North Sardinia

North Sardinia is a captivating region that boasts a unique blend of cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and mouth-watering cuisine. The region’s rugged coastline is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, such as Spiaggia del Principe, Capriccioli, and La Pelosa, all of which offer crystal-clear waters and fine white sand.

North Sardinia is served by two main airports: Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB) and Alghero-Fertilia Airport (AHO). The distance between them is approximately 135 kilometers (84 miles) by road with the driving time around 1,5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport is located in the northeast of the island, near the popular resort town of Porto Cervo. It is the busiest airport in Sardinia and one of the busiest in Italy, with flights to destinations throughout Europe and beyond. The airport is well-connected to the Costa Smeralda region, with several shuttle services and taxi companies offering transfers to hotels and resorts.

Alghero-Fertilia Airport, located on the northwest coast, is a smaller airport that primarily serves budget airlines and charter flights. Despite its size, it offers connections to several major European cities, including London, Berlin, and Barcelona. The airport is conveniently located just a few kilometers from the town of Alghero, making it an ideal gateway to the region’s cultural and natural attractions.

North Sardinia is a region that encompasses several distinct areas, each with its own unique character and attractions. Moreover, is considered by many to be the premier destination for luxury travelers visiting the island.

The Costa Smeralda, for example, is a luxurious destination that appeals to high-end travelers seeking world-class resorts, designer boutiques, and exclusive yacht clubs. The area’s stunning beaches, such as Liscia Ruja and Capriccioli, are some of the most beautiful in the world, with clear turquoise waters and fine white sand.

In contrast, the town of Alghero on the northwest coast offers a more laid-back atmosphere, with a charming old town that showcases its Catalan heritage. Visitors can stroll along the ramparts, explore the narrow streets lined with colorful buildings, and discover hidden piazzas and churches.

North Sardinia’s cuisine is a reflection of its diverse cultural influences, with Spanish paella and local Sardinian specialities sharing the menu with Italian pasta and pizza.

An additional advantage of North Sardinia is its proximity to the French island of Corsica, located just a short ferry ride away. This offers the opportunity for visitors to explore two of the most beautiful and culturally rich regions of the Mediterranean. Corsica is known for its stunning beaches, rugged mountains, and charming villages, making it an ideal day trip or longer excursion for those looking to expand their luxury travel itinerary. The combination of these two destinations offers a truly unique and indulgent experience.

North Sardinia seamlessly blends history and modernity, ancient heritage and glamour. It contains a concentration of Sardinia’s most historical medieval towns, like Alghero, Castelsardo and Bosa which reflect Sardinia’s deep roots in medieval Europe. Though historically part of Italy, its location and history impart a unique diversity. The medieval towns represent old Europe, while chic coastal resorts attract the jet set. North Sardinia’s appeal lies in this contrast, from historic towns embodying old Europe to luxury tourism, against a backdrop of stunning Mediterranean scenery.

The Best Destination for Luxury Vacations in Sardinia

North Sardinia offers a unique blend of natural beauty, luxury accommodations, and exclusive experiences that make it a top destination for luxury vacations. Whether seeking a relaxing beach getaway or a high-end cultural experience, visitors to North Sardinia are sure to find everything they need to indulge in a truly luxurious vacation. The world famous coast as Costa Smeralda, in particular, is known for its high-end resorts, exclusive beach clubs, and designer boutiques, making it a favorite among celebrities, business moguls, and other affluent travelers.

The region’s pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters provide the perfect backdrop for luxury living, with many resorts offering private villas, butler service, and Michelin-starred restaurants. The area is also home to several world-class golf courses, as well as a range of water sports and other activities.

North Sardinia is a favorite destination for yacht owners and enthusiasts, with several exclusive yacht clubs located in the region. The Yacht Club Costa Smeralda, in particular, is one of the most prestigious clubs in the world, hosting several international regattas and events throughout the year.

Despite its reputation as a playground for the rich and famous, North Sardinia is also a region of great natural beauty and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore ancient ruins, hike through rugged mountain landscapes, and discover charming villages and towns that have retained their traditional character.

Overall, North Sardinia offers a unique blend of luxury and authenticity that is hard to find elsewhere. Whether seeking a relaxing beach vacation or an immersive cultural experience, visitors to North Sardinia are sure to find plenty to satisfy their desires.

