Located on the eastern coast of Sardinia, the Gulf of Orosei is one of the most beautiful areas on the island. The coastline here is simply stunning and features dozens of hidden bays, caves with natural grottos, and incredible beaches that you can explore on your Sardinia itinerary.
Visit the towns of Orosei or Cala Gonone to join boat tours that run daily along the coast and stop at rocky caves and secluded bays that are only accessible by sea or on foot via walking trails.
History buffs will definitely want to check out archaeological sites like Serra Orrios and Tiscali, and the mysterious Nuraghi complexes, whose purpose is still unclear. Su Gorroppu, one of the deepest canyons in Europe, is also a must on your Sardinia road trip.
Then there are the famous Bue Marino Caves, where stalactites and stalagmites glisten in the water. To enjoy some proper beach time — which you’ll definitely want on the Gulf of Orosei — add the following to your itinerary:
Situated on the beautiful coastline of west Sardinia, Bosa is a fantastic town with a romantic charm. From imposing palazzi with large balconies and pastel houses stacked on cobbled streets to green valleys and rocky hills, Bosa is a peaceful place where time seems to stand still.
The historic quarter is home to medieval streets with pretty facades, stone staircases and the famous Church of the Immaculate Conception.
Life here moves at a slower pace. Local fishermen can be seen along the beautiful Temo River, while visitors head to the stunning Malaspina Castle and young families make for nearby Bosa Marina beach.
The small town of Bosa is also home to the historic Ponte Vecchio — the old bridge of Bosa — ranked as one of Italy's most beautiful bridges. To make the most of your Sardinia road trip, visit the Capo Marrargiu bio-marine park and spot a variety of bird species.
Located on the north-west coast of the island and easily reached from the village of Bosa in a campervan, Alghero is one of the most stunning medieval towns on the island. It’s a must on any Sardinian road trip.
The main draw is the Gothic-style historic centre, where travellers come to admire landmarks like the Cathedral of Santa Maria, the 14th-century Church of San Francesco and the Guillot Palace.
You’ll find lots of café-lined piazzas, and dozens of restaurants like Ristorante Mabrouk and Al Vecchio Mulino where you can try authentic local specialities.
Below the historic centre, the modern marina welcomes visitors on yacht charters. Take the long seaside steps or a boat from the harbour to the fabulous Neptune’s Grotto, a large saltwater lake filled with stalactites and stalagmites.
Well known for its neo-Gothic Piazza d’Italia and its Baroque-fronted cathedral, Sassari is the second largest city on the island of Sardinia. Wander down the charming Corso Vittorio Emanuele II to admire some of the oldest houses on the island, which date back to the 16th century.
To discover impressive archaeological collections, including Roman artefacts and Nuragic bronze, head to Museo Nazionale Sanna.
The nearby ghost town of Argentiera is just a short drive from Sassari, making it a great addition to your itinerary. This UNESCO-protected site is home to many abandoned mine buildings, and you’ll find a couple of secluded beaches nearby.
To end your Sardinia road trip with a bang, visit the picturesque town of Castelsardo. Best known for its ancient castle, lovely sandy beaches and a couple of excellent spa hotels, it’s also home to one of the island’s most incredible rock formations, Roccia dell’Elefante.
