Published 5th May. 2023
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If you’d like to know more about the most beautiful villages in Sardinia then you’ve come to the right place. Home to ancient monuments and ruins, charming cobbled streets and laid-back lunch spots serving spectacular wines, you’ll find a lot to love about these dinky Italian towns. Step back in time and discover Medieval citadels, centuries-old traditions and Catalan-style architecture. Or immerse yourself in modern culture and photograph picture-perfect piazzas, devour delicious local delicacies and try out an array of water sports. From hilltop hideaways with well-preserved castles to seaside stays in independent boutiques, there are plenty of memorable Italy breaks to have here. Read on to learn more about our top picks for the most beautiful villages to visit during a trip to Sardinia.
This medieval hilltop village dates back to the year 1000 and is without a doubt one of the most beautiful villages in Sardinia. It lies in the very center of the island and is surrounded by orchards and vineyards, so it’s no surprise that the area is famous for its generous offering of distinctive (and tasty) wines. While you’re here, try a glass of Mandrolisai – a largely obscure deep ruby-red number that’s aptly named after the historic region it’s made in. Atzara is also known for its textile tradition – in fact, the colorful rugs and clothes that have long been produced here are said to have inspired numerous artists in the early 20th century. Naturally, there’s lots of ancient architecture to admire but the most important building in this village is the Chiesa di Sant'Antioco Martire, a Catholic church and a remarkable example of Catalan Gothic style. Cameras at the ready.
To describe this picturesque village as colourful would be an understatement. It’s absolutely bursting with pastel-coloured houses that are dotted along the mouth of the river Temo. There’s lots to do in this scenic spot, from exploring Romanesque churches and sandy coves to hopping on a boat tour and tasting local dessert wines. If you have the time, it’s worth walking up to Serravalle Castle (also referred to as the Malaspina Castle). Today, only the walls and the watchtowers remain but the views across the surrounding landscape from this location are sublime. History buffs may already know that when the Savoys arrived here back in the 19th century, they launched a lucrative business in the craft of hide–tanning. The very same tanneries still stand today, and you’ll find them as a row of buildings on the left bank of the river.
All you have to do is follow your feet as you stroll around this charming fishing village in the province of south Sardinia. There’s lots of history to discover here, from the ruins of city walls with its watchtowers and forts to the Lion's Gate (look for a lion’s head carved into the stone). As always, there are some seriously pretty churches to admire – the bell tower of the Church of Saint Charles Borromeo can be traced back to the Baroque period, while its façade is Neoclassical in style. You’re bound to stumble upon Archiottu at some point too – an 18th-century arch that was built as a door to the garden of the Rapallo family. Fancy a bit of birdwatching? Head to the Salt Pans, just a stone’s throw away from Carloforte, and you might be lucky enough to spot some unique bird species, including pink flamingoes! Alternatively, enjoy a refreshing dip at Piscine di Nasca, a series of natural seawater pools just a 15-minute drive away from Carloforte.
The historic village of Castelsardo is best known for its largely preserved ancient castle – Castello dei Doria – built by the Doria family of Genoa in the 13th century. It’s certainly an impressive fortification, plus there’s the added bonus of pretty spectacular views when you reach this hilltop spot. On a clear day, you might even be able to see south Corsica across the water. There’s also the Museo dell'Intreccio del Mediterraneo, a small museum dedicated to basket weaving that’s housed within the castle. This part of Sardinia is world famous for its production of artisan baskets and who knows? You might end up bringing one or two home with you.
We couldn’t complete our list of the most beautiful villages in Sardinia without mentioning Posada, another small and ancient hilltop spot but this time situated in an area of east Sardinia called Baronia. It offers a wonderful combination of ancient history and modern culture; whether you want to discover the medieval historical center or go kitesurfing, it’s all possible here. As with most places in Italy, the local cuisine is always worth travelling for. Posada is famous for two desserts – aranzada (made from orange peel, almonds, and honey) and cogoneddos (made from a combination of flour, lard, eggs, sugar and yeast). The latter is traditionally paired with red wine and it’s safe to say both sweet treats must be tried and tested before you leave this place.
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