Sardinia

Italy > Sardinia

This Italian region captivates anyone willing to embark on a journey through history, nature, and culture. With its breathtaking coastline, untouched nature reserves, and unique cultural heritage, Sardinia offers not only tourists but also expatriates an unparalleled quality of life.

The landscape of Sardinia: magnificent natural paradise

Sardinia covers an area of 24,099 square kilometers and has a population of approximately 1.6 million people (as of 2022). The island boasts diverse landscapes, ranging from majestic mountains and rolling hills to vast plains and endless beaches. Sardinia’s nature is incredibly varied and is preserved within numerous nature reserves and national parks.

The La Maddalena National Park, located along the coast of the same name, is particularly famous for its rugged coastline and crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal spot for divers and snorkelers. Another highlight is the Gennargentu National Park, home to Sardinia’s highest mountains. Here, rare wildlife such as the Sardinian mouflon can be found, and visitors can embark on extensive hikes through nearly untouched nature. The island offers countless opportunities for nature lovers and adventurers, from coastal walks to challenging mountain treks.

Sardinia is renowned for its picturesque beaches, which are among the most beautiful in Europe. Especially the Costa Smeralda in the northeast of the island attracts numerous visitors each year with its turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and luxurious resorts. However, beyond the well-known tourist destinations, Sardinia also boasts hidden coastal areas for those who appreciate peace and solitude.

A hidden gem is the Costa Verde in the southwest of the island, where visitors can discover pristine sand dunes, wild cliffs, and secluded beaches that are often deserted, evoking a sense of freedom and adventure. For snorkeling and diving enthusiasts, the waters around the island of Tavolara offer vibrant coral reefs and an impressive underwater world waiting to be explored.

Cities and culture: Sardinia’s historical heritage

Sardinia boasts a rich cultural heritage deeply rooted in the island’s history. The capital, Cagliari, is a city of contrasts, blending modern urban landscapes with a historic old town. The Castello district, with its medieval fortress, narrow alleys, and the impressive Roman amphitheater, offers much to explore. A walk through the old town provides an authentic glimpse into Sardinian life and reveals the island’s fascinating history.

Sassari, the island’s second-largest city, captivates visitors with its historic charm. It is renowned for its magnificent Baroque buildings and the striking cathedral of San Nicola. Alghero, a coastal city with a strong Spanish influence, stands out with its Catalan architecture and language. A particularly remarkable attraction is “Neptune’s Cave” near Alghero, accessible only by a steep coastal staircase or by boat—an experience you should not miss.

Among the other historical highlights of Sardinia are the nuraghi, prehistoric stone towers dating back to around 1800 BC, which are scattered across the island. The archaeological site “Su Nuraxi” in Barumini, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a deep insight into the island’s fascinating past.

Sardinian culinary specialties: a feast for the senses

Sardinian cuisine is unique within Italy, rooted in the island’s natural resources. The dishes are simple yet refined, reflecting the cultural influences and agricultural traditions of the region. One of Sardinia’s most famous specialties is porceddu, a suckling pig slowly roasted over an open fire. This dish is served in many restaurants of the island, and it is ideal for festive gatherings and an absolute favorite among both locals and visitors.

Another specialty is culurgiones, pasta pockets filled with potatoes, cheese, and mint. Sardinia is also known for “pane carasau, a thin, crispy flatbread that traditionally accompanies almost every meal. Often drizzled with olive oil and served with pecorino cheese, this simple yet delicious combination is a must-try.

Sardinia is also renowned for its exceptional wines, which perfectly complement the island’s flavorful cuisine. The robust red Cannonau and the fruity white Vermentino are among the most famous varieties—must-haves for wine enthusiasts and gourmets alike.

Quality of life in Sardinia: an ideal island for expats

Sardinia offers a high quality of life, characterized by a mixture of relaxed lifestyle, stunning natural beauty, and a pleasant Mediterranean climate. Summers are hot and dry, while winters are mild, making Sardinia an ideal destination for those who want to enjoy sunny days all year round.

The region also boasts good infrastructure and a high level of safety, making it particularly attractive to families and those seeking tranquility. Healthcare on the island is of high quality, and many smaller towns and villages offer excellent connections to larger cities and coastal areas. In places like Cagliari and Olbia, expats can find a vibrant city life that is far less hectic than in the major cities of northern Italy.

For those looking to live in Italy while enjoying a peaceful environment, Sardinia offers a variety of real estate options, often at more affordable prices than on the mainland. Whether you’re searching for an apartment in a historic town center, a modern villa with sea views, or a traditional countryside home, Sardinia provides housing choices to suit every taste and lifestyle.

Hidden gems and unique experiences in Sardinia

Beyond the well-known tourist destinations, Sardinia is home to numerous hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. The town of Bosa, situated along the banks of the Temo river, is a picturesque gem with colorful houses, narrow alleys, and a medieval castle offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Bosa is the perfect place for those who want to experience the authentic charm of Sardinia.

For nature and wildlife enthusiasts, a visit to the “Giara di Gesturi” is a must. This high plateau is home to the rare Sardinian wild horses, which roam freely in their natural habitat. A walk through this unique landscape offers a rare opportunity to observe the island’s distinctive fauna up close.

Another highlight is the “Isola di San Pietro”, featuring the charming town of Carloforte, known for its Ligurian traditions. Here, visitors can try freshly caught fish and local delicacies while enjoying the laid-back island atmosphere.

To sum up: a life of enjoyment in Sardinia

Sardinia offers a blend of culture, history, breathtaking nature, and an exceptional quality of life, making it an ideal destination for expatriates. The island combines the advantages of a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle with modern infrastructure and a rich cultural heritage. Whether you choose to settle in the vibrant city of Cagliari or embrace the tranquility of the island’s interior, Sardinia is a place where you can experience the beauty of Italy in its purest form.

Sardinia consists of four provinces and the metropolitan city of Cagliari, which we would like to introduce to you here:

• Cagliari – Brief info with map available here: CAGLIARI
• Nuoro – Brief info with map available here: NUORO
• Oristano – Brief info with map available here: ORISTANO
• Sassari – Brief info with map available here: SASSARI
• South Sardinia – Brief info with map available here: SOUTH SARDINIA

---

Overall, Sardinia is a fascinating region with a rich history, a varied landscape and an excellent cuisine. The island region is particularly known for its enchanting and incomparable beaches.

---