Southern Sardinia: the 20 best things to do

Horseback ride by the sea, during which you will see breathtaking scenery and enjoy a unique sunrise or sunset.

You will have more than one guide (maximum4) who will accompany and assist you throughout the entire ride.

Minors are always accompanied by a guide just for them, and there is also this option for adult beginners.

During the walk you will also be accompanied by a photographer who will capture all the most fantastic moments, and at the end of the walk you will have the opportunity to review your photos and purchase them.

The sunrise walk lasts one hour and thirty minutes, while the afternoon walk lasts one hour.

Indicatively, the one-hour afternoon walks should be considered an hour and a half because they are preceded by about 30 minutes of introduction and preparation of all participants.

In August, it will also be possible to take the morning walk at 8:00 a.m.

Horseback riding with American-style riding at La Maddalena Island departing from Spalmatore.

Included in the outing is pick up from the ferry port on La Maddalena Island to the riding stables, (ferries leave from Palau every half hour).

For the excursion, it is recommended that you put on comfortable clothing consisting of: closed shoes and long pants. The facility will provide you with all equipment for riding horses, including helmet (mandatory).

The Maddalena Archipelago sailing day is a "full day" excursion that will take you to discover the most striking bays of this very famous archipelago.

This is an experience for all sailors and non-sailors on an elegantly designed sailboat, designed for maximum comfort, thanks to the comfortable cockpit and bow sun cushions.

This experience will take you closer to the most beautiful beaches of the La Maddalena archipelago composed of seven main islands, La Maddalena, Spargi, Caprera, Budelli, Santa Maria, Razzoli, S. Stefano and an endless series of smaller islands and atolls.

During the excursion, between swimming, snorkeling, aperitifs and a plate of pasta will be the guests who will be "the captains" of the day on the boat having the possibility to choose some of these fascinating islands taking into account the weather conditions.

The experience is available both as a group tour and as a private tour (between August 10 and 18 only).

A boat excursion from Golfo Aranci at sunset that will allow you to visit the coast and islands of the Costa Smeralda during the most beautiful hours at sea, those of sunset.

The boat excursion starts at 6:15 pm and the return is scheduled after the sun goes down.

During the tour you will have the opportunity to see dolphins, swim and snorkel in coves with crystal clear water. You will circumnavigate the island of Figarolo and stop at Cala Moresca.

An aperitif on board with typical local Sardinian products accompanied by a vermentino di Sardegna is provided while you admire the sunset.

You will live your experience aboard a spacious and elegant 15-meter San Lorenzo.

Maximum capacity on board: 12 people.

The vintage gozzo boat excursion in the Maddalena archipelago is a unique experience for those who want to enjoy a relaxing day on a boat and sail through Sardinia's best-known islands and coves.

Departing from Palau or La Maddalena, during the boat trip you can dive into the crystal clear waters of the natural pools surrounded by the islands of Budelli, Razzoli and Santa Maria. In addition, you will have the opportunity to dive into the crystal clear waters of the island of Spargi in one of its charming coves.

The boat trip lasts an entire day and includes the skipper, drinks and an aperitif of cold meats and cheeses. In addition, the mini bar provides prosecco, wine, Sardinian myrtle and soft drinks.

The excursion can be organized as a group or exclusively, and the boat is equipped with numerous on-board gadgets, including large sunbathing cushions, masks and snorkels.

The excursion is suitable for everyone. Maximum capacity: 7 people. For group excursions, fuel is included in the tour.

The dinghy tour with aperitif in the Maddalena Archipelago will take you around the coast of Sardinia and you can visit its fascinating coves accompanied by an experienced skipper. You can relax with a dip in the crystal-clear waters of the archipelago and will be offered a special aperitif of local products by the skipper.

Departing from Cannigione, the itinerary includes several stops. The excursion will take you through the island of Caprera, Budelli and numerous coves, including Cala Granara. During the experience you will catch a glimpse of Santa Rosa Beach, which will make you take beautiful photographs.

Also included in the tour is an onboard aperitif offered by the captain. You can refresh yourself with a glass of wine and sample some local snacks.

