Sardinia is the second-largest island in the Mediterranean Sea after Sicily, which also belongs to Italy.

With over 24000 square kilometres of surface and nearly 2000 km of coastline, it is one of the top tourist destinations both for Italians and foreigners, attracted to its incredible beaches, its delicious food, and the rich history of this region.

A visit to Sardinia: great history and good food

Archaeologists have found traces of the first civilizations on the island in the Neolithic Age (between 6000 and 2700 BC). Artefacts and remnants of ancient buildings can be found and explored in many areas, such as the more recent nuraghe, a distinctive symbol of the region.

Another symbol of the island is to be found on the tables of Sardinia: pecorino Sardo, its unique and world-famous cheese, or the thin and fragrant Carasau bread, the malloreddus or the culurgiones, but also seafood (particularly the sea urchins) and the roasted suckling pig “Porceddu”.

The Coast of Sardinia

Visiting Sardinia without admiring the beauty of its beaches would be a crime. In the North coast, the area of Stintino with its pristine beach La Pelosa and the National Park of the Asinara, close to the Porto Torres harbour, are certainly not to be missed. Moving East, Costa Paradiso is renown amongst scuba divers for the natural caves and the breathtaking underwater scenery, and Santa Teresa di Gallura offers an amazing view over the close French island of Corsica, only 18 km away. Right in front of the islands of Maddalena and Caprera, Costa Smeralda is the real posh area for boaters, celebrities and the rich and famous, coming here to enjoy luxurious hotels, breathtaking views and the most popular restaurants and night clubs.

A special mention is deserved by the East coast, well more authentic and not so expensive or party-like, perfect for those seeking contact with nature. The Ogliastra region offers particularly gorgeous views of the Mediterranean Sea and the Gennargentu Massif, and the town of Arbatax is a precious gem in this beautiful region, with its famous Spanish tower and the Red Rocks beach. Interestingly enough, Ogliastra is a Blue Zone, one of the areas where a higher than a usual number of people live longer than average. The secret might rely upon the diet of these areas, based on vegetables and fruits, avoiding meat, dairy and processed foods.