Guide of Sardinia

Sardinia is an island located to the west of the Italian coast and south of Corsica. It is part of Italy and characterized by a varied landscape, from the mountains of the interior to the splendid coastline which has both rocky and sandy beaches. The nature, mild climate, crystal clear sea and picture postcard landscape have made Sardinia a popular holiday destinations. The island has been undergoing a  process of diversification to reduce economic seasonality in recent years. This process has opened up the interiore to visitors who are now venturing inland for culture, art, archaeology, horse riding, hiking, bird watching, kayaking and free climbing. 

History 

Sardinia historically has always been of interest to sailors in the Mediterranean in search of new commercial outlets. For this reason the island has been influenced by many colonial powers. This history goes as far back as the Greeks and the Phoenicians. The natural landscape contains mountains, forests, lakes, lagoons and streams. Some of the most important stretches of the coastline and in inland have been designated as nature reserves. This natural heritage is integrated with history and culture, which can be seen in the many archaeological sites around the island. According to archaeologists the first settlements in Sardinia date back to 450,000-150,000 BC. Numerous archaeological findings have been preserved in the museums on the island and show evidence for the social and cultural progress achieved by prehistoric populations in Sardinia. There are remains from the Nuragic and Phoenician civilizations, the Carthaginians and the Romans.

Places to visit

Do not miss a visit to The Giants of Mont'e Prama, which are ancient stone sculptures created by the Nuragic civilization. This site is a sacred and mysterious place that is interesting for the whole family. There are also the standing stones, or menhirs in Laconi, ancient stone buildings, or dolmens, giant tombs, sacred wells and Nuraghic complexes to explore. Other areas to visit include the Valle dei Nuraghi, ​​Pranu Muttedu and Janas in Barbagia.  The major cities to visit are Cagliari, particularly the Castle of San Michele and its Cathedral. Also Sassari has a beautiful and historic center full of Baroque buildings. Then near Alghero the Grotte di Nettuno is worth visiting for its excellent stalactites and stalagmites.

Beaches

On the north east coast, near Santa Teresa di Gallura Cala Spinosa in Capo Testa there is wonderful emerald green to cobalt blue waters. Also, take a dip in Tuerredda beach on the south west coast where you will find a magnificent expanse of white sand and what looks like tropical water. North of Arbatax there is a wonderful cove named Cala Goloritz which is reachable by land or by sea, it has thirty meter-deep crystal clear water.