Sardinia

In recent years, the once wild and almost deserted north east coast, home to a few fishermen and shepherds, has been transformed into one of the most desirable holiday destinations in the Mediterranean. For the well‐heeled sailing fraternity and jet‐set, the Costa Smeralda has blossomed into an enchanting playground. Encouraged by its success, other resorts from Santa Teresa to San Teodoro with Palau, Cannigione and Golfo Aranci in between have developed along the beautiful rugged coastline enhanced by a profusion of Mediterranean macchia among some astonishing rock formations. The translucent, unpolluted waters sparkle turquoise and away from the Costa Smeralda itself these less expensive but equally beautiful places have a friendly and more relaxed atmosphere.

‘The Emerald Coast’, a name inspired by the striking colour of the sea, nestles in the north east corner of the island. It was designed and developed by the Aga Khan in the 1960’s, to “preserve and protect this earthly paradise”. With Porto Cervo at its centre, the Costa Smeralda coastline stretches for 55km, with a harmonisation between Mediterranean architecture, natural landscape and seascape encompassing more than 80 beautiful bays, coves and sandy beaches including Baia Sardinia, Liscia di Vacca, Grande Pevero, Cala di Volpe, Capriccioli and Romazzino.

Sardinia’s north west coast features some beautiful seaside resorts interspersed with some really spectacular coastline and dramatic countryside. Travel along the coast to visit some of the island’s most picturesque beaches and inland to its lakes, forests, archaeological sites, Nuraghi and vineyards. This area has a rare mixture of natural beauty spots and historical sites.

Central Sardinia features rugged cliffs, tiny coves with clear blue sea and picturesque harbours on the eastern coast and a mountainous interior with far reaching views from the Gennargentu peaks. There are lakes, waterfalls, gorges, fascinating geology and the native flora and fauna to discover. Barumini has the UNESCO Su Nuraxi archaeological site and the Giara di Gesturi nearby has Nuraghi to discover along with herds of semi‐wild ponies. Some of Sardinia’s wildest beaches can be found south of Oristano on the west coast.

The south of Sardinia boasts a relatively unspoilt coastline with spectacular beaches and Caribbean‐like turquoise sea. There are scenic drives along the south east coast with alternating sheer cliffs and long stretches of sandy beaches, Roman ruins and impressive sand dunes on the south west coast. Cagliari situated centrally on the south coast is the islands capital, steeped in history and offering an array of shops and restaurants.