Sardinian zest for life paired with Caribbean flair

Olbia is the perfect destination for discovering Sardinia’s north. Above all for its gorgeous scenery: the Costa Smeralda mesmerises with its emerald green sea and stunning coastline. Absolute must-sees: the city of Porto Cervo, where tradition and luxury combine in harmony. La Maddalena Archipelago offers untouched nature, divine beaches and breath-taking snorkelling and diving sites. Then there’s the medieval coastal town of Castelardo, Neptune’s Grotto stalactite cave and much, much more!

With weekly markets, promenades lined with sales stands, small boutiques, souvenir shops and delis, the selection is wide and varied. Corso Umberto, probably the best-known and most popular shopping mile in Olbia, is worth noting here: everything from well-known designer labels to quaint restaurants and cafés that invite you to come in and take a little break can be found here.

In Sardinia, as in most Mediterranean countries, ‘food’ is synonymous with family and tradition, celebrations and a pure pleasure for life. Farming and herding traditions on the island have shaped Sardinian cuisine which was then later enriched with seafood specialties. If you wish to discover the real Sardinian cuisine, it’s best to venture off the busy streets and pay a visit to a small restaurant in one of the small side alleys. A little insider tip: ask a local for their favourite restaurant. They definitely won’t let you down!

The island is brought to life by a wide variety of festivities and events. Some are religious in nature, some have been newly created, while others are pretty much just touristy. The former usually take place in winter, when the islanders, who predominantly lived from agriculture and cattle rearing in the past, had more time on their hands to celebrate. Many festivals are influenced by pagan customs and sometimes shock visitors with their frightening costumes and masks. All events can be found here.

Well-informed holidays are more relaxed. Visit www.sardegnaturismo.it and read up on holiday topics in advance. There’s info on day-trip destinations, medical care, weather, safety, transportation and much more.