect high prices, the Costa Smeralda has become really expensive over the last few years.
For a more challenging adventure, head inland to the Gennargentu Mountains, where rugged terrain and winding paths await. This area is ideal for mountain biking enthusiasts looking for thrilling climbs and descents. The stunning views from the mountain peaks are well worth the effort, and you'll encounter unique flora and fauna along the way.
Cycling through the heart of Sardinia also allows you to explore its rich history and culture. Visit ancient Nuragic sites, such as Su Nuraxi in Barumini, and discover the island's unique archaeological heritage. Pass through traditional villages like Orgosolo, famous for its vibrant murals, and experience the warm hospitality of the locals.
There's a fabulous book about exploring the island by bike... while avoiding the goats. You can find out more about the bike/goats book in our Sardinia Travel Guide page, which is full of great books about Sardinia to read before you leave and while you are there.
Exploring the inland regions of Sardinia by car is a remarkable way to experience the island’s rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and timeless traditions. While the coastline may be renowned for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, the heart of Sardinia offers an equally captivating adventure, filled with rugged mountains, ancient ruins, and picturesque villages.
Start your journey in Nuoro, often considered the cultural soul of Sardinia. This city is surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Gennargentu range, the highest mountains on the island. Here, you can visit the Museo Etnografico Sardo, which showcases traditional Sardinian costumes, crafts, and folklore. From Nuoro, take a scenic drive to the village of Orgosolo, famous for its vibrant murals that I mentioned earlier, depicting scenes of Sardinian life and history.
As you continue your journey, head towards the Barbagia region, an area known for its rugged beauty and strong cultural identity. The village of Mamoiada is a must-visit, especially if you're interested in the island's unique traditions. Here, you can learn about the ancient Mamuthones and Issohadores masks used in traditional carnival celebrations. Nearby, the town of Gavoi offers stunning views of Lake Gusana and is a great spot for a leisurely picnic or a relaxing stroll.
Driving further south, the Giara di Gesturi plateau is home to the famous wild horses of Sardinia. This unique area, with its rich flora and fauna, offers an excellent opportunity for nature enthusiasts to enjoy hiking and wildlife spotting. Nearby, the Su Nuraxi archaeological site in Barumini is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and provides a fascinating glimpse into the island's ancient Nuragic civilization.
Another highlight of exploring inland Sardinia by car is the chance to experience local cuisine in its most authentic form. Stop at traditional agriturismi (farmhouses) to savor dishes like porceddu (roast suckling pig), pane carasau (traditional flatbread), and sebadas (a sweet cheese pastry). Pair your meal with a glass of Cannanau wine, one of Sardinia's finest.
When it comes to hotels, we have a real family favorite. A hotel that is right on the doorstep of Sardinia's most spectacular beaches. It is the Hotel Bue Marino in Cala Gonone. The beaches near here - view the best ones here - are too incredible for words. They are only rivalled by those of the Costa Smeralda
Another option is to rent a villa in Sardinia, make up your own tour itinerary, and explore by car. For some great accommodation options, visit our holiday homes page.
4) Not into touring Sardinia much? Would you prefer to relax in the sun at a beach resort? These are the places I personally recommend. Don't much like any of the places I recommend!? Well, then, these are some of the other good resorts and hotels in Sardinia.
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