Sardinia

A cosmopolitan city that surrounds a medieval centre. The Sardinian capital, Cagliari, is bursting with history and makes a great city-meets-beach destination. The area boasts one of the longest beaches in the Mediterranean, Poetto Beach, with its waterfront dining and nightlife. Ancient archaeological ruins exist effortlessly alongside the spectacular natural scenery – with lagoons, bird sanctuaries and wildlife reserves. As cobbled piazzas reveal traditional tavernas that will tantalise your taste buds. Make sure you get a photograph of the pink flamingos that reside in the city’s ponds.

Known for its pristine bays and soaring-high sand dunes, Chia is a sleepy fishing village, set back from the sea. A haven for nature lovers – see flamingos in the lakes and dolphins in the sea. This area is also a popular spot for surfing, with the wind direction providing some intense breaks in the waves. The unspoilt inlets and attractive scenery also boast fantastic diving. Hire a car and drive to Costa del Sud as the untouched coast reveals dramatic headlands, hidden coves and sparkling azure waters.

Situated in southern Sardinia - Pula is a charming town, with an inviting piazza at its heart. Quiet by day and livelier at night – you’ll find many shops, gelaterias, cafes and restaurants. In the summer months the square comes alive with musical events and live music – where people of all ages get up for a dance. Porto d’Aguma is a lovely bay for swimming with the picturesque Spanish towers in the background. While the large Roman amphitheatre provides an atmospheric setting for summer music concerts.

A six-mile strip, that lies between the sea and the rugged hillsides, south-west of Pula. Famed for its stretches of fine white sand beaches and sparkling turquoise ocean. Santa Margherita di Pula is a very small town, situated next to the sea, in a beautiful pine forest. This picture-perfect fishing village boasts a varied coastal landscape and charming seaside promenade. While the coastal landscape is ideal for relaxing strolls – with spectacular sea views and pine forests as your backdrop.

Just a mile from Pula, you’ll find Nora with its long stretch of picturesque sandy beach and atmospheric, waterfront location. This peninsula is topped by an old watch tower and covered in archaeological remains. An extraordinary example of an ancient Roman city that still evokes visions of its former glory – discover archaeological remains, temples, baths and impressively-preserved mosaics in an attractive seaside setting.

Situated in the islands attractive north-east – Costa Smeralda is located on the Emerald coast among some of Sardinia’s most picturesque beaches. Known for its exclusive price tag, this area is home to 5 star accommodation, Beverly Hill-style boutiques and trendy dining and nightlife. Sardinia’s picturesque coastline is scattered with luxury hotels, while the ‘village’ outdoor mall at Port Cervo is the place for designer shopping sprees. Explore the unspoilt Capriccioli peninsula, with its hidden coves, beautiful beaches and juniper woodlands.

Immediately west of the Costa Smeralda, Baia Sardinia is an attractive resort with a less affluent feel. Its glorious sandy beach is great for boat trips and water sports, with windsurfing being a popular option due to the bays positioning. And the promenade is bursting with shops, cafes and restaurants – enjoy traditional trattoria-style dining or dance until the early hours.