Day 0 – Off To Sardinia
Distance Traveled: 448km, 5h 9min (without the ferry)
Accommodation: Overnight Ferry, Genua – Olbia
Namphen and I were ready for our epic adventure to Sardinia, and we kicked things off with a road trip from Bern, Switzerland to Genua, Italy. Six hours in the car might sound like a drag, but it was actually pretty awesome. We sang our hearts out to cheesy tunes, snacked on chips and candy (don’t judge us), and marveled at the gorgeous scenery whizzing by.
When we finally arrived at the ferry station, we realized that our car was both a blessing and a curse. Sure, we loved the idea of cruising around Sardinia on our own schedule, but it was a logistical nightmare getting our ride onto the ferry. We had to be at the port two hours before departure, which meant we had plenty of time to stress out about whether or not we’d get our car onboard (spoiler alert: we did, but barely).
As we set sail into the night, we felt like pirates on a high seas adventure (minus the eye patches and peg legs). The gentle rocking of the boat made us feel like we were being rocked to sleep in a giant cradle, and we snuggled up and dozed off in no time.
When we woke up, we were in Sardinia – land of stunning beaches, mouth-watering food, and more gelato than you can shake a spoon at. We were so excited to explore every inch of this amazing island, and we knew that the memories we made together would be worth all the stress and planning that got us here.
Accommodation
We booked our ferry through directferries.com. We slept in the Suite Cabine, which was perfectly fine for both of us as we stayed out on the deck for a long time, enjoying the sea at night and playing UNO. The Ferry took 11 hours through the night.
Day 1 – Olbia To La Maddalena
Our highlights: The accommodation B&B Sa Bèrtula and the crystal clear blue water
Distance Traveled: 48,4km, 1h 30min
Accommodation: B&B Sa Bèrtula
Day one of our Sardinian adventure was jam-packed with excitement, from our journey from Olbia to Maddalena to our stay at the charming B&B Sa Bèrtula.
As we made our way to Maddalena, we couldn’t resist the allure of the crystal-clear blue water that surrounded us. We just had to take a swim! We splashed around like happy seals, marveling at the stunning beauty of the sea.
After working up an appetite, we made our way to a local restaurant for lunch. Little did we know that in Italy, lunchtime is sacred, and it’s not customary to eat before 12:30 pm. We acted like typical tourists and ordered our food earlier, which left the restaurant staff a bit confused. But we were so hungry, we didn’t care! The food was delicious, and we savored every bite.
Pro tip: if you’re traveling to Italy, make sure to stick to their meal times! Lunch is typically eaten from 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm, and dinner is usually served from 7:30 pm onwards.
After our meal, we headed to our cozy accommodation at B&B Sa Bèrtula. The hosts were incredibly friendly, and we felt right at home from the moment we arrived. We rested up and recharged our batteries, excited for the adventures that awaited us in the coming days.
Overall, our first day in Sardinia was an amazing start to our trip. From swimming in the crystal-clear water to acting like silly tourists at lunch, we were having the time of our lives. We couldn’t wait to see what the rest of the trip had in store for us!
Accommodation
B&B Sa Bèrtula was a charming and cozy spot that felt like a home away from home. The friendly hosts and comfortable accommodations made for a delightful stay in Maddalena.
Where to stay in La Maddalena
- Cottage Vacanze La Maddalena is an air-conditioned villa in La Maddalena with a garden, private parking, and free WiFi. It has 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, a fully equipped kitchen, and is located near several beaches.
- Hotel Miralonga is situated on the south coast of La Maddalena Island, featuring an outdoor pool, free Wi-Fi, and an on-site restaurant. Each air-conditioned room has modern furnishings, an LCD TV, minibar, and some offer Mediterranean Sea views.
- Hotel Villa Del Parco, located on the island of Maddalena, offers cozy country-style rooms and suites, each with free Wi-Fi, a kitchenette, and a furnished terrace. The hotel also arranges boat trips to Corsica and around the island of Maddalena, and shuttles to the beach, Olbia Airport, or harbor, making it an excellent choice for couples looking to explore the beautiful North Coast of Sardinia.