Best Places to Visit in North Sardinia

North Corsica dazzles visitors with stunning natural beauty, from rugged mountains and charming towns to alluring beaches. Some of the best places to experience its appeal include:

Costa Smeralda: Sardinia’s glamorous coastal resort destination, popular with the jet set crowd. It features secluded beaches, luxurious resorts, yacht marinas and lush Mediterranean vegetation.
La Maddalena Archipelago National Park – Picturesque island group just off the northeast coast in front of Corsica, with secluded beaches, hiking trails, yachting and wildlife spotting. Home to a historic naval base and yachting paradise.
Tavolara Island – Small pristine island off Capo Coda Cavallo, only reachable by boat. It features secluded coves, beaches and walking trails with stunning sea views. Popular for sailing, snorkeling, sunbathing and picnics. Uninhabited except for a small lighthouse.
Gallura – Coastal subregion northwest of Olbia, featuring scenic beaches, coves, bizzare granite rocks, cork forests, typical stonemade towns and the world’s largest sand dune system. Opportunities for windsurfing, sailing, kayaking and bird watching.
Alghero and Riviera del Corallo: A charming coastal town with a stunning old town, sandy beaches, coral reefs, seafood, and Catalan architecture. It’s a very popular tourist destination, especially in the summer. Some highlights are the historic center, Alghero beaches, Porto Conte natural park, and the Nuptune’s Grotto. It’s a hub for sailboarding, windsurfing and other watersports.
Neptune’s Grotto – A spectacular sea cave situated along the Alghero coast, best explored by boat tour. It’s a unique rock formation carved by the waves over millions of years.
Stintino and La Pelosa Beach – Beautiful beach town with picturesque harbor, beaches and coastline. Popular sailing destination, seafood restaurants and whitewashed buildings. Its main attraction is one of Sardinia’s most stunning beaches La Pelosa, known for its turquoise waters and white sand. Stintino is also a popular spot for scuba diving and snorkeling. Close to Asinara Island ferry.
Sassari: Second largest city known for its well-preserved old center with Gothic cathedral, museums, outdoor markets and nearby beaches. Traditionally a university town and a center of learning. It’s a culinary capital, known for its traditional specialties.
Castelsardo – A picturesque town located at the foot of a rocky cliff, with medieval fortifications, twisting alleys, seafood restaurants and beaches.
Bosa: Well-preserved medieval village on the Temo River. A lovely riverside town known for its 18th-century architecture, cobblestone streets, marble bridges and gorges. It’s located inland from Alghero, in a scenic valley.
Asinara Island – A small unspoiled island nature reserve, with pristine beaches, Mediterranean scrubland, sandstone cliffs and walking trails. Home to rare wildlife like wild boar, birds, horses, including the rare Albino Donkey. No roads, just pedestrian paths. Ruins of former political prison. Eco-sustainable, perfect for solitude and nature. Accessible by ferry from Stintino or Porto Torres or by boat.
Asinara Gulf: a large bay located in the northwest of Sardinia, is actually considered to have the longest beach in Italy Platamona, stretching for about 15 kilometers. It’s known for its crystal-clear waters, rugged coastline, and beautiful beaches with sandy dunes and local junipers. The gulf is also home to a variety of marine life, including dolphins, whales, and sea turtles.
Costa Paradiso: This rugged and wild coastline is a paradise for nature lovers. The area boasts stunning cliffs, hidden coves, and crystal-clear waters that are perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Anglona: Those seeking a more rural experience should head inland to the Anglona region known for its stunning natural beauty and rich history, vineyards and olive groves. Visitors can explore the many archaeological sites and historic monuments in the area, or simply enjoy the region’s beautiful countryside. Visitors can explore the local wineries and taste some of the region’s finest wines, or visit the small town of Sedini to soak up the traditional Sardinian atmosphere.
Wineries: The Gallura region of Sardinia, where Isola Rossa is located, is known for its vineyards and wineries that produce some of the island’s most celebrated wines. The area’s unique terroir, with its rocky terrain and Mediterranean climate, creates ideal conditions for growing grapes that produce distinctive and flavorful wines. Local family-run wineries produce high-quality organic wines using traditional methods and native grape varieties, including Vermentino, Cannonau, and Carignano. Visitors can take a tour of the vineyards and cellars, learn about the wine-making process, before enjoying a tasting of the wines paired with delicious local food.

