Sardinia is Italy’s second biggest island and is situated in the middle of the wonderful Mediterranean Sea. Sardinia may very well be the island in Europe that to the highest degree resembles the Caribbean islands because of its tropical vegetation, the hot climate and the clean, turquoise water. The island is an absolute paradise for everybody who loves nature and wants to go bathing with the possibility of diving among colourful fish and old Roman ship wrecks. You will find long, sandy beaches which vary with exciting rock formations shaped from the weather. 

The coastline consists of nothing but low houses in small villages, which have been constructed in our time. Today, Sardinia is still characterised by the age-old herdsman traditions and you should taste the local specialities such as homemade sausages and cheese as well as the good, strong table wine.

The landscape of Sardinia

Sardinia reveals itself at the best when it comes to the beautiful surrounding sea. But on the island, you will also find wonderful forests and small mountains. Sardinia also has some beautiful rivers. 

The most fascinating thing about Sardinia is no doubt the stunning beaches that are so beautiful that you almost fall into a swoon about it. If you would like to snorkel among the rocks, you will find some exciting places, e.g. on the west coast, which by the way has a large pink flamingo colony. 

Large cities on Sardinia: Cagliari og Alghero

Cagliari is the capital of the region and is beautifully located by the sea. The city has many different levels and has well-preserved areas. Cagliari does not posses many large monuments like many other Italian cities, but it still has its charm because of its location. You may, for example, enjoy a walk along the harbour promenade.

Alghero on the north-western coast is characterised by the former Catalan dominance in the area. Alghero is also a charming city, especially from the different view points over the sea. 

Tourist attractions in Sardinia

If you are interested in culinary experiences, the fish market in Cagliary is a very interesting place to visit; you will find an exciting selection of fish from the Mediterranean Sea.

Sports activities in Sardinia

The divers love Sardinia, which is a divers’ paradise. You will find mysterious caves, red corals and exotic fish.

If you like trekking, there are a lot of possibilities for exploring the mountainous centre of the island. 

Sardinia is also popular among yachters. You can watch the crowds of VIPs in their impressive yachts by the Emerald Coast in the north-eastern corner of the island while you will find a lot of space in the harbours on the rest of the island.

Most golf courses are located in the south-eastern corner of the island.

The beaches of Sardinia may very well be compared to the Caribbean beaches, e.g., go to the “La Pelosa” beach in Stintino in the north-western corner of the island and enjoy a relaxing day with your family

Gastronomic characteristics of Sardinia

The rural cuisine of Sardinia was and still is partly characterised by the herd culture that was very wide-spread on the island. But no mistakes, a lot is happening on Sardinia when it comes to the culinary area.

The lobsters from Alghero are exquisite and famous for their succulent meat. The moray is also a very tasty fish, which, if you are lucky, may be found on the menu on the restaurants in Alghero. People on Sardinia also like cuttlefish and clams.

Nevertheless, Sardinia is mostly known for its meats. Suckling pigs are among the favourites and are very tasty. Wild boar and lamb are also frequent ingredients in the dishes.

Vermentino di Gallura is a white wine made from the green vermentino grape, which is a common grape on Sardinia. The native blue grapes of Sardinia are called Cannonau, and these grapes typically create strong wines. Gradually, you will find more excellent producers who produce world-class wines. Two very fine Sardinian vineyards are Argiolas and Dettòri

The climate of Sardinia

Sardinia is very sunny and the temperatures can reach between 27 and 31 degrees in the months from May to September. And it is almost certain that not much rain will fall from May to September.

Some of the photos are kindly lent out from the Italian Tourist Office. Photographers: Vito Arcomano - Fototeca ENIT, Foto ESIT