Day 2 – La Maddalena
Our highlights: Capocchia d’u Purpu beach
Accommodation: B&B Sa Bèrtula
On the second day of our Sardinian adventure, we were determined to take in all the island’s beauty and truly soak up the experience. We spent the day exploring Caprera’s stunning beaches and were in complete awe of the natural wonders we encountered.
At Capocchia d’u Purpu beach, we basked in the glorious sunshine and couldn’t resist taking a dip in the crystal-clear water. As we moved onto Cala Napoletana, we were left speechless by its breathtaking rock formations and the turquoise water that stretched out before us. We saved the best for last at Spiaggia Monti d’Arena, where we were able to unwind and take in the stunning views.
After a full day of sun, sea, and sand, we were eager to satiate our appetites with some delicious food. We headed to a charming restaurant at the port, where we indulged in some of the most delectable seafood we’ve ever tasted. The friendly staff and the cozy atmosphere made for the perfect ending to our day of exploration.
In the evening, we took a leisurely drive around the island, stopping at various little beaches and coves along the way. Every stop was more picturesque than the last, and we felt like we were living in a dreamland. As we settled in for the night, we couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such a fantastic day in Sardinia.
Day 3 – La Maddalena To Porto Torres
Our highlights: Castelsardo, Spiaggia La Pelosa
Distance Traveled: 191km, 3h 50min
Accommodation: Hotel Balai, Porto Torres
On our third day in Sardinia, we were treated to the breathtaking beauty of Spiaggia di Cala Spinosa. This stunning beach was surrounded by majestic cliffs that created a natural oasis, and the water was so clear that we could see straight to the bottom.
We spent hours lounging on the warm sand, basking in the glorious sunshine, and taking invigorating dips in the cool turquoise sea. It was a true delight for the senses, and we felt deeply grateful for the chance to experience such natural wonders.
Castelsardo
Later that day, we decided to head to the picturesque town of Castelsardo. Located on a hill overlooking the sea, this medieval town is one of the most charming places in Sardinia. We strolled through the narrow streets, admiring the colorful houses and the stunning views of the sea and the surrounding countryside.
Castelsardo is also home to an impressive castle that was built in the 12th century. We took a tour of the castle and were blown away by the history and architecture of the structure. From the top of the castle, we had breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area.
After our castle visit, we headed to a local restaurant to sample some of the delicious Sardinian cuisine. We tried some of the traditional dishes, such as Fregola, a type of pasta that is typical of the island, and Seadas, a dessert made with cheese and honey.
Overall, our visit to Castelsardo was one of the highlights of our trip to Sardinia. We highly recommend taking the time to explore this charming town and learn about its rich history and culture.
Sassari
During this day, we also had the chance to visit Sassari, a vibrant city located in the northwest of the island. We wandered through the historic center, admiring the beautiful architecture and the lively atmosphere of the city. We also checked out some of the local shops and markets, picking up some souvenirs to take back home.
Spiaggia La Pelosa
We headed to one of the most beautiful beaches on the island, Spiaggia La Pelosa. Located in the northwestern part of Sardinia, this stunning beach boasts crystal clear turquoise waters and soft white sand.
To enter the beach, you need to purchase a ticket from the kiosk at the entrance. We recommend arriving early, as the beach can get quite crowded during peak season.
Once we arrived at the beach, we were blown away by its beauty. The water was crystal clear and the sand was soft and white. We spent the day swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the stunning views of the coastline.
To make the most of your visit to Spiaggia La Pelosa, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Bring a straw mat and lay your towel down on top if it – this is done to avoid bringing sand away from the beach. Rangers will be walking around the beach to make sure you have a straw mat and if not, you may get a fine. Don’t have a mat? They sell them for a small fee at the info center where you need to validate your ticket.
- Smoke in designated areas only. Again, you may get a fine if you are caught smoking outside of designated areas.
- Once leaving, make sure to rinse your feet in one of the many public fountains scattered along the beach.
- Don’t take shells, stones, or sand from the beach – this rule is actually valid for all beaches in Sardinia. If you are caught with it, you will be subjected to a fine. Read more about it here.
- Unfortunately, dogs aren’t allowed at La Pelosa – so leave your furry friends at home the day you visit.