The Most Important Archaeological Sites in North Sardinia

North Sardinia is home to several most important archaeological sites that offer a fascinating glimpse into the island’s ancient history and culture. Some of the main archaeological sites in the region include:

Nuraghe Santu Antine is the most impressive nuragic complex in Sardinia located near the town of Torralba in the province of Sassari. The complex consists of a central tower surrounded by several smaller towers and walls, and is considered one of the most impressive and well-preserved nuraghe structures on the island. The site provides a unique insight into the architectural and defensive strategies of the nuragic people who lived in the area.
Nuraghe di Palmavera: This nuraghe complex is located near Alghero and consists of a series of stone towers and walls that date back to the Bronze Age. The site also includes a village and several other structures, providing insight into the daily life of the nuragic people who lived in the area.
Necropolis of Anghelu Ruju: This prehistoric burial site is located near Alghero and contains over 40 underground tombs dating back to the Neolithic period. The tombs are carved into the rock and feature intricate decorations and carvings.
Monte d’Accoddi is a unique prehistoric monument located near the town of Sassari. It consists of a large stepped platform with a central altar, believed to have been used for religious or ceremonial purposes. The site dates back to the 4th millennium BC and is one of the oldest and most mysterious archaeological sites in the Mediterranean.
Giants’ grave of Coddu Vecchiu: is a Bronze Age burial site located near Arzachena in the Gallura region of North Sardinia. The site features several impressive tombs, known as “giant’s tombs” due to their large size and unique architecture. The tombs are believed to have been built between the 16th and 13th centuries BC and were used to bury high-ranking members of the nuragic society.
Nuraghe La Prisgiona is an important archaeological site in Sardinia near the town of Arzachena. It consists of a central tower surrounded by several smaller towers and walls, and is notable for its impressive size and unique architecture. The site features elaborate decoration, with intricate carvings and reliefs that provide insight into the beliefs and customs of the nuragic people. It is a must-see for anyone interested in archaeology or history.
Domus de Janas di Sant’Andrea Priu: Located near the town of Bonorva in northern Sardinia, this site features a series of well-preserved tombs that date back to the 4th millennium BC. The tombs are decorated with intricate carvings that depict animals, human figures, and other symbols. The name “Domus de Janas” means “house of the fairies” in Sardinian, and refers to the small, cave-like tombs that were carved into the rocks during the pre-Nuragic period, between 4000 and 2700 BC.
Altare di Santo Stefano is a prehistoric rock carving in Laconi, central Sardinia, that dates back to the Bronze Age. The carving consists of a large stone slab with several cup marks and other symbols, and is believed to have been used for religious or ceremonial purposes. This site is unique due to its impressive size, intricate decoration, and the insight it provides into the ancient religious and cultural beliefs of Sardinia’s early inhabitants. The site is also surrounded by scenic hiking trails and natural springs, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
The Domus de Janas at Roccia dell’Elefante near Castelsardo are a unique prehistoric site believed to date back to the 3rd millennium BCE, carved into a large boulder made of trachyte. The rock is in the shape of an elephant and the tombs are located on several levels within the rock, featuring intricate carvings of human figures, animals, and other symbols. This site provides a fascinating glimpse into the prehistoric customs and beliefs of Sardinia‘s ancient inhabitants.

North Sardinia offers a wealth of archaeological sites that provide a fascinating glimpse into the island’s rich and diverse history. From prehistoric nuraghe complexes to ancient Roman cities, these sites are a must-see for anyone interested in history and culture.

The Best Things to Do in North Sardinia

North Sardinia is a unique region with a lot to offer, from stunning beaches to ancient ruins and charming towns. Here are some of the best things to do in North Sardinia:

Visit the Maddalena Archipelago by boat or on luxury yacht: This group of islands is located off the coast of North Sardinia in front of Corsica and is known for its incredible crystal-clear waters, scenic beaches, and stunning landscapes with bizzare granite rocks.
Explore medieval towns of Alghero, Castelsardo and Bosa: This charming towns on the northwest coast of Sardinia is known for the medieval architecture, narrow streets, and historic walls. They are also best places to try the local cuisine and enjoy the beach.
Discover the Nuraghe ruins: The Nuraghe are ancient stone structures that are unique to Sardinia. There are many Nuraghe sites throughout North Sardinia, including the impressive Nuraghe Santu Antine near the town of Torralba.
Relax on the beaches: North Sardinia is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, including La Pelosa, Porto Istana, and Cala Brandinchi. These beaches offer crystal-clear waters, white sand, and stunning scenery.
Go hiking: North Sardinia is a great place for hiking, with many trails that offer stunning views of the coastline and the mountains. Some popular hiking destinations include Monte Limbara, Porto Conte and the Asinara National Park.
Visit the city of Sassari: This historic city is the second-largest on the island and is known for its museums, art galleries, and lively atmosphere.
Taste the local cuisine: the cuisine of North Sardinia varies not only from place to place but also depending on whether you’re on the coast or inland. Coastal cuisine is heavily influenced by the island’s maritime culture and features a lot of seafood dishes. In contrast, inland cuisine is known for its focus on vegetables, legumes, olive oil, cheese and meat. So, whether you’re on the coast or inland, there’s a rich and diverse culinary tradition to explore in each place of North Sardinia.
Take a boat tour: There are many boat tours available in North Sardinia that offer the opportunity to explore the coastline and visit secluded beaches and coves in Riviera dell Corallo, Tavolara or Molara islands.
Take a cooking class: Sardinian cuisine is unique and delicious, and taking a cooking class is a great way to learn more about it. You can learn to make traditional dishes like malloreddus (Sardinian gnocchi) and seadas (a sweet pastry filled with cheese and honey).
Go on a wine tour: North Sardinia is home to some of the world’s most sought-after wines, including unique Vermentino di Gallura DOCG and Cagnulari. Vermentino di Gallura DOCG is a crisp and fresh white wine that perfectly captures the essence of Gallura sun-soaked coastline, mistral and granite soil. Meanwhile, Cagnulari is a rare and complex red wine that offers a unique taste of the rugged Sassari province. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just looking for a unique and unforgettable taste of North Sardinia, these wines are not to be missed. You can try these unique local wines and learn about the winemaking process.
Visit the Capo Testa lighthouse: This historic lighthouse is located on a rocky promontory near Santa Teresa Gallura and offers stunning views of the coastline. You can also explore the nearby granite formations and take a dip in the crystal-clear waters.
Attend a traditional festival: Sardinia has a rich tradition of festivals and celebrations throughout the year. Some of the most important include Faradda di Li Candareri, a UNESCO recognized festival held in August in Sassari, and Cavalcata Sarda, a Sardinian Cavalcade held in May in Sassari. These festivals offer a unique opportunity to witness traditional music, dance, and costumes, and to participate in local customs and traditions.
Go horseback riding: Horseback riding is a great way to explore the beautiful countryside of North Sardinia. You can take a guided tour through the mountains or ride along the beaches at sunset.
Embark on an adventure to Asinara Island, situated off the northwestern coast of Sardinia, where you can explore its rare flora and fauna, including the famous albino donkeys. Asinara offers a variety of adventure tours, such as snorkeling and scuba diving in the crystal-clear waters to discover marine life, hiking and biking to uncover stunning vistas and rugged landscapes, jeep tours to witness rare wildlife in their natural habitat, and kayaking and paddleboarding to enjoy the peaceful waters surrounding the island. These tours provide a one-of-a-kind and immersive experience to appreciate the island’s natural beauty and diverse ecology.
Escape to Corsica: A short ferry ride, daily boat tour or yacht charter from North Sardinia opens up a world of adventure in Corsica. This island gem offers stunning coastline, charming towns, and dramatic scenery. Explore the historic citadel of Bonifacio and stroll colorful coastal ports. Sample Corsica’s cuisine, wines and culture.

Luxury travelers visiting North Sardinia can enjoy a wide range of exceptional activities that cater to their discerning tastes.

Private yacht charters: The stunning coastline and crystal-clear waters of North Sardinia are best experienced on a private yacht charter. Luxury travelers can rent a yacht and explore the hidden coves and secluded beaches of the region, while enjoying first-class service and amenities.
Exclusive wine and food tours: North Sardinia is renowned for its exceptional cuisine and world-class wines. Luxury travelers can indulge in exclusive wine and food tours that offer private tastings and access to some of the region’s most prestigious vineyards and restaurants.
Private helicopter tours: For a bird’s eye view of the stunning landscapes of North Sardinia, luxury travelers can book a private helicopter tour. This offers a unique and unforgettable perspective of the region’s natural beauty, including its rugged coastline, soaring mountains, and pristine lakes.
Luxury spa experiences: North Sardinia is home to a variety of luxury spa resorts that offer pampering treatments and wellness programs. Luxury travelers can relax and rejuvenate with a range of services, including massages, facials, and hydrotherapy.
Private villa rentals: For the ultimate in privacy and exclusivity, luxury travelers can rent a private villa in North Sardinia. These villas offer top-of-the-line amenities and services, including private pools, personal chefs, and butlers.
Golfing: North Sardinia has several world-class golf courses, including the Pevero Golf Club in Porto Cervo, which offers breathtaking views of the coastline and Mediterranean Sea.
Cultural tours: North Sardinia has a rich cultural heritage, and luxury travelers can explore the region’s history and traditions on private cultural tours. These tours can include visits to ancient ruins, museums, and historic landmarks.
Luxury or vintage car drives: Driving luxury or vintage cars on scenic routes offers a unique way for travelers to explore North Sardinia. They can rent Ferraris, Lamborghinis, Rolls Royces or classic Alfa Romeos and Fiats. Routes include the coastal road from Olbia to Porto Cervo, mountain roads of the Gallura region and the Supramonte mountain drives.

With its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, exceptional hospitality and immersive experiences, North Sardinia is the perfect luxury destination.