Off-Season in Sardinia: 4 ideas for unusual places that are really off the beaten track.

The cooler months are now upon us, but that doesn’t mean Sardinia has lost its charm – quite the opposite, in fact: in autumn the sea is still great for a swim, in general the temperatures are nice, the beaches are practically deserted, and hotels, guesthouses, apartments, and vacation rentals are way cheaper. If you’re craving a vacation or keen to explore the island at your own pace, then Sardinia is the place to be. Come in autumn, winter or spring – basically, any time except the height of summer.

Our top tip: head inland! Sardinia is a place where you can find mountains, forests, villages and ancient traditions. It is a really beautiful place with friendly people, great food and unspoiled nature. And the sea? It’s always close by.

1. Nuoro and Barbagia: the wild heart of Sardinia

The lively heart of the island is far from the tourist crowds. If you’re interested in the island’s unique character, you should definitely check out the area around Nuoro in the northeast, especially the Barbagia region.

• If you’re looking for a hike that’ll take your breath away, then look no further than the impressive limestone mountains near Oliena.
• Check out the murals in Orgosolo – they tell stories of freedom and protest.
• Check out the Tenores’ singing. It’s a UNESCO-protected four-part male vocal style with deep, throaty overtones.
• Treat yourself to some traditional Sardinian cusine: sheep’s cheese, suckling pig and young red wine are the perfect accompaniment to autumn.
• Rainy day? You should also check out the museums in Orani or Mamoiada, where you can see the mask-making tradition for yourself.

Tip: And to top it off, you can even visit the birthplace of Sardinian Nobel laureate Grazia Deledda.

2. Logudoro: Northern Sardinia, as you’ve never seen it before !

If you think you know northern Sardinia because you’ve seen the beaches of the Costa Smeralda and Stintino, then stop and think again. Have you ever heard of Logudoro? There are vast meadows, charming places like Ozieri, medieval villages, forests, Romanesque churches, and panoramas defined by the vibrant green of the pastures and the azure sky.

• Just a few kilometres from Sassari, you’ll find some great archaeological sites, like the Domus de Janas of Sant’Andrea Priu and the Nuraghe Santu Antine of Torralba, as well as some significant religious architecture.
• In this huge region, you’ll find the most musical and authentic Sardinia, as well as some great food, like the Panadas of Oschiri, the Pane Finu of Ozieri, and the Zichi of Bonorva.
• Why not explore Sardinia on horseback or follow in the footsteps of the island’s only railway network? Sardinia is a place like no other, with its own unique green hues and medieval charm. You can explore the region at your leisure, on foot, by bike, on horseback or on the historic train, soaking up the stunning views along the way.

Here’s a little tip for you: especially in autumn, the soft light makes the landscape look really colourful and pretty. Enjoy it!

3. Oristano and Cabras: A Tour of the Nuraghi

The west coast of Sardinia is already a hidden gem in summer – in the off-season, it becomes an almost deserted discovery.

• Check out Oristano, a medieval city with a buzzing centre.
• In Cabras, we’re in the land of bottarga (fish roe) and the Giants of Monte Prama, major archaeological sites where the Punic and Nuragic civilisations meet.
• A trip through a special place with rice paddies and fields. As you go, you’ll pass villages with low adobe houses and, further inland, pink trachyte houses. Great for cycling tours or road trips.

Tip: If you’re into culture and food, why not try a local tasting followed by a museum visit?

4. Iglesiente: Mining and Natural Wonders

Iglesiente, a region almost forgotten, is in the far southwest. It was once dominated by mining, but now it’s captivating visitors with its industrial archaeology and breathtaking natural beauty. If you want to visit Sardinia’s abandoned mining villages and mines, the best times to go are autumn and spring.

Near Iglesias, you’ll find deserted villages and spectacular cliffs that drop into the Sardinian Sea, which is an endless blue colour. The hikes are great for everyone and the mild autumn temperatures make them even more enjoyable.

• Get your hiking boots on and explore the stunning coastal paths that wind their way along the turquoise sea.
• The Temple of Antas near Fluminimaggiore is a really interesting site from the Nuragic and Roman periods.
• The forests of Marganai are especially lush in autumn – with caves, waterfalls, and a really tranquil atmosphere.

Tip: October is a great month for hiking – it’s not too hot and there aren’t many other visitors.

So, to sum things up: Sardinia in the off-season – more peace and more experiences

If you’re an independent traveller, foodie, nature lover or culture vulture, Sardinia in autumn, winter and spring is a great place to explore. When the peak season is over, the island shows its true colours: it’s got an authentic feel, it’s tranquil, and it’s actually pretty diverse.

And you? Have you already booked your autumn or spring vacation in Sardinia? Get in touch for more info.