- There are trash cans at the beach, so you really have no excuse to abandon your trash!
Overall, our visit to Spiaggia La Pelosa was definitely one of the highlights of our trip to Sardinia. We highly recommend a visit to this stunning beach, but make sure to follow the rules and regulations in place to help protect this beautiful natural wonder.
Accommodation
Our stay at Hotel Balai in Porto Torres was just average and nothing special, but we didn’t have many choices since we booked our trip late. However, the woman at the reception was really kind and helpful, which made our stay more pleasant. Overall, it was an okay experience.
Where to stay in Porto Torres
- Hotel Balai located in Porto Torres in the Sardinia Region, offers guests a comfortable stay with air-conditioned rooms equipped with a TV, free toiletries, and a hair dryer. With free WiFi available throughout the property and a 24-hour front desk, guests can enjoy the on-site bar and the convenience of free private parking. The beach is just 350 m away, while Sassari and Castelsardo are located nearby.
- B&B Da Arianna located in Porto Torres, offers comfortable accommodation with city views, a garden, and free WiFi. Units are equipped with a flat-screen TV, private bathroom with a shower and hairdryer, and a patio. The daily breakfast offers a variety of buffet, Italian, or vegetarian options, and guests can enjoy nearby attractions such as Lo Scoglio Lungo, Spiaggia dello Scogliolungo, and Spiaggia di Balai.
Day 4 – Porto Torres To Càbras
Our highlights: Grotta di Nettuno, Affittacamere Shardana
Distance Traveled: 180km, 3h 20min
Accommodation: Affittacamere Shardana, Càbras
On day four, we set our alarm clocks for an ungodly hour to witness the sun come up like the responsible adults we are. It was breathtaking, but we also realized that we’re not really morning people. So we went back to bed for a quick nap before heading out to explore the magnificent Grotta di Nettuno. The cave was incredible, but we couldn’t help but feel a bit like tourists being herded around. Nevertheless, the stunning rock formations made it all worth it.
Grotta di Nettuno
Our visit to the Grotta di Nettuno cave was an unforgettable experience. The natural beauty inside the cave was breathtaking, and we were fascinated by the unique rock formations. If you’re looking for something to do in Sardinia that’s a bit off the beaten path, we highly recommend checking out the Grotta di Nettuno. You can also have a stunning view at the view point of Capo Caccia.
Fun fact: The Grotta di Nettuno cave was discovered in the 18th century by fishermen, and it’s named after the Roman god of the sea, Neptune. It’s located on the Capo Caccia promontory and can be accessed by either boat or a staircase with over 600 steps. So, if you’re planning on visiting the cave, be prepared for a bit of a workout!
Alghero
Oh boy, let me tell you about Alghero! This place is an absolute gem on the northwest coast of Sardinia. We spent an entire day strolling around the charming old town, getting lost in its narrow cobblestone alleys and admiring the incredible architecture. And let me tell you, the beaches are to die for! The crystal-clear waters are perfect for a refreshing swim and the sunbathing spots are just heavenly. Alghero, you stole our hearts!
Bosa
Ah, Bosa. The town with more charm than a Disney movie and more colors than a box of crayons. We spent a few hours strolling through the narrow streets, admiring the brightly painted houses and wondering how anyone managed to drive a car through them without scraping the walls.
But as much as we enjoyed Bosa, we couldn’t resist the call of the nearby Bosa Marina beach. We arrived at the white sandy shore, eager to dip our toes into the crystal clear waters. And let me tell you, that first step into the refreshing Mediterranean sea was like an ice bath for the soul.
We spent the day lounging on the beach, sipping on cold drinks and getting some much-needed vitamin D.
Càbras
After our delicious pizza dinner in Cabras, we stayed at the wonderful Affittacamere Shardana for the night. The room was spacious and comfortable, and the hosts were incredibly welcoming and friendly. We even got some insider tips on the best beaches and restaurants in the area.
In the evening, we headed to Is Arutas beach and were blown away by the stunning sunset over the sea. The beach is famous for its unique sand made of tiny quartz pebbles, which creates a beautiful contrast with the turquoise water. It was the perfect end to our short but sweet stay in Cabras.
