Sardinia: A Two-Week Adventure in October 2023

Why Sardinia Captivated Us

Even while planning our month-and-a-half trip to Italy in 2024, we were tempted to return to Sardinia—it truly captivated us. Of all the Italian islands, Sardinia was the one we enjoyed the most. The stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and relaxed atmosphere made it an unforgettable experience.

Arrival in Sardinia and Heading South

We flew from Rome to Olbia, picked up a rental car, and drove straight to the southern part of the island towards Cagliari. Our first stop was Chia, where we stayed for four nights near the beach. Wanting to relax and enjoy the sunny days, we chose a resort that offered a half-board option, including breakfast and a three-course dinner—an excellent decision. It allowed us to fully unwind without the hassle of searching for restaurants every night.

Since it was early October, many resorts were still open but significantly less expensive than in peak summer months. Still, Sardinia is not a budget destination! We felt incredibly lucky to enjoy the beautiful beaches with fewer crowds. The water was crystal clear, with vibrant turquoise fish visible even without goggles. Nearby, we spotted pink flamingos, adding to the magic of the landscape.

A Detour to Isola San Pietro

Our Sardinian itinerary wasn’t entirely set in stone, so after our stay in Chia, we decided to explore a nearby island, Isola San Pietro, for two nights before returning to our resort. The coastal drive towards the island was breathtaking, with several scenic spots where you could park, walk down, and swim. However, we prioritized reaching San Pietro early rather than making too many stops along the way.

San Pietro is the sixth-largest island in Italy. We booked a hotel close to the port and had no trouble finding parking. The next day, we drove around, hiked down to a beach, and swam in a cave-like opening—an incredible experience! The island also had delicious fresh fish, and we were lucky to visit during a festival, which added to the lively atmosphere. After two fantastic days, we returned to our original resort in Chia for another two nights.

Tip: Try Mirto, a Sardinian specialty. We had it in both liqueur and gelato form—it’s similar to blueberry in flavor and absolutely worth tasting!

Exploring the West Coast: Bosa and Alghero

Leaving Chia behind, we drove towards Bosa, a charming and colorful town. We only stayed for about two hours, but it's worth stopping. Before reaching the town, there is a perfect panoramic photo spot.

From Bosa, we continued to Alghero, where we stayed in a hotel with an incredible sea view. Alghero is a popular summer destination with its own airport, making it an easy access point for visitors. One of the highlights of our stay was visiting the Grotta di Nettuno. We had two options: drive to the site, climb down a long series of steps to reach the cave, and climb back up—or take a boat tour directly inside the cave. We opted for the boat, and it was the perfect choice since we love being on the water. From the boat, we also saw the famous Sleeping Giant rock formation. The cave itself was stunning, and we learned that boats stay in the sea year-round, only coming out for repairs between January and April due to the lack of storage space.

The Ultimate Sardinian Adventure: La Maddalena Archipelago

One of the most epic and adventurous parts of our trip was exploring La Maddalena Archipelago. Finding a boat rental took some effort (not many available in October), but we eventually rented a 5.5-meter dinghy with a 60-horsepower motor for €130 + gas (a great price in low season).

We decided to go on our own rather than hire a guide, as we have our Canadian boating licenses and felt confident navigating. This turned out to be the best day ever—anchoring at secluded spots, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and enjoying the Mediterranean sun. If you visit Sardinia, renting a boat in La Maddalena is a must!

A Quick Visit to Costa Smeralda

Returning to the main island, we drove through Costa Smeralda, the luxurious northern coastline known for attracting the rich and famous during the summer. By October, however, the area was almost deserted, with most shops closed for the season. Still, it was interesting to see the famous destination, and its proximity to Olbia Airport makes it a convenient place to stay before flying out.

Stopped at a beach nearby

Ending the Trip in Olbia

For the last few days, we stayed in Olbia, deciding we no longer needed a rental car. However, we soon realized that taxis in Olbia are scarce outside the airport area. One taxi driver recommended we visit Gregorian, a popular bar with live music. We had our hotel call a taxi for us at a fixed price and enjoyed a great evening before walking back to the hotel.

Final Thoughts

Sardinia is a dream destination for sun lovers, beachgoers, and seafood enthusiasts. The Mediterranean vibe, friendly people, and stunning landscapes make it truly special. If you enjoy adventure, renting a boat in La Maddalena is a must, and if you want a mix of relaxation and exploration, dividing your stay between the north and south of the island is a great approach.

Would we go back? Absolutely! Sardinia left such an impression on us that even while planning our 2024 trip to Italy, we strongly considered returning. We can't wait to visit again!