The excursion lasts a full day and is a unique opportunity to discover the Maddalena archipelago in excellent company.

The experience is suitable for everyone. Maximum capacity: 12 people.

The half-day skippered boat excursion allows you to explore the Gulf of Cagliari and soak in the crystal clear waters.

You can choose whether to share this experience with other participants or book an exclusive boat.

The excursion begins with an educational time. Afterwards, you can plan the route together with the other participants.

Leaving your moorings, you will depart from the Golfo degli Angeli and sail along the Capo Sant'Elia promontory and its multicolored cliffs until you reach Cala Fighera, where you can swim in the crystal clear waters.

You will then have the opportunity to admire the Sella del Diavolo (Devil's Saddle), a promontory rich in traces of frequentation since Neolithic times, with high white cliffs.

The navigation will then proceed by heading towards the Poetto Beach. Eight kilometers of beach with fine white sand and water, crystal clear, shallow sandy seabed for tens of meters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling. 

The itinerary may be subject to change, depending on weather conditions. Any changes will be promptly communicated 12 hours before the excursion or otherwise at the time of embarkation.

The sailing boat trip with aperitif on board in the Gulf of Cagliari will have you enjoy typical local products while sailing through the picturesque coves and caves along the Cagliari coast.

The excursion departs from the port of Cagliari and will take you by S. Elia, Cala Bernat, Cala Mosca and Cala Fighera, where there will be an initial swim stop. Afterwards, you will visit Grotta dei Colombi and Sella del Diavolo, before reaching Poetto.

During the cruise, you will be treated to an onboard aperitif of local cured meats and cheeses accompanied by local wine.

The tour is available on a shared basis every Friday and Saturday, and stops may vary depending on weather conditions and the decisions of the skipper, who will always be on board.

The experience is suitable for everyone and is an ideal opportunity to learn about the sights and stories of the Gulf of Cagliari on board in excellent company.

Maximum capacity: 10 people.

The sailing trip in the Gulf of Angels will let youà visit the coves and hidden corners of Sardinia, along the coast of Cagliari, where you can swim and, if you are lucky, spot dolphins.

The boat tour departs from the port of Cagliari and while sailing you will pass S.Elia, Cala Bernat, Cala Mosca and the old enclosure to Cala Fighera for the first bathing stop. Then you will visit the Grotta dei Colombi (Cave of Pigeons) and tell the legend of the Sella del Diavolo (Devil's Saddle) before reaching the Gasole and Poetto pools. After snorkeling in the gulf, you will return to the port. 

The excursion has a duration of 3 hours and the scheduled stops during navigation can be changed or modified according to weather conditions and the skipper's decisions. It will also be possible to purchase drinks and snacks on board.

The experience è a unique opportunity to learn about the legends and ancient history of the caves and coves around Cagliari and to take a swim in the waters of Sardinia with friends and family.

Maximum capacity: 12 people.

Embark on an unforgettable boat trip from beautiful Cagliari and discover the coast of southern Sardinia. Departing from the Port of Cagliari, you can choose between a group outing or a private one, depending on your preferences.

Half-day tour

You will visit Calamosca beach to snorkel under the Spanish tower and lighthouse. Next, you will explore the picturesque Sella del Diavolo (Devil's Saddle) to dive into the crystal clear waters and enjoy an extraordinary landscape that can only be reached by sea. The tour ends with a visit to Poetto beach, beloved by locals and famous for its sandy seabed. The excursion can be organized on a shared or exclusive basis.

Private full-day tour

The tour departs at 10 a.m. from the Port of Cagliari. After boarding the private dinghy, the first stop will be Cala Regina, where you can take a dip in crystal clear waters. Next, we will explore Mari Pintau, an area with an enchanting sea. You will have the opportunity to snorkel and have a packed lunch (not included) or purchase it as an extra. Finally, we will visit the picturesque Blue Bay, with an ancient nuraghe on the headland. We will return to the port at 5 pm, with a total tour duration of 7 hours.