Accomodation
Oh, let me tell you about the best accommodation we had in Sardinia! It was called Affittacamere Shardana and it was amazing. The owner was super friendly and gave us some great recommendations on where to eat in the area. We ended up trying one of the restaurants she suggested and it was absolutely delightful.
But back to the accommodation itself – it was huge! We had a spacious bedroom, a big bathroom, and even a cool and relaxing garden area where we could chill out. It was the perfect place to unwind after a day of exploring.
Honestly, if we ever come back to Sardinia, we’re definitely staying at Affittacamere Shardana again. It was that good.
Where to stay in Càbras
- Affittacamere Shardana is a B&B offering accommodations with free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, a garden, and a shared lounge. The property is 13 km from the Tharros archaeological site and 25 km from Capo Mannu beach. It’s the best Accommodation we had on our trip! Recommended 10 out of 10!
- Hotel Gran Torre is located a 15-minute walk from the beaches of Torregrande and features a traditional restaurant, free WiFi in public areas, and a free outdoor pool with a hydromassage area. Surrounded by olive groves, the hotel also offers a sun terrace and a children’s area, while the air-conditioned rooms are decorated in a Sardinian style and include a TV, minibar, and private bathroom.
Day 5 – Càbras To Cagliari
Our highlights: Kremet ice cream and the streets of Cagliari
Distance Traveled: 122km, 1h 20min
Accommodation: B&B Davi, Cagliari
Unfortunately, we didn’t have enough time to visit Porto Pino, but we heard great things about this beautiful spot on the southern coast of Sardinia. With its long sandy beach and crystal-clear waters, it’s a perfect spot for sunbathing and swimming. If you’re interested in water sports, Porto Pino offers excellent conditions for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and diving.
In addition to the beach, Porto Pino has some great hiking trails that offer stunning views of the sea and the surrounding landscape. Make sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen if you plan on hiking, as it can get quite hot in the summer.
If you’re feeling hungry, Porto Pino has some excellent seafood restaurants that serve up the freshest catch of the day. Don’t miss out on trying some of the local specialties like spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti with clams) or grilled octopus. And of course, don’t forget to wash it all down with a glass of Sardinian wine!
Oh, I almost forgot to mention that if you’re a bird lover, you’ll be delighted to know that you can spot flamingos in the wetlands around Porto Pino! So, if you have a chance to visit, keep an eye out for these stunning pink birds.
Cagliari
On the 5th day of our trip, we drove our car from Cabras to Cagliari, which was a long drive but worth it. Unfortunately, we saw a fire on the way, which was quite scary, but thankfully it didn’t affect us. Once we arrived in Cagliari, we spent the day exploring the city and visiting its many attractions. One of our favorite spots was the Castello district, with its medieval architecture and stunning views over the city and the sea. We also visited the Cathedral of Santa Maria, which is a must-see for anyone interested in religious art and architecture.
But the highlight of our visit to Cagliari was definitely the gelato from Kremet. It was simply the best gelato we had during our entire trip to Sardinia, and we tried a lot of gelato! The flavors were incredibly fresh and delicious, and the staff were so friendly and welcoming. We highly recommend it to anyone visiting Cagliari.
5 Things to do in Cagliari
- Visit the Castello neighborhood: This historic quarter is perched atop a hill overlooking the city and offers stunning views of the surroundings. Stroll through its narrow streets and admire the medieval architecture.
- Explore the Cattedrale di Santa Maria: This impressive cathedral is one of the main landmarks of Cagliari, with a beautiful Baroque façade and a majestic interior. Don’t miss the crypt, where you can see ancient Roman remains.
- Admire the Roman Amphitheatre: This ancient arena dates back to the 2nd century AD and is one of the best-preserved Roman amphitheatres in the world. Take a guided tour to learn more about its history and architecture.
- Wander through the Marina district: This lively waterfront neighborhood is full of bars, restaurants, and shops, and offers great views of the harbor. It’s a perfect spot for a sunset stroll.
- Taste the gelato at Kremet: This artisanal gelateria is a local favorite, with a wide range of flavors made from high-quality ingredients. Don’t miss the pistachio or the stracciatella!
