Words by Pat Eggleton
Situated between the Tyrrhenian and Sardinian Seas, Sardinia is the second largest island in the Mediterranean and is a region of Italy. Surrounded by crystalline waters, the island is breathtakingly beautiful and its Costa Smeralda [Emerald Coast] once much beloved of the late Diana, Princess of Wales, is a favourite holiday location for celebrities.
The coastline is mostly high and rocky and is surrounded by several smaller islands such as Asinara, the Maddalena group, Tavolara, San Pietro and Sant'Antioco. The region is also known for its mountainous and rugged countryside.
There are Roman remains, too, along with unique archaeological remains called “nuraghi”. These pre-date the Romans and no one is sure what they were used for.
1. Visit the capital, Cagliari.
Cagliari lies on the south coast of the island towards the centre of the Gulf of Cagliari. It rises behind Via Roma culminating in the ancient majesty of the Castello quarter. The city was probably founded in the 9th century BC by the Phoenicians and grew from the 6th century BC onwards, when the Carthaginians made it an important trading base. Since then the city, under various rulers, has inspired many writers and displays a rare, unusual beauty.
Of particular interest is the city’s Archaeological Museum which takes visitors through the history of the island via its archaeological heritage.
2. Try File 'e ferru
This is a liqueur made from marc. In olden times it was heavily taxed so producers used to bury it. Its name refers to the piece of iron wire they used to mark the hiding place.
3. Museum of Sardinian Life and Tradition
Visit the Museum of Sardinian Life and Tradition at Nuoro.
Here you can see traditional costumes, musical instruments and photographs of life on the island in days gone by.
4. Festa del Redentore
On the last Sunday of August, attend the Festa del Redentore [Feast of the Redeemer] in Nuoro.
5. Visit Sassari
Sassari is Sardinia's second largest city and it is situated on a beautiful stretch of coastline. The main sights are St. Nicholas Church, Palazzo Ducale, Palazzo Giordano, Piazza Italia and the Rossello Fountain.
If you are in Sassari on August 14th, you should not miss the Festa dei Candelieri.
6. Eat pane casarau
Eat pane casarau or carta di musica bread a wafer-thin flatbread that looks like parchment. You can eat it dry or with sauces.
7. Parco Arcipelago di la Maddelena
Visit the Parco Arcipelago di la Maddelena.
Here you can see dolphins playing. The park covers the entire area of a single town and contains more than 700 different plants, including some rare species.
8. Visit Garibaldi’s house on Caprera
Garibaldi spent the last years of his life on the island of Caprera and his house is now a museum. Ferries leave regularly from Palàu on Sardinia’s north coast or, if you are already on La Maddelena, you can reach it by boat from there.
9. Relax on the beach
Relax on one of Sardinia’s wonderful , clean beaches. You can read about Italy Magazine's pick of these here.
10. Souvenirs
Buy a piece of filigree jewellery or a traditional basket as a souvenir.
