The nature of Sardinia is unique and the possibilities of recreational activities almost infinite. Below we would like to recommend a few selected and definitely worthwhile destinations that are perfect for a day trip.
The island archipelago "La Maddalena" with more than 60 islands and an area of 50 square kilometers is located in the Strait of Bonifacio between Sardinia and Corsica and is perfect for a long day trip. The archipelago consists of a total of 7 islands - La Maddalena, Caprera (connected by a bridge to the main island), Budelli, Razzoli, Santa Maria, Spargi and Santo Stefano.
La Maddalena, the only year-round inhabited island in the archipelago, was a military base for Americans until just a few years ago. The beautiful old town with 18th century palazzi, busy restaurants and bars along the waterfront and the colorful fishing harbor make La Maddalena a beautiful place. From here it is the best way to start boat trips to the uninhabited parts of the island archipelago.
Leaving the small port town by car heading north, you'll have a breathtaking view of the island along the 20km-long scenic road, with its rocky shoreline of granite, palm trees and huge, pink oleander bushes.
Numerous bays and wonderful beaches like the Spiaggia Spalmatore with pink granite sand and azure blue water invite you to swim and snorkel. Due to the protected underwater world of the nature reserve with its rich underwater flora and fauna, it is a great place to go diving.
No matter which of the islands you want to visit, the La Maddalena archipelago is definitely worth a visit.
Approach: From Golfo Aranci, along the coast to the north on the SS125 (Strada Stadale 125), you reach the village of Palau in about 45 minutes, numerous ferries go to La Maddalena, the main island. The ferry takes about 20 minutes. Alternatively, there is the possibility to charter a boat in Palau or Porto Pozzo.
Tavolara - the smallest kingdom in the world!
In the late 18th century, the island was discovered by the Corsican Giuseppe Bertoleoni. When Charles-Albert, King of Sardinia-Piedmont, entered the island, Bertoleoni, according to a story, greeted him with the words: "The King of Tavolara welcomes the King of Sardinia”. Amused by this greeting, King Giuseppe Bertoleoni gave him the island as a gift. From now on he called himself Paolo I. Even Tonino Bertoleoni. A descendant of Paolo I, still calls himself "Re di Tavolara" today.
Wild and untouched, the limestone island rises like a huge ship with almost 6km length and 1km width from the deep blue water. From Punta Cannone , where the highest point of the island is 564 meters, it offers a breathtaking view of the Gulf of Olbia, which makes you forgeht the efforts of the sometimes difficult hike of about 5h.
A narrow headland stretches west from the tip of Tavolara and gives a little space for three jetties, two restaurants and a few old buildings, as well as an old cemetery. On the east side beaten in the rock, there are also a NATO base, as well as an old lighthouse.
A bright sandy beach and crystal clear water are perfect to swim and it attract locals and tourists in summer. Tavolara is designated as a nature reserve and marine park. Here you will find the best conditions for diving at the famous spot "Secca del Pappa”.
Approach: From Golfo Aranci Tavolara it can be reached in about 25-30 minutes with a dinghy. Renting boats with up to 40 hp is also possible without a boat license.
From the port of Olbia in the holiday season boats take off every day, which travel arond the island completely before they reach the landing stage after about 1 hour drive.
Sardinia has a long history. Probably the most well-known are the historical remains of the Nuragic culture from 1600-400 BC Chr.. The nuraghe buildings that are found across the whole island. Although not clearly proven, historians nowadays assume a religious background of the approximately 7,000 buildings. They are the largest and best preserved megalithic monuments in Europe.
One of the most famous and important places in Gallura is the Nuraghe la Prisgiona, which can be found near Arzachena. It was discovered in 1959 and is still not completely excavated. There are around 90 buildings arranged around the main tower. A visit is possible all year from 09: 00-20: 00. Guided tours in Italian and English are offered. The entrance fee is € 3.50.
In the period from 2200-1600 BC, the so-called Giant Tombs evolved which are important to the nuragic culture. A total of about 350 can be found on the island. Only 500m away from the Nuraghe la Prisgiona lies the giant tomb of Coddu Vecchiu. Behind massive stone entrance stele, there is a stele about 4 meters high, which is a 10-meter burial chamber.
Approach: From the roundabout at Golfo Aranci, take the Strada Procinciale 16 (SP16) and follow the signs for Arzachena. Via the Strada Stadale 125 (SS125) leave the roundabout in front of Arzachena at the third exit to reach the SP 14 (Strada Provinciale 14). After a total of approx. 40 minutes, you will reach the Strada Vicinale Capichera on the left. From here follow the signs to the nuraghi. Shortly before, on the right, you will also find the giant tomb "Tomba the Giganti di Coddu Vecchiu".
