Sardinia Holiday
Caves, temples, fine dining, culture - all of these things can be discovered within Sardinia's 1,000 miles of coastline, which itself boasts beaches which some travellers may never want to leave.
Renowned for its sandy beaches stretching across 1000 miles of coastline, Sardinia sparkles like a spectacular jewel in the Mediterranean Sea.
The island of Sardinia, second in size only to Sicily, is surrounded by crystal clear blue waters which wash into coves and gorges, and in-land hidden caves and stunning hill-side temples that will tempt even the most timid explorer.
For pure relaxation the best place to head to is the relatively uncrowded beaches, especially the Costa Smeralda on the north-eastern coast which boasts breathtaking views that can be admired whilst sunbathing.
Along the seafront a wealth of small restaurants offer Sardinian's simple and refined cuisine, many including the Sardinian speciality of freshly caught tuna.
In the north-west of the island restaurant menus list meat-based courses such as roast pork, goat and lamb with seasoned olives and vegetables and Zimino, roasted lamb or veal innards, is an island speciality.
The vineyards in the Sassarese region, in particular those in the area of Alghero, have produced some of the most renowned wines in Sardinia; dessert wines, white, red and rosé.
Historical influences from the Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Arabs, Byzantines and Spanish have all flavoured Sardinia's culture over time and the island's monuments are almost as stunning as the natural beauty of the area.
Cagliari may be the capital city but Nuoro is the cultural centre of Sardinia. Visitors can wonder at monuments such as the Santuario of Madonna delle Grazie (1670) and explore several museums including the Museum of Life and Popular Tradition where a precious collection of old, traditional Sardinian tools are kept.
Sardinia is also known for its festivals and in August, the annual religious festival, Sagra del Redentore, fills the streets with the colours and sounds of Sardinian culture.
The best way to get around Sardinia's narrow and winding landscape is by car although locals also like to take a ferry to hop between islands and sailing around the island can help a visitor appreciate the true beauty of the land.
Italian is the official language in Sardinia but Sardian is the most commonly spoken language around the Island and mother tongue for most of the population.
The best time to visit this miraculous island is between April and May, and October and November as in Spring and Summer the scenery is most beautiful and the temperature very pleasant.
It can offer the most authentic experience in August, which is usually the month in which Italians choose to take a much deserved break.
