Why choose a coast-to-coast itinerary in Sardinia

Sardinia is one of Italy’s most fascinating regions: an island rich in extremely diverse landscapes and towns, as well as variegated atmosphere and beauty. It offers crystal-clear sea, wild inland countryside, villages perched high in the mountains and grand cities to explore, which is why a coast-to-coast tour of Sardinia is the best idea for your next holiday.

We have put together the perfect itinerary for lovers of adventure and the Sardinian hinterland, but also for those who want to enjoy a few days by the sea and relax on some of the island’s most beautiful beaches. If you are wondering what to see in Sardinia, this guide has everything you need to know to enjoy an unforgettable adventure.

First stage: Stintino and north-western Sardinia

Your journey to explore the beautiful sights of Sardinia by car begins in Stintino. This village was founded at the end of the 19th century by a group of fishermen from Asinara, and is now one of Sardinia’s most beloved villages. There are many reasons: first and foremost, its beautiful beaches, from the world-famous La Pelosa to Cala Lupo, Ezzi Mannu and Punta Negra; and after visiting the picturesque historic centre, you can set off on an excursion to the world-famous Asinara National Park. Once a maximum-security prison, it is now an oasis where nature and biodiversity reign supreme.

Where to stay in Stintino on your trip through Sardinia

Located in Stintino is the UNA Hotels Club Hotel Ancora Stintino, set in a park of over 10,000 square metres where you will always be close in touch with nature. You will be surprised by its rooms – spacious and able to accommodate up to 6 people, ensuring maximum comfort for guests and offering all the necessary amenities – but also by the panoramic terrace, direct access to the private Yacht Club beach overlooking the sea and with unobstructed views of the Gulf of Asinara, and a prestigious restaurant. These are just some of the facilities offered by this 4-star hotel, which is situated just a few metres from the waters of Sardinia.

In addition, there is a special shuttle service to take you directly to some of Stintino’s most popular beaches, such as La Pelosa and Il Gabbiano. Book your room to start your Sardinia itinerary in the ideal manner!

Travelling along Sardinia’s west coast: exploring the sea, villages and archaeology

After visiting Stintino, it is time to set off to explore Sardinia’s west coast, a succession of spectacular landscapes where the crystal-clear sea encounters cliffs, golden dunes and villages steeped in history. From iconic towns such as Bosa and Alghero to the unspoilt landscapes of the Costa Verde and the dunes of Piscinas, this stretch of coastline offers a variety of experiences for every kind of traveller.

Alghero

Alghero is one of Sardinia’s most famous destinations, and is therefore an essential stop on your long journey. The “coral city” offers history, culture, crystal-clear waters and excellent food: there are countless attractions, and amongst the must-sees we recommend the historic centre, the stretch of coastline with the Belvedere Alghero, the Cathedral of Santa Maria, the Palmavera Nuragic village, the Archaeological Museum of Alghero, Lake Lamarmora and Neptune’s Grotto, which you can explore on a memorable boat tour.

Bosa, the rainbow town

Bosa is an unmissable stop on any worthy tour of Sardinia: the town is best known for its picturesque Sa Costa district, full of colourful houses all set on the slopes of Serravalle Hill; at the top stands Malaspina Castle, which also offers a splendid view of the entire surrounding area. In addition, this is where the Temo – the only navigable river in the whole region – flows, and you can stroll alongside it on the picturesque Lungo Temo.

Oristano and Tharros

Oristano and the surrounding area are considered one of the most authentic areas in Sardinia: far from mass tourism, this town is a unique blend of art, unspoilt nature and ancient artefacts. Among its main attractions are the historic centre, with Piazza Eleonora and the Cathedral, as well as the Antiquarium Arborense, the museum housed within Palazzo Parpaglia. 

If you have a little time to spare, we also recommend visiting the area around the town: in particular Tharros, the ancient Phoenician city from which Oristano developed, and the Cabras lagoon, one of Europe’s warmest wetland ecosystems.

The Costa Verde and the dunes of Piscinas

The Costa Verde, a stretch of coastline running along the south-western part of the island, boasts a natural landscape of rare beauty: here you will find golden dunes, cliffs and old mining areas. The symbol of this area is the spectacular dunes of Piscinas, which are among the highest in Europe. 

Just think that in some places they rise to over 60 metres in height and stretch for several kilometres until they reach the sea, creating a landscape that resembles a veritable desert overlooking the Mediterranean. Walking amongst these dunes is a unique way to explore the lesser-known side of Sardinia and to immerse yourself in a unique natural environment, shaped by the wind and characterised by vegetation capable of adapting to the most extreme conditions.

A detour inland: the most authentic side of Sardinia

We now move on to the next stage of your Sardinia itinerary, taking you inland. Whilst the coastline and beaches are the region’s most famous attractions, it is in its more central areas that one can truly experience its wildest and most authentic spirit.

