Palau

Nestled on the northern coast of Sardinia, Palau is a picturesque town that boasts of a location so stunning, it’s hard to believe it’s real. With its crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and rugged mountains, Palau is a true gem of the Mediterranean.

Palau is conveniently located just 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport, making it easily accessible to visitors arriving by air. It is situated in close proximity to the renowned Costa Smeralda, a high-end tourist destination that attracts visitors from all over the world.

The town is situated facing the Maddalena Archipelago, a cluster of islands that are renowned for their natural beauty and unique wildlife. This part of Sardinia is a protected marine reserve, home to a myriad of marine species and seabirds, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers. From Palau, visitors can take a short ferry ride to the Maddalena Archipelago, where they can explore the pristine beaches and turquoise waters of these stunning islands.

One of the main attractions in Palau is the Bear Rock, a natural landmark that looks like a giant bear emerging from the sea. The town also offers hiking trails that lead to this scenic spot.

In Palau, visitors can indulge in an array of water activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and windsurfing.

One of the most charming things about Palau is its port area, which is always bustling with activity. Here, visitors can sample local cuisine, sip on a cup of espresso, or simply soak up the laid-back atmosphere.

Despite its popularity as a tourist destination, Palau has managed to retain its authentic charm and traditional way of life. The town is dotted with ancient churches, narrow alleyways, and colorful houses that exude a sense of timelessness.

Beaches

Palau is situated in a prime location for enjoying some of the best beaches in Sardinia. Here are some of the main beaches from Palau:

Spiaggia di Isola dei Gabbiani: Also known as the Island of Seagulls, this beach is located on a small island just off the coast of Palau. It’s a popular spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing due to its strong winds.
Spiaggia di Porto Pollo: Located on the mainland, Porto Pollo is another popular destination for water sports enthusiasts. It’s a long, sandy beach with crystal-clear waters, and it’s a great spot for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding.
Spiaggia di La Sciumara: This beach is located just east of Palau and is known for its fine white sand and calm waters. It’s a great spot for families with children and for those looking to enjoy a more relaxed beach experience.
Spiaggia di Palau Vecchio: This beach is located on the outskirts of Palau and offers stunning views of the Maddalena Archipelago. It’s a small, secluded beach that’s perfect for those looking to escape the crowds.
Cala Capra: Located just a short drive from Palau, Cala Capra is a small cove with turquoise waters and rocky cliffs. It’s a great spot for snorkeling and diving, and it offers a more secluded beach experience.
Spiaggia del Liscia: This long, sandy beach is located on the north coast of Sardinia and is known for its clear waters and gentle waves. It’s a great spot for swimming and sunbathing, and it’s also popular for windsurfing and sailing.

Palau is a great base for exploring the beaches of northern Sardinia. From secluded coves to long stretches of sandy beaches, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful part of the island.

Attractions

Palau is a small town, but it is packed with a variety of attractions and activities that cater to all types of visitors. Here are some of the main attractions and activities from Palau:

Bear Rock: A natural landmark that resembles a bear emerging from the sea, Bear Rock is one of the most popular attractions in Palau. Visitors can hike to the top of the rock for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Porto Rafael: A quaint village located near Palau, Porto Rafael is known for its picturesque architecture and stunning views of the sea. Visitors can stroll through the narrow streets and enjoy the local shops and cafes.
La Maddalena Archipelago: This group of islands is a protected national park and is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and stunning natural beauty. Visitors can take a boat tour to explore the islands, swim, snorkel, and enjoy the pristine beaches.
Costa Smeralda: Located just a few kilometers from Palau, the Costa Smeralda is one of the most exclusive and glamorous destinations in Italy. This area is known for its luxurious villas, high-end restaurants, and designer boutiques.
Arzachena: This historic town is known for its ancient ruins, including the Nuraghe Albucciu, a prehistoric tower dating back to the Bronze Age. Visitors can also explore the town’s narrow streets and colorful buildings, and enjoy its traditional Sardinian cuisine.
La Maddalena: This charming town is located on the island of La Maddalena and is known for its picturesque harbor, historic architecture, and lively atmosphere. Visitors can explore the town’s shops, restaurants, and bars, and take a ferry to the neighboring island of Caprera, where they can visit the house of Italian patriot and hero Giuseppe Garibaldi.
Gallura: This region in northeastern Sardinia is known for its rugged landscapes, granite mountains, cork forests and traditional villages. Visitors can explore its many hiking trails, visit its historic churches and museums, and sample its traditional cuisine, such as the famous Gallura soup.
Porto Pollo: This charming village is known for its beautiful beaches and is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts. The village is situated on a bay that offers ideal conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing, with steady winds and calm waters. Visitors can take lessons or rent equipment from one of the many windsurfing and kitesurfing schools in the area. The village also offers several restaurants and cafes where visitors can enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the stunning views of the sea.
Bonifacio in Corsica: This charming town is located on the southern tip of Corsica and is known for its historic citadel and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea. Visitors can explore the town’s shops, restaurants, and bars, and take a boat tour to see the limestone cliffs and sea caves along the coast.
Water sports: Palau is a popular destination for water sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, windsurfing, and sailing. The town has several water sports centers that offer equipment rentals and lessons.
Hiking: The surrounding wilderness of Palau offers excellent opportunities for hiking and exploring. Visitors can hike the nature trails that lead to scenic spots like the Bear Rock or the Capo d’Orso lighthouse.
Wineries in the area are known for their iconic Vermentinos, crisp white wines made from Vermentino grapes with floral and citrus flavors. Gallura wineries have received international recognition for their innovative wines that reflect the unique terroir and climate of this pristine coastline in Sardinia. These wineries provide memorable experiences allowing visitors to explore the region’s winemaking traditions. They offer wine tastings, vineyard tours, and cellar visits where guests learn about the history and craftsmanship behind the wines.