Accommodation
We stayed at B&B Davi in Cagliari for a night and while the bedroom was quite spacious, the rest of the accommodation was just average. The facilities were nothing to write home about, but it was cheap and affordable, so it was a good option for budget travelers. Overall, if you’re just looking for a place to sleep for the night, B&B Davi could be a decent choice.
Where to stay in Cagliari
- Sardinia Domus is a guesthouse with free WiFi located in an elegant historical building on Largo Carlo Felice in Cagliari. The guesthouse enjoys a prime location ideal for shopping, dining, and visiting historic attractions.
- The ultramodern T Hotel is located in the center of Cagliari, opposite the lyrical theater. It offers modern rooms, a stylish bar, and the T SPA hydrotherapy wellness area, as well as free Wi-Fi throughout.
Day 6 – Cagliari To Arbatax
Our highlights: The beaches around Villasimius
Distance Traveled: 167km, 2h 35min
Accommodation: Suite Blue, Arbatax
On day 6 of our trip, we decided to explore some of the beautiful beaches in the area. Our first stop was the Spiaggia di Porto Giunco, which is located near Villasimius. The beach is known for its crystal-clear water and fine, white sand. If you plan on visiting this beach, make sure to arrive early as it can get crowded during peak season.
Next, we went to the Spiaggia di Simius, which is located near the town of Notteri. The beach has shallow water and is great for families with children. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars nearby where you can enjoy a delicious meal or drink.
Our final beach stop was the Punta Molentis Beach, which is located on the southeastern tip of Sardinia. This beach is surrounded by stunning cliffs and has a unique natural landscape. If you’re planning on visiting this beach, be aware that there is limited parking, so it’s best to arrive early.
In the evening, we drove to Tortoli and then on to our accommodation, Sweet Blue in Arbatax. The accommodation was cozy and comfortable, with all the necessary amenities. The owner was also very welcoming and helpful, providing us with so many information about the local area, our head nearly exploded.
Later, we headed to Santa Maria Navarrese and were pleasantly surprised by the lively atmosphere. The town was bustling with people, and the vibe was really cool. We enjoyed walking around and soaking in the vibrant energy of the place.
Accommodation
Our stay at Sweet Blue in Arbatax was fantastic! The owner was incredibly friendly and enthusiastic, and he gave us so many helpful tips about the area. The room was spacious and comfortable, and we enjoyed our stay there. Overall, we highly recommend Sweet Blue for anyone looking for a great place to stay in Arbatax.
Where to stay in Arbatax/Tortoli
- Orri Hotel in Tortolì offers an outdoor pool and a sun terrace. Free WiFi is available in all areas. The air-conditioned rooms are equipped with a TV, modern furnishings, and a minibar. The private bathroom includes a hairdryer and free toiletries.
- janas b&b – Couples particularly appreciate the location, rated 8.7 for a two-person trip, with Porto Frailis Beach 1.8 km from the bed and breakfast and Riva di Ponente Beach 2.2 km away. The nearest airport is Cagliari Airport, 129 km from janas b&b, which has been welcoming Booking.com guests since March 5, 2018.
Day 7 – Arbatax To Cala Gonone
Our highlights: Baunei and the exhausting hike at Gola Gorropu
Distance Traveled: 72km, 1h 25min
Accommodation: Hotel Club Esse Cala Gonone, Cala Gonone
On day 7, we drove to Cala Gonone, making a stop in Baunei along the way. Baunei is a charming village located in the mountains and definitely worth a visit. Later, we took a three-hour hike in Gola Gorropu, a spectacular gorge that is considered to be one of the deepest canyons in Europe. The hike was challenging but so rewarding, as we were surrounded by stunning natural beauty the entire way. We highly recommend it to any nature lovers out there!
Baunei
Baunei is a picturesque mountain village located in the eastern part of Sardinia. It’s surrounded by stunning landscapes and offers some of the best hiking opportunities on the island. One of the most popular trails is the Selvaggio Blu, a challenging and scenic route that spans over several days and takes hikers through some of the most beautiful and remote parts of Sardinia. But if you decide this make this hike, better prepare yourself before really well!