Barumini, the UNESCO World Heritage Site

Barumini is a place well worth visiting if you want to experience the true spirit of Sardinia and its incredible history. This town and municipality of just over 1,000 inhabitants is home to Su Nuraxi: an archaeological site discovered in the 1950s and comprising an imposing nuraghe. A truly unique place which, owing to its historical significance, was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.

Orgosolo, the Town of Murals

Our tour of Sardinia now takes us to Orgosolo, also known as the town of murals. Here, in fact, you can encounter a unique place where the streets of the town centre and beyond are adorned with over 300 works of art: a tradition that began in the late 1960s and has turned Orgosolo into a veritable open-air museum. In addition, this town is the ideal gateway to the Montes Forest.

Flavours and traditions of inland Sardinia

There is no better way to truly get to know this region than by sampling its authentic flavours, which reveal the very soul of the island. Sardinia’s inland regions are home to a unique culinary heritage, characterised by traditional customs, recipes and local specialities.

Among the highlights of the local cuisine are pane carasau, a classic of Sardinian cuisine, porcetto – suckling pig cooked slowly on a spit – and culurgiones, handmade stuffed ravioli with their characteristic wheat-ear-shaped seal. There is no shortage of fine produce such as sheep’s-milk cheeses – first and foremost the Pecorino Sardo PDO –, artisan cured meats and traditional sweets and desserts, such as seadas or Sardinian amaretti.

The wines are another fundamental aspect for truly capturing the essence of this island: the hills of the inland area are home to renowned wines such as Cannonau, Vermentino di Sardegna and Malvasia di Bosa.

Final stage: Cagliari and southern Sardinia

The Sardinia coast-to-coast itinerary can only end in Cagliari, the capital of Sardinia and home to a rich architectural and cultural heritage. The city is best explored at a leisurely pace, wandering its unique streets, but if you need to know which must-see attractions you cannot miss, here are the main sights: 

• The Castello District. The heart of the city, a labyrinth home to some of Cagliari’s most beautiful monuments. 

• Poetto Beach. A little slice of paradise, with 8 km of beaches ideal for those who love both relaxation and fun.

• The Citadel of Museums. The city’s museum complex, perfect for anyone wishing to take a dive into the local culture.

• The Bastion of Saint Remy. A monumental 19th-century fortification from which you can now enjoy a unique view of the Gulf of Angels. 

Where to stay in Cagliari

If you would like to stay in the city for a few days to discover all its secrets, we recommend booking a room at UNA Hotels T Hotel Cagliari. This 4-star hotel is situated in the city centre, in an ideal location for exploring Cagliari, making the hotel easily accessible; for those arriving by plane, there is also a free shuttle service to and from the city’s airport. Please remember to contact the hotel to check availability!

T Hotel has over 200 comfortable and quiet rooms, suitable for all space requirements: these range from Junior Suites and Classic Rooms for two people to Deluxe Family Rooms for four guests.

Furthermore, there are plenty of facilities here to make your stay special, such as the fitness room – for those who want to enjoy their workout even while on holiday – and a wide range of bars and restaurants. When the summer season comes around, the T Garden opens its doors, offering guests a charming spot in which to enjoy a drink, while the T Bar and the T Bistrot provide the opportunity to savour typical cuisine and aperitifs.

The true highlight of the hotel is the T SPA wellness centre: a true haven of tranquillity, recently refurbished and designed to offer you an authentic wellness experience, featuring a Turkish bath, sensory showers, chromotherapy, a Finnish sauna and a relaxation area with a herbal tea corner.

The UNA Hotels T Hotel Cagliari summer programme

The UNA Hotels T Hotel Cagliari offers a packed programme of events during the summer months: the L’Estate in T Garden programme kicks off, with the restaurant moving outdoors to offer guests and locals a unique experience combining entertainment, elegance and a menu of summer flavours. 

July marks the beginning of the Summer Grill series of evenings combining a buffet dinner with live music. Following the first performance by Corde di Maestrale, 30 July sees Sandra Trudu and the One Note Quartet taking to the stage: sophisticated Brazilian sounds, with a repertoire that ranges from bossa nova to elegantly reinterpreted Italian classics.

The grand finale is scheduled for 14 August with the Ferragosto dinner, featuring musical entertainment by the jazz trio of Francesca Corrias, Marco Morandini and Filippo Mundula. Please note that the Summer Grill evenings start at 8.00 pm and that booking is recommended.

Choose the UNA Hotels T Hotel Cagliari to ensure an unforgettable stay in beautiful Cagliari and to round off your coast-to-coast tour of Sardinia in the best possible way.

Travelling across Sardinia from coast to coast is a unique experience, a special way to discover the beauty of this region, which offers a veritable kaleidoscope of colours, landscapes and atmospheres. From the northern coast to the heart of Sardinia and on to Cagliari, get ready to enjoy this extraordinary adventure.