Land of unspoiled nature, crystal water and ancient culture, Sardinia is an island that enchants all its visitors thanks to its many qualities. Besides being a very charming region of Italy, Sardinia offers a great variety of landscapes, which can be suitable for different types of visitors: those who love the sea, sports, nature, history, etc. To help you plan your trip, here is a brief guide of the 10 most beautiful places to see in Sardinia:
1. Cala Mariolu.
The word “cala” in Italian means “little bay”, so be ready to visit one of the most enchanting beaches you have ever seen. Cala Mariolu, which is located in the Gulf of Orosei in the eastern side of the island, is characterized by little white pebbles that make the shore shine during the day. The easiest way to reach the bay is by sea, but for the most adventurous there is also a little path by land.
2. Village of Tiscali.
The second place most loved by Sardinians is not a beach, but a little ancient village: Tiscali. The village is named after Mount Tiscali, and was entirely built along the walls of the sinkhole. It is not visible until you reach the inside part of the cavity, through a wide open in the rock face. From here you will find a breathtaking view of Lainattu Valley.
3. Cala Goloritzé.
A little bay south of Gulf of Orosei is Cala Goloritzé, born from a landslide in 1962 which became famous for its high pinnacle of 143 meters above that overlooks the cove. It was declared “Natural Monument” of the Region of Sardinia in 1993, and then named “Italian National Monument” in 1995.
4. Archipelago of La Maddalena National Park.
This stunning archipelago facing Costa Smeralda includes the islands of Caprera, Santo Stefano, Spargi, Budelli, Santa Maria e Razzoli and has been classified as a natural reserve. The Archipelago is much loved by yacht owners for its natural beauty and emerald water.
5. Chia.
On the Southwest side of Sardinia, where the crystal water encounters rock clefts and pink flamingos, you will find the bay of Chia. This bay is located in the Angels Gulf and it is characterized by sand dunes and beautiful shores. Two of the most beautiful beaches are Su Giudeu and Cala Cipolla.
6. Su Gorropu.
According to locals, this place holds the free and wild soul of the island. If you find yourself in Sardinia, you must absolutely visit the Su Gorropu canyon. It is located among the villages of Orgosolo and Urzulei and with its over 500 meters of height and 4 meters width it is considered one of the deepest canyons in Europe. It can be reached in a 3 hour walk via the Sedda ar Baccas path.
7. Stintino.
Stintino is one of the most well known places in Sardinia. Located in the province of Sassari (northern side of the island), the long white beaches are the pride of this little hamlet born originally to host 45 families who were forced to leave Asinara Island. The most known attraction of Stintino is Pelosa beach, made of fine white sand and turquoise water. The symbol of this magical place is the Aragonese tower, built in 1578 and then called Torre della Pelosa.
8. Costa Smeralda.
Costa Smeralda has become synonymous with the jet set and V.I.P parties, which is why locals do not spend much time here. But the beauty of this place is undeniable, so it deserves at least a mention in this list. The north eastern part of the island is characterized by numerous coves, little bays and islands.
9. Bosa coastal road.
If you rent a car, I suggest you drive on this incredible road that will allow you to have a splendid view on the seaside. Here the landscape is very varied: cliffs that plunge into the sea, unspoiled nature. This is the wildest landscape in Sardinia!
10. Barbagia.
This is the very heart of Sardinia. You won’t find a beach and crystal water here. Barbagia is a vast mountainous area on the sides of Gennargentu mount, particularly fascinating on autumn thanks to the incredible colours of leaves.
Getting to Sardinia is easy – there are many ferries to Sardinia that connect many Italian regions to this beautiful island. So no more excuses, just book a trip to Italy and make your way to Sardinia.
If you are looking for more beautiful places, here are some more reasons to visit Italy.
For more places to visit in this part of Tuscany, check out this post about the Etruscan Coast from Learning Escapes.
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