Archipelago of La Maddalena

Dreamy islands with Caribbean-blue seas make up this archipelago on the northeast coast, near the Costa Smeralda. Rocks hewn over thousands of years characterise the landscape. The only inhabited island is La Maddalena, linked with a causeway to Garibaldi’s island, Caprera. You can go on a boat trip and see five of the other main islands, including Budelli, which has a glorious pale pink beach called Spiaggia Rosa, and Spargi.

• Address:

  Arcipelago della Maddalena, Sardinia

• More info:

  The ferry takes 20 minutes crossing from Palau

Arzachena Prehistoric Sites

Moving away from the coast you can discover megalithic stone circles in the prehistoric remains honeycombing the woods and fields around Arzachena. The Nuraghe Albucciu, 2 kilometres southeast of Arzachena, is one of Gallura’s best preserved nuraghi. About 4 kilometres south of Arzachena lies Coddu Vecchiu, one of the island’s most complete 'giants’ tombs'. Nearby you can also find another giant's tomb, Tomba dei Giganti di Li Lolghi, and the Li Muri Necropolis. Regarded as Gallura’s finest example, the "Necropoli di Li Muri" is estimated to date back to 3,500 BC.

• Web:

  www.italia.it/en/sardinia/arzachena-archaeological-park

• Address:

  Arzachena, Sardinia

• More info:

  Arzachena is located approximately 26 kilometres northwest of Olbia

Basilica of San Simplicio

Olbia’s top sight is this medieval Pisan-Romanesque church, hewn out of Galluran granite. In the apse there are two 13th-century frescoes, the left-hand one depicting San Simplicio, the patron saint of Olbia. The Festa di San Simplicio, Olbia’s biggest festival, is celebrated for three days in mid-May.

• Address:

  Basilica di San Simplicio, via Salvatore Fera, Olbia

• Phone:

  +39 342 512 9458

Caprera

A causeway links La Maddalena to the pine-covered, macchia-scented Caprera Island. This is an idyllic spot for walking and cycling, as well as visiting the Garibaldi museum.

• Address:

  Caprera, Sardinia

Corso Umberto I

Corso Umberto I is one of the main shopping streets in Olbia. Every night from 7pm this street is closed off from traffic and becomes the perfect place for strolling among shops, restaurants and beautiful architecture.

• Address:

  Corso Umberto I, Olbia

Costa Smeralda

Costa Smeralda lies between Golfo di Cugnana and Golfo di Arzachena, and boasts an extraordinarily beautiful 56-kilometre coastline. This is a real billionaire’s playground, but everyone is welcome to enjoy its spectacular beaches, views and water. There are so many beaches ("spiagge") to choose from on Costa Smeralda, including Spiaggia del Principe, Liscia Ruja and Capriccioli, all famous and fabulous on this dreamy coastline. With warm sands and crystal-clear waters, you're spoiled for choice.

• Address:

  Costa Smeralda, Sardinia