In Baunei, you can also visit the beautiful Santa Maria Navarrese beach, which is perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The village itself is charming, with narrow streets, colorful houses, and a quaint atmosphere. There are a few good restaurants in town where you can try some of the local Sardinian specialties, such as culurgiones, a type of stuffed pasta, or porceddu, a roasted suckling pig.
Gola Gorropu
We embarked on a 3-hour hike through the stunning Gola Gorropu canyon. This natural wonder is located in the Supramonte mountains and is known for having some of the highest limestone cliffs in Europe, towering up to 450 meters. The canyon is formed by the Rio Flumineddu river which has carved through the rock over millions of years.
While the hike is challenging, especially during the hot summer months, the stunning views of the towering cliffs, crystal-clear river, and lush greenery make the effort worthwhile. We brought plenty of water and snacks to keep us going, and we were able to refill our water bottles at the water source located at the bottom.
The trail can be steep in some parts and the terrain rocky, making it unsuitable for those with mobility issues or very young children. It’s important to wear comfortable shoes and dress in lightweight, breathable clothing. The hike involves navigating boulders, wading through shallow pools of water, and clambering over rocks. Visitors should be in good physical condition before attempting the hike.
Overall, the Gola Gorropu canyon hike was a memorable experience, showcasing the natural beauty of Sardinia.
Wow, we were exhausted after this hike!
After our hike in Gola Gorropu, we headed to Cala Gonone. Unfortunately, we encountered a bit of a delay due to a traffic jam caused by a car accident. We learned that it’s important to be cautious while driving on the winding roads, especially when going downhill. So, be sure to take your time and stay alert. Despite the delay, we were excited to continue exploring the beautiful region of Sardinia.
Accommodation
We made our way to Club Esse Cala Gonone to spend the night. It was the most expensive accommodation we had on our trip, but we felt it was worth it for the beautiful views and convenient location.
The hotel is located right by the sea, so we were able to relax on the beach and take in the stunning views. The room was spacious and comfortable, and we enjoyed the amenities such as the swimming pool and the delicious breakfast buffet.
Although it was a bit more expensive than our other accommodations, we felt that the quality of the hotel and the location made it worth the splurge. Plus, after a long day of hiking, it was a wonderful treat to unwind and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. Overall, we highly recommend Club Esse Cala Gonone for anyone looking for a luxurious and relaxing stay in Sardinia.
Where to stay in Cala Gonone
- Hotel Club Esse Cala Gonone offers apartments and bungalows located in Cala Gonone, just 250 meters from the beach. It features a large swimming pool and a range of sports facilities, including tennis courts and mini golf.
- Hotel Caramare is a bed and breakfast located in Matera, Italy. It offers modern, air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms and a daily breakfast.
Day 8 – Boat Tour, Cala Gonone
Our highlights: Boat tour and pizza in the evening
Accommodation: Hotel Club Esse Cala Gonone, Cala Gonone
On day 8 we took the opportunity to go on a boat group tour from Cala Gonone to explore some of the most beautiful beaches in Sardinia. The tour was organized by a company called Dovesesto and we booked it online before our trip.
On the day of the tour, we arrived at the port early in the morning and were greeted by the friendly crew who welcomed us onboard. The boat was spacious and comfortable, and we were able to sit back and enjoy the stunning views of the coastline as we made our way to our first stop, the famous Cala Luna beach.
Cala Luna is a beautiful secluded beach surrounded by high cliffs and crystal clear water. We were able to swim and snorkel in the refreshing water, and even explore some of the nearby caves.
Next, we visited Cala Mariolu, which is known for its incredible turquoise water and fine white sand. We spent some time lounging on the beach, soaking up the sun, and taking in the picturesque scenery.
Our final stop was at Cala Biriola, which was perhaps the most breathtaking of all. This small cove is surrounded by steep cliffs covered in lush vegetation, and the water is a deep shade of blue that almost looks unreal.
Namphen and I also decided to visit the Grotta del Bue Marino, which were a great decision. The tour inside the cave was wonderful and interesting.
Throughout the tour, the crew provided us with snacks and drinks, and we were able to enjoy a delicious lunch on board the boat. They also shared interesting facts about the area and its history, making the experience both fun and educational.
