The beautiful island of Sardinia, located in the Mediterranean Sea, is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich cultural heritage. However, there are some unique experiences in Sardinia that you may not have thought possible.
Read this article by Nautica Assistance and explore five extraordinary activities that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Rent an Island for a Day
Rent Isola di Molara for a day of exclusive paradise
Imagine having an entire island all to yourself for a day. Isola di Molara, located in La Maddalena Archipelago, offers the opportunity to fulfil this dream. You can rent this picturesque island and indulge in its pristine beaches, explore hidden coves, and enjoy a private picnic surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. It’s an exclusive experience that will make you feel like a true island explorer.
With the island at your disposal, you have the freedom to immerse yourself in its wonders. Explore its diverse landscapes, from the lush, vegetation-rich northern slope, to the rugged and arid terrain of the southern side. As you venture along the trails, a symphony of scents and colours accompanies your every step, awakening your senses to the island’s natural wonders.
Discovering the island’s history is a captivating journey in itself. Contract the services of a knowledgeable guide who will regale you with tales of Molara’s ancient past. Learn about its role as a source of perennial drinking water, a legacy dating back to the late 1800s. Admire the remains of a mediaeval chapel, which is a testament to the island’s enduring human presence throughout the centuries.
To enhance your experience, indulge in an enchanting aperitivo under the shade of ancient olive trees, where you can relish the captivating view of Tavolara Island.
Renting Molara Island for a day is an exclusive invitation to immerse yourself in a world of natural wonders, captivating history, and unparalleled beauty.
Hug the World’s Oldest Olive Tree
In North East Sardinia inland: an encounter with living history
In the charming town of Luras, located in inland NE Sardinia, you can visit Europe’s oldest olive tree. This ancient tree, known as L’Olivo di Luras, is estimated to be over 4,000 years old and is considered a living monument. The tree’s twisted trunk and majestic presence will leave you in awe. Taking a moment to connect with this living piece of history is a humbling and unique experience that should not be missed.
Here, amidst the serene beauty of the countryside, you can wander through rows of majestic century-old olive trees, basking in their timeless grace and learn about the traditional cultivation methods that have sustained this land for generations.
After immersing yourself in the olive groves, your journey could continue to the captivating Ethnographic Museum in Gallura, where you’ll experience an authentic recreation of traditional Gallura environments. As you explore the museum’s exhibits, you’ll delve into the fascinating world of the “agabadora,” a mystical figure from Gallura’s folklore. Discover the ancient customs and beliefs associated with this healer, who was said to possess the power to alleviate suffering and bring comfort in times of illness and hardship.
Combine this with a visit to the Luras Ulivo Centenario and sail on Lake Liscia, where the green of the lush vegetation meets the blue of the placid waters of the lakes.
Discover a one-of-a-kind experience in Sardinia with a tour on a stunning Mississippi-style boat. Featuring charming paddle wheels, these boats offer both safety and comfort and are available for private rentals.
From the serene beauty of the olive groves to the intriguing tales of the agabadora, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Gallura’s past and its profound connection to the land and its people.
As the sun begins its descent, casting a warm golden hue over the rolling hills and vineyards, you can savour the moment with a glass of Gallura’s finest wine in hand. Indulge in the flavours and aromas of the renowned Vermentino or other local varietals, as the knowledgeable sommeliers guide you through the details of each wine. They can share insights into the winemaking techniques and the unique characteristics that make Gallura wines truly special.
Journey Back in Time: Board a Traditional Wooden Cart Pulled by an Oxen
Rediscover Sardinia’s rural heritage
Picture yourself travelling back in time as you climb aboard a traditional wooden cart pulled by an oxen. This nostalgic experience allows you to rediscover the island’s rural heritage and traditional way of life. You can explore the picturesque countryside, enjoying the slow-paced journey while taking in the breathtaking scenery. It’s an opportunity to disconnect from the modern world and appreciate the simplicity of a bygone era. Experiencing a ride in an ox cart offers a wonderful escape for those feeling overwhelmed by the fast pace of modern life. It’s a chance to slow down, embrace the slow living philosophy, and reconnect with rural traditions and natural rhythms that seem lost in today’s world. The ox cart will gently carry you through lush green spaces, cork woods, fields, and rustic roads. You can also offer a tip to the driver for feeding the animals, enhancing your experience.
Change your Perspective: Take a Photo of Your Yacht from the Top of Tavolara Island
A stunning aerial view
For those seeking a luxurious experience, Sardinia offers the chance to capture stunning photographs of your yacht from the top of Tavolara Island. This imposing limestone massif rises majestically from the sea, providing a dramatic backdrop for your yacht. Climb to the summit and be rewarded with panoramic views of the coastline and the crystal-clear waters below. It’s an ideal spot to capture unforgettable memories of your maritime adventures.
The Island of Tavolara is a huge calcareous mountain that dominates the Gulf of Olbia; its highest peak, Punta Cannone (564 metres), gives us an amazing panorama of the whole Gallura allowing us to see the Monte Limbara, Monte Nieddu, Montalbo up to Caprera, Strait of Bonifacio and Corsica. You can visit Tavolara with a moderately challenging hike that does not require the use of a harness, via Ferrata kit and helmet; but the top of the island can be only reached in two ways: the first way characterised by a small and easy protected climbing route ideal also for beginners (EEA), the second way is to face a much more difficult mountaineering trail called ‘Via degli Angeli’ (Angels way). Below, we will provide a detailed explanation of the hiking trail (EEA) that leads to the summit of Punta Cannone via the easier route. This trail is also suitable for beginners who might be using technical equipment (harness, via Ferrata kit, helmet) for the first time.
Note: To reach Punta Cannone, individuals must not have a fear of heights or suffer from acrophobia.
Explore the World’s Most Famous Suspended Mining Port
SW Sardinia: The nostalgic beautiful history of Porto Flavia
Enjoy a night anchored off Pan di Zucchero rock. Admiring the impressive rock at sunset as it rises out of the sea just a few metres from the coast, increasing its splendour: the sunlight bounces off the limestone silhouette in every shade of yellow and orange. Pan di Zucchero (meaning Sugarloaf) It is one of the most striking and spectacular natural landmarks on the island, symbolising the coast. This remarkable feature in Southwest Sardinia enchants with its blend of industrial archaeology and breathtaking coastal scenery.
Porto Flavia, overlooks the mesmerising Masua sea, with its myriad shades of blue, and the remarkable Pan di Zucchero sea stacks towering 133 metres (440 ft) high, this site captivates visitors with its stunning views. Utilising a narrow-gauge railway nestled within the sea stacks, minerals extracted from Masua and nearby mines were transported to large silos through coaches. A network of conveyor belts, concealed in a tunnel beneath the silos, efficiently transferred the minerals directly into the holds of ships docked beneath the cliffs. Embark on a private guided tour of Porto Flavia. Visitors can traverse the upper tunnel and eventually arrive at a terrace, where they can savour an unparalleled panorama.
The allure of Sardinia lies in its ability to surprise and captivate visitors with its diverse landscapes and hidden gems.
Sardinia invites you to step off the beaten path and explore its hidden wonders, creating memories that will last a lifetime.Unveil the unexpected, embrace the extraordinary, and let this Mediterranean gem reveal its secrets to you.
