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Costa Smeralda, Italy

Nearest Airport: Olbia 18 min;
Nearest serviced town: 10 min
Nearest beach: 8-min
Driving time estimated by Google Maps

The second biggest island in the Mediterranean (the first one is Sicily), Sardinia is a paradise for beach lovers! Whether you want to enjoy the life of the glitterati in the famous resorts of Costa Smeralda, or explore the more authentic southern coast, you will marvel at the beautiful beaches of the island, the combination of white sand and emerald water particularly appreciated by surfers. As beautiful as the coastline can be, some of the most memorable sights are found underwater so snorkeling and scuba diving are a must do! For golf lovers, three beautiful 18-hole golf courses are located on the island, the Pevero Golf Club on the north coast, Is Arenas Golf Club on the west coast, and Is Molas Golf Club on the south coast. Thanks to the proximity of the sea the golf courses enjoy unique water views and a mild climate, particularly favorable for golf all year round.
Cagliari is the capital of Sardinia and the island's largest city. In Cagliari, visit the Castle, the Archeological Museum, the Marina district near the port, with its arcaded street with cafes and shops, the town hall, and several churches. Do not miss Cagliari botanic gardens and the Roman amphitheater, built in the second century, where outdoor concerts are held during the summer.
In the southern area, we suggest a visit to Baia Chia beaches, with a forest of Juniper trees and sand dunes as a backdrop. You should also explore Capo Malfatano, Cala Cipolla, Tuarredda and the beautiful beach of Cala Zafferano. This area offers a wide range of activities including sightseeing of the ancient Phoenician, Punic, and Roman remains at Nora, including those of an ancient Roman outdoor theater where performances are still held in summer. Animal lovers should check the natural marine shelter and sea turtle rescue center at Nora Lagoon.

WHERE TO EAT
Giagoni in Piazza, intimate space, great authentic sardinian cuisine.
Piazza Vittorio Emanuele 6, San Pantaleo - + 39 0789 65224
I Frati Rossi, when you want to escape a little from the crowd of Porto Cervo, drive up to this spot set on a hill. Enjoy the fantastic sea view, drink the rich wine, and eat the simple yet perfectly prepared dishes served by this quality restaurant.
Loc. Pantogia, Porto Cervo - +39 0789 94395
Trattoria Da Angelo Considered among the best places to eat south of Cagliari – Very simple trattoria with few tables, no menu, only local cuisine and catch of the day excellently prepared. Reservation recommended - Cash only.
Via Isonzo 3, Domus de Maria - +39 070 923 6363
Il Pescatore Serving a variety of typical Sardinian plates, including seafood and innovative dishes reinterpreted from traditional recipes. Outdoor seating available.
Loc. Balloi - +39 070 90033
Galaia Informal and friendly place serving seafood specialties.
Via Don Nicolò Segni 36, Carloforte - +39 0781 854081

WHERE TO SHOP
Sardinia is a hub for handicrafts, making it a souvenir shopper’s paradise. Look for wooden carnival masks, handmade lace, filigree jewelry, cork, and world famous handmade knives. Do not forget to try the smoked ricotta, the Pecorino Cheese (sheep’s milk cheese), our favorite is Fiore Sardo, or notable wines and the head-splitting firewater, filu e ferru, the local semolina pasta called "fregole", a close relative to couscous. To make sure you are buying local, look for signs advertising “Prodotti Tipici Sardi”, or the island-sponsored I.S.O.L.A. co-op stores.