Tips for Sustainable Holidays in North Sardinia in Contact with Nature

Discovering northern Sardinia in a conscious and sustainable way means being in contact with nature, respecting and enjoying the environment as much as possible. The best way to get to know the biodiversity, the landscapes, the culture and the people of the region is to go on a “soft” journey. Our journey will take you to the north of Sardinia: this route, which runs along the coast from west to east, is designed to discover places that are less known to tourists and therefore still authentic, offering many memorable experiences. Depending on how much time you have, you can do the whole route or concentrate on one section, but each stage will show you something special.

If you already have an itinerary or some ideas in mind, contact us! We will be happy to help you organise your discovery of Sardinia.

Alghero and the Capo Caccia marine reserve: nature and sustainability

The journey begins in Alghero, a city with a historic centre rich in history and tradition. Here you will find various ecological initiatives such as restaurants offering fresh local produce, craft shops and a network of cycle paths that allow you to explore the city at your leisure.

Not far from the town centre, the Porto Conte Regional Natural Park and the Capo Caccia-Isola Piana Marine Reserve offer unique experiences in contact with nature. Lovers of outdoor activities can walk along paths through the Mediterranean scrub, discover spectacular caves such as the famous Grotta di Nettuno (Neptune’s Cave) or snorkel in the crystal clear waters to admire the rich marine biodiversity. Both areas are protected nature reserves and encourage visitors to respect the environment by encouraging responsible behaviour such as picking up litter and respecting the local flora and fauna.

Stintino and the island of Asinara

Continuing north from Alghero, you reach Stintino, a coastal town famous for its beautiful beaches (including La Pelosa!) and the ideal starting point for exploring the island of Asinara. Here, too, the emphasis is on sustainability: Many structures and activities are designed to preserve this unique natural environment.

An absolute must is the island of Asinara, which can be reached by ferry from Stintino. Here you can spend a day enjoying nature and exploring the area on foot, by bike or by electric train. The main attractions are the beaches, hidden coves and the Sea Turtle Rescue Centre, which works to protect these beautiful animals.

During your visit, it is important to respect the rules of the protected area: Avoid touching the donkeys, the symbol of the island, and do not bathe on the beaches where this is not permitted.

Isola Rossa, eco-friendly activities for all

Following the coast eastwards, you will reach Isola Rossa, a seaside resort in the heart of the Costa Rossa, the stretch of Gallura coast between Santa Teresa di Gallura and Badesi. This little-known corner of the coast has beaches of rare beauty, as beautiful as any in Sardinia.

Among the most impressive beaches are Spiaggia Lunga and Baia La Marinedda, both of which were awarded the Blue Flag in 2018. For those who prefer more seclusion, the beach of Li Feruli, in the direction of Badesi, is an oasis of peace that is often less crowded, even in the summer months. Trekking enthusiasts can follow the paths that lead to the small beach of Li Tinnari, a jewel hidden among the rocks.

As well as relaxation, Isola Rossa is ideal for a wide range of sporting activities: from trekking to surfing, from SUP (Stand Up Paddle) to windsurfing and snorkelling. This mix of natural beauty and eco-friendly sports makes Isola Rossa the perfect destination for those looking for an active holiday in contact with nature.

The archipelago of La Maddalena: a natural paradise to visit

Another must-see is the archipelago of La Maddalena, a group of islands and islets off the north-eastern coast of Sardinia, famous for its picture-postcard beaches. As a nature reserve, sustainability is at the heart of all activities here.

The best way to explore the archipelago is by boat, organised by local operators. Many boats are equipped with eco-friendly engines and follow routes that are designed to avoid disturbing the marine ecosystem. During the trip you can admire iconic places such as Spiaggia Rosa near Budelli and Cala Corsara in Spargi. Please do not take sand or other natural souvenirs with you, as this will upset the natural balance of these fragile ecosystems.

For an even more sustainable experience, you can hire kayaks or SUPs and visit the main islands in a completely ecological way, immersing yourself in nature without leaving a trace. The archipelago also offers numerous hiking trails, such as on the main island of La Maddalena and on Caprera, home to the historic house of Giuseppe Garibaldi.

The Emerald Coast, off the beaten track

The Emerald Coast, often associated with the luxury and glamour of resorts such as Porto Cervo and Baja Sardinia, also offers lesser known but equally fascinating corners, ideal for those seeking authentic and sustainable experiences.

These include the Monte Pino Nature Reserve, a protected area that stretches over rolling hills covered in oak woods and Mediterranean scrub. Hikers can choose from a number of beautiful trails that offer spectacular views of the coast. The reserve is also home to many species of local fauna, such as wild boar, hares and various bird species.

Another jewel of this coast is Capo Figari, a nature reserve characterised by steep cliffs and hidden coves, ideal for hiking or kayaking and offering the opportunity to discover an unspoilt wilderness.
Capo Figari is also an ideal place for birdwatching and scuba diving thanks to its great marine biodiversity.

Olbia, between culture and nature

Olbia, the last stop on our sustainable itinerary, is a lively tourist and commercial centre, but is increasingly turning towards sustainability with urban regeneration projects and responsible tourism initiatives.

The Fausto Noce municipal park, a green oasis in the heart of the city, is the ideal place to end (or begin) this journey. Here you can enjoy outdoor activities in nature or simply relax away from the city traffic.

In addition to the park, Olbia offers many opportunities for eco-tourism, such as cycling along the coast, guided tours of the city and outdoor sports. All this in a context that enhances the natural beauty of the region and contributes to a greener and more conscious future.