Overall, the boat group tour from Cala Gonone was a highlight of our trip to Sardinia. The stunning beaches and scenery, combined with the comfortable boat and knowledgeable crew, made for a memorable and enjoyable day. We highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting the area.
The boat tour was from 09:00 to 16:30 – so 7h 30min.
After the boat tour, Namphen and I were feeling quite hungry, so we decided to head over to Pizzeria Zio Pedrillo. We had heard great things about this restaurant and were excited to try their famous pizza. When we arrived, we saw that there was a long line of people waiting for a table, so we decided to order our pizza for takeaway.
We didn’t mind the wait for our pizza since it gave us some time to explore the area around the restaurant. Finally, when our pizza was ready, we took it to a nearby park and enjoyed it while taking in the stunning views of the Mediterranean sea.
The pizza was definitely worth the wait – the crust was crispy, the sauce was perfectly seasoned, and the toppings were fresh and flavorful. It was the perfect end to a wonderful day in Cala Gonone.
Day 9 – Cala Gonone To Posada
Our highlights: The drive near the beach and Orosei
Distance Traveled: 62,2km, 1h
Accommodation: Villa Caterina Posada, Posada
On day 9, we left Cala Gonone and drove to Posada. The drive was approximately 1 hour and we were able to enjoy beautiful views of the coast along the way. We arrived in Posada in the afternoon and checked into our hotel. We spent the rest of the day exploring the town and enjoying some local food.
Orosei
When we arrived in Orosei, we immediately fell in love with its charming streets and colorful buildings. One of the first things we did was visit the historic center of the town, which is home to several beautiful churches and buildings that date back to the medieval period. We also strolled through the narrow streets and alleys, admiring the local architecture and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of the town.
After exploring the town center, we headed to the nearby beach of Su Barone. The beach is located just a few minutes away from the town center and is known for its crystal-clear waters and fine white sand. We spent a few hours relaxing on the beach, swimming in the sea, and enjoying the beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.
If you’re planning a trip to Orosei, here are a few tips on what to do:
- Visit the historic center of the town and explore its beautiful churches and buildings.
- Take a stroll through the narrow streets and alleys of the town, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
- Head to the nearby beach of Su Barone for a day of relaxation and swimming in the crystal-clear waters.
- Try the local seafood dishes at one of the many restaurants in the town, and enjoy the flavors of the Mediterranean cuisine.
- Don’t forget to bring your camera, as there are plenty of photo opportunities in Orosei!
Posada
In the evening, we finally arrived at our accommodation in Posada. After settling in, we headed out to explore the charming little town and stumbled upon a restaurant called La Rosa dei Venti. As we sat down to enjoy our dinner, we were greeted by a swarm of bees that were buzzing around us. It was quite amusing and we had a good laugh about it while trying to eat our meal.
As for tips on what to do in Posada, we recommend visiting the Castello della Fava, a medieval castle that offers stunning views of the surrounding area. You can also take a stroll through the town’s historic center, which is filled with charming narrow streets and colorful houses. For a relaxing day at the beach, head to the nearby Posada Beach, which is known for its crystal-clear waters and pristine sand.
We had luck and accidentally walked to a night market at Posada. I like to stroll through night markets and taste different snacks and explore some hand-made stuff.
Accommodation
Where to stay in Posada
- Villa Caterina Posada in Posada is a hidden gem in the heart of Sardinia. The charming accommodations, friendly staff, and beautiful surroundings make for a truly delightful stay.
- Sa Burrida in Posada is a true gem in the heart of Sardinia. Its rustic charm and traditional Sardinian architecture make for a unique and authentic experience. The delicious breakfast and warm hospitality of the staff make it the perfect place to start your day before exploring all that the beautiful island has to offer.
Day 10 – Posada To Olbia
Our highlights: Porto Taverna
Distance Traveled: 80km, 1h 5min
Accommodation: Private Room in Olbia
On day 10 of our trip, we packed up our bags and hit the road once again. Our first stop was the small town of Budoni, which is known for its stunning beaches. We spent a few hours lounging on the beach and swimming in the sea, enjoying the beautiful scenery and warm sunshine.