Sunset aperitif

Enjoy a sunset boat tour along the coast of Cagliari. You will visit the Sella del Diavolo (Devil's Saddle) and Poetto and dive into the clear waters of Sardinia. You will be treated to a boat aperitif of typical products while you wait for the sunset.

Depending on weather conditions and the skipper's decisions, stops may be subject to change.

The vintage sailing boat excursion in the Gulf of Cagliari allows you to visit the coast and coves directly from the sea and can be developed according to three different itineraries:

Half Day

This tour offers an approximately 3-hour excursion to explore the beautiful Poetto beach and the striking Sella del Diavolo promontory. Available either in the morning or afternoon, times may vary according to requests and weather conditions. During the excursion, a refreshing selection of fruits and drinks will be offered.

Sunset Aperitif

This proposal offers a boat ride to admire the sunset on Poetto beach, accompanied by an aperitif that includes chilled bubbles and Sardinian gastronomic products such as olives, cheeses and cold cuts. An assortment of sushi and seafood is also available upon request.

Full Day

This excursion offers a 6-hour voyage to the Gulf of Cagliari, during which drinks and a mid-day meal, customized to guests' preferences, will be served. Departure is scheduled at 11:00 am, and return is scheduled for 5:00 pm.

Maximum capacity: 5 people. Depending on weather conditions and skipper's decisions, stops may be subject to change.

The dinghy excursion along the Cagliari coast is an exclusive experience to allow you to visit the most hidden coves and swim in the clearest waters. The sailing departs from the port of Marina di Perd'e Sali.

Half Day

The half-day excursion can be done in the morning at 09:30 or in the afternoon at 14:30. You will visit the Island of San Maccario in Pula. You will then move on to Capo di Nora and Roman Ruins with the possibility of swimming in Pula's natural pools and sea caves.

Full day

The full-day excursion is done only on an exclusive basis, and the itinerary includes a 9:30 a.m. departure and a 5:00 p.m. return. During the tour, several places such as the Island of San Maccario in Pula, the Cape of Nora and the Roman Ruins will be visited.

It will be possible to swim in Pula's natural pools and sea caves. The beaches of Chia, including Torre Chia, Su Giudeu and Cala Cipolla, will also be included in the tour. Lunch is not included in the tour and you will have to bring "packed" food or eat at one of the restaurants suggested by the captain.

Sunset aperitif

The itinerary includes a departure at 6:30 pm. You will visit the Island of San Maccario and take a swim in front of the Roman ruins of Nora.

Next, you will move on to swim and snorkel at Madonna del Naufrago beach in Nora. Finally, you will enjoy an aperitif in the Gulf of Nora, which includes Sardinian products served on a corkboard, accompanied by a bottle of prosecco or vermentino. The excursion ends with the return scheduled for 8:30 pm.

Maximum capacity: 7 people. For the sunset experience, the boat carries up to 5 people. The itinerary is subject to change based on weather conditions at the discretion of the captain.

Explore Alghero by quad bike, an experience suitable even for beginners, which includes 5 stops along the way, including a dip in the crystal clear waters of Sardinia.

The tour begins with a general briefing, where you will receive instructions on riding the quad bike, and will depart following the guide. You will leave Alghero and Fertilia behind, crossing the first dirt roads that will help you familiarize yourself with the vehicles. You will then proceed until you enter the area of the Porto Conte Natural Park, where you will be able to spot magnificent specimens of different animal species, such as fallow deer, deer, foxes and horses. With some luck, you will be able to admire them from not too far away.

Along the way, you will visit Cala Viola, Cala Dell'Acqua dolce, Porto Ferro and reach Lake Baratz, where you can stop for a refreshing swim before returning to Maristella. Here, at the end of the excursion, you will be offered a drink.

Please note that it is not possible to take turns driving.

Horseback riding by the sea in Alghero, suitable for beginners and children over 6 years old.

The ride begins by visiting Lake Baratz and then goes into the woods until you reach the beach at Porto Ferro.

You will be provided with all riding equipment, including helmet.

The times for the rides are:

•    April: 10 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.
•    May: 9 a.m. and 6 p.m.
•    June - July - August: 8:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m.
•    Late August - Mid-September: 9:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
•    Mid-September to April: 10:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.

