Image : Medieval town of Castelsardo
Our exploration of Mediterranean islands continues in 2018 with fascinating Sardinia – the second biggest island after Sicily – whose distinguished history stretches back to prehistory. It combines an attractive variety of historic sites; glorious coastal mountain landscapes and picturesque coastal and inland towns and villages. And needless to say – wonderful food and wine. We have decided to focus on the north of the island as Sardinia is far too big to ‘do’ in one visit.
In the north, we find all the elements that make the island special; outstanding coastal scenery – particularly on the Costa Smeralda and in the National Park of La Maddalena – attractive and atmospheric towns and villages and extraordinary examples of the prehistoric sites that are unique to Sardinia.
DAYS 1, 2 & 3 : We fly directly into Olbia, the principal airport of the north of the island, and drive up the coast to our home for the first three nights – the Vecchia Fonte in the charming coastal village of Palau. Palau is a perfect base for exploring the attractions of northeast Sardinia, including the spectacular coastline which forms part of the National Park of La Maddalena. where we will take the boat from Palau and tour many of the islands, on one of which is the famous Garibaldi Museum in the house where the legendary freedom-fighter spent the last years of his life. We will also visit the outstanding prehistoric burial sites and mysterious towers of the Nuraghi at Arzachena.
DAYS 4, 5 & 6 : The second half of the Tour will be spent in Alghero. En route we drive along the northern coast, stopping briefly in the picturesque village of Castelsardo and on to the great historic city of Sassari, whose heritage perfectly encapsulates the rich and varied history of Sardinia itself. We will explore the Roman remains and the medieval centre with its impressive walls; the cathedral and the abundance of splendid Renaissance palaces. We will visit the mysterious prehistoric site of Monte Accoddi, (the only site in Europe to boast a dolmen, a menhir and a ziggurat!). In Alghero, we sleep in the Hotel San Francesco, the only hotel in the historic centre. It is wonderfully located in the cloisters of a monastery; it is simple (as one would expect) but atmospheric and perfect for enjoying the medieval centre of this brilliant city. Alghero is possibly the most interesting town in Sardinia, its medieval centre created by the Catalans when Sardinia was part of the Crown of Aragón. The Cathedral – among other churches – and the aristocratic mansions are part of Sardinia’s Spanish heritage. Indeed, Catalán is still an official language of the city!
On Day 6 we drive down to the lovely town of Bosa- another gem. The pastel colours of its houses create a townscape reminiscent of the paintings of Paul Klee. Stunning landscapes and further prehistoric sites remain constant on our tour of this fascinating and beautiful island.
DAY 7 : On our last day we travel across to Olbia for our return flight.