After a leisurely morning in Budoni, we made our way to our next destination, Porto Taverna. This beautiful beach is known for its turquoise waters and breathtaking views of the island of Tavolara. We spent the afternoon swimming, snorkeling, and soaking up the sun, taking in the beauty of this idyllic spot.
As the sun began to set, we reluctantly left Porto Taverna and made our way to the bustling city of Olbia. Although it was a huge contrast to the peaceful beaches we had been enjoying, we were excited to explore the city and see what it had to offer.
Olbia
Olbia is a beautiful city located in the northeastern part of Sardinia, and there are plenty of things to do and see here. As a couple, we enjoyed strolling through the historic city center and admiring the architecture of the old buildings and churches.
One of the must-visit attractions in Olbia is the Basilica di San Simplicio, a beautiful church with a rich history dating back to the 11th century. The church is located in the heart of the city and is easily accessible by foot.
Another popular attraction in Olbia is the Nuraghe Riu Mulinu, an ancient archaeological site that dates back to the Bronze Age. The site features well-preserved ruins of a nuraghe, which is a type of ancient megalithic structure unique to Sardinia. It’s a fascinating site to explore and learn about the island’s rich history.
If you’re interested in shopping, Olbia has plenty of options for you. The city center is home to a variety of shops, from high-end designer boutiques to charming local stores selling handmade crafts and souvenirs.
Lastly, Olbia is also a great place to enjoy some delicious Sardinian cuisine. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes serving up traditional dishes such as seafood, pasta, and grilled meats. We highly recommend trying some of the local specialties like culurgiones, a type of stuffed pasta, and porceddu, a roasted suckling pig dish.
Overall, Olbia is a charming and vibrant city that offers a mix of history, culture, and great food, making it a great destination for any traveler.
Accommodation
Where to stay in Olbia
- Dolce Hibiscus offers comfortable and modern accommodation in a convenient location in the town of Posada, with easy access to nearby beaches and attractions. Guests can enjoy a range of facilities including a garden, terrace, and free WiFi.
- Summer Holiday House offers a comfortable and spacious accommodation option in the city of Olbia. The property features a fully equipped kitchen, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a terrace for guests to enjoy.
Day 11 – Arzachena, Olbia
Our highlights: Arazachena
Accommodation: Overnight Ferry, Olbia – Genua
Arzachena
On our last day in Sardinia, we decided to visit the town of Arzachena. It was a small town surrounded by beautiful countryside and had a charming old town area with narrow streets and traditional buildings.
As we walked through the old town, we came across a small market selling local produce, including fresh fruits, vegetables, and cheeses. We bought some delicious pecorino cheese to take home with us.
One of the highlights of our visit to Arzachena was a visit to the Nuraghe La Prisgiona, an ancient nuraghe tower located just outside the town. The Nuraghe La Prisgiona is one of the most well-preserved nuraghe towers on the island, and it was fascinating to explore the stone structure and learn about its history and significance in Sardinian culture.
As we explored the town, we stumbled upon the famous colourful staircase of La Scalinata di Santa Lucia. This vibrant staircase is a hidden gem in Arzachena and is made up of 180 steps painted in a rainbow of colors. It’s a popular spot for photos and it’s not hard to see why. We spent some time admiring the beautiful colors and taking some photos to remember our last day in Sardinia.
Our conclusion
The claim that Sardinia is the European Caribbean is partially true. At least when it comes to the beautiful beaches and turquoise waters. But in terms of food and lifestyle, you are definitely in the land of Dolce Vita and not the Caribbean. The lifestyle is definitely different from the Caribbean, but still worth experiencing.
The advantage of Sardinia is the short travel time, much shorter than a flight to the Caribbean.
If we were to visit the island again, we would definitely spend more time in Budoni and Bosa, as those were the most stunning places on the island for us.
If you have the chance to visit the island, go for it! We recommend visiting during the low season when prices are more affordable, and the beaches are less crowded. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the colourful staircase in Arzachena!
Have you ever been to Sardinia and have some tips or would like to share your experiences with us? Then be sure to write to us in the comments section. We’re excited to hear your impressions, feedback, and any recommendations you may have.