The maximum weight of participants cannot exceed 90Kg.

The group sailing excursion to Asinara and Pelosa begins at the Stintino Marina Tourist Port. After about 45 minutes of sailing, you reach the crystal clear waters of the Asinara Marine Protected Area.

Immersed in the beautiful setting of the Asinara National Park aboard a modern and comfortable 10.50 mt Sailing Boat, you will have the opportunity to visit the most beautiful places of this enchanting island.

The Marine Protected Area status, in fact, makes the waters rich in fish of many species that do not fear man, but rather are intrigued by it. Depending on the day and conditions, the excursion could be supplemented with a stop ashore at one of the major points of interest such as the Prison Facilities, the Sea Turtle Recovery Center or coves that cannot be reached by sea. While sailing, with luck, you may spot pods of dolphins.

On walks ashore, you will also be able to meet the famous White Donkeys that have become the symbol of the Island, and many other animals in the wild.

Lunch is included, made from local products and served on board in one of the island's coves. It consists of an appetizer, a first course, vermentino, some fruit, coffee and digestif.

Don't forget to bring your own towel, flip-flops and sunscreen. The experience is a group tour, but by booking for 12 people you can have the boat exclusively.

The half-day dinghy excursion is a unique opportunity to explore the coves of the Porto Conte Nature Park and the cliffs of Sardinia, with opportunities for snorkeling and enjoying an aperitif on board with friends.

The sailing departs from Porto Conte Marina and continues to Porto Conte and the cliffs of Capo Caccia. A stop is planned to swim and admire the marine fauna and flora by snorkeling.

During the excursion there is an aperitif on board with a view of the coves consisting of typical Sardinian dishes including a charcuterie and cheese board paired with local wines.

The dinghy excursion is organized on a shared basis and can be done in the morning or afternoon, with a duration of about 3 1/2 hours. In addition, depending on weather conditions and the skipper's decisions, the stops may be changed.

Maximum capacity: 8 people.

Daily departures at 10 a.m. from the Customs Quay in the port of Alghero for a boat excursion with lunch along the coast of western Sardinia.

During the trip, you will cross the Coral Riviera via Capo Galera and Punta Giglio, until you reach the promontory of Capo Caccia. You will admire the Scala del Cabirol and Neptune Caves, as well as Isola Foradada and Cala d’Inferno. Next, you will skirt the bay of Porto Conte and stop near the Torre del Bollo for diving, sunbathing and snorkeling in the Capo Caccia Marine Protected Area and Porto Conte Regional Nature Park.

At 1 p.m., a delicious lunch will be served on board with an appetizer of local sausage and cheese, followed by pasta with fresh crab sauce and mussels alla marinara. Water, local D.O.C.white wine and coffee, are all included. It is possible to request a menu without fish or vegetarian in advance.

In the afternoon, the tour continues to Cala Dragunara, Tramariglio beach and El Faro, and then returns to port at 6 pm. The boat is equipped with life jackets for children and adults.

For the scuba diving experience, it is necessary to fill out a medical form, declare that you do not suffer from sinusitis and/or eardrum problems and that you do not have nasal septum deviations.

The group excursion by dinghy with aperitif in the Asinara National Park will allow you to discover some of the most hidden and suggestive coves in Sardinia.

Departure is planned from Stintino in the morning or afternoon, and the itinerary includes several variable stops depending on weather conditions.

Generally, in case of favorable weather, the planned stops are La Pelosa beach, Capo Falcone Caves, Fornelli Natural Pools, Cala Spalmatore, Asinara Park and finally Cala Grande.

During the activity the captain will tell you anecdotes about the places, and during the stop at the Natural Pools you will have the opportunity to swim and explore the seabed by snorkeling.

At the last stop in Cala Grande you will have the opportunity to take your last swim and will be served an aperitif with Vermentino Sardo, local sausage and Sardinian cheeses.

To fully enjoy the experience, it is recommended that you bring your snorkeling mask, as well as a towel and sunscreen.