One of the most beautiful places in Europe…..Sardinia’s little secret paradise!
Have just returned from an amazing four days in La Maddalena, Sardinia.
La Maddalena is the largest of the 7 islands making up the Archipelago, situated a 15 mins ferry ride away from Palau on the north east coast of Sardinia.
I had visited this area very briefly last year so was enthusiastic to explore itt a little more.
I’d arranged a full day to the island of Corsica to the beautiful resort of Bonafacio.
The town of Bonifacio is at the southern tip of Corsica (just 12km from Sardinia,
one hour on the ferry) which help give Bonifacio and its harbour a rather exclusive, sophisticated Italian feel - above all around the elegant quay with its palm trees and expensive restaurants. The marina, the citadel and old town, and the views across the harbour and surrounding cliffs are the real highlights.
Another day I arranged a boat trip around the Archipelago which is a taste of the Caribbean in Europe with the beautiful white sandy beaches, incredible crystal clear turquoise expanses of sea. Photographs just couldn’t do it justice. We made 2 stops at a couple of beaches with time to swim and soak up the rays. Lunch onboard consisted of pasta with fresh shrimps. I would definitely recommend this excursion.
Any free time on La Maddalena could be spent exploring the town which is very picturesque with 18th century palaces lining bustling streets. There’s load of choice for eating with plenty of choice both in the ton and along the sea-front.
There are also some excellent beaches on the island which can be reached by local bus.
Another excursion would be to take the tourist train or “Green” train from Palau up into the mountains to Tempo Pausania and even as far as Nulvi. You take this train for the pleasure of travelling on the antique carriges of the narrow-gauge tracks and for exloring areas that cannot be reached by other means. You get 10 minutes to enjoy the views at Liscia lake then the departure from Tempio back to Palau is by bus.
From Palau it is only half an hour to Porto Cervo, the heart of Costa Smeralda, a paradise where glamour, luxury and glossy nightlife meet with gorgeous beaches and an emerald sea. Porto Cervo, in the hamlet of Arzachena, is the symbol of luxury holidays in Sardinia, Between July and August Porto Cervo’s square, fashion boutiques and above all the yachts.
I managed to arrange an afternoon dive trip. I can’t say that it was a colourful as the Red Sea but certainly worth doing.
There are also an abundance of hiking trails which the tourist office are more the willing to help you with.
Ideally, you need longer than 4 days to really enjoy what this area has to offer……
the general feeling from the group with me is that you definitely need more than four days to really appreciate what this area has to offer but hey all intend to return in the not too distant future……