Autumn in Sardinia: a journey through nature, traditions and authentic flavours
L'autumn in Sardinia is a season that surprises anyone who thinks the island is just a summer destination. When the crowds leave the beaches and the scorching heat subsides, the Sardinia in autumn reveals a more intimate and authentic face, made of ancient customs, unspoilt landscapes, popular festivals and flavours that tell centuries-old stories. In this article, I will take you through the reasons why this is the perfect season to experience something different, far from the stereotypes, and guide you through events, places and activities that will make your trip unforgettable.
Why is autumn in Sardinia so special?
Autumn is the time of year when the island dresses in warm colours and the mild climate allows you to enjoy every corner without the chaos of the high season. Autumn is the ideal season for those seeking experiences outdoors between natural beauty e local traditionsand for those who like to combine nature and culture in a single trip. In this period, they hold most beautiful events of the year, often related to gastronomy and the discovery of ancient crafts. It is also the best time to discover places that are too crowded in summer, from archaeological sites to historic villages.
What makes Autumn in Barbagia unique?
L'Autumn in Barbagia is perhaps the most representative event of the season. It is a cycle of events that, from September to December, involves the Barbagia villages in the heart of Sardinia, opening the doors of the old houses and offering thousands of visitors the chance to get to know the culture and traditions of the island. Here you can see the ancient crafts, taste typical products as the cannonau or the Sardinian pecorino, attend folklore shows and stroll through alleys that seem to stand still in time. Desulo, Orgosolo, Mamoiada and Fonni are just some of the stops not to be missed.
Discovering Sardinia in autumn between nature and archaeology
Those who choose to discovering Sardinia in autumn has the opportunity to visit extraordinary places without the summer crowds. A archaeological site as the Nuraxi of Barumini becomes even more impressive in the autumn light, as does the town of Tharros at Sinis Peninsula, in province of Oristano. You can explore a nuragic village and imagine life nuragic between hut stone and thousand-year-old towers. There is no shortage of mysterious menhir and the tombs of the giants scattered all over the island. L'autumn is the period also perfect for making excursions along the Limbaraamong the forests of the south Sardinia or in the protected areas of Ogliastra.
Autumn festivals and gastronomy
In Sardinia in autumnevery weekend can be an opportunity to participate in a festival different. It is the time for chestnuts, new wine, honey and fresh oil. There is a festive air in the villages and the streets are filled with inviting scents. The experience food and wine is central: tasting a glass of vermentino or a glass of cannonau accompanied by local cured meats and cheeses is a ritual worth trying. In many villages the grape harvest is also an opportunity to engage visitors and pass on the local tradition linked to the vine.
Outdoor activities and hiking
If you love exercise, autumn is the ideal season for hiking and experience trekking between the sea and the mountains. The northern Sardinia offers itineraries ranging from Gallura to the cliffs of Algherowhile the south of the island offers scenic routes on the Campidano of Cagliari and the surrounding hills. Le natural beauty of the island at this time are amplified by the soft light and the perfect temperature for walking without suffering the heat. You can explore canyons, caves and trails that will take you to secluded coves or vantage points from which to admire the whole island.
Surfing in Sardinia in autumn
Few people know it, but the surfing in Sardinia experiences one of its best seasons in autumn. The ocean waves are not there, but those of the Mediterranean, under ideal conditions, can surprise even the most experienced surfers. The coasts of theOristanesethe north to south via the Gallurauntil south of the islandoffer spectacular spots. L'autumn is the season where the wind and swells provide perfect days for surfing. Even those who just want to watch will find it fascinating to see the boards challenging the waves against the backdrop of the turquoise sea coastline.
Visiting Cagliari, Sassari and the cities of art
Cities as Cagliari, Sassari, Oristano e Nuoro are places to visit in autumn without the summer sultriness. You can devote yourself to discovering the history of Sardinia through museums and historical centres, or stroll through old quarters admiring palaces, churches and squares. L'autumn is the ideal season to experience these cities at a leisurely pace, stopping at a historic café or attending one of the cultural events that enliven the city centres.
Autumn in Sardinia: a paradise for photography lovers
L'autumn in Sardinia offers breathtaking views: the forests of the Barbagia tinged with yellow and red, the villages preparing for festivals, the vineyards laden with grapes ready for the harvest. The best time for shooting is often late afternoon, when the warm light enhances contrasts and creates a magical atmosphere. For those who like to immortalise local traditions and scenes of authentic life, this season offers a unique natural stage.
Planning your autumn trip
For organising your trip I advise you to plan with an eye on local events: the calendar of Autumn in Barbagia, the festivals and food and wine exhibitions are opportunities not to be missed. By choosing this season, you will have the opportunity to absolutely visit iconic places without the crowds, to enjoy authentic experiences and to discover the island in a different guise. La Sardinia offers a variety of experiences all to be discoveredand theautumn is the period best suited to enjoy it to the full.
FAQ
**What are the main events of theautumn in Sardinia?
The best known events are theAutumn in Barbagia, numerous festivals dedicated to typical products and cultural events in various towns on the island.
Why visit Sardinia in autumn?
Because the mild climatecolourful landscapes and less crowds make this the perfect season to experience the island in an authentic way.
What is Autumn in Barbagia?
It is a cycle of events in the Barbagia villages celebrating local culture, crafts, gastronomy and traditions.
Where to go trekking in autumn in Sardinia?
In the Gallura, on the Limbarain Ogliastra and along the coastal paths of the south of the island.
Is it possible to surf in Sardinia in autumn?
Yes, autumn is one of the best times to find ideal waves, especially along the western and northern coasts.
Which archaeological sites to visit in autumn?
The Nuraxi of Baruminithe town of Tharros and various nuragic villages scattered throughout the island.
What makes autumn festivals in Sardinia unique?
The chance to taste seasonal products, get to know local traditions and experience a festive atmosphere.
What is the best time to take pictures in autumn?
Late afternoon, when the warm light enhances the colours of the landscapes and villages.
How long does Autumn in Barbagia last?
From September to December, with events every weekend in a different country.
How can I organise my autumn trip to Sardinia?
Planning according to the calendar of events, booking in advance and leaving room for excursions and cultural visits.