What to see in Sardinia beyond the sea: a journey to discover the hidden island
Sardinia is one of the most popular destinations for those seeking crystal-clear sea, sandy beaches and secret coves. However, the island offers much more than what can be seen along its shores. If you have already explored its most beautiful beaches and are wondering what to see in Sardinia beyond the sea, you are in the right place! Sardinia is a treasure trove of culture, history and breathtaking landscapes that go far beyond the blue waves. Let's discover together some of the most fascinating wonders that await you.
1. The Nuragic civilisation: a plunge into ancient history
One of Sardinia's most extraordinary treasures is its Nuragic civilisation, which has left an indelible mark on the island. If you want to discover the ancient history of Sardinia, you cannot miss the nuraghi, the megalithic towers built by the Nuragics between 1800 and 500 BC. The archaeological site of Su Nuraxi in Barumini, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most famous and impressive. The impressive ruins of these ancient buildings, surrounded by unspoilt green countryside, tell the story of a mysterious and fascinating people.
2. The heart of Sardinia: the Giara di Gesturi
In the centre of the island lies the Giara di Gesturi, a plateau that represents a wild and fascinating corner of Sardinia. This natural park is famous for its Cavallini della Giara, a wild breed of horses that lives free in the hinterland. Apart from the fauna, the landscape is enchanting, with cork forests and grasslands that stretch into infinity. It is the perfect place for those who love trekking and unspoilt nature.
3. Cagliari: a city rich in history and culture
Although Cagliari is located on the coast, it is a city that offers much more than just the sea. The old city, known as Castello, is a maze of narrow medieval streets that climb up the hill, offering spectacular views of the city and the gulf. Here you can visit historical sites such as the Cathedral of Santa Maria, one of the most beautiful churches on the island, and the National Archaeological Museum, which houses artefacts that tell the thousand-year history of Sardinia. Cagliari is also famous for its markets, such as the Mercato di San Benedetto, where you can taste local products and immerse yourself in the daily life of the city.
4. The Mystery of the Phoenicians at Tharros
Sardinia has been inhabited by numerous ancient civilisations, including the Phoenicians. If you want to discover their connection to the island, a visit to Tharros, an ancient Phoenician site on the west coast, is a must. Here you can stroll through the ruins of the city, exploring the remains of the port, dwellings and temples. The mystical atmosphere of the site, which overlooks the sea, is truly unique.
5. The most beautiful villages in Italy
Sardinia is also famous for its medieval villages, which are scattered throughout the hinterland. Some of these villages are considered to be among the most beautiful villages in Italy, such as Bosa, a picturesque village overlooking the river Temo, or Orgosolo, known for its murals depicting the history and traditions of Sardinia. Each village has its own unique character and offers the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the traditional life of the island.
6. The mysterious Porto Conte Park
If you like to explore nature in a deeper way, the Porto Conte Park, in the north-west of the island, is the ideal place. Here, in addition to beautiful paths winding through pine forests and Mediterranean maquis, you will also find the Grotte di Nettuno (Neptune's Caves), an incredible sea cave that you can reach either by sea, navigating the crystal-clear waters of the Gulf of Alghero, or by climbing a flight of steps up the cliff. This park also offers opportunities for wildlife observation, with a rich variety of birds and other animals.
7. The Sardinia of the Murals: Orgosolo and its visual message
The village of Orgosolo, located in the mountainous region of Barbagia, is famous for its murals, which decorate the walls of the village houses. Each mural tells a story: from political struggles to local traditions and scenes of everyday life. Walking through its streets is like taking a trip into the heart of the most authentic Sardinia. Orgosolo is one of the places to visit for those who want to discover what to see in Sardinia beyond the sea.
8. The mysteries of prehistoric Sardinia: the Megalithic Complex of Li Muri
Finally, if you are a fan of archaeology and prehistoric history, you cannot miss the Megalithic Complex of Li Muri, located inland in eastern Sardinia. Here you will find a vast prehistoric cemetery with dolmen tombs, collective burials dating back some 4000 years. A fascinating place that allows you to immerse yourself in the mysterious history of the island.
9. The Tomb of the Giants of Coddu Vecchiu
Another intriguing archaeological site is the Tomb of the Giants of Coddu Vecchiu, a large megalithic construction located near Arzachena in northern Sardinia. This prehistoric burial monument, with its long corridor-like structure, is one of the most impressive examples of Nuragic funerary architecture, an unmissable opportunity to immerse oneself in the mystery of ancient Sardinian civilisation.
10. San Michele Mountain and Monte Arcosu Park
Finally, for lovers of trekking and wilderness, the Montagna di San Michele, located in the south-west, offers a unique experience. With its mountain landscape rich in vegetation and wildlife, including the famous Sardinian deer, the Monte Arcosu Park is a nature reserve that allows you to discover the authenticity of the wildest Sardinia.
11. Gennargentu: the mountainous heart of Sardinia
In the centre of the island, the Gennargentu is one of the most majestic mountains in Sardinia, with peaks exceeding 1,800 metres. The Gennargentu is a natural park offering spectacular landscapes, with valleys, rivers, oak forests and an ideal environment for trekking. This area is the perfect example of the wildest and most unspoilt Sardinia, where it is also possible to encounter the Sardinian deer, a symbol of the local fauna.
12. Supramonte: a paradise for nature lovers
Supramonte is a vast mountainous area stretching between the provinces of Nuoro and Ogliastra, characterised by deep canyons, rocky walls and unspoilt Mediterranean scrub. It is a true paradise for hikers, who will be able to walk along paths winding through breathtaking landscapes, discover natural caves and immerse themselves in Sardinia's most authentic nature.
13. Malaspina Castle in Bosa: between history and breathtaking views
In the picturesque village of Bosaone of the most fascinating places in Sardinia, stands the Malaspina Castle. This medieval castle, built by the Malaspina family in the 13th century, is an outstanding example of defensive architecture. Its central tower offers a spectacular view of the town and the river Temo. The castle is also an important symbol of the history of Bosa and the Sardiniaa perfect place for those who want to immerse themselves in the island's past and admire enchanting views.
Frequently asked questions
What are the places of historical interest in Sardinia?
Sardinia is rich in historical sites, including nuraghi, tombs of the giants, the Phoenician site of Tharros, and the archaeological site of Su Nuraxi in Barumini. Historic cities such as Cagliari and Alghero are also rich in history and culture.
Where can I see the Giara horses?
The Giara horses live free in the Giara di Gesturi Park in the heart of Sardinia. It is possible to go on excursions to observe them in their natural habitat.
Which are the most beautiful villages in Sardinia?
Some of the most beautiful villages in Sardinia include Bosa, Orgosolo, Castelsardo, and Tinnura, which offer breathtaking landscapes and authentic local traditions.
What to see in Cagliari beyond the sea?
In Cagliari you can visit the Castle, with its medieval streets and the Cathedral of Santa Maria, the National Archaeological Museum, and historical markets such as the Mercato di San Benedetto.
How can I visit the Caves of Neptune?
The Caves of Neptune, located in Porto Conte, can be visited either by sea, with a tour boat trip, or by taking the Scalinata del Cabirol, a flight of 654 steps leading directly to the cave.
What are the most beautiful natural attractions in Sardinia?
In addition to the sea, Sardinia offers unique natural landscapes such as the Porto Conte Park, the Giara di Gesturi, the Monte Arcosu Park and the Montagna di San Michele, ideal for those who love trekking and wilderness.
