Beyond thousands of kilometres of unspoilt coastline, lapped by impossibly blue waters, lies an island of extraordinary beauty. Sardinia’s pristine beaches are a magnet for the glamourous jet setters in their mega-yachts. However, it is the island’s wild and rugged interior, dotted with archaeological sites that pre-date Rome, and the rich local customs and traditions that will leave you enthralled. Sardinia’s mountainous landscapes are peppered with forests and thousands of Bronze-age stone structures, shaped like beehives. Cagliari is the island’s capital, and one of Sardinia’s most fascinating destinations with a charming medieval quarter, lined narrow streets. Immerse yourself in the captivating culture of this Italian gem as you discover its enigmatic ruins, untamed beauty and mouthwatering cuisine.
Journey Highlights
Arrive in the attractive capital of Sardinia, where you are welcomed by your A&K Guardian Angel and transferred to your beachside resort. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy the outstanding facilities of this five-star property.
Forte Village Resort Hotel Il Castello
Today you will be met by your English-speaking driver and transferred to Nora where you will be met by your local guide. Nora was an important staging post of the Phoenician trading network. The Roman mosaics are still visible in some of the most significant buildings. Your guide will show you the well-preserved Roman theatre and thermal baths. A few metres from the archaeological area is the Church of Sant’Efisio, patron martyr of the city of Cagliari. Sardinia’s most important festival is held in his honour in May every year.
Finally, visit Pula Town where there’s free time to indulge in some shopping in the main square of the village. Alternatively, you may like to continue to Santadi, where you can explore the Zuddas Caves with its unique formations of stalagmites, stalactites and bizarrely shaped aragonite or ‘cave flowers’ — tufts of crystals unaffected by gravity that assume unusual shapes.
Forte Village Resort Hotel Il Castello | Meals: B
Head north this morning to inspect the well-preserved archaeological ruins at ‘Su Nuraxi’ di Barumini which date back to the Bronze Age. This UNESCO World Heritage Site comprises circular stone complexes known as nuraghi, thought to have been built for defensive purposes.
Continue to Isca ‘e’ Muras, where you will gain an insight into the secret life of bees from a small-scale artisanal honey farmer. Learn how this sweet golden elixir makes its way from hive to jar, before enjoying an extensive tasting session of all kinds of honey in combination with fruit, cheese and desserts.
Finally, travel through thick woodland to the enchanting village of Oliena, which lies at the foot of Mount Corrasi — the highest ridge in Sardinia’s distinctive Supramonte mountain range.
Su Gologone Hotel | Meals: B
Cala Luna is often called the Queen of the Gulf of Orosei. It is located in one of the most stunning parts of Sardinia and is considered one of the islands most spectacular beaches. Explore the area by private 4x4 on an off-road adventure that winds its way down the mountains above the pretty Gulf. Stretch your legs on a guided trek downhill through fragrant forests of juniper, where breaks in the foliage offer some of the most impressive vistas over the karsts and canyons that define the Supramonte range. Tread ancient paths past traditional shelters used by goat herders to Codula di Ilune, a dramatic canyon where the river forms a lake.
The 90-minute hike concludes on the stunning white sands of Cala Luna. After a picnic lunch and a refreshing dip in the turquoise waters, hop aboard your own private RIB and speed along the coastline dropping into some of Sardinia’s most secluded bays and grottoes. The boat trip concludes at the quaint seaside town of Cala Gonone with time for a stroll before returning to your hotel by 4WD vehicle.
Su Gologone Hotel | Meals: BL
Today, uncover more mysterious nuraghi —Sardinia's greatest archaeological treasures. There are approximately 8,000 of these ancient megalithic structures scattered across the island, found nowhere else in the world. Visit the incredible archaeological sites of La Prisgiona and Coddu Vecchiu, the latter being one of the most important dating back to 2500 BC. Afterwards, learn about another one of Sardinia’s greatest treasures — wine. For Sardinians, their wines are the proud expression of careful, meticulous work that starts with the soil and ends in every bottle. Visit a traditional vineyard for lunch and a tasting of local white wine, made with light-skinned Vermentino grapes cultivated on the island for centuries.
Baglioni Resort Sardinia | Meals: BL
Today, experience a day in the life of a Sardinian sheep farmer and cheese-maker. Visiting a local farm, you will learn how pecorino and ricotta cheese is made. The shepherd will explain some of the secrets about cheese-making traditions. At the end of your private experience, taste some local cheese and other Sardinian delicacies in a wonderful countryside setting.
Alternatively, explore this beautiful part of Sardinia by bike on a guided tour. Have fun along the way as your guide takes you through places you never thought they existed, with spectacular views across the bays.
You may prefer to sail the crystalline waters of the Maddalena Archipelago National Park today on a magnificent vintage sailboat. Soak up the sun and the beauty of unspoilt nature amongst the white sand beaches, rocky islets and glassy blue waters then tuck into an afternoon spread of regional delicacies.
Baglioni Resort Sardinia | Meals: B
Today you are transferred by private vehicle to Olbia airport for your flight home.
Meals: B
Contact one of our Journey Designers to start planning your itinerary.
As this suggested itinerary can be personalised to your specific requirements, it is not available for online booking.
Depending on your preferred dates and arrangements, final pricing will vary from low season to peak season travel.
Please call A&K on 1300 851 800, send us a booking enquiry to book this journey or contact your travel agent.
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