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Travel

Five Reasons to Visit Sardinia

Sun-bleached beaches, glistening shores and mouth-watering food: Sardinia is a holiday destination from heaven. Here are five reasons why this Italian island should be on your radar when booking your next escape.

1. It’s a beach lover’s paradise

Whether you’re a family looking for shallow waters or a couple seeking a secluded spot off the beaten track, Sardinia has a beach – or spiaggia – for everyone.

With over 1,800km of pristine coastline, you’ll be spoilt for choice on where to stay. Cala Brandinchi, nicknamed ‘Little Tahiti’, is the island’s most famous beach. Its shallow waters are perfect for swimming, while the surrounding pine trees offer plenty of shade.

Or if you’re looking for some peace and quiet, look no further than Spiaggia di Piscinas along the Costa Verde. This ribbon of golden sand is home to a vast expanse of dunes, rising up to 60m.

2. The food is divine

Sardinia’s food is enough reason to visit alone. A wealth of local culinary traditions mixed with the island’s Italian roots combine to create a delicious cuisine heavy in grilled and spit-roasted meats, and a mouth-watering array of cheeses.

You’ll find all the classic Italian favourites such as pizza and pasta on most menus, but the local specialties are well worth a try. Su Porcheddu, or roast suckling pig, is a must-try for meat-eaters while vegetarians will love Culurgiones – pasta filled with potato, pecorino cheese, garlic and mint leaves, layered with a sweet tomato sauce.

3. It’s more than a beach break

From colourful villages and rustic towns soaked in history to ancient stone buildings dating back thousands of years, Sardinia has plenty of sights and experiences to coax you away from the sand. Walk the city walls of Alghero, explore Nora’s Roman ruins or take a hiking trip into the island’s lush green mountains.

If you’re feeling adventurous, but want to stay close to your resort, you could even try some water sports. Sailing, windsurfing and scuba diving opportunities await!

4. It’s the land of luxury

Wake up to a view of the sparkling sea and while away your afternoon in designer boutiques before enjoying a dinner fit for a king: there’s a reason why Sardinia is so popular with the rich and famous.

The glistening Costa Smeralda region, stretching from Porto Cervo to Portisco, oozes style and sophistication. Pick your favourite superyacht, treat yourself to lunch in a gourmet restaurant and keep an eye out for famous faces. Sardinia’s beauty attracts celebrities from all over the globe!

5. The holiday season is long

Blessed with a warm Mediterranean climate from April to October, Sardinia is renowned for its ‘six-month summers’.

The island is at its hottest in July and August but Sardinia also enjoys a balmy climate in April, May, September and October, giving you the chance to stretch out your summer for longer. The shoulder season is a great time to visit if you’re looking for a quieter escape and slightly cooler temperatures. It’s also a prime time to buckle up your walking boots and